GERD, a Path, or Hindrance toward SDG 6.5 in the Nile River Basin?

Abstract

This paper explores the possibility of achieving SDG 6.5 by 2030 in the Nile Basin by exploring the hydro-politics between the three main riparian states, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Through a literature review of relevant sources, it is ascertained that, historically, Egypt has maintained a hegemonic control of the Nile through disputed treaties negotiated by Great Britain. However, the state-financed construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has the potential to shift this hegemonic control of the Nile Basin in favour of Ethiopia. While this construction may act as a source of political tension and low-scale conflict in the region, this paper critically examines how the implementation of a sustainable dam filling rate, Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM), and the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) can foster transboundary water cooperation between the three major players. In line with previous research, we argue that the GERD’s main effect is mostly positive, especially if the three main riparian states are actively cooperating and are considering advice from the scientific community.