Nile nations agree on water-sharing without Egypt’s nod

Nile basin nations have agreed on a water-sharing accord without Egypt's approval.

Partnership: A regional partnership of 10 countries has ratified the agreement on the equitable use of Nile River resources.

Countries Involved: Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the accord.

South Sudan's recent joining of the treaty helped formalize the agreement.

Opposition: Egypt and Sudan declined to sign the agreement, while Congo abstained. 

Legal Status: The African Union formally confirmed the legal status of the "cooperative framework" after South Sudan joined the treaty.

Objective: The accord aims to ensure sustainable and equitable use of the Nile River for all basin countries.

About the Nile River 

The Nile River is one of the longest rivers in the world, stretching over 6,650 kilometers (4,130 miles).

Location: The Nile flows through 11 countries: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Egypt.

Tributaries: The Nile has two main tributaries: 

 1. White Nile: Originates from Lake Victoria. 

 2. Blue Nile: Begins at Lake Tana in Ethiopia.

Importance: The Nile is vital for agriculture, providing water for irrigation and supporting millions of people who live along its banks.

Historical Significance: The river played a crucial role in the development of ancient Egyptian civilization, serving as a transportation route and source of fertile soil.

Modern Issues: The river is at the center of political and environmental debates regarding water rights and usage among the Nile basin countries.