The African Academy of Sciences (AAS), in partnership with the European Commission, recently held a pioneering symposium aimed at exploring the potential of science diplomacy to foster peaceful cooperation among the Nile Basin countries. Themed around the vital role of the Nile River, the event highlighted the shared responsibility of managing this crucial resource that supports millions of lives, ecosystems, and economies across Africa. With the Nile's transboundary nature sparking disputes over the years, this symposium underscored the importance of independent scientific evidence and diplomacy to resolve complex issues around water management and equitable access.
Prof Lise Korsten, the AAS President, in her welcome address, emphasized the centrality of water resources to Africa's development, particularly in agriculture and food security. She highlighted the Academy's commitment to driving science diplomacy initiatives, working with stakeholders to guide policy discussions on Nile water use. Prof Korsten reaffirmed AAS’s vision for the sustainable management of the Nile through collaboration and shared knowledge.
In a statement from the Science Counsellor of the EU to the African Union, Dr Laurent Bochereau underscored the importance of using a science-based approach. He noted that the collective response to challenges like climate change and water scarcity must transcend borders, leveraging scientific evidence to inform decision-making and foster trust among the Nile Basin nations. He added, "Science knows no borders and can be a bridge to build trust and joint solutions. The future of the Nile Basin must prioritize protecting its ecosystems and the communities that rely on them."
The meeting featured discussions on sustainable resource management, equitable water distribution, and the role of science diplomacy in the Nile Basin’s governance. Experts presented research on the unique dynamics between blue water (irrigated agriculture) and green water (rain-fed agriculture) in the region, stressing the importance of recognising and integrating both types of resources into shared management strategies. This approach, they suggested, could help shift from competition over water to cooperative benefit-sharing that safeguard both agricultural productivity and regional stability.

Key discussion points included:

• The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD): Delegates discussed the GERD's potential for regulating water flow and supporting energy production while emphasizing the importance of an operational agreement to balance the needs of Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
• Climate Change and Agriculture: Climate impacts on water resources, agricultural threats, and the importance of alternative solutions like desalination and groundwater utilization were examined, with a strong call for regional cooperation to address water scarcity and protect the Nile’s ecosystem.
• Transboundary Water Governance: Participants emphasized the value of a collaborative governance framework that includes data-sharing, joint decision-making, and the support of inclusive institutions to achieve sustainable water management.
• Environmental and Socioeconomic Implications: Presentations highlighted the interplay between water quality, climate resilience, and the socioeconomic challenges faced by Nile Basin communities, with a focus on education, capacity building, and sustainable funding for the water sector.

The AAS and the EU committed to continuing this dialogue, with the goal of fostering long-term partnerships and science-based solutions that can transform the Nile Basin's future. By bringing together scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the region, this symposium set the stage for a cooperative approach that aims to transcend historical grievances and work towards a sustainable future for all those who rely on the Nile.
To watch the recorded live stream of the Science Diplomacy Symposium on Transboundary Nile Water Management click here.