In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Foreign Ministers of Ethiopia, Uganda, and Rwanda convened to discuss strategies for the fair and equitable utilization of the Nile River’s water resources and the effective implementation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA). This gathering highlight the countries’ commitment to addressing shared challenges related to water management in a region heavily reliant on the Nile.
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie initiated separate discussions with Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and Uganda’s Foreign Minister Jeje Odongo. During his meeting with Minister Nduhungirehe, Minister Taye underscored the importance of presenting a cohesive stance on Nile water utilization, emphasizing that collaboration among the Nile Basin countries is crucial for equitable resource distribution. He pointed to South Sudan’s recent ratification of the CFA as a landmark decision, illustrating the collective aspiration of the Nile Basin states to promote fairness in resource management and cooperation.
Both ministers agreed to take proactive steps to ensure the successful implementation of the CFA, reinforcing their shared objectives of sustainable water management and regional stability. This alignment is particularly pertinent given the increasing pressures on water resources due to climate change and population growth in the basin.
In his discussions with Minister Odongo, the focus turned to regional security dynamics, particularly concerning the ongoing situation in Somalia. The ministers highlighted the necessity of a careful evaluation of any potential post-ATMIS arrangements. They cautioned that any rushed decisions could undermine the significant strides made in the fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa, a region that has faced numerous security challenges.
Minister Taye also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming second Nile Summit, which Uganda will host in mid-October 2024. This summit is set to commemorate the CFA’s entry into force and the establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission. It represents a critical opportunity for the Nile Basin countries to enhance cooperation, address mutual concerns, and celebrate the collective progress made toward ensuring equitable and sustainable utilization of shared water resources.
The discussions underscore a vital regional effort to foster collaboration among Nile Basin countries, focusing on sustainable water management practices and strengthening political ties to ensure long-term stability and prosperity in the region.