Egypt’s Approach to Abay Water Sharing Needs Rethinking, Says Analyst

Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 —Ustaz Jamal Bashir, founder of the “Kings of the Abay” YouTube channel, is calling for a serious reassessment of Egypt’s long-standing stance on the #AbayRiver.

He argues that current policies fail to recognize the legitimate rights of upstream nations, especially Ethiopia, which contributes nearly 85% of the river’s water.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, emal, who is also an advocate for the equitable utilization of the Abay River’s waters, said Egypt’s stance is rooted in outdated perceptions that fail to reflect present realities and the principle of equitable water utilization.

“The current approach overlooks Ethiopia’s legitimate right to use its natural resources for development,” he said.

He noted that historical agreements such as the 1929 and 1959 Nile treaties between Egypt and Sudan were concluded under colonial conditions without Ethiopia’s participation.

According to him, relying on such agreements to limit Ethiopia’s access to fair water use lacks legal and moral justification.

Jemal emphasized that Ethiopia’s position on the Abay is based on fair historical and legal grounds.

He added that the progress of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam demonstrates the country’s commitment to achieving development while avoiding harm to downstream nations.

“The GERD reflects Ethiopia’s rightful aspiration to utilize its resources responsibly,” he stated.

He further stressed that external pressure would not deter Ethiopia’s development efforts but would instead reinforce its commitment to sovereignty and unity.

 “Ethiopia has the capacity to safeguard its interests and uphold its strategic choices,” he noted.

Highlighting the river’s importance, he described the Abay, which originates from Lake Tana, as a critical resource for agriculture and national growth.

He further noted that attempts to minimize its significance to Ethiopia are neither accurate nor objective.

According to him, Ethiopia follows the principle of fair and equitable utilization of transboundary water resources, balancing its development needs with respect for other countries’ rights.

He also called for a shift away from entrenched positions toward constructive dialogue based on mutual benefit.

He also warned that instability in Sudan could disrupt regional balance and undermine cooperation among Nile Basin countries.

Ethiopia is strengthening its role as a responsible regional actor by advancing development while promoting stability through dialogue and cooperation, he concluded.