South Sudan ratifies Nile Basin agreement

JUBA – The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) on Monday unanimously ratified the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), a move expected to unlock major infrastructure projects utilizing the Nile River’s resources.

Oliver Morris, Chairperson of the TNLA’s Information Committee, explained the decision followed years of anticipation from the Nile Basin member states. “Parliamentarians unanimously ratified and endorsed this agreement as a gift to the people of South Sudan,” Morris stated.

The ratification is seen as strategic for South Sudan’s hydropower potential and tackling chronic electricity shortages.

“South Sudan is now free to develop infrastructure using the Nile River,” Morris added. “The constant power outages will be a thing of the past. By ratifying this agreement, South Sudan can exploit these resources for the country’s benefit.”

Established under the NBI in 1999, the CFA aims for regional cooperation, sustainable development, and equitable Nile water utilization. Justice Ruben Madol, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, presented the agreement for review by specialized TNLA committees.

The Nile, Africa’s longest river, has been a historical source of contention. The CFA seeks a legal and institutional framework for Nile Basin cooperation, ensuring sustainable resource management and facilitating joint water infrastructure projects.

Gatluak Riek, Chairperson of the Water Resources and Irrigation Committee, along with other committees, examined the CFA’s articles and found no conflict with South Sudanese law.

The committee highlighted potential benefits, including recognizing South Sudan’s right to downstream benefits, promoting balanced resource management, and addressing water security concerns like droughts, floods, and climate change impacts.

Riek said the agreement will enable South Sudan to harness its hydropower potential, fostering economic growth and regional power integration. The CFA also encourages cooperative initiatives with other Nile Basin countries, strengthening diplomatic ties and regional stability.

John Agany (SPLM, Northern Bahr el Ghazal) and others called for an end to the debate and ratification of the agreement.

“It’s time for South Sudan to secure its interests and cooperate with other Nile Basin states. Today is a golden opportunity for South Sudan to embrace this crucial agreement,” Agany asserted.

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), a local civil society watchdog, applauded parliament’s decision.

CEPO Executive Director Edmund Yakani called the 11-year delay a “strategic mistake” and emphasized South Sudan’s role in water governance and regional development.

The civil society group urged swift action to deposit the ratification with the African Union and ensure the agreement’s operationalization.

It further acknowledged the unresolved issue of water security (Article 14(b)) and the disagreement on protecting existing water uses and rights. They pledged to advocate for the establishment of a civil society forum for CFA implementation, hosted in South Sudan.