Navigating the Complex Waters: Prof. Tag Elkhazin’s Expert Insights

Prof. Tag Elkhazin, an Adjunct Professor at Canada’s Carleton University and a renowned authority on Nile waters, sheds light on the complex dynamics surrounding the Nile River, particularly South Sudan’s involvement and the potential ramifications of recent actions. This sweeping interview which was first published by Radio Tamazuj, and paraphrased by NCMP offers profound insights into the intricate web of water politics and resource management.

The Nile’s Vital Role:

Prof. Elkhazin’s extensive background in Nile studies sets the stage. He underscores the critical distinction between the White Nile, which flows through South Sudan, and the Blue Nile, which originates in Ethiopia. The Blue Nile’s staggering contribution of 86 per cent of the Nile’s total discharge looms large, while the White Nile contributes a steady 14 per cent. This fundamental asymmetry underpins South Sudan’s unique position.

Notably, South Sudan lacks a cooperative framework agreement to govern the White Nile or the Nile as a whole, despite being the world’s longest river. The unresolved Article 14B dispute pits Egypt and Sudan, seeking unlimited access to Nile waters, against the Great Lakes countries, advocating for equitable water sharing among riparian nations.

Water Policies vs. Water Politics:

The interview delves into the realm of water policies and water politics, illuminating the distinction. Water policies focus on scientific principles like hydrology and hydraulics for water resource management, while water politics involves leveraging pressure to secure strategic advantages. Prof. Elkhazin underscores Egypt and Sudan’s adeptness in water politics and the urgent need for South Sudan to enhance its capacity in this arena.

Dredging vs. Clearing:

A crucial debate centres on dredging versus clearing of the Nile and its tributaries. Prof. Elkhazin clarifies the difference: dredging involves altering a river’s profile and course, which can have unpredictable consequences. In contrast, clearing entails removing obstructions and debris from the river, a less intrusive process.

South Sudan’s Actions in Unity State: Cleaning or Dredging?

The interview scrutinizes South Sudan’s activities in Unity State, raising concerns about an MOU signed by the late Manawa Peter Gatkuoth, former South Sudan water minister, with Egypt. Prof. Elkhazin questions the terms of the agreement and the secrecy surrounding it, emphasizing the necessity of technical advice, political insight, and legislative scrutiny for such agreements.

Impact on Ecosystem and Region:

The potential effects of river dredging or clearing on the ecosystem and the broader region take centre stage. Prof. Elkhazin underscores the significance of Africa’s largest wetland, the Sudd, second only to the Amazon globally. Dredging efforts could disrupt this delicate balance, leading to adverse impacts on rainfall, local communities, and wildlife.

In the broader context, the interview raises questions about South Sudan’s alignment with its neighbours and its political priorities, offering a thought-provoking query for the nation’s leaders.

Mitigating Flooding:

Prof. Elkhazin addresses the perennial flooding issue in South Sudan, emphasizing that ecosystems are interconnected. Flooding in one region can lead to drought in another. He advocates for technical and engineering solutions that do not disrupt the ecosystem, such as the creation of artificial lakes and dike construction.

Government’s Response to Recommendations:

The interview explores the government’s response to Prof. Elkhazin’s recommendations. He highlights a report from public consultations, which included 35 pages of clear recommendations. The government, through a Council of Ministers resolution, committed to observing these recommendations. However, to date, there’s been limited compliance.

Advice to the Government:

Prof. Elkhazin’s straightforward advice to the South Sudanese government is to refrain from water-related interventions unless supported by credible, evidence-based feasibility studies. Water is a national resource and safeguarding it is crucial for the nation’s future.

Unity State Actions and Ownership:

The interview scrutinizes actions in Unity State, questioning the equipment’s origins and ownership. Prof. Elkhazin reveals that the equipment is Egyptian-owned, operated, and controlled. This raises questions about the South Sudanese government’s role in these activities.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

In conclusion, Prof. Elkhazin urges the South Sudanese government to prioritize technical expertise over political expediency. Water management requires rigorous studies and proper consultation. It is a national asset that should not be compromised without a thorough understanding of the potential consequences.

The Way Forward:

The path ahead, Prof. Elkhazin asserts, entails a return to the recommendations made in the consultation report. He emphasizes the importance of professional capacity within the relevant ministries and the need to uphold the technical integrity of water management decisions. He calls upon the government to halt ongoing activities and initiate an investigation into the circumstances surrounding water management projects.

This interview serves as a wake-up call to safeguard South Sudan’s water resources for the benefit of its people and future generations, emphasizing that decisions impacting the nation’s water supply should be grounded in credible studies and prudent governance.