The Nile River Drainage Basin
The Nile River is one of the world’s most important rivers, providing a source of life for many countries, including Egypt and Sudan. The Nile River originates in Burundi and Rwanda in East Africa, and it is 6,853 kilometers (4,258 miles) long. The river flows through eleven countries altogether: Tanzania, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Egypt, and Sudan. The Nile River is the longest river in Africa, as well as the longest river in the world.
The Nile River is known for its unique drainage basin, which covers approximately 3,350,000 square kilometers (2,000,000 square miles). The Nile basin is not only the world’s largest river basin, but it also contains some of the most fertile lands on Earth. Additionally, dozens of tributaries and streams feed into the Nile River throughout its journey. The two main tributaries of the Nile include the Blue Nile, which begins in Ethiopia and the White Nile, which begins in Rwanda.
What Two Countries Does the Nile River Flow Through?
As already mentioned, the Nile River flows through eleven countries in Africa, but two of them stand out most prominently. The two countries that the Nile River flows through are Egypt and Sudan. About 80% of the Egyptian population lives near the Nile River, as it is responsible for providing the country with the majority of its water. About 95% of Sudan’s population also depends on the river as their main source of water. The importance of the Nile River is so great that without it, Egypt and Sudan would not be able to survive.
In Egypt, the impact of the Nile River is highly visible in the form of the country’s impressive irrigation systems. The Nile is responsible for the abundance of Egypt’s agricultural lands, which has helped Egypt become a major exporter of food. In Sudan, the Nile River is not just a major source of water, but it is also a major source of transportation. As it is impossible to cross the vast desert of Sudan from east to west, the Nile River is often used to transport goods from one side of the country to the other. The importance of the Nile River for the two countries is undeniable.
The Regional Dispute between Egypt and Sudan
Due to the importance of the Nile River, there has been a long-standing dispute between Egypt and Sudan over the sharing of its resources. After Sudan gained its independence in 1956, the two countries signed an agreement that granted Egypt the right to three-quarters of the river’s flow. As the population in Sudan grew over the years, Sudan demanded a renegotiations of the agreement. However, the talks between the two countries have been ongoing for decades without any real progress.
In recent years, there has been an increasing concern over the environmental impact of the Nile. Due to ongoing drought in the region, the amount of water in the Nile has decreased significantly over the past few years. This has provided further ground for cooperation between Egypt and Sudan in order to prevent any further damage to the Nile River and its surrounding environment.
The Reach of the Nile River
The Nile River is a vital lifeline not only for Egypt and Sudan, but also for the other countries in its path. In Ethiopia and South Sudan, the river is an important source of water for drinking and irrigation. Additionally, the Nile serves as an important trade route, with many of the countries using it to transport goods. In Kenya and Tanzania, the river is particularly important as a source of electricity, due to the several hydroelectric power plants that generate power from the river.
The stunning beauty of the Nile River is also something that can’t be denied. In its path, it passes by some of the most stunning scenery in Africa. And, at the same time, it cascades over and around some of Africa’s most iconic ancient sites and ruins. Over the years, the Nile River has provided a breathtaking landscape for writers, filmmakers, and photographers to capture.
Environmental Impact of the Nile River
The Nile River and its surrounding environment are under serious threat from pollution and overdevelopment. Chemicals from industrial sites and agricultural runoff often find their way into the river, causing serious harm to the flora and fauna in the area. Additionally, the construction of several dams along the river has posed a serious threat to the biodiversity in the region, as it disrupts the natural flow of the river.
In recent years, the countries along the Nile have formed several ecological initiatives to protect the environment and the river. These initiatives strive to improve water management and reduce pollution. Additionally, they seek to create an international agreement between the countries along the river to ensure sustainable use of the water resources and prevent any further damage to the surrounding environment.
Wildlife of the Nile River
The flora and fauna of the Nile River is some of the most spectacular in the world. The river’s immense size, combined with its incredible biodiversity, make it one of the most biodiverse rivers in Africa. In particular, the Nile River is home to many species of animals, such as the Nile crocodile and the African fish eagle. Additionally, the Nile is home to over 125 species of fish and dozens of amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
In recent years, conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect the endangered species in the river. Several initiatives have been created to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the biodiversity of the Nile River. These efforts have been successful in preventing further endangerment of species and even led to the creation of several new protected areas along the river.
Conclusion of the Nile River
The Nile River is one of the most iconic rivers in the world and it is a truly majestic sight to behold. It is a source of vital resources for the countries along its path, while also providing a stunning landscape to explore and admire. Despite the numerous challenges facing the river, from pollution to overdevelopment, its importance for Egypt and Sudan is undeniable. With the ongoing efforts to protect the biodiversity of the river, there is hope for a brighter future for the communities along the banks of the Nile.
