Developing a Strategic Communication Plan to "Tell the GERD Story to the World" and Improve Ethiopia's GERD Communication Strategy

Abstract

In the context of Ethiopia's hydro-diplomacy of the Nile, strategic communication can be critical in mitigating the negative externalities associated with the GERD dispute. It can be used to pinpoint both external and internal barriers by communicating the facts surrounding the dam's construction and the negative role of Egyptian diplomacy. Egypt has heavily employed digital diplomacy to influence the dispute, utilizing campaign strategies, sometimes in the form of propaganda, to disseminate its narrative. A key component of Egypt's approach is media diplomacy. This paper primarily relies on secondary data analysis of available information from newspaper articles, online sources, and academic literature. The establishment of the “Water, Hydro-diplomacy and Communication Forum” to foster a clear understanding of the GERD issue and transboundary river dynamics is a positive step. However, these efforts must be expanded. Ethiopia should proactively employ digital tactics to communicate the facts to both riparian countries and the wider world through a strategic communication campaign, utilizing various media channels to "tell GERD stories to the world." Furthermore, this article recognizes the significance of "GERD Day" for the Ethiopian people, fostering continued dedication to securing prosperity and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.