Ethiopia Urged to Strengthen Leadership Role for Nile Basin Commission Effectiveness.

Addis Ababa: Water resource experts highlighted Ethiopia's imperative role in fostering successful initiatives within the Nile Basin Commission and underscored its responsibility to lead collaborative efforts. The long-awaited Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement, ratified by six nations, paves the way for the imminent establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC).According to Ethiopian News Agency, this agreement is expected to transition into implementation shortly, aiming to promote equitable and sustainable water resource management on the Nile basin. The framework aligns with international water law principles, striving to ensure fair usage, prevent significant harm, and promote sustained collaboration among member states.With the Nile Basin Initiative set to evolve into the Nile River Basin Commission, the forthcoming body will focus on executing agreed-upon rights, responsibilities, and regulations under the cooperative framework. It will serve as a comprehensive platform for the Nile member states, addressing water usage, conservation, and resource management in an institutionalized manner. Additionally, this platform is seen as a critical venue for resolving potential disputes and fostering steady dialogue among member countries.In light of Ethiopia's extensive experience in founding international institutions, experts emphasized its crucial role in guiding the establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission. In an exclusive with ENA, global water law expert Dr. Kebede Gerba and water resources researcher Fek Ahmed Negash commended Ethiopia's longstanding contributions to regional cooperation and expressed confidence in its leadership capabilities.The two experts also noted Ethiopia's active participation in the initiative, which has been foundational to the cooperation framework's steady progress. They further explained that Ethiopia's engagement with the Nile River Basin Commission is not just about collaborative management; it also enables Ethiopia to capitalize on its w ater resources effectively. They urged that Ethiopia's leadership will be instrumental in fostering fair and scientifically grounded water usage, ultimately benefiting the shared Nile Basin resources.The Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC), signed by six nations, and officially entered into effect on October 13, 2024.