Ethiopia Forms Committee to Evaluate Nile Project Blockages by Egypt

Manila:Ethiopia has established a national committee to assess the economic losses and missed development opportunities related to water projects that have been obstructed by Egypt over the Nile River, as announced by Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Minister revealed in an interview that the committee has already identified over 22 development projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), that have faced obstruction by Egypt. The committee is tasked with gathering evidence on these projects and examining the basis for Ethiopia's compensation claims.The assessment involves a team of experts, former ministers, advisers, and legal professionals who are analyzing the extent of the losses and potential strategies for compensation. The Minister noted that the evidence collection process includes projects opposed by Egypt, including the GERD, which faced threats of military action.The review will also consider projects that were halted as wel l as Ethiopia's environmental conservation efforts and the benefits its water-management infrastructure provides to downstream nations. The Green Legacy Initiative, which has reportedly planted over 50 billion trees, and activities in major river basins like Baro, Abay, and Tekeze are part of these efforts.Minister Habtamu emphasized the GERD's potential in regulating river flows to reduce downstream flooding and maintain water availability during dry periods. He highlighted current El Niño-related rainfall conditions as an example of the need for coordinated water management, benefiting countries like Sudan and Egypt.Discussing compensation scenarios, the Minister stated that Ethiopia's strategy includes clear milestones, with negotiation and mutual understanding as the preferred resolution approach, while other actions might be considered if necessary.