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The construction of the largest hydroelectric plant in Africa promises to transform energy production in the region, but it also generates significant tensions!
A Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is an ambitious project that aims to transform Africa’s energy landscape. Located in Blue Nile, the hydroelectric dam is set to double Ethiopia's energy production. However, this technological innovation brings with it a considerable geopolitical impact, especially for the Egypt and Sudan, who heavily depend on the waters of the Nile River for their basic needs, according to BBC.
The colossal Ethiopian hydropower project
GERD, which began to be built more than 12 years ago, It is the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa. Situated 30 kilometers south of the border with Sudan, it stretches over a kilometer long and 145 meters high. The reservoir behind this gigantic dam covers an area equivalent to the size of Greater London, representing an investment of US$5 billion.
For Ethiopia, the dam is a crucial development milestone. With 60% of its population currently without access to electricity, GERD promises to provide power not only to Ethiopians but also to neighboring countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti and Eritrea. The dam has the potential to transform the region's economy, offering a constant supply of energy that can drive industrial growth and improve the population's quality of life.
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Egypt and Sudan's concerns about the dam
Despite the benefits promised by GERD, the project has raised serious concerns in Egypt and Sudan. Egypt, with a population of around 107 million people, depends almost exclusively on the Nile River for its fresh water supply. This feature is vital for human consumption, agriculture and for the operation of the Aswan High Dam. Sudan, with 48 million inhabitants, also depends heavily on the waters of the Nile.
Both countries fear the dam could restrict water flow, affecting their irrigation and energy production capabilities. Egypt, in particular, argues that a reduction of just 2% in Nile water could result in the loss of around 81 thousand hectares of irrigated land, significantly impacting its agricultural production. Furthermore, low water levels can hamper transport on the river, which is essential for the Egyptian economy.
Mohammed Basheer, from the University of Toronto, highlights that Egypt's main concern is how the GERD will be operated in the long term, especially during periods of drought. Ethiopia filled the dam in just three years, while Egypt had suggested a period of 12 the 21 years to minimize downstream impact.
Possibility of Agreement and Future Perspectives
Since the beginning of construction of the GERD in 2011, the Tensions between Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia have increased. Historical treaties of 1929 and 1959 they granted Egypt and Sudan rights to almost all of the Nile's water, allowing them to veto upstream projects. However, Ethiopia does not recognize these treaties and began construction of the dam during Arab Spring, a period of political turmoil in Egypt.
Although a new treaty was signed in 2015, negotiations over the management of Nile waters have repeatedly failed. In 2019, the International Crisis Group warned of the possibility of armed conflict. You United States tried to mediate an agreement, but without success. Talks resumed recently, shortly before Ethiopia announced the completion of filling the dam.
The search for a balanced agreement is crucial to avoid future conflicts and ensure that all countries involved can benefit from the waters of the Nile. Collaboration and negotiation are essential to transform the GERD into a symbol of regional progress rather than a point of contention.
The large Ethiopian hydroelectric plant
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam represents a significant advancement for energy production in Africa, but it also highlights the geopolitical challenges that accompany large infrastructure projects. Ethiopia sees in GERD a opportunity for development and improvement of life for its population, while Egypt and Sudan fear the consequences for their water needs. The future of the negotiations will be decisive for the stability and sustainable development of the region.
