CFA Member State Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Equitable Water Use

Addis Ababa, February 13, 2026 (ENA)—Foreign Ministers of Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) member states have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the equitable and reasonable utilization of the Abay waters.

In a joint stance, the ministers underscored the importance of cooperation, mutual benefit and respect for shared resources among riparian states, emphasizing that sustainable management of the river remains central to regional stability and development.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, FM Gedion Themotewos today hosted a high-level breakfast meeting with counterparts from the Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) ratifying states, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and South Sudan.

The meeting focused on practical measures to accelerate the full operationalization of the Agreement and the establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC).

The Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to the principles of equitable and reasonable utilization of Nile waters as enshrined in the CFA.

They emphasized that sustained cooperation is essential for the fair management and utilization of this critical shared resource.

The participants also highlighted the progress made since the CFA’s entry into force and pledged to ensure the successful completion of the institutional framework necessary for its implementation.

The Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) is a multilateral treaty aimed at promoting equitable and sustainable use of the Nile River’s waters among its riparian states.

Signed initially in 2010, the CFA seeks to provide a legal and institutional framework for cooperation, ensuring that all member states can benefit fairly from the Abay while respecting the rights of each country.

The Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC) is the proposed institutional body under the CFA, tasked with coordinating joint management, monitoring, and development projects across the basin.

The CFA agreement emphasizes equitable and reasonable utilization, no significant harm to other riparian states, and sustainable development.