Diplomacy of water sharing: a case of Egypt and its Nile basin counterparts
Abstract
This study examines the diplomatic exchanges between Egypt and Sudan
on one hand and the other members of the Nile basin in as far as their
relationships are concerned. It looks at Egypt and Sudan‘s position as desert
countries that almost entirely depend on the Nile River for their water needs as
opposed to their upper riparian neighbours which have the advantage of
numerous sources of water including more than sufficient rainfall. The fact that
Egypt has clung on to the pre-colonial water treaties and considers any possible
interference with the Nile as a national security matter has affected relationships
in the whole basin causing rebellious responses from Ethiopia, Uganda,
Tanzania and Kenya.
The study proposes viable ways of harmonizing these relationships
through equitable and harmonious water sharing mechanisms rather than
escalated conflict and soft diplomatic interaction.
Publisher
University of Nairobi