Nile Basin Tensions Rise as Ethiopia Completes Africa�s Largest Hydroelectric Dam

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
water, a volume that has alarmed downstream countries Egypt and Sudan
Egypt relies on the Nile for about 97% of its freshwater, essential for farming, drinking water, and power generation at the Aswan High
Dam.Sudan also depends heavily on the river for its water needs
Egypt fears the dam will reduce its water supply, especially during droughts or when Ethiopia fills the reservoir.Nile Basin Tensions Rise
benefits, remains cautious due to its own internal challenges and water concerns
talks.GERD Redefines Nile Power Balance and Tests Regional CooperationEthiopia presents the GERD as a chance for regional cooperation and
shared economic growth
Already, power lines connect Ethiopia to neighboring countries, aiming to build a regional energy market that could lower costs and improve
control over Nile waters
Ethiopia rejects these old agreements and asserts its right to develop resources within its borders.Despite stalled negotiations and
external pressure, Ethiopia prioritized completing the dam to meet its development goals
Beyond energy, the GERD challenges the existing water-sharing system and forces Nile Basin countries to rethink cooperation.While Ethiopia
promotes shared benefits, downstream nations remain wary of water shortages and environmental risks
its economy and become a regional energy leader
At the same time, it tests the ability of Nile countries to manage shared resources fairly and peacefully.Understanding the GERD means
old water rights toward a new era where upstream countries assert their needs, requiring negotiation and cooperation to avoid conflict and
promote stability.