The Nile water utilization conflict arising from the 1929 and 1959 River Nile agreements

Abstract

The study principally focuses on the utilization of the waters of the Nile and conflict arising out of the 1929 and 1959 Agreements. The main problem addressed is that inspite of the attempt to boost the countries to engage in bilateral talks over the Nile Waters, the quality of the talks has not improved, and the study has suggested ways to prevent the conflict that may erupt in the Nile Basin.

The study was carried out among the selected sample size ranging from legislators to the managers and engineers who work on the Nile. It also included the diplomatic staff notably the representatives of 4 countries; Sudan, Egypt, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. The study relied heavily on a qualitative and descriptive research design; it has established that political issues are the core causes of poor quality negotiations. Solutions therefore have to be discerned from these political issues.

The conclusion is through a broader perspective, which integrates all the stakeholders, that is, all the ripairans to come together and reconsider revisiting the River Nile agreements of 1929 and 1959, which handed Egypt a Lion’s share of the river Nile waters. It is through this, that the likely conflict may be halted to secure a process of development over the Nile Basin.

This study under takes that the problem may not be comprehensively addressed unless there is a joint, multi-sectoral plan as well as ethical and professional consideration to serve as a guide to all the stakeholders in the cause for quality negotiations.

This study recommends strategies that would enhance quality negotiations over the Nile Water Utilization Conflict for all the stakeholders that are supposed to share the resource. The input of the government of Uganda, other countries, private and social, religious institutions, and individual persons is needed to ensure peaceful and amicable use of the River Nile Waters.

A final appeal is made to all the stakeholders to give a willing and enthusiastic response to this noble cause and help to improve on re-negotiations of the agreements.