Africa-Press – Ethiopia. Minister of Water and Energy, Habtamu Itefa called on water experts to protect the water sovereignty of Ethiopia and make the country available abroad.
The minister made the remark at a two-day international conference on Water, Food and Energy Security that kicked off today in Addis Ababa under the theme: “The Role of Science and Communities in Post War Reconstruction.”
In his keynote address, Minister of Water and Energy, Habtamu Itefa said that as water development hugely requires experts and rigorous research, adding: “We need to give a chance to our professionals to influence the policy in Ethiopia.”
He called on all Ethiopian water experts both inside the country and abroad to intensify efforts to defend the water security of the country.
The government give focus on addressing the water, energy and food scarcity following a high population burden and growing urbanization, the minister said.
However, this effort requires enormous experts’ contribution, he said adding the fact that “the country is pressurized not to utilize its water resources.”
“We are not only demanding but also our hands are open for your engagement.
….. Such kind of solidarity is very important from our water experts.
Let’s come together and work hard irrespective of any political ideology because our water is our backbone. That is the reason why we have mobilized our scientists.”
He particularly underlined that Ethiopia is recently facing the negativeimpacts of climate change and conflict that have been resulted in internal displacement and migration.
In this regard, water development is at the heart of Ethiopia’s policy to avert the protracted challenges of the nation by meeting demands of water, energy and food.
“That will have a clear understanding of developing our water and energy to minimize conflict, to overcome climate change and create resilient communities. Most importantly, this development will enable the community to stay in their village,” he said.
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