A major North African river and Africa's longest stream
Archaeologists warn that Sudan’s Meroe pyramids risk collapse as war and climate pressures hinder maintenance. Wind, sand and salt are accelerating decay on more than 200 Kushite royal tombs, with UNESCO reporting widespread damage to cultural sites and looted museums since 2023.
A large microalgae bloom has clogged intake systems at five of Israel’s six coastal desalination plants, forcing temporary shutdowns and reduced output. Scientists link the bloom to currents from the Nile Delta and warm sea temperatures; some experts say untreated sewage from Gaza has increased nutrient loads. Authorities have mobilised backup supplies and restricted agricultural use while plants recover.
The Sudan war between the SAF and RSF continues to devastate civilians. International aid is shrinking as funding dries up, leaving millions hungry and displaced. Humanitarian pipelines risk collapse without urgent donor support, while return movements complicate relief efforts.
A global report shows 2025 was among the driest years for river flows in 35 years, with groundwater and glaciers dwindling. Major river systems are under stress from drought, pollution and overexploitation, prompting calls for action and data-sharing to protect communities and economies.
Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia and Sudan are coordinating on regional issues in New Alamein as tensions around the GERD and cross-border conflicts in the Horn of Africa intensify. The four leaders reaffirm international law, reject unilateral moves, and seek to align water, security and Red Sea governance with stability.