Negotiations over GERD should ensure equitable utilization of Nile water resource: Kenya
Addis Ababa, June 26, 2020 (FBC) -Sicily Kariuki, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation of Kenya said Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt should solve outstanding issues over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) through dialogue.
Kariuki made the remark yesterday during a discussion she had with Ethiopia’s ambassador to Kenya, Meles Alem.
The minister further said negotiations over the GERD should ensure the equitable utilization of the Nile water resource.
Ambassador Meles briefed the minister on Ethiopia’s commitment to utilizing its water resources fairly and equitably and in line with the principles of cooperation and ‘causing no significant harm.’
He further said upon completion, the GERD would further facilitate regional development and economic integration.
Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta has called for solving differences regarding the dam in line with the spirit of the catchall phrase, “African solutions to African problems”.
Similarly, President of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune said Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt should resolve outstanding issues regarding the Grand Renaissance dam through African-led initiatives.
The president made the remarks during a farewell ceremony held on Wednesday to the departing Ethiopian Ambassador to Algeria, Amin Abdulkadir.
President Abdelmadjid told the ambassador that he has held discussions with Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and President Cyril Ramaphosa, Chairman of the Union, to get resolve to the GERD issue through African-led and owned initiatives.
The two sides reiterated that Ethiopia and Algeria should further enhance their relations by engaging in economic activities.
Following the ambassador’s briefings on circumstances surrounding the GERD, the president noted Ethiopia’s stance in utilizing its water resources fairly and equitably and in line with the principles of cooperation and ‘causing no significant harm’.