CFA Implementation Promises Equitable Nile Water Distribution, Says Expert

Addis ababa: Implementation of the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) is set to ensure an equitable distribution of the Nile River's water resources among the countries in the basin, according to Feki Ahmed, a researcher specializing in water resource development. The agreement, which has been ratified by six Nile riparian countries, formally came into effect on October 13, 2024.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Nile Basin Commission, which will be established as part of the agreement, is expected to play a crucial role in the utilization, development, protection, conservation, and management of the river basin and its waters. The CFA originally opened for signatures on May 14, 2010, and has since been ratified by Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and South Sudan.Feki Ahmed highlighted that the agreement aims to maintain an equitable share of water resources and benefits among the countries, effectively nullifying colonial-era treaties that had previously disadvantaged major water-contributing nations. He emphasized that these historical agreements had allowed countries that did not contribute significantly to the river's flow to benefit disproportionately.The CFA, Ahmed noted, establishes a legal basis for fair and equitable benefits for all Nile Basin countries. He added that the agreement provides a framework for resolving any disputes related to water sharing between upstream and downstream countries.Furthermore, Ahmed described the CFA's enactment as a significant milestone for the Nile Basin nations, paving the way for enhanced mutual cooperation. He expressed optimism that the agreement would facilitate collaboration in areas such as technological advancement, human resource development, and efficient water utilization.Source: Ethiopian News Agency