The Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) has recently come into force, marking a transformative leap toward the just and sustainable management of the Nile River. This seminal agreement aims to ensure that all riparian nations receive equitable benefits from the river, which has historically been dominated by downstream countries. It explicitly repudiates colonial-era accords that have favored these nations at the expense of upstream countries, particularly Ethiopia, which contributes the lion’s share of the river’s water flow.
In defiance of this progressive framework, Egypt and Sudan persist in their rejection of the CFA, clinging to antiquated colonial agreements from 1929 and 1959 that primarily serve their vested interests. For more than half a century, Egypt has endeavored to maintain its preferential access to the Nile’s waters while contributing nothing to the river’s flow.
In response, Ethiopia and other upstream nations have steadfastly implored their downstream counterparts to embrace the CFA, underscoring the imperative for constructive dialogue to bridge divisions and facilitate shared benefits among all member states. The enactment of the CFA establishes a robust legal framework designed to promote collaboration and mutual advantage.
Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa (PhD-Ing.) characterized the ratification of the agreement as a historic milestone for fostering collective benefits among the Nile Basin countries. He emphasized that the CFA, initiated 14 years ago, aims to cultivate an equitable distribution of the river’s resources. Its ratification on October 13, 2024, signifies monumental progress in the collaborative efforts of the basin nations.
Ethiopia, contributing over 85 percent of the Nile’s flow, has long been marginalized in its capacity to harness this vital resource. The CFA is essential for Ethiopia and its neighboring countries to achieve equitable access to these resources. “We must utilize the river equitably without inflicting significant harm on downstream nations, particularly in light of our substantial contribution compared to other Nile Basin countries,” Habtamu asserted. After enduring years of marginalization, Ethiopia is now poised to capitalize on its own resources.
The CFA epitomizes a monumental achievement for Ethiopia, with its primary objective being to ensure collective benefits as delineated in the agreement. It lays the groundwork for future collaboration and plays a pivotal role in safeguarding water resources while fostering mutual advantages.
Fekahmed Negash, a former negotiator for the Abbay Dam and a respected water resources researcher, commended the CFA’s enactment, asserting that Ethiopia must actively engage in its implementation to secure equitable benefits. He cautioned that Egypt and Sudan’s ongoing rejection of the CFA undermines the equitable distribution of resources. The CFA is instrumental in safeguarding the interests of all basin nations and fostering collaboration.
This agreement severs ties with colonial-era frameworks, instilling confidence that its implementation will enhance sustainable water management and regional cooperation. By fostering collaboration among riparian countries, the CFA is set to stimulate economic growth in the region. Ultimately, it embodies the resolve of upper basin nations to reject inequitable arrangements while reinforcing regional ties and prioritizing fair resource distribution
BY HAILE DEMEKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER 2024
