Ecology The planned construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in Ethiopia is causing controversy due to the potential reduction of water inflow into Egypt and the negative impacts on the Nile ecosystem. GERD is Africa's largest hydropower plant, crucial to Ethiopia's energy independence, but Egypt and Sudan are concerned about the consequences for agriculture and food security and the possible increase in soil salinity. The region faces risks that could destabilize the ecosystem and disrupt water supply.