Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's natural resource conservation and watershed development initiatives are playing a significant role in promoting regional growth and mutual benefit, as highlighted by the Ministry of Water and Energy.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week is underway with the theme 'Advancing Science-Based Policy and Partnerships for a Water and Energy Secure Future.' Michael Mehari, advisor to the Minister of Water and Energy, emphasized the importance of integrated water resource management to ensure water, food, and energy security.
Mehari stressed the need to expand multipurpose water storage and infrastructure to boost both irrigation development and power generation. He highlighted Ethiopia's contribution of over 86 percent of the water entering the Nile Basin system and the necessity of developing and protecting these resources for the benefit of all basin nations.
Ethiopia's efforts in soil and water conservation, watershed management, and environmental protection were also noted, with an emphasis on safeguarding upper basin ecosystems. Mehari called for reinforced cross-border river governance based on equitable utilization and collaboration.
He advocated for policy formulation and development choices in the water and energy sectors to be based on scientific research. Additionally, he underscored the importance of increasing investment and building domestic contractor and private sector capacity.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of the water-energy-food-ecosystem nexus, Mehari stated that these sectors are crucial for sustainable development and national prosperity. Discussions during the Water and Energy Week have focused on green energy, power access, eco-friendly cooking options, integrated water resources management, sanitation, and digital innovation.
