Success Achieved in Natural Resource Conservation Playing Pivotal Role in Regional Shared Benefit: Ministry

Addis Ababa, October 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s strides in natural resource conservation and watershed development are significantly fostering regional growth and mutual benefit, according to the Ministry of Water and Energy.

Success achieved in natural resource conservation is playing a pivotal role in regional shared benefit: Ministry of Water and Energy

Ethiopia’s strides in natural resource conservation and watershed development are significantly fostering regional growth and mutual benefit, according to the Ministry of Water and Energy.

The 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week continues under the theme “Advancing Science-Based Policy and Partnerships for a Water and Energy Secure Future.”

Speaking on the occasion, Michael Mehari, advisor to the Minister of Water and Energy, highlighted that developing water resources through integrated management is key to simultaneously safeguarding water, food, and energy security.

He emphasized the necessity of expanding multipurpose water storage and infrastructure to harmoniously elevate both irrigation development and power generation.

Noting that Ethiopia contributes over 86 percent of the water entering the Nile Basin system, he explained that prudently developing and protecting its water resources is essential not only for national progress but also for the shared prospering of all basin nations.

Reflecting on Ethiopia’s extensive endeavors in soil and water conservation, watershed management, and environmental protection, he underscored that safeguarding upper basin ecosystems remains vital for domestic advancement and for downstream nations' mutual advantage.

Accordingly, he pointed out the imperative to reinforce cross-border river governance through collaboration grounded in equity and equitable utilization.

He further noted that policy formulation and development choices within the water and energy domains must firmly anchor themselves on scientific research and empirical evidence.

He added that scaling up investment while building the capacity of domestic contractors and the private sector is vital for progress.

Observing that viewing the water-energy-food-ecosystem nexus in unison is crucial for sustainable development, he stressed that these sectors transcend technical dialogues, it is interlinked with national survival, prosperity, and sovereignty.

He concluded by noting that deliberations during Water and Energy Week have centered around green energy, power access, eco-friendly and health-conscious cooking options, integrated water resources management, sanitation, and digital innovation.