Water Scarcity and Conflict Mitigation Strategies in the Nile Basin: A Mixed Methods Study from an African Perspective

Water scarcity is a critical issue in many regions of Africa, including the Nile Basin, where tensions over water resources have emerged as a significant challenge to regional stability and development. A mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys was employed. Data were collected from over 120 stakeholders representing different sectors including agriculture, fisheries, and government agencies. The analysis revealed a significant proportion (35%) of respondents perceived water scarcity as the leading cause of conflicts in their communities, particularly affecting agricultural productivity. Mitigation strategies such as improving irrigation efficiency and developing alternative livelihoods for farmers have shown promise in reducing conflict dynamics. However, there is an urgent need to address governance and resource management issues at a basin-wide level. Policy makers should prioritise the establishment of collaborative water management frameworks that involve all stakeholders across the Nile Basin. Additionally, investment in climate-resilient agricultural practices can help mitigate future water scarcity risks.