Ethiopia Steadfast to Foster Fair, Equitable Utilization of Nile Waters: Minister of Water & Energy

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENAA)—Ethiopia has an unwavering position to foster fair and equitable utilization of Nile waters, thereby ensuring suitable development of the region, Ethiopia’s Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa said.

Addressing the extraordinary Nile Council of Ministers' meeting held in Addis Ababa today, the Minister of Water and Energy stressed that cooperation among Nile riparian countries is not optional  but of necessity for fair and equitable utilization of our water resources for the prosperity of our citizens.

Stressing the importance of genuine commitment from basin countries, Habtamu said this extraordinary meeting is an opportunity for us to deliberate on the technical and institutional issues of the Nile Basin Initiative.

As people of sharing one river and vision, achievements have been made over the years, the minister added.

Awareness raising and creating common understanding and opportunities for member countries to bring ideas and concerns regarding fair and equitable rights on utilization of Nile river tributaries were among the significant strides made over the years, Habtamu elaborated.

 

He reiterates the continued and unwavering commitment of the Ethiopian government to cooperate on the Abay(Nile) River. 

Regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the minister said the dam has been built by all Ethiopians from our assets and knowledge for the sole purpose of power generation.

The GERD is a symbol of cooperation and exemplary for other countries, the Minister of Water and Energy pointed out.

"We believe this dam will be exemplary for our brotherly countries to work with their own resources with what they have, ”Habtamu added.

Florence Grace Adongo, Executive Director of Nile Basin Initiative for her part affirmed that great strides have been made in meeting the desired objectives of the 10 year NBI strategy.

The extraordinary council of ministers meeting was held on the eve of the 19th Nile Day, to be conducted in Addis Ababa with the theme “Strengthening Nile Cooperation for Resilience and Shared Prosperity” tomorrow.

 

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