Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and President Paul Kagame emphasized the importance of regional cooperation over the Nile River during Kagame’s official visit to Egypt, signaling renewed efforts to foster collaboration among Nile Basin countries.
Speaking at a joint press conference, El-Sisi described the Nile as “a matter of existence” for Egypt, while stressing that Cairo is committed to constructive engagement with all Nile Basin nations. “Our aim is to achieve common development, away from domination or harming the interests of any party,” he said, reflecting Egypt’s long-standing concerns over water security in the region.
The leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation on water management, investment, health, education, and infrastructure. Several agreements were signed, including plans for an advanced cardiac care centre in Rwanda’s Kigali region—a project expected to enhance health capacity in Rwanda and neighboring countries, showing how Nile Basin collaboration can extend beyond water management.
El-Sisi praised Rwanda’s achievements in reconciliation and sustainable growth, noting Kigali’s balanced positions on regional matters, including its constructive role within the Nile Basin. He also highlighted Egypt’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in East Africa, including coordination with Rwanda on post-conflict reconstruction and African Union initiatives.
President Kagame described Egypt as a strategic partner, emphasizing that the agreements signed during the visit mark a “new step in cooperation” with benefits spanning health, technical expertise, and trade. He said these efforts reflect the broader vision of shared growth and sustainable development across the Nile Basin.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile. While the disagreement with Ethiopia over water allocation remains unresolved, both leaders focused on highlighting collaboration, technical support, and regional stability as pillars of a Nile Basin agenda that benefits all nations.
With new partnerships in health, trade, and technical capacity, Egypt and Rwanda are sending a message that Nile Basin cooperation can extend beyond political disputes to drive development, strengthen regional ties, and ensure shared prosperity.
