The Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) has officially come into force, confirmed by the African Union, marking a crucial step toward equitable and sustainable use of the Nile River. Despite this, Egypt and Sudan have rejected the agreement, drawing criticism from Ethiopia, which called their stance a missed opportunity for mutual benefit.
The main issue stems from Egypt’s reluctance to acknowledge the Nile as a shared resource among all riparian nations. Egypt argues that the CFA does not acknowledge its historical water rights and continues to cite colonial-era agreements that heavily favor its water usage, which upstream countries, including Ethiopia, reject.
During Cairo Water Week, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi called for water to be recognized as a basic human right and urged the global community to prioritize it. This stance has faced criticism, especially since the CFA has been ratified by most Nile Basin countries, promoting equitable water use for all.
For years, Egypt has sought to maintain its preferential access to the Nile’s waters, while Ethiopia and other upstream nations encourage Egypt to join the CFA, emphasizing the potential for dialogue to address concerns. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the forthcoming Nile River Basin Commission would manage the river’s resources for the benefit of all Nile Basin states.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Water and Irrigation, Habtamu Itefa (Ph-Eng.), emphasized the importance of the CFA, calling it a “rule and regulation” for all member states. He invited Egypt and Sudan to engage in dialogue, stating, “If you have concerns regarding the CFA, it is inclusive. Let us address them through discussions and make use of the framework.” The Minister further highlighted that the CFA is designed to ensure that all Nile Basin countries benefit equitably from the river’s resources.
Habtamu described the CFA as a “backbone” for equitable water resource use, noting that it represents a significant shift from past agreements that favored downstream nations. “We believe there was injustice in how the Nile was previously utilized, primarily by our brothers and sisters downstream. The Cooperative Framework Agreement causes no harm to anyone because it is inclusive,” he stated.
The Minister also highlighted Ethiopia’s significant contribution to the Nile, providing over 85 percent of the river’s water, but previously having no role in its management. With the CFA in place, Ethiopia and other upstream countries can now participate in collaborative water utilization and development plans. The establishment of the Nile Basin Commission, an independent body supporting development in the Nile Basin, will be a crucial next step based on the CFA, he remarked.
The Nile River Basin Initiative (NBI) recently detailed the objectives of the soon-to-be-established Nile River Basin Commission which will oversee the river’s resources, promote cooperation, and resolve disputes, with the unresolved issue between Egypt and Sudan expected to be addressed within six months. The CFA consists of key principles for water management, development, and information sharing, all aimed at fostering collaboration among riparian states.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER 2024
