Egypt has called for cooperation among Nile Basin countries and announced a new funding mechanism of $100 million to support dam projects amid rising water tensions with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
In a significant diplomatic effort from Nairobi, Egypt has urged Nile Basin countries to work together and reject any unilateral actions regarding the Nile River, which has been a source of rising tensions, particularly with Ethiopia. The Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, emphasized the importance of cooperation and brotherhood among the Nile countries to achieve shared benefits. This gathering highlights Egypt's commitment to maintaining a unified stance in the face of challenges posed by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
During a meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto, Foreign Minister Shoukry presented a letter from President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, praising the recent elevation of relations between Egypt and Kenya to a strategic partnership level. This partnership is seen as crucial for strengthening ties and addressing mutual concerns regarding water resource management in the Nile Basin. The dialogue also aimed at reinforcing a cooperative agenda among the Nile countries.
In an important development, Egyptian Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam announced a new funding initiative worth an initial $100 million aimed at supporting the study and execution of dam projects in southern Nile Basin countries. This move is intended to not only enhance infrastructure development but also to foster goodwill and collaborative efforts among the Nile Basin nations as they face increasing challenges regarding water allocation and management stemming from Ethiopia's actions concerning the GERD.
