How the Concept of “African Solutions for African Problems” Can Be Applied to Resolve the GERD Dispute

Abstract

The concept of “African Solutions for African Problems—ASAP” is promoting as a viable option to address the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) dispute. Previous studies focused on the broader Nile River issue. However, the dynamics of African-led mechanisms haven’t received proper scholarly attention. Thus using secondary data, this research will figure out how the concept of ASAP can be applied and the enduring challenges. The major findings are the earlier legal frameworks mainly (the contentious 1929 and 1959 treaties) about the utilization of the Nile River, nationalistic interests and alliance formation and extra-regional powers intervention in the GERD dispute. The concept can be applied through enhancing the AU-led negotiations and in long run through strengthening the sub-regional mechanisms such as the NBI and commonly accepted frameworks.