The Nile Basin, one of the world’s most critical water systems, has long been a focal point for geopolitical tension and cooperation among the countries that share its waters. The CFA, which was initiated in 2010, aims to foster collaboration among these nations, with Ethiopia playing a central role in its development and implementation.
The CFA was established to promote equitable and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources, emphasising the importance of cooperation over unilateral actions. It seeks to replace colonial-era agreements that allocated the river’s waters primarily to Egypt and Sudan, often at the expense of upstream nations like Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya. The framework is designed to enhance transparency, build trust, and facilitate joint projects that benefit all Nile Basin countries.
Another milestone in the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) is approaching. The agreement intended to be enforced on October 13 formally came into effect. Thus, the commission is about to be established, and the framework will be ratified. It is well known that numerous upstream nations have ratified the CFA, which benefits every basin nation. The downstream nations, which do not contribute any water for the river, have not yet approved it, nevertheless.
However, Egypt is still trying to take the hegemony and wants the colonial-era agreements, which are unacceptable to the countries that have the highest water share on the river. Even most of the upstream countries, by understanding the equitable utilization of the river, have entered the framework and ratified it. In the path of the recent stand of the CFA, Ethiopia’s role in it is indispensable. As the country follows the principle of mutual benefit with its neighbouring countries, the country tirelessly works for CFA ratification with all countries that are part of the Nile River.
As the source of the Blue Nile, which contributes about 85 per cent of the river’s flow, Ethiopia’s role in the CFA is crucial. The country has positioned itself as a leader in advocating for the rights of upstream nations. Ethiopia’s commitment to the CFA is evident in its on-going efforts to engage with its neighbours and others to resolve disputes amicably.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which aims to generate electricity for millions and drive economic growth, has raised concerns among downstream countries. Despite these tensions, Ethiopia has maintained that the GERD is essential for its development and is committed to adhering to the principles outlined in the CFA.
While the CFA represents a significant step toward cooperative water management, challenges remain. The differing priorities and concerns of the Nile Basin countries have led to disagreements over water allocation and usage.
Ethiopia has sought to address these concerns through dialogue and negotiation. The country has participated in various rounds of talks facilitated by international organizations, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that respects the rights of all nations involved. The country’s willingness to engage with its neighbours reflects its commitment to the principles of the CFA.
The success of the CFA after more than ten years of labour necessitates that all nations in the Nile Basin unite and seek common ground. For the Nile’s resources to be managed sustainably and fairly, Ethiopia must take the initiative to promote communication and cooperation.
Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said that the CFA’s tenets correct historical wrongs, create equitable use, and promote shared responsibility and understanding after it came into effect on October 13, 2024.
The Ministry congratulated the People of the Nile Basin States on the official entry into force of CFA, noting that it is a remarkable achievement that has been in the making for over a decade.
The dedication, perseverance, and collaborative spirit displayed by state parties throughout this process would, no doubt, enhance cooperation and provide the impetus to realize the equitable and reasonable management and utilization of the shared water resource, the ministry stated in a statement that was posted on its social media.
The Ministry also underlined that Ethiopia is confident that the entry into force of this agreement will yield significant benefits for the basin states and contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable future. CFA stipulates that each Nile Basin State has the right to use, within its territory, the waters of the Nile River System in a manner that is consistent with the other basic principles.
In a media statement yesterday, Ethiopia’s Minister of Water and Energy, Dr. Ing. Habtamu Itefa, emphasized that the Nile Basin Cooperation Framework Agreement guarantees equitable benefits for all countries within the basin and does not adversely affect any party.
Regarding the implementation of the CFA, the Minister announced that the agreement has entered into force as a legal framework for the African Union.
He said that this has changed the situation that made the downstream countries use the Nile River as a leader and allows for fair use.
He mentioned that Ethiopia has been making a lot of efforts to prepare the cooperation framework of the Nile Basin and to have it signed by the countries in the basin.
The minister said that the purpose of the framework agreement is not to harm anyone and that it is legally enforceable and ensures the cooperation and common development and equal benefits of the countries in the basin.
Urging all basin countries to join the agreement and faithfully implement its principles, Ethiopia’s Minister said, “Let’s work together to build a future where the Nile will be a source of hope, where we can alleviate challenges together and create a better world for ourselves and future generations.”
Finally, he extended gratitude to the international community for their cooperation in this journey and requested to further strengthen their partnership in the journey to a new phase of cooperation.
Overall, Ethiopia’s leadership in the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework highlights its commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable development. As the stakes continue to rise, the future of the Nile will depend on the ability of its basin countries to work together, ensuring that the river remains a source of life and prosperity for generations to come.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER 2024
