Latest news with #BlueNile
Al Jazeera
2 days ago
- Politics
- Al Jazeera
Why Sudan's RSF chose this parallel government ahead of peace talks
The Tasis Alliance, a coalition of Sudanese armed groups formed in February, has unveiled a parallel 'transitional peace' government to rival Sudan's wartime government in Port Sudan. Tasis is based on a partnership between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), a powerful armed group that controls swaths of South Kordofan and Blue Nile states in southern Sudan. SPLM-N has been fighting a rebellion against the central government and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for 40 years – a conflict rooted in aggressive land grabs by central elites. The RSF and SAF are former allies, yet a power struggle triggered an all-out civil war in April 2023. Analysts have told Al Jazeera that Tasis aims to challenge SAF for legitimacy and power after more than two years of conflict. 'The Tasis government is the RSF's latest desperate attempt to rebrand itself as a state authority rather than a militia,' said Anette Hoffmann, an expert on Sudan at the Clingendale Institute think-tank in the Netherlands. 'Yet all their actions have continued to prove the opposite. While announcing their government … RSF forces and their allies were besieging entire state capitals and starving innocent civilians,' she told Al Jazeera. Tasis announced its government just three days before a new round of Sudan peace talks is set to begin on July 29 in the United States. The talks will bring together representatives from the Sudan Quartet – Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the US. Neither SAF nor the RSF will be included in this round, according to Africa Intelligence. Regardless, the RSF has long been wary of being dismissed as a mere 'armed group' in ceasefire negotiations and left out of the circles of power and influence in a post-war Sudan due to a lack of international legitimacy. By forming its own government, the Tasis Alliance aims to garner recognition from some friendly states and boost its bargaining position in future negotiations, said Kholood Khair, an expert on Sudan and the founder of the Confluence Advisory think-tank. 'What's interesting is that there has been so little disclosed about these new talks, yet it has started a fury across Sudan and catalysed the formation of these two governments,' Khair told Al Jazeera. She added that the army adopted a similar ploy in May when it appointed Kamel Idris as prime minister in Port Sudan, a strategic city on the Red Sea Coast. Idris recently appointed five new ministers to round out his new government, just a day after Tasis announced its parallel administration. Like Port Sudan, the RSF-backed government is run by a council of military elites and civilian loyalists. The RSF's leader, Mohamed Hamdan 'Hemedti' Dagalo, heads the Tasis's 15-member Presidential Council. SPLM-N leader Abdelaziz al-Hilu serves as his deputy. A reported 47 percent of posts in the new administration went to RSF-aligned armed commanders and civil servants, while SPLM-N was given about one-third of the posts. The rest were handed out to smaller armed groups and political parties who advantageously joined Tasis to boost their relevance, as previously reported by Al Jazeera. Post appointees include Suleiman Sandal from the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) – a rebel group that emerged out of the Darfur wars and splintered in the current war – who was made interior minister. Al-Tahir Hajar, from the Sudan Liberation Forces Gathering (SLFG), which also emerged from the Darfur wars, is a prominent member of the Tasis leadership council. The prime minister of the Tasis government is Mohamed Hassan al-Ta'aishi, a politician from Darfur and a former member of the transitional Sovereign Council that led Sudan shortly after former President Omar al-Bashir was toppled in 2019. The Sovereign Council was headed by SAF chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Hemedti. The two were supposed to step down from power in 2021, yet they orchestrated a coup to dismiss the then-civilian cabinet and dash hopes for democracy. Since SAF recaptured the capital Khartoum from the RSF in March, the former has been in control of the east and centre of the country, while the RSF has attempted to consolidate its control over the western and southern regions. The Tasis government may have ended up cementing that division more than helping it gain an advantage at the negotiating table, said Alan Boswell, an expert on Sudan with International Crisis Group. 'The RSF aims to be legitimate as a national actor,' he said. 'Yet [this government] makes de facto partition all the more likely, even if that is not the strategic intent.' Khair added that the creation of a second government further incentivises armed groups to accumulate power in hopes of scoring a post in one of the two administrations. 'This [new government] really catalyses the proliferation of different armed groups,' she said. 'More armed groups will mobilise … to win a position [in one of the two governments] during wartime.' 'This is a reality that really entrenches war dynamics.'
Al Jazeera
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Jazeera
The Nile cannot be governed by colonial-era treaties
In a couple of weeks, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the biggest hydroelectric dam on the African continent, will be inaugurated. The construction of this dam has taken more than a decade and has cost nearly $5bn. The government and people of Ethiopia mobilised the funds for this national project from their meagre internal resources. No international financing was made available for this project. While the construction of the dam has received some international media attention, the media coverage has not made clear the Ethiopian perspective. This is a modest attempt to rectify that problem. The GERD is constructed on the Blue Nile, which Ethiopians call Abay. Abay means 'big' or 'major' in several Ethiopian languages. Abay is one of the main tributaries of the Nile River. Although many associate the Nile almost exclusively with Egypt, the river traverses 10 other African countries. Among these countries, Ethiopia holds a unique position because 86 percent of the Nile water that reaches Egypt originates from the Ethiopian highlands. Abay is the biggest river in Ethiopia with a huge potential to boost overall socioeconomic transformation and development. It has been a long-held aspiration of Ethiopians to utilise this resource. The GERD is a national development project that fulfils this dream. Despite its huge labour force and economic potential, Ethiopia has yet to make headway in its endeavour to industrialise. One critical factor that has held back this effort has been Ethiopia's lack of energy. According to the latest figures, barely 55 percent of Ethiopians have access to electricity. There is a huge demand and need for electricity in Ethiopia. Hence, the GERD is seen as our national ticket out of darkness and poverty. Necessity dictates that Ethiopia use this major resource as an instrument to spur growth and prosperity for the benefit of its 130-million-strong population, which is expected to reach 200 million by 2050. The GERD is expected to generate about 5,150 megawatts of electricity and produce an annual energy output of 15,760 gigawatt hours. This will double Ethiopia's energy output, which will not only light our homes but also power industries and cities and transform our economy. The GERD would also make it possible to increase our energy exports to neighbouring countries, thereby strengthening regional integration and interconnectedness. The lower riparian states of the Nile would also derive immense benefit from the GERD because it would prevent flooding, sedimentation and water loss through evaporation. The very purpose of the GERD, which is generating electricity, requires that the water flows to lower riparian countries after hitting the enormous turbines that generate the electricity. The dam does not block or stop the river from flowing. Doing so would make electricity generation impossible and defeat the very purpose for which the dam was built. So, you might ask, why are some lower riparian countries complaining about the construction of the dam? The reason for their objections emanates not from rational fear or legitimate concern. The objections are the result of an attitude shaped by a colonial-era water-sharing agreement concluded between Britain and Egypt in 1929 and its derivative agreement sealed in 1959 between Egypt and Sudan. Ethiopia was not a party to any of these treaties. However, some Egyptians contend that the water-sharing formula enshrined in the colonial-era agreement, which excludes the remaining nine African nations from having any share of the Nile, is still valid and should be adhered to by all Nile riparian countries. From an Ethiopian point of view, this anachronistic argument, often presented as 'historic rights over the Nile' is unacceptable. While Britain is entitled to enter into any agreements regarding the River Thames, it does not have the right to dispose of the waters of the Nile or the Abay River. As we all recall, the late Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser rejected Britain's claims over the Suez Canal. For much stronger reasons, Ethiopian leaders have consistently rejected arguments based on colonial arrangements in which Ethiopia did not have a say. The Ethiopian view is that the Nile is a shared natural resource. It should be used in a cooperative framework that would be beneficial for all riparian countries. The developmental aspirations and dreams of all nations are equally legitimate. The needs of some should not be prioritised over the needs of others. A fair, just and inclusive arrangement that takes into account the realities of the 21st century is needed. Such an arrangement is already in place in the form of the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement, which is a contemporary, African-initiated treaty designed to promote sustainable management and equitable use of the Nile. This treaty has already been signed and ratified by Ethiopia, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan. Egypt should stop yearning for a bygone colonial era and join these Nile riparian countries in their joint effort to promote fair and equitable use of the Nile in a sustainable manner. The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera's editorial stance.
IOL News
15-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
BRICS+ Series: Tackling the Global Water Crisis Through BRICS
Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (3-L) speaks during a plenary session of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 7, 2025. BRICS leaders at a summit on Sunday took aim at US President Donald Trump's "indiscriminate" import tariffs and recent Israeli-US strikes on Iran. (Photo by Mauro PIMENTEL / AFP) Image: AFP Understanding the BRICS Water Dilemma The global water crisis is no longer a distant threat but an unfolding reality. By 2025, an alarming 2.8 billion people, roughly 35% of the world's population, will face water scarcity. In the face of this escalating emergency, BRICS, a powerful bloc from the Global South, is emerging as a leader, not just in survival, but in charting a path forward. Water insecurity varies among BRICS nations, reflecting the bloc's diversity and scale. India, for instance, faces one of the most severe water stress crises globally. Despite housing 18% of the world's population, it possesses only 4% of its water resources. This disparity has led to high to extreme water stress for over 600 million Indians, with groundwater depletion in areas such as Punjab and Haryana reaching unsustainable levels. Despite being a global leader in infrastructure, China grapples with significant regional disparities. The northern part of the country, home to over 40% of its population and a large portion of its agricultural land, possesses only 20% of the nation's water resources. To address this imbalance, China has invested over $79 billion in the South-North Water Transfer Project, the world's largest water diversion scheme. Brazil presents a striking paradox: it holds 12% of the world's freshwater, yet major areas, such as São Paulo (Latin America's largest city), have endured recurring droughts. This situation is exacerbated by Amazon deforestation, which imperils the flying rivers in the atmosphere vital for rainfall in southern agricultural regions. South Africa is an arid country that has experienced severe droughts over the past decade. Notably, Cape Town's 2018 Day Zero water crisis garnered international attention. The Department of Water and Sanitation warns that the country faces a 17% water deficit by 2030 unless immediate action is taken. While Russia possesses substantial freshwater reserves, mitigating its vulnerability in terms of volume, persistent pollution and inadequate management, particularly within Siberia and the Volga River Basin, present considerable long-term challenges. The expansion of BRICS introduces greater diversity to the global water landscape. Ethiopia's Blue Nile projects, while causing geopolitical tension, reflect a sovereign effort to utilize water for development. Egypt, which relies on the Nile for over 90% of its freshwater, is highly susceptible to climate fluctuations and upstream damming. Iran grapples with both water scarcity and mismanagement, whereas the UAE, heavily dependent on desalination, is investing significantly in technological advancements. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Water and Sovereignty: A Political Standpoint BRICS's water strategy subtly challenges the West's long-standing influence over global environmental policies. For too long, organisations like the World Bank, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and various Northern think tanks have shaped global water security discussions. BRICS is advocating for a shift, promoting financing models that prioritise national interests and fostering scientific collaboration built on mutual benefit rather than exploitation. Over $2.5 billion has already been approved by the New Development Bank (NDB) for water-related infrastructure, encompassing projects from Indian irrigation systems to rural South African sanitation. The NDB is set to launch a Green Water Bond Framework in 2025, which will provide concessional loans to member states for water purification, storage, and climate-resilient infrastructure. What sets BRICS apart is its perspective on water. It is viewed not as a commodity for privatisation, but as a shared human right and ecological resource. This perspective emphasises solidarity over exploitation. Challenges Ahead, but a Clear Mandate The path forward, while challenging, presents an opportunity for BRICS to leverage its collective political will, scale, resources, and burgeoning sense of shared destiny. Obstacles such as slow coordination, uneven data, and simmering geopolitical tensions (for example, the Ethiopia-Egypt Nile dispute) persist, but these do not diminish the potential for progress. For the Global South to overcome the gravest environmental challenge of the 21st century, water sovereignty and sustainable management must be spearheaded by those with an intimate understanding of its implications. BRICS is not merely reacting to a crisis; it is actively redefining it. Through this process, BRICS has the potential to guide the world toward a water future that is more equitable, secure, and sustainable. In a world where future conflicts could be sparked by water scarcity, BRICS presents a path of cooperation rather than militarisation. This cooperative approach, in itself, sets a valuable precedent Written By: *Dr Iqbal Survé Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN *Sesona Mdlokovana Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group African Specialist ** MORE ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE ** Follow @brics_daily on X/Twitter & @brics_daily on Instagram for daily BRICS+ updates
Forbes
14-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The 16 Best Places To Browse Affordable Engagement Rings Right Now
Finding the perfect engagement ring is no easy feat—especially when you're on a tight budget. According to The Knot 's 2024 Jewelry & Engagement study, the average cost of an engagement ring is $5,200 in the United States. But that doesn't mean you can't find a beautiful ring for less. Retailers like Blue Nile, Brilliant Earth and James Allen are brimming with affordable engagement rings. And, now that summer is in full swing, many are hosting seasonal sale events to help you save even more. These are the best places to shop affordable engagement ring styles right now. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTOS: RETAILER. For the purpose of this list, we're defining 'affordable' as any ring below that aforementioned $5,200 average. Ahead, we've listed 16 of the best places to shop for affordable engagement rings right now, as well as some specific designs our editors recommend checking out. Blue Nile: Our fashion editor named Blue Nile the best place to buy engagement rings overall. You can filter its settings and diamonds by price to find an affordable option or save up to 30% on select styles now. Brilliant Earth: At Brilliant Earth, settings start at $550 and diamonds start at $300. (You can sort by price to find options within your budget.) You can also use code STUDS to get a pair of lab diamond stud earrings with purchases over $1,000. to get a pair of lab diamond stud earrings with purchases over $1,000. James Allen: Take up to 20% off select lab-grown diamonds for your engagement ring. The offer is only available for loose stones and does not include the setting. Zales: Save up to 70% on a selection of sparkling clearance items and take up to 50% off select styles during its Summer Steals event. Helzberg Diamonds: Helzberg Diamonds is currently offering 15% off sitewide and up to 60% off select pieces during the Diamond Days sale. Etsy: Browse unique rings from a variety of marketplace sellers at up to 75% off. Fred Meyer Jewelers: Get up to 50% off an assortment of ring styles and up to 70% off clearance items. Use code SALE for an additional 10% off select pieces. for an additional 10% off select pieces. Kay Jewelers: Save up to 50% on diamond rings during its Big Summer Sale and take an extra 20% off certain clearance items. Ritani: Sign up for Ritani's email list to save an additional $100 on your next order and get access to exclusive sales. For a limited time, you can also get 30% off lab grown diamonds with code DIAMOND30 and 20% off engagement ring settings. and 20% off engagement ring settings. Vrai: Shop made-to-order and ready-to-ship engagement rings for as low as $2,100. Grown Brilliance: Join Grown Brilliance's email list to unlock $100 off your first purchase of $1,000 or more. Quince: Find high-quality, low-cost options at Quince, including lab-grown and natural diamond rings starting at $900. With Clarity: Customize an engagement ring or opt for ready-to-ship options for as low as $1,200. You can also get up to 25% off select styles right now. Jared Jewelers: Save up to 70% on engagement rings, including a variety of metals, cuts, carat weights and more. Macy's: Browse over 300 engagement ring styles from a wide range of brands—including options priced under $5,000. Angara: Take up to 15% off select engagement rings with natural and lab-grown diamonds, or choose between additional gemstones. Blue Nile is our fashion team's pick for the best place to buy engagement rings overall. It offers a vast selection of styles—including customizable designs—and helpful assistance from virtual advisors. The brand's overall accessibility and customer service make it an easy favorite. This understated ring makes your diamond the center of attention (as it should be). Choose from six metal types, and complete the piece with your diamond of choice from Blue Nile's selection of gorgeous lab grown designs. Just keep in mind: The price of the diamond will vary based on factors like style and size. Brilliant Earth specializes in customizable engagement rings, with setting options starting at $550 and diamonds starting at $300. If you'd prefer a ready-to-ship design, there are options priced from $1,890. The retailer carries both lab-grown and natural diamonds, but its most affordable styles feature lab-grown stones. Right now, code STUDS will also get you a free pair of lab diamond stud earrings with purchases over $1,000. At $2,390, this is one of Brilliant Earth's most affordable ready-to-ship designs. Choose between a white gold or yellow gold setting. You can also opt for a larger center stone if you're willing to pay a bit more—the pictured option has a total carat weight of one carat. If you're seeking a more traditional ring, check out James Allen. While the designer offers an impressive selection of styles—including modern minimalist pieces—it specializes in timeless, vintage-inspired designs that suit just about any budget. With its current sale, you can save up to 20% on select lab-grown diamonds for your engagement ring. This elegant pear-shaped ring from James Allen has a 1.57-carat lab-grown stone on a 14k white gold band. You also get limited lifetime warranty included for free with this ring. Zales For sheer variety, our fashion editors recommend Zales. The brand is a household name and carries thousands of styles, many of which are fully customizable. It's currently offering up to 70% off select clearance styles. If you're looking for a ring that really sparkles, this emerald diamond has a 2-carat total weight, primarily made up of its 1.5-carat center stone. The additional components that surround the center stone are trapezoid-shaped and tapered baguette-cut lab-grown diamonds. Helzberg Diamonds Helzberg Diamonds has been making rings since 1915, so you know its styles are reliable. Plus, it adheres to the Kimberley Process, American Gem Society and World Diamond Council standards—all ethical standards for sourcing diamonds and metals. The store is currently offering 15% off sitewide and up to 60% off select diamond styles during the Diamond Days sale. This stunning design features a sparkling oval-shaped diamond, flanked by decorative diamonds on either side, on a 14k white gold band. The entire ring has a 1 ctw count and is available in yellow and rose gold bands as well. Etsy For those unfamiliar, Etsy is an online marketplace that hosts individual sellers. If you want a wide array of unique designs—including some vintage options—it's an excellent place to start your search. Just keep in mind: You'll have to do a little more legwork than at a curated jeweler, and it may be more difficult to verify the source of your diamond. A gorgeous, 5-carat IGI-certified lab-grown diamond is the star of this ring. However, on the hidden halo setting, you'll find additional diamonds for extra glamour. The ring is made to order, with options of 14k white, yellow or rose gold for the band. GrownRadiance has earned a Star Seller rating from Etsy, denoting that the designer has received consistent five-star reviews, ships quickly and provides quality customer service. Fred Meyer Jewelry This Portland-based jeweler has hundreds of affordable engagement ring designs to choose from, all of which adhere to responsibly mined and produced jewelry practices. Your ring is also covered by a Lifetime Jewelry Care Program that includes cleaning and routine maintenance, as well as repairs and replacements. While shopping through dozens of discounted engagement rings, you can also get an additional 10% off clearance jewelry with code SALE. Fred Meyer Jewelry If you already know you want a white gold band, this timeless ring has a great discount right now. The design features the aforementioned 14k white gold band and a 1.5 carat princess cut lab-grown diamond. The stone is GSI-certified, ensuring the diamond is of high quality and value. Kay Jewelers The classic jewelry brand is known for more than its catchy jingle. Kay Jewelers offers a wide selection of rings to suit a variety of budgets and preferences. Plus, all of its diamonds, precious metals and gems are responsibly sourced and come backed by a lifetime guarantee. This 1.5-carat marquise lab-grown diamond sits on 14K white gold setting. Although the sparkly center stone steals most of the attention, there are smaller details that are equally as captivating. This includes the round and marquise-cut diamonds that surround the diamond across the band. Take note: the band is only available in 14k white gold at the moment, but it's ready to ship immediately. Ritani Whether you're looking for a simple design or want a more elaborate look to your engagement ring, Ritani has you covered. Right now, you can customize your diamond or lab-grown diamond ring for as low as $1,600. The retailer has countless affordable rings, but you can increase your savings by joining Ritani's email list to secure $100 off your order. Take up to 30% off lab-grown diamonds and up to 40% off wedding rings during its current flash sale. The 'Toi et moi' or 'you and me' engagement ring style is the perfect way to symbolize your upcoming marriage due to its unique two-stone design. Personalize the ring by selecting the second stones shape, metal and carat size. The current offer above includes a .18-carat pear diamond. Depending on your preferences, the price of the ring may increase. Vrai Our editors named Vrai the best place to purchase lab-grown diamond engagement rings thanks to its sustainable practices, high-quality stones and sophisticated designs. The retailer offers made-to-order and ready-to-ship engagement rings as low as $2,100. This simple ring has a 1.63-carat lab-grown center diamond secured by a 14k yellow gold band. A hidden halo holds even more handset pavé diamonds, so it shines from all angles. To maintain the look and feel of the ring, it also comes with Vrai's care package, which includes warranty, annual shine service and complimentary resizing. Grown Brilliance Our editors love Grown Brilliance because of its Truly Custom program—you send in inspiration images, and a jeweler will create a one-of-a-kind piece for you. But it also offers plenty of high-quality, pre-designed engagement rings that are on the affordable end of the spectrum. Emerald cuts rose in popularity during the Art Deco era, and they appear to be making a comeback. This stunning, vintage-inspired design combines intricate details and shapes to create a cohesive work of art. The ring features a lab-grown emerald diamond at its center, accompanied by additional stones that build upon it, as well as the band itself. Although you can't customize its shape, you can choose from white gold, yellow gold, rose gold and platinum bands. Quince Our team named Quince the best retailer for affordable engagement rings. 'Its pieces are stunning and well made,' says deputy editor Kari Molvar, who is a certified gem expert. The site offers both high-quality lab-grown and natural diamond rings—without the luxury price point. At Quince, find timeless and classic stones (including the setting) for as low as $900. This carefully sourced and crafted engagement ring is a true showstopper. At its center sits a round lab-grown diamond, surrounded by a halo of smaller stones that amplify its shine from every angle. The ring is available in 15 sizes, three carat weights and three metal options. With Clarity Another editor- and expert-approved engagement ring site is With Clarity, a retailer that allows you to build your ring or choose from its ready-made natural or lab-grown styles. Right now, you can shop rings for as low as $1,200 and also get up to 25% off select styles. With your purchase, you'll receive a free diamond set (on orders $1,000+) or a free diamond necklace (on orders $3,000+). For those who want a slim band with subtle accents, this With Clarity engagement ring is an excellent choice. The ring shown above features 14K yellow gold and a 2-carat lab-grown diamond with tiny, round stones set alongside it. However, if you prefer a different carat weight, diamond shape or metal, you can customize it to your liking. You can also add a meaningful touch to the band by personalizing it with 15 characters. Jared Jewelers This tried-and-true jewelry brand is renowned for offering a diverse selection of pieces suitable for all occasions, including engagements. Get up to 70% off select clearance styles and 20% off storewide. You can shop for premade options, customizable rings or designer rings from Vera Wang VOW, Chosen, J'Lure and more. Although Jared Jewelers has countless options, this classic, ready-to-ship design is available for under $900. Reviewers say that this simple ring is a perfect option because it's stunning without being overly expensive. Macy's The popular retailer sells a variety of jewelry pieces, including hundreds of engagement rings from brands like Badgley Mischka and Suzy Levian New York, with plenty of options priced below $5,000. You can also maximize your savings by taking advantage of the best Macy's promo codes right now. This modern engagement ring features round Moissanite stones and a knife-edge design—a raised ridge that runs along the band. After purchase, it can be registered under Macy's WorryNoMore Jewelry and Watch Protection program, which covers future services such as resizing, resetting and more. The ring is also covered by Charles & Colvard's lifetime warranty, a benefit that protects optical properties and physical integrity. Angara Angara is an online jewelry brand that offers a wide selection of cuts, gemstones and metals to help you discover your ideal engagement ring. Browse hundreds of options to find your personal style, including vintage-inspired designs and three-stone settings. For a limited time, you can also score up to 15% off select styles. This modern take on a classic style showcases a pear-shaped diamond placed in a bezel setting. The ring pictured above is a 2-carat lab-grown diamond with a 14K gold band and F-G quality. If you wish to make alterations, the ring is available in five gemstone qualities, four colors, 23 sizes and comes with free personalized engraving. What Is A Reasonable Engagement Ring Price? A reasonable engagement ring price largely depends on your budget. You should factor in the cost of the ring itself, taxes, insurance and any personalization details. However, a quality diamond paired with its setting typically starts at around $2,000 and increases from there. Still, there are plenty of beautiful rings available that are less expensive than the average ring price. What Is The Most Affordable Engagement Ring Site? There are a handful of engagement ring websites that offer options to meet most budgeting needs and style preferences. After assessing multiple factors, our team named Quince as the site with the best affordable engagement rings. Quince offers high-quality rings at a low cost, including both lab-grown and natural diamonds, and has a generous return window. How Can You Shop For Affordable Engagement Rings On A Budget? When shopping for an affordable engagement ring, it's essential to set a budget for yourself before you start looking. To maximize your spending, consider purchasing a lab-grown diamond, as these tend to be more cost-effective than mined diamonds. Characteristics and qualities to consider when looking at natural diamonds include the Four C's (cut, color, clarity and carat weight), certifications, metals and diamond setting. What Is The Cheapest Month To Buy An Engagement Ring? You can find discounts on engagement rings throughout the year, but certain months typically offer better deals than others. For example, jewelry sales tend to slow down at the end of summer, making it a good time to score savings during this quieter shopping period. The holiday season—particularly November and December—often brings a wave of promotions to attract gift-givers. Following the holidays, January is also considered a slow month for jewelry retailers, so you may see additional sales aimed at boosting post-holiday purchases.
Russia Today
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Russia Today
Ethiopia declares completion of disputed mega-dam
Ethiopia has announced the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a multibillion-dollar hydropower project on the Blue Nile that has been the focus of a decade-long dispute with Egypt and Sudan. The dam will be formally inaugurated in September, the Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement. Under construction since 2011, the GERD is designed to generate up to 5.15 gigawatts of electricity, making it the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa. While Ethiopia presents the project as a transformative energy source for the region, Egypt and Sudan have repeatedly raised concerns over its impact on downstream water flows. In a message shared on X, the Ethiopian government described the GERD as 'a symbol of regional cooperation and mutual benefit,' insisting that the project 'is not a threat, but a shared opportunity.' Officials in Addis Ababa argue that the dam's power generation will benefit not just Ethiopia but neighboring states as well. Regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam"The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is now complete, and we are preparing for its official inauguration. While there are those who believe it should be disrupted before that moment, we reaffirm our commitment: the dam will be… The dam is built on the Blue Nile – the Nile's main tributary. The Nile provides about 97% of Egypt's freshwater supply, according to various sources. Both Cairo and Khartoum fear that upstream water retention could severely affect agriculture and water security in their countries. In September, the Egyptian government filed a complaint with the UN Security Council, accusing Ethiopia of violating international law and threatening regional stability with its alleged unilateral actions regarding the GERD project. The move came after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the fifth phase of filling the dam. Amid ongoing disagreement over water rights, Ethiopia has pushed forward with a regional water governance framework. In October, Prime Minister Abiy confirmed the implementation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), a treaty designed to establish a permanent Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC) among upstream nations. The treaty has been signed by upstream countries including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Burundi, with South Sudan joining in 2012. While the treaty moved closer to activation after South Sudan's parliament ratified it in July, Egypt and Sudan have rejected the accord. Both governments called it an 'incomplete' document that is not 'representative of the Nile Basin as a whole.' Egypt has warned that even a modest reduction of just 2% in its Nile water supply could lead to the loss of around 200,000 acres of farmland, posing a serious threat to national food security. Sudan has voiced similar fears, citing the river's vital role in its agriculture sector.
