After GERD, Egypt faces a new test over Ethiopia's next Nile dam projects

Egypt is once again seeking ways to influence how Ethiopia manages Nile water resources, this time in connection with three new dam projects planned on Ethiopian territory. These projects are seen as an important test of Cairo's efforts to gain greater sway over how Ethiopia develops infrastructure along the Nile.

The situation follows an earlier setback: Egypt was unable to prevent construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which has been a long-running source of dispute between the two countries. Despite Cairo's objections, GERD was built, demonstrating the limits of Egypt's ability to shape decisions made in Addis Ababa regarding use of the Nile's waters.

A new test for Egyptian diplomacy

With three new projects now on the table, the question is whether Egypt can secure greater influence over their development this time, or whether the earlier pattern will repeat, with Ethiopia acting independently of Cairo's position. How these projects unfold will be watched as an indicator of whether Egypt can adjust its approach to regional water policy following the GERD experience.

The distribution and control of Nile waters has long been a sensitive issue among the river basin's countries, and the fate of the new dams could significantly affect the region's future dynamics.