In a major effort to boost cross-border cooperation, the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and the European Commission recently held a landmark symposium on the use of science diplomacy to address pressing water resource challenges in the Nile Basin. Gathering scientists, policymakers, and experts from across Africa, the event centred on advancing science-driven strategies to ensure the sustainable management of the Nile's resources.
The Nile Basin, shared by multiple African nations, has faced long-standing disputes over water use, intensified by climate impacts. Prof. Lise Korsten, President of AAS, underscored the vital importance of the river for food security and sustainable development in Africa. “The Nile is a lifeline for millions,” Korsten said, advocating for collaborative approaches to support agricultural productivity and environmental resilience.
Representing the European Union, Dr. Laurent Bochereau, Science Counsellor to the African Union, highlighted science as a means to build trust among Nile Basin countries. “Science knows no borders and can be a bridge to build trust and joint solutions,” Bochereau noted, stressing the importance of prioritizing ecosystem health and community well-being in decision-making.
Discussions at the symposium addressed complex issues such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which has sparked debate over water rights and energy production. Delegates emphasized the role of scientific cooperation in balancing Ethiopia’s energy ambitions with the water needs of downstream countries, particularly Egypt and Sudan. The event also explored the impacts of climate change on water availability, with experts proposing alternative solutions like desalination and groundwater management.
The AAS and the EU committed to ongoing collaboration, establishing a foundation for sustained science-led dialogue to support peaceful, equitable management of the Nile Basin. By focusing on science-backed cooperation, this symposium has set the stage for future agreements that prioritize both environmental sustainability and the shared prosperity of all Nile Basin nations.
Article by RB Correspodent
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