Addis Ababa:Ethiopia has made a call for enhanced regional cooperation concerning the equitable utilization of transboundary water resources, with a focus on hydro-diplomacy as a means to achieve regional integration.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the announcement was made during the opening of the 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week, which is being held from October 26 to 30 under the theme 'Advancing Science-Based Policy and Partnerships for a Water- and Energy-Secure Future.'
In a message delivered on behalf of Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa, the Minister of Water and Energy, the Ministry highlighted the necessity for constructive engagement, reliable information, and practical cooperation in managing shared rivers. It emphasized the role of water and energy as integral components for food security, public health, industrial growth, job creation, environmental sustainability, and national development.
The Ministry also noted the importance of integrated planning to maximize development benefits, reduce resource wastage, and enhance resilience. It underscored Ethiopia's significant potential in water and renewable energy, advocating for their translation into sustainable development through effective management and decisive implementation.
Key priorities identified include the expansion of access to affordable and reliable energy, improvement of water supply and sanitation, enhancement of irrigation and water-use efficiency, and protection of groundwater and water-source catchments. The Ministry also pointed out the role of science, digital information, and modern technology in guiding policy decisions and development investments.
Strengthening hydrological and meteorological monitoring, improving basin information systems, and generating reliable energy data were highlighted as measures to identify risks, prioritize investments, and evaluate development outcomes. The Ministry stressed bridging the gap between scientific research and practical policymaking through collaboration among various stakeholders.
Additionally, the Ministry called for a coordinated approach involving government, private sector, universities, research institutions, development partners, and communities to improve service delivery and manage natural resources sustainably. It noted the importance of integrating water, energy, food production, and ecosystem protection into development planning to maximize investment benefits while safeguarding resources for future generations.
The forum aims to produce actionable recommendations, stronger partnerships, investment-ready projects, and practical measures to improve services in the water and energy sectors. The Ministry emphasized that achieving these objectives requires capable institutions, clear responsibilities, sustainable financing, effective regulation, and accountability.
The 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week has gathered government officials, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, private-sector leaders, researchers, academics, contractors, consultants, and civil society representatives to explore science-based policies and partnerships for a water- and energy-secure future.
