Following the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Egypt is recalibrating its approach to Ethiopia’s new dam projects. Instead of outright opposition, Cairo is focusing on diplomacy and collaboration with Sudan to influence how these developments will affect Nile water flows. The three proposed hydropower projects – Karadobi, Mandaya, and Beko Abo – could generate significant electricity but also raise concerns for Egypt about water management and drought impacts.
Egypt’s strategy reflects a recognition of its limited ability to prevent Ethiopian dam construction. The GERD’s inauguration highlighted the challenges Cairo faces in securing binding agreements on water usage. Now, Egypt aims to engage in the design and operational rules of these new dams to mitigate potential negative impacts on its water supply, which is crucial for its population and agriculture.
As Ethiopia pushes ahead with its hydropower ambitions, the implications for Egypt and Sudan will depend on the scale and management of these projects. Smaller dams may pose less risk, while larger ones tied to irrigation could exacerbate tensions. Egypt’s concerns centre on upstream water storage and its effects during droughts, prompting calls for transparency and cooperation from Ethiopia.
In this evolving landscape, Sudan’s role is pivotal. While it shares some of Egypt’s concerns, it also seeks benefits from Ethiopian electricity and improved river management. The ongoing conflict in Sudan complicates its diplomatic capacity, making Egypt’s focus on international support and regional collaboration even more critical in navigating this complex water-sharing dilemma.
Source: Al Jazeera
