CEPO Applauds Ratification of Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework The Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework (Nile-CF) has been ratified by the eleven riparian countries, marking a significant milestone in cooperative water management in the region. The Central Equatorial Protection Organization (CEPO) warmly welcomes this historic agreement. The Nile River is a vital lifeline for over 250 million people, providing water for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower. However, the river’s resources have been a source of tension and conflict in the past, as countries have sought to assert their interests. The Nile-CF establishes a framework for cooperation among the riparian countries, including mechanisms for resolving disputes and sharing water resources equitably. It also promotes sustainable development and environmental protection within the basin. CEPO believes that the ratification of the Nile-CF will have a transformative impact on the region. It will foster stability and security, promote economic growth, and protect the environment. Key Benefits of the Nile-CF: * Enhanced Cooperation: The framework establishes a permanent institutional framework for coopération, with regular meetings and decision-making mechanisms. * Dispute Resolution: It provides a process for peacefully resolving disputes over water resources, preventing conflicts from escalating. * Equitable Water Sharing: The framework recognizes the rights of all riparian countries to an equitable share of the Nile’s waters. * Sustainable Development: It promotes coordinated efforts to address water scarcity, improve agricultural productivity, and reduce poverty. * Environmental Protection: The framework includes measures to protect the Nile’s ecosystem and mitigate the impacts of climate change. CEPO urges all riparian countries to fully implement the Nile-CF and work together to achieve its objectives. The organization stands ready to support this process and promote sustainable development and cooperation in the Nile River Basin. By unlocking the shared potential of the Nile River, the Nile-CF will transform the lives of millions of people in the region and create a more prosperous and peaceful future.Ratification of the Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework Agreement: A Historic Event for South SudanRatification of the Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework Agreement: A Historic Event for South Sudan On July 8, 2024, the Parliament of South Sudan took a significant step by fully ratifying the Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework Agreement (CFA). The agreement aims to enhance cooperation and sustainable management of the Nile River resources among the Nile Basin countries. Community Empowerment for Progress (CEPO), a civil society organization, applauds the parliament’s decision, which came after 11 years of delay. CEPO director Edmund Yakani believes the delay was a strategic error that hindered South Sudan’s role in water governance, economy, and security in the region. Next Steps: Implementation and Engagement The ratification obligates South Sudan to implement the CFA and engage in related activities. The parliament must adopt the ratification resolution and deposit it with the African Union for South Sudan to become a member of the CFA. Relevant government institutions must proactively ensure the timely implementation of the next steps. CEPO will actively engage in matters related to Article 14(b) of the CFA, which addresses water security for all Nile Basin states but remains unresolved. Civil Society’s Role CEPO recognizes the vital role of civil society in the implementation of the CFA. The organization will join the campaign to ensure its benefits reach the communities within the Nile River Basin. Civil society’s engagement facilitates stakeholder participation and contributes to inclusive planning and decision-making. CEPO will advocate for the establishment of a civil society forum in South Sudan to support the CFA’s implementation. Conclusion The ratification of the Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework Agreement is a historic milestone for South Sudan. It demonstrates the country’s commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable resource management. Community Empowerment for Progress remains dedicated to supporting the effective implementation of the CFA for the well-being of the Nile River Basin communities.CEPO Welcomes Ratified Agreement on Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework The Council of Ethiopian Political Parties for Unity and Democracy (CEPO) has expressed its full support for the recently ratified agreement establishing a cooperative framework for the Nile River Basin. The agreement, signed by Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt, aims to promote sustainable and equitable utilization of the shared water resource. CEPO believes this is a significant step towards fostering regional stability and economic development. According to CEPO Secretary-General Ato Engedawork Wondmagegnehu, “This agreement reflects our shared recognition that the Nile River is a lifeline for our people. Cooperation is the only way to ensure its benefits are harnessed for the well-being of all riparian states.” The framework agreement includes provisions for data sharing, joint water resource planning, and dispute resolution mechanisms. CEPO views these as crucial measures for building trust and preventing conflicts that could arise from water scarcity. CEPO urges all stakeholders to fully implement the agreement and work together to ensure the Nile River Basin remains a symbol of unity and prosperity. The council believes that the agreement provides a solid foundation for addressing future challenges and unlocking the full potential of the region.