Egypt’s Al-Sisi Stands Firm on Nile Water Dispute With Ethiopia

CAIRO, Egypt – Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has pledged to safeguard the waters of the Nile River amidst escalating tensions with Ethiopia over the Grand Renaissance Dam constructed on the Blue Nile.

Egypt has long contended that Ethiopia’s damming efforts have curtailed the water flow downstream, severely affecting countless lives across the nation. In response, Egypt proposed a measured approach to filling the dam, an idea swiftly nixed by the Ethiopian authorities.

Al-Sisi emphasizes that the Nile River, which supplies Egypt with 98% of its water, is indispensable, declaring his steadfast resolve to preserve this vital lifeline. He has advocated for unwavering diplomatic strides, a comprehensive approach with regional partners, and a unified front to realize collective aspirations.

“Despite myriad global challenges, we are resolutely determined to press on with this significant initiative,” he remarked during the Water Week event in Cairo. “Given the pressing issues of water scarcity from both natural causes and colossal river exploitation initiatives,” he elaborated.

Timely, Cairo Water Week coincided with the African Water Week celebrations throughout the continent. Egypt is ardently seeking a peaceful diplomatic resolution in its contentious standoff with Ethiopia.

“Reflecting Egypt’s enduring African essence, we have spearheaded numerous continental movements and strategies centered around water management,” he elucidated. “At the helm of the Council of African Ministers of Water, Egypt is committed to bolstering regional collaboration and aiding compliance towards sustainable development goals focused on water,” he continued.

Egypt is stepping up bilateral engagements with various African nations, particularly those within the Nile Basin. Projects funded solely by Egypt aim to enhance infrastructure, from borehole installations and waterway clearance to constructing rain prediction hubs, ports, and dams designed for rainwater collection.

In an effort to assert more pressure on Ethiopia, Egypt has pledged to uphold Somalia’s water interests subsequent to Ethiopia’s pact with North Western State of Somalia, a politically autonomous region of Somalia. Alongside, Egypt has cemented a defense alliance with Somalia echoing the same tenets.

AXADLETM