Rwandan Ambassador to Ethiopia Maj. Gen. Charles Karamba and his Danish counterpart, Sune Krogstrup, have expressed their countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation with Ethiopia in the water and energy sectors, highlighting opportunities for technical assistance, private investment and sustainable resource management.
The two diplomats made the remarks during the third Ethiopian Water and Energy Week, which opened in Addis Ababa on October 26, bringing together government officials, investors, researchers and international development partners.
Karamba emphasised the close relationship between water and energy, explaining that electricity is essential for pumping, treating and distributing water, while water is also needed for electricity generation.
He noted that rapid population growth, economic expansion and climate change were placing increasing pressure on both resources, making sustainable management and international cooperation more important.
The ambassador reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to protecting water catchment areas, improving water management and strengthening energy security, while expressing the country’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Ethiopia.
He also described the forum as an opportunity for governments, businesses and researchers to share expertise, explore new technologies and identify potential investment opportunities.
Meanwhile, Danish Ambassador Sune Krogstrup highlighted his country’s existing cooperation with Ethiopia, particularly in improving water supply systems, developing renewable energy and strengthening infrastructure.
Denmark has supported several initiatives in Ethiopia, including the One WASH National Programme, groundwater mapping using airborne electromagnetic technology and the Assela Wind Farm project.
Krogstrup said Denmark intended to expand its involvement through technical assistance, strategic partnerships and innovative financing to support sustainable water and energy solutions.
He also identified opportunities for technology transfer and private investment, citing the involvement of Danish companies such as Grundfos, the A.P. Møller Group and Danfoss.
The ambassador emphasised the importance of cooperation between governments and private businesses in developing infrastructure, introducing new technologies and improving access to essential services.
The five-day Ethiopian Water and Energy Week, which runs until October 30, is being held under the theme “Advancing Science, Policy, and Partnerships for a Water-Energy Secure Future.”
The discussions highlighted Rwanda and Denmark’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Ethiopia, with a focus on technical expertise, investment opportunities and sustainable water and energy management to support long-term economic development.
Elie GATETE
RADIOTV10