JUBA, South Sudan

Governments from member states of the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) gathered in the South Sudan capital of Juba on Sunday to mark Nile Day, calling for renewed commitment, mutual respect, and stronger cooperation in managing the shared river.

Speakers at the event highlighted their countries' commitment to good-faith dialogue, describing the initiative as a critical platform for addressing rising water and food demands, as well as the negative effects of climate change across the Nile Basin.

The governments participating in the Nile Basin Initiative gathered in Juba to celebrate Nile Day, themed "Voice of the Nile: Community, Youth, and Women Engagement in Water Governance." This included representatives from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

South Sudan's Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba said the country is committed to the Nile Basin Initiative cooperation agreement and reiterated its respect for all member states' rights.

"We are committed to the principles of equitable sharing of the Nile resources. Above all, we are dedicated to the mutual values related to Nile Basin matters and to the sustainability of its resources," he said.

He emphasized that they will work closely with counterparts in the Nile Basin to ensure sustainable cooperation, equal benefits, and successful collaboration within the framework.

Hani Sweilem, Egypt's water resources and irrigation minister, asserted that Egypt remains dedicated to working through the NBI, as it is the only inclusive framework capable of uniting the ten Nile Basin countries.

"Egypt remains committed to the consultative process in good faith and in a spirit of cooperation, calling upon all Nile Basin countries to do the same. Continued support from member states and development partners is essential to building consensus, trust, and inclusivity.

"It is also crucial to refrain from taking any premature institutional steps toward a Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) coalition before a basin-wide consensus is reached," he stressed.

Elharith Mustafa Abdurrahman, chairman of the water resources technical organ in Sudan, stated that this event celebrates their collective commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and mutual equity in managing and utilizing the Nile's water resources.

"This spirit of cooperation is more relevant than ever, especially given the increasing demands for water, energy, and food, alongside the growing challenges posed by climate change across the basin. This year's theme, 'Voices of the Nile: Community, Youth, and Women Engaging in Sustainable and Resilient Governance,' resonates deeply with Sudan."

He added: "We firmly believe that sustainable and resilient governance is built on a foundation of inclusivity. By empowering our communities, youth, and women, we ensure that the benefits of our cooperation are tangible, equitable, and owned by those who depend on the Nile. Their voices are essential for building trust and shaping a future that works for everyone."

He reaffirmed Sudan's commitment to the Nile Basin Initiative, viewing it as an essential platform for addressing common challenges ranging from rising water and food demands to the escalating effects of climate change.

"We are dedicated to working with all partners to direct this institution, enhancing its effectiveness as a vehicle for sustainable solutions and paving the way for an inclusive cooperative framework that reflects the interests of all valued stakeholders."

Ethiopian Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Habtamu Itefa Geleta said that as they gather to celebrate gains for a sustainable future, they also commemorate over two decades of structured regional cooperation under the Nile Basin Initiative.

"This year's theme, 'Voices of the Nile: Community, Youth, and Women Engaging in Water Governance,' is both timely and transformative. It reflects a growing recognition that the governance of shared water resources cannot rely solely on government and technical excellence; it must be inclusive and participatory, amplifying the voices of those who depend on water every single day."

He concluded by stating that the Nile is a lifeline for over 250 million people across the basin, sustaining agriculture, generating energy, supporting ecosystems, and anchoring the livelihoods of rural communities.