Uganda is playing host to the 31st Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) Council of Ministers Summit.
The summit that begun over the weekend, was on Saturday addressed by H.E Etsegenet Yimenu Bezabih, the Ambassador of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (F.D.R.E) to Uganda, Burundi, Central Africa, Union of Comoros and Seychelles who delivered a compelling statement on behalf of H.E. Dr. Habtamu Itefa, the Minister for Water and Energy of Ethiopia.
The summit underway at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Uganda, has brought together leaders and experts from the Nile Basin countries to discuss the future of the region.
In her address at the summit, Ambassador Etsegenet conveyed the messages and vision of H.E. Dr. Habtamu. She expressed her gratitude for the remarkable strides made by the Nile Basin Initiative over the years, highlighting the importance of cooperation and collaboration among the Nile Basin countries.
The Nile Basin Initiative is a collaborative framework that aims to promote sustainable development, peace, and regional integration among the Nile Basin countries. It was established in 1999, with the participation of all 11 Nile Basin countries, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The organization seeks to manage and develop the shared Nile Basin water resources in an equitable and sustainable manner.
The NBI has played a pivotal role in addressing challenges such as water scarcity, climate change, and the equitable utilization of Nile Basin resources. Through various programs and projects, the initiative has fostered mutual understanding and cooperation, laying the groundwork for regional stability and development.
Ambassador Etsegenet further emphasized Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to the NBI’s objectives and the spirit of cooperation.
She conveyed Ethiopia’s dedication to the sustainable management of the Nile’s waters, which are vital for the prosperity and well-being of the entire region.
On Monday, she was among the dignitaries that met with Uganda’s Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo, who addressed the summit on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni.
President Museveni urged leaders to use the the Nile strategically.
As discussions continue, it is evident that the NBI’s role in fostering peace, development, and sustainable resource management in the Nile Basin is more critical than ever.
