Multi-level counter-hegemony in the Nile: how the construction of large-scale dams

is changing the hydropolitical relations between and within the Nile countries

Presentation to HH6 WorkshopLondon, 12 January 2013

Ana Elisa Cascão, SIWI

Pillars of hegemony and counter-hegemony

State-centric approach

Global

Regional

National

Local

Large-scale dams: for and against

• Hydropower agenda• Activist agenda

• NBI energy

• Hydro is the solution!• Urban and rural

electrification

• Local populations: voiceless?

Global

Regional

National

Local

Aswan High Dam

Global

Regional

National

Local

Idetiational power on dams in the Nile Basin

• Power/electricity is a critical requirement for regional growth

• Hydropower is the preferred energy source for most of the Nile countries

• Why hydropower is the most attractive option? Renewable energy, pollution free, long economic life, reliability of supply, cost-efffective, deliver multiple benefits, etc

Merowe and Kajbar Dams (Sudan)

Global

Regional

National

Local

Grand Renaissance Dam (Ethiopia)

Global

Regional

National

Local

Conclusions?

How the status quo can be challenged, through justice, law, soft power, or other means?