Countries in the the Blue Nile Basin could resort to armed conflict over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, according to the International Crisis Group. The 6 GW hydroelectric project is near completion on Nilethe Blue Nile, but there are significant concerns in Egypt that it will deplete water resources. Egypt relies on the the Blue Nile for 90% of its irrigation and drinking water, and claims "historic rights" to the river dating to treaties from 1929 and 1959. However, Ethiopia sees the project as essential to its future, while Sudan wants the cheap electricity and agricultural opportunities it will provide.
Countries in the Nile Basin could resort to armed conflict over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, according to the International Crisis Group. The 6 GW hydroelectric project is near completion on the Blue Nile, but there are significant concerns in Egypt that it will deplete water resources. Egypt relies on the Nile for 90% of its irrigation and drinking water, and claims "historic rights" to the river dating to treaties from 1929 and 1959. However, Ethiopia sees the project as essential to its future, while Sudan wants the cheap electricity and agricultural opportunities it will provide.