On December 4, 2024, Egypt and Uganda signed a joint declaration to enhance bilateral cooperation and regular consultations concerning Nile River waters. The agreement aims to benefit both nations while addressing shared interests in the Nile Basin, aligning with international laws. Egypt has committed to supporting Uganda’s development projects, and both countries plan to hold further discussions in Kampala in early 2025.
On December 4, 2024, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Ugandan Minister of State for International Affairs Henry Okello formalized a bilateral agreement promoting collaboration and regular consultations regarding the Nile River’s water resources. The signing took place in Cairo during political discussions featuring a delegation from Uganda led by Okello and Minister of Water and Environment Sam Cheptoris. The joint declaration aims to benefit both nations by enhancing access to the Nile, adhering to international legal frameworks and best practices. It further strives to uphold mutual interests while supporting broader African goals.
Under the agreement, Egypt committed to assist in Uganda’s development priorities, leveraging notably successful projects like the Owen Falls Dam and initiatives to manage aquatic weeds. During a joint press conference, Okello affirmed Uganda’s unwavering support for maintaining the Nile’s water supply to downstream neighbor countries. Notably, Uganda is part of the Entebbe Agreement, which poses challenges to Egypt and Sudan’s historical water rights, sparking opposition from these downstream nations.
The two countries also pledged to foster collaboration across multiple sectors, including defense, security, agriculture, and infrastructure, with an emphasis on exchanging expertise in water management. Egypt expressed its readiness to invest further in shared infrastructure projects within Uganda, encouraging private-sector participation in promoting trade and investment. Additionally, Egypt and Uganda will convene again in Kampala in the first quarter of 2025 to continue their discussions and cooperation efforts around the Nile Basin.
The Nile River is a critical water source for several African nations, particularly Egypt and Sudan, which have historically relied on it for their water needs. Recently, however, rising tensions have emerged due to agreements such as the Entebbe Agreement, which is supported by several upstream countries, including Uganda. This agreement is perceived by Egypt and Sudan as a threat to their established water shares. In light of these dynamics, Egypt and Uganda’s recent joint declaration emphasizes the need for cooperative dialogue centered around the Nile’s management, aligning with international laws and ensuring mutual benefits.
The recent joint declaration between Egypt and Uganda signifies a step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly regarding the management of Nile River waters. Both countries aim to work together, balancing national interests with regional needs, while also addressing the challenges posed by upstream agreements that impact downstream nations. Their commitment to regular consultations highlights the importance of diplomatic discourse in achieving sustainable agreements for mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
