THE HISTORICAL AND LEGAL BACKGROUND OF THE PROBLEM OF SHARING THE NILE WATER

Abstract

The problem of sharing the Nile waters is one of the most important factors of insecurity in the East Africa Region. It arose from the clash of the countries` claims on Nile water. This study attempts to discuss the Nile water-sharing problem in a historical and legal frame by examining the international order of waterways and the agreements related to Nile water usage. The study also briefly explains the history of the clashes between Nile Basin countries explaining their different points of view. Finally, the study delivers the Grand Renaissance Dam of Ethiopia as a case study to present a concrete discussion of the Nile water-sharing problem and its impact on the stability of the African continent. The study`s main aim is to highlight the insufficiency of the international order of waterways and the consequences of that on the political status. The study also shows the strong connection between the International System's legal problems and political problems.