Latest news with #GERD
Al Jazeera
a day 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.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt's water resources in focus
The Ethiopian government recently announced the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and extended invitations to several countries, including Egypt, to attend the official inauguration ceremony scheduled for September 2025. This announcement has sparked widespread concern and disapproval in Egypt, particularly given the ongoing fears about the dam's potential negative impact on the country's historic share of Nile River water, which is Egypt's primary lifeline. In this Factsheet, we will shed light on the changes in Egypt's water resources since the first fill of the GERD in 2020. We will also highlight the efforts made by the Egyptian government to secure the country's water needs, chief among them the expansion of seawater desalination projects. The Nile River is Egypt's key source of freshwater, with 55.5 billion cubic meters (bcm), representing 93% of freshwater sources, followed by 2.5 bcm coming from deep groundwater, 1.3 bcm from rains, and 0.38 bcm from seawater desalination. In addition to natural water resources, Egypt treats water. In fiscal year (FY) 2023/24, the country produced 21.95 bcm by treating surface groundwater and wastewater. The number of water treatment stations in Egypt increased over the past five years from 2,742 in FY2019/20 to 2,795 in FY2023/24. This represents around 2% increase over the mentioned period. As a result of expanding water stations, clean water production grew by 5.2% from 110 bcm in FY2019/20 to 115.7 bcm in FY2023/24. Cairo came on top of clean water-producing governorates, with 1.9 bcm in FY2023/24. Water consumption hiked from 8.5 bcm in FY2019/20 to 9.1 bcm last year, recording 7% growth rate. Despite the increase in produced water, the per capita consumption declined from 110.1 cubic meters (m3) in FY2019/20 to 108.6 m3 in FY2023/24. Notably, in the past FY, the New Valley governorate had the highest per capita consumption with 359.3 m3. On the other hand, Minya governorate came last with a per capita of 55.9 m3. In FY2023/24, water consumed for agriculture irrigation hit 62.13 bcm or 76% of Egypt's water resources, followed by 11.48 bcm used for drinking, and 5.52 bcm in the industrial sector. To overcome the projected repercussions of the GRED, the Egyptian government expanded its plans for seawater desalination projects. Currently, Egypt has around 100 stations with a production capacity of 1.2 million cubic meters (mcm). © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Egypt Independent
2 days ago
- Politics
- Egypt Independent
Expert warns GERD's damage to Egypt's water share is at 90 billion cubic meters
Professor of Geology and Water Resources at Cairo University Abbas Sharaky warned that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has clearly harmed Egypt's share of Nile River water over the past five years, during which Ethiopia filled the reservoir of the dam. Sharaky explained in a post on his Facebook page: 'The damage is clear, with approximately 90 billion cubic meters being held back over five years, including 60 billion cubic meters stored in the lake, in addition to the loss of approximately 20-30 billion cubic meters due to evaporation and seepage into the ground.' He noted that Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has reiterated Egypt's right to legitimately defend itself and its water interests if any harm occurs. 'What is meant here is that in the event of serious harm to citizens, the government cannot prevent it from reaching them, and this does not mean, as some understand, that Egypt has not been harmed by the GERD so far,' he explained. The state has been able to provide sufficient quantities of water thanks to the High Dam and some measures and projects that cost the general budget more than LE 500 billion during the years of filling the GERD, the expert said. Sharaky pointed out that these projects include agricultural wastewater treatment plants, limiting the area for rice cultivation, developing field irrigation, lining canals, replacing agricultural varieties with water-saving ones, and a 100,000-acre greenhouse project, among others. He added that Egypt has always emphasized that it is not against development in any country, especially the Nile headwaters, provided it does not harm others. Sharaky explained that there is clear cooperation with Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Tanzania on various projects, most notably the construction of the Julius Nyerere Dam in Tanzania. Hope for an agreement The expert explained that the door is still open to reach a binding legal agreement that sets rules for the recurrent filling and operation of the GERD – especially after the completion of the initial five-year filling, which was a major point of contention in previous negotiations over the filling period, and it is preferable for this agreement to be reached before the official opening. In response to Ethiopia's statements regarding the opening of the GERD in September and Egypt's invitation to attend the ceremony, Sharaky said that Egypt can only attend the opening if an agreement is reached. 'Anything other than that, the invitation to attend constitutes a disdain and provocation to Egypt and Sudan, and the Foreign Minister described it as absurd. Egypt also strongly rejects any future Ethiopian announcement to construct additional dams on the Nile River through unilateral decisions.'
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Persistent stomach pain? 12 serious health conditions every adult should know about
Persistent stomach pain means discomfort in your belly region that sticks around for weeks, months, or even longer. Unlike an occasional cramp or a brief stomachache, this pain doesn't fully go away and often comes and goes in a pattern, or it might gradually get worse. The abdomen holds a ton of important organs, your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, kidneys, reproductive organs, and more, so pinpointing what's wrong can be tricky. Common and uncommon reasons why your stomach won't quit hurting According to Mayo Clinic, a major trusted US healthcare resource, abdominal pain causes stretch from the simple and harmless (like indigestion or muscle strain) to the complex and serious (such as cancer or organ disease). Studies in primary care settings show that about one in ten patients with abdominal pain actually have acute or urgent medical issues that need immediate attention. Here's an easy-to-scan breakdown of notable conditions that often underlie persistent abdominal pain: Digestive issues Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS is like that annoying roommate who never leaves. It messes with your gut, especially the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, gas, and unpredictable bathroom runs. There's no obvious damage in your intestines, but the pain and discomfort feel very real and very frequent. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) If you constantly feel like your lunch is trying to climb back up, GERD might be the culprit. It's when stomach acid flows the wrong way into your esophagus, leaving a burning feeling in your chest or throat. It's not just heartburn it can become a daily struggle if left untreated. Gastritis and peptic ulcers Your stomach lining isn't invincible. Inflammation (gastritis) or open sores (ulcers) can cause sharp or burning pain in your upper belly. Often caused by an H. pylori infection or too many painkillers like ibuprofen, these conditions also bring nausea, bloating, and that gnawing empty-stomach feeling. Celiac disease This autoimmune condition means your body goes to war with gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Eat it, and you could end up with stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies. It's more than a trendy gluten-free diet; it's a serious medical issue. Inflammatory & infectious causes Diverticulitis Little pouches can form in your colon (called diverticula), and sometimes they get infected. When that happens, welcome to diverticulitis. It usually causes pain in the lower left side of your belly and might come with fever, nausea, and even constipation. Crohn's disease & ulcerative colitis Both are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and they love to stir up trouble. Think chronic pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and sometimes weight loss. Crohn's can affect any part of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis sticks to the colon and rectum. Either way, it's a painful and ongoing battle. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) For women, lower abdominal pain could be caused by PID, a serious infection of the reproductive organs. It often stems from untreated STIs and can bring fever, unusual discharge, and pain during sex. If not treated early, it can lead to long-term issues like infertility. Structural & functional problems Gallstones These tiny troublemakers form in your gallbladder and can block the flow of bile. When that happens, you might get hit with sudden, intense pain in your upper right abdomen—pain that often shows up after a fatty meal and sticks around for hours. Kidney stones If you've ever felt like your body is trying to pass a jagged rock, that's a kidney stone. The pain usually starts in your back or side and radiates down to your lower belly or groin. It comes in waves and is often brutal. Hernias When an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in your abdominal wall, it's called a hernia. You might notice a bulge and feel pain when you cough, lift, or even laugh too hard. It's not just annoying—it can become serious if not treated. Serious conditions to watch for Cancer Ongoing belly pain that doesn't go away could point to something serious like cancer. Tumors in the pancreas, liver, or intestines often don't show symptoms early on, but when pain shows up, especially if it gets worse over time, it's time to see a doctor. Vascular problems Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a rare but serious condition where blood flow to your intestines gets restricted. You'll often feel cramping pain after eating because your digestive system isn't getting enough oxygen. It's sneaky but dangerous if missed. Appendicitis Starts as a dull ache around your belly button and then suddenly shifts to the lower right side—that's the classic sign of appendicitis. It can come with nausea, fever, and a sense that something's not right. It's a medical emergency, so don't wait it out. A 2014 systematic review published in Family Practice highlighted that about a third of abdominal pain cases have no definitive diagnosis after initial evaluation, underscoring the complexity and diagnostic challenge clinicians face. Still, the most common diagnoses among U.S. primary care patients presenting with abdominal pain were gastroenteritis (7-19%), irritable bowel syndrome (3-13%), urological causes like kidney infections or stones (5%), and gastritis (5%). More recent gastroenterology research emphasizes the need to consider less obvious causes like vascular diseases—for example, median arcuate ligament syndrome (a rare compression of an artery) and chronic mesenteric ischemia, both of which can cause persistent or recurrent abdominal pain. These are less common but can be overlooked, especially if a patient has risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or heart disease common in US populations. Why is it important to know this? In the US, where lifestyle factors such as high-fat diets, obesity, and sedentary living are prevalent, risks for digestive and vascular causes of abdominal pain may be higher. For instance, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can cause liver pain, is on the rise and can lead to more serious liver damage if left unchecked. Similarly, obesity and diabetes increase risk for gallstones and vascular issues that cause chronic abdominal symptoms. If your abdominal pain is persistent, worsening, associated with symptoms like unintentional weight loss, vomiting, blood in stool or urine, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin), fever, or changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, seek medical help. These could be signs of serious underlying diseases needing prompt diagnosis and treatment. Primary care physicians often use a combination of detailed history, physical exams, lab tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT scans), and sometimes endoscopies to find the cause. They may refer you to gastroenterologists, surgeons, or other specialists for more advanced care. Lifestyle and prevention tips Though causes can be varied, there are some general tips for better gut and abdominal health: Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated and exercise regularly. Limit excessive use of NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Report new or persistent pain to a healthcare provider.
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Health
- Miami Herald
Pepsi copies Coca-Cola to win back health-conscious consumers
Many Americans may not realize the importance of the gut microbiome, or the ecosystem of microbes that live in our intestines, and its impact on overall health. A 2023 Ipsos poll also revealed that many Americans have accepted to live with their digestive problems, with one in five saying they tried many things to resolve the issue, but haven't succeeded. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter About 18% of Americans confirm they have been diagnosed with hemorrhoids, and 15% say they have been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). How is this possible? Food plays a significant role in our gut and overall health. However, it is not the only culprit for various illnesses, because poor nutrition is often associated with other less healthy behaviors. Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are leading sources of added sugars in the American diet, and frequent consumption is associated with weight gain, Type 2 diabetes, kidney diseases, obesity, gout, a type of arthritis and more. However, more frequent consumers of sugary drinks tend to be those who don't exercise regularly, eat fast food often, smoke, don't sleep enough, and do not consume enough fruit, reports the CDC. Over the last couple of years, healthier soda alternatives have grown in popularity, due to the newer generations' focus on healthier lifestyles and mindful eating. U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently started a major crackdown on various ingredients commonly found in food and beverages, with one of the goals being to eliminate synthetic dyes in food and drinks. Related: Scientists find massive anti-aging potential in magic mushrooms Kennedy Jr. also stressed that sodas are one of the biggest contributors to the poor health of many Americans. Under the White House's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, pressure is mounting on soda giants to adapt their formulas. Just recently, it was announced that Coca-Cola might make a big change to its sodas- switching from high-fructose corn syrup to cane sugar. Earlier this year, Coca-Cola launched its own prebiotic soda under its juice brand Simply, and now its biggest rival, PepsiCo (PEP) , is making a similar move. More Retail: Target delights shoppers with savings event, 30% discountsUS government wants to make healthier eggs illegalPepsi issues stern message to employees after mass closures On July 21, the soda giant announced the launch of its Pepsi Prebiotic Cola with: 5 grams of cane sugar; Only 30 calories (a standard Pepsi serving contains about 150 calories);No artificial sweeteners; 3 grams of prebiotic fiber. Pepsi is launching prebiotic cola in two traditional flavors: Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla. Available in 12 oz. single cans for trial and 8-packs of 12 oz. cans, the new sodas will be available online this fall and at stores in early 2026. Pepsi Prebiotic Cola's launch comes a few months after the beverage titan announced the purchase of prebiotic soda brand Poppi for nearly $2 billion. Pepsi's move into a healthier beverages market was a way to win back customers. After all, according to a study by Harvard researchers, the number of young people who consumed at least one daily sugar-sweetened drink dropped to 61% from 80% between 2003 and 2016. Related: Target delights shoppers with savings event, 30% discounts Prebiotics are non-digestible, fermentable food ingredients that modify the composition or activity of gastrointestinal bacteria to benefit the host, according to the National Library of Medicine. Foods like cereals, breads, and snack foods have added prebiotics if you see on the food label some of the following terms: inulin, wheat dextrin, acacia gum, psyllium, polydextrose, GOS (galactooligosaccharides), FOS (fructooligosaccharides), and TOS (transgalactooligosaccharides). While prebiotic sodas can support your gut health, too much of it can cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea. Experts advise people who have gastrointestinal problems such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis to avoid them. Samantha Nazareth, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist, told Woman's Health that prebiotic soda shouldn't replace plant-based foods like apples, garlic, artichokes, asparagus, and oats, which naturally contain gut-friendly fiber. The outlet consulted with experts to determine what health-conscious consumers should look for in prebiotic soda for the most benefits. They advised the following: Three grams of fiber per serving from ingredients like chicory root, inulin, and acacia fiberNo more than 10 grams of sugar Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
