0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:09 > 0:00:14- The Nile flows through - the landscape and lives...
0:00:14 > 0:00:18- ..of one of the world's - most important countries.
0:00:18 > 0:00:20- Aristotle and Cleopatra, - Joseph and Moses...
0:00:21 > 0:00:23- ..Arabian princes - and Egyptian Pharaohs...
0:00:23 > 0:00:26- ..have all drunk from these waters.
0:00:37 > 0:00:41- Egyptians have lived with - the belief that the river is theirs.
0:00:42 > 0:00:44- In some ways, they are right.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46- But it's all about to change.
0:00:53 > 0:00:57- Ethiopia, - a country further up the river...
0:00:57 > 0:01:00- ..is building a dam - which could stop the water...
0:01:01 > 0:01:03- ..reaching Egypt.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06- Both sides have threatened war.
0:01:06 > 0:01:10- With water now a more potent weapon - than the bomb...
0:01:11 > 0:01:15- ..I'm travelling - to the river's source...
0:01:15 > 0:01:18- ..to learn about the dangers - which lurk in the Nile.
0:01:33 > 0:01:37- The Nile flows from central Africa - in two primary channels...
0:01:38 > 0:01:41- ..the White Nile which flows - from the great lakes region...
0:01:41 > 0:01:46- ..and the Blue Nile which flows - from the Ethiopian highlands...
0:01:46 > 0:01:48- ..and nourishes land in Egypt.
0:01:55 > 0:01:57- I think that it's fair to say...
0:01:57 > 0:02:01- ..that the Nile has - had its fair share of attention.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04- From Moses to Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer...
0:02:04 > 0:02:06- ..it's easy to see why.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11- It flows elegantly and silently all - the way down to the Mediterranean.
0:02:11 > 0:02:14- It's hard not to romanticize - about it.
0:02:14 > 0:02:16- But this is the reality.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19- Cairo, in some ways - the Nile's capital city...
0:02:19 > 0:02:21- ..and an important metropolis...
0:02:22 > 0:02:26- ..is developing faster than almost - any other city in the world.
0:02:28 > 0:02:32- The only source of water available - to Cairo and the rest of Egypt...
0:02:32 > 0:02:34- ..is the Nile.
0:02:48 > 0:02:53- Cairo is a bustling city - and the Nile is its lifeblood.
0:03:00 > 0:03:02- Over the past 50 years...
0:03:03 > 0:03:05- ..the city has doubled in size.
0:03:05 > 0:03:09- Today, more than 17 million people - live here...
0:03:09 > 0:03:13- ..almost as much as the entire - population of Australia.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26- There's not enough room - for everyone.
0:03:26 > 0:03:31- Some have been driven off the land - and onto the river.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42- Abdullah and his young family - live on a wooden boat.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46- They live in a community - on the Nile...
0:03:46 > 0:03:48- ..right in the middle of Cairo.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57- Of course, life is difficult, - especially when it's cold.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- Some people live comfortably...
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- ..and other people, like us, - struggle through life.
0:04:03 > 0:04:05- We don't expect much in life.
0:04:05 > 0:04:10- Some people are born rich - while others are poor. That's life.
0:04:14 > 0:04:20- Abdullah told me that they - live here throughout the year.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23- The river provides - for their every need.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27- They drink the water and wash - their clothes and family in it.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31- I was raised on a boat by my father.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35- I worked with him every day - until he died.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37- Then I got married.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40- My wife comes from El Menoufia.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43- She told me that if we wanted - to live together...
0:04:43 > 0:04:46- ..we had to live together - on the boat.
0:04:52 > 0:04:57- They scrape a living by fishing - for as little as 5 a day.
0:04:57 > 0:05:01- Thinking about renting a flat - or a house is beyond their reach.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14- Despite these difficult - circumstances...
0:05:14 > 0:05:18- ..Abdullah is more than happy - with his life on the river.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28- Before my mother died, she told me - about my birth on the boat.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35- I'm like a fish.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39- If I was taken from this river, - I would die.
0:05:39 > 0:05:42- I love the Nile.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51- This passion for the river - is very common among Egyptians...
0:05:52 > 0:05:55- ..and has been - since the age of the Pharaohs.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- The impression many people have - is of the Pyramids...
0:06:11 > 0:06:14- ..standing independently - in a quiet spot in the desert.
0:06:15 > 0:06:18- In reality, they are in Giza, - on the outskirts of Cairo...
0:06:19 > 0:06:21- ..about an hour's journey - from the Nile...
0:06:21 > 0:06:24- ..and far from the idyllic picture - I had in my mind.
0:06:27 > 0:06:30- The fact that the illusion - has been shattered...
0:06:31 > 0:06:35- ..doesn't make the experience - any less memorable.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43- The height of sophistication.
0:06:43 > 0:06:47- At a time when the Welsh - were baring their backsides...
0:06:47 > 0:06:50- ..and shouting 'ugh' - with a Welsh accent...
0:06:50 > 0:06:55- ..the Egyptians built these - perfect geometric masterpieces.
0:06:55 > 0:06:59- Why did they build them - so far from the river?
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- Today, the Nile is an hour away - in that direction.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06- That hasn't always been the case.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09- Had I been standing here - 2,600 years ago...
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- ..when the Pyramids were built, - my feet would be wet.
0:07:18 > 0:07:23- At that time, - the Nile flowed past the Pyramids.
0:07:23 > 0:07:27- During the summer months, the river - would regularly burst its banks.
0:07:28 > 0:07:31- It allowed Egyptians - to transport huge blocks...
0:07:32 > 0:07:34- ..in order to build the Pyramids.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- They had no idea - how the river reached here...
0:07:45 > 0:07:47- ..during the hot summer months...
0:07:47 > 0:07:49- ..and they had little interest - in finding out.
0:07:50 > 0:07:54- They just thanked the gods - for their generosity.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59- Even today, the huge memorials - built for the gods...
0:07:59 > 0:08:03- ..are a constant reminder - of what is still regarded...
0:08:03 > 0:08:07- ..the old Egyptian right - to control the river's flow.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21- But old rights - belong to a bygone era.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29- Shabramant is a little village - on the outskirts of Giza...
0:08:30 > 0:08:32- ..and on the edge of the desert.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42- Compared to the boat family - in Cairo...
0:08:42 > 0:08:45- ..these people - live comfortable lives.
0:08:45 > 0:08:48- However, one thing is missing.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51- Clean, fresh water.
0:08:53 > 0:08:57- Samir Mohamed - is trying to solve this problem.
0:09:01 > 0:09:04- Tap water is no good - for drinking and cooking.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- It's OK for cleaning - but this water is good.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12- Villagers can drink and cook - with it.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18- It's not a problem with supply.
0:09:18 > 0:09:22- Each house has enough water - but the water is dirty.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24- Samir sells water to local people.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- In some ways, he's like a milkman.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31- Not that his water is as fresh - as a mountain stream...
0:09:31 > 0:09:33- ..but it's purer than tap water.
0:09:37 > 0:09:39- Samir has grabbed his opportunity.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42- He used to sell saffron - in a local market.
0:09:43 > 0:09:47- He now makes far more money - on his water round.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54- I've been doing this - for the past eight years.
0:09:54 > 0:09:57- The more I work, - the more customers I get.
0:09:57 > 0:10:01- Everyone here, - the villagers and the cafes...
0:10:01 > 0:10:03- ..buy water from me.
0:10:09 > 0:10:14- There wouldn't have been a need for - Samir and his hosepipe 50 years ago.
0:10:15 > 0:10:20- But population growth has placed - huge pressure on the water supply.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24- Especially for places like this...
0:10:24 > 0:10:28- ..far from the river - and the city's resources.
0:10:31 > 0:10:33- Business is good for Samir.
0:10:33 > 0:10:37- People are throwing their money - at him - quite literally.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41- There are 800 water men in Cairo.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45- They fill their tanks - from wells in the city centre.
0:10:45 > 0:10:51- With the population rising, - they work long hours for good money.
0:10:51 > 0:10:55- Samir is thinking about buying - a second cart and horse...
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- ..and even a small lorry.
0:11:05 > 0:11:08- Having met some of the people...
0:11:08 > 0:11:12- ..and started to understand - some of the problems in Egypt...
0:11:12 > 0:11:15- ..it was easy to sympathize - with their need for more water.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- But they're not the only people - who want more control over the Nile.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24- Egyptians are concerned - about dam building in Ethiopia.
0:11:24 > 0:11:29- It could affect the amount of water - that reaches Egypt.
0:11:29 > 0:11:32- Hostilities have been threatened - by both sides.
0:11:38 > 0:11:40- As I leave Cairo and Giza...
0:11:40 > 0:11:44- ..and head for the Nile's - fertile valley in central Egypt...
0:11:45 > 0:11:50- ..I was worried that this would turn - out to be an impossible situation.
0:11:53 > 0:11:57- And a war over life's most - crucial necessity was inevitable.
0:11:59 > 0:12:00- .
0:12:05 > 0:12:05- 888
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- 888- - 888
0:12:17 > 0:12:22- As I travel through northern Egypt, - on the way to the Nile's source...
0:12:22 > 0:12:26- ..what strikes me is the power - and presence of the river in Egypt.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43- From the hustle and bustle - of Cairo...
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- ..our journey follows the Nile - through barren plains...
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- ..before reaching the fertile lands - of the Nile Valley...
0:12:51 > 0:12:55- ..where the river is once again - central to people's lives.
0:13:14 > 0:13:18- Well, at least I can say - I've been on the Nile.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21- I almost ended up in it just then.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25- It's a privilege to be - with these people.
0:13:26 > 0:13:29- They live along the riverbank.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33- It's a simple, - rather rickety boat...
0:13:34 > 0:13:37- ..rather than a cruise ship.
0:13:38 > 0:13:40- This is perfect.
0:13:40 > 0:13:42- The perfect experience.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53- Hamam and Mohamed - are father and son.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- They farm a small strip of land - on the riverbank.
0:13:56 > 0:14:01- Mohamed is worried that he'll be - the last farmer's son in the family.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08- Since the days of the Pharaohs...
0:14:08 > 0:14:13- ..Mohamed's forefathers have played - an important part in Egyptian life.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16- Their way of life - has hardly changed since.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21- They use the same implements - and water channels...
0:14:21 > 0:14:24- ..that existed - during King Tutankhamen's day.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- It's a tradition - that's quickly dying out.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- The Egyptians have been one - of the most successful nations...
0:14:38 > 0:14:40- ..in the history of the world.
0:14:40 > 0:14:44- The work of the farmers - is partly responsible for this.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47- Their greatest asset - is this fertile land.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50- It's the most fertile land - in the world.
0:14:56 > 0:15:01- When other ancient nations - died of starvation and drought...
0:15:02 > 0:15:07- ..Egypt would witness a flood every - year which irrigated the land...
0:15:07 > 0:15:09- ..and nourished the fields.
0:15:13 > 0:15:18- The flood allowed the Pharaohs - to transport stone blocks...
0:15:18 > 0:15:22- ..to the middle of the desert - to build the Pyramids.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27- Once the river's water - had drained into the land...
0:15:27 > 0:15:31- ..it created a layer - of fresh, fertile soil.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35- This soil produced enough food - to feed an entire nation.
0:15:44 > 0:15:48- The Nile is so important - to the farmers and the land.
0:15:48 > 0:15:52- In the olden days, the Nile - would flood for three months.
0:15:52 > 0:15:57- When the water drained away, - it was easier to work the land.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10- For Mohamed, the old traditions - are being destroyed.
0:16:13 > 0:16:18- Large dams have been built - upstream to provide electricity...
0:16:18 > 0:16:21- ..but they also control - the river's flow.
0:16:21 > 0:16:25- They have destroyed the natural - process which regenerated the land.
0:16:28 > 0:16:33- The lives and livelihoods - of farmers have changed as a result.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37- These days, - harvests are relatively poor.
0:16:37 > 0:16:40- Mohamed may well have sown - his final seeds.
0:16:43 > 0:16:48- We used to farm without chemicals - but that's changed now.
0:16:48 > 0:16:51- We have to use chemicals - to ensure a good harvest.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54- They're very expensive.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05- The dams have reduced - floodwater levels...
0:17:05 > 0:17:08- ..and soil quality - deteriorates every year.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11- Agriculture in Egypt is on the wane.
0:17:14 > 0:17:19- The family has to consider leaving - the land to live in a simple home.
0:17:22 > 0:17:25- While we were sitting together - in the fields...
0:17:26 > 0:17:31- ..it was no surprise to hear that - their future didn't include farming.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34- Mohamed wants to open a shop...
0:17:34 > 0:17:37- ..but his father is worried - about rent payments.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45- Whatever happens, - their lives will surely change.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- What's responsible - for all this change?
0:17:51 > 0:17:57- I was one of a bus full of people - on our way to see a masterpiece...
0:17:57 > 0:18:00- ..that took ten years to complete.
0:18:00 > 0:18:05- It consists of as much - building material as 17 Pyramids.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15- The gigantic Aswan Dam.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21- The dam was opened in 1970.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25- It was hailed at the time - as Egypt's saviour.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29- It now generates 90% - of the country's electricity.
0:18:29 > 0:18:34- But this has nothing to do with the - true reason for its construction.
0:18:35 > 0:18:39- Egypt is one of - the driest countries in the world.
0:18:43 > 0:18:45- This is the Aswan Dam.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48- Lake Nasser is behind it.
0:18:48 > 0:18:53- This dam has fulfilled - all of Egypt's requirements.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57- It generates electricity - and it controls the river's flow.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- For centuries, - Egyptians have wanted to control...
0:19:02 > 0:19:04- ..the natural chaos around them.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07- This is what this dam does.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09- It controls the river's flow.
0:19:09 > 0:19:13- More than any other development - in Egypt...
0:19:13 > 0:19:17- ..this is responsible - for creating modern Egypt.
0:19:22 > 0:19:26- The Nile is one of the - most powerful rivers in the world...
0:19:26 > 0:19:30- ..but the flow of the river - has been threatened more than once.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38- The river relies on rainfall - at its source.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41- If there's no rain, there's no Nile.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49- One of the worst - instances of drought...
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- ..occurred during the age - of the Pharaohs.
0:19:52 > 0:19:56- The story has been recorded - on a giant stone...
0:19:56 > 0:19:58- ..just beyond the modern dam.
0:19:59 > 0:20:05- For seven long years, the Nile was - nothing more than a dry ditch...
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- ..an open grave - for the nation's withered bodies.
0:20:23 > 0:20:26- The Aswan Dam changed all this.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33- For almost 40 years, the dam has - provided water and electricity...
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- ..to fulfil - the nation's requirements.
0:20:36 > 0:20:40- During the 1980s, and - the great droughts in Ethiopia...
0:20:41 > 0:20:43- ..Egypt had plenty of water...
0:20:44 > 0:20:46- ..and a full reservoir.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50- But not now.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- With a population of 63 million - living along its riverbanks...
0:20:55 > 0:20:59- ..and the dam adversely affecting - the agriculture industry...
0:20:59 > 0:21:03- ..Aswan may not be Egypt's saviour - in the future.
0:21:13 > 0:21:18- One solution to this problem can be - found in a rather unexpected place.
0:21:24 > 0:21:29- The Toshka Project aims to counter - the problems of overpopulation...
0:21:29 > 0:21:31- ..by irrigating the desert.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39- Although I know better, it sounds - like a parable from the Bible.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49- The plan is to pump water - from the Nile at Lake Nasser...
0:21:49 > 0:21:52- ..all the way to the desert, - a distance of 30 miles...
0:21:53 > 0:21:57- ..to create new homes - and 500,000 acres of new farmland.
0:21:57 > 0:22:01- Forgive me for turning back - to the Bible again...
0:22:01 > 0:22:04- ..but it sounds like a miracle.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07- Ahmed Morsi is the man - behind the project.
0:22:12 > 0:22:17- I'm irrigating the desert because - I'm certain it can be a success.
0:22:17 > 0:22:21- The land will become fertile and - people will be able to live there.
0:22:21 > 0:22:26- This project will be as important - as the Pyramids...
0:22:26 > 0:22:29- ..the Aswan Dam and the Pharaohs.
0:22:37 > 0:22:41- It was hard to believe - that such a thing was possible...
0:22:41 > 0:22:45- ..but the proof is in the pudding, - as they say.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- This is very tasty indeed.
0:22:51 > 0:22:56- I don't know how they managed to - grow something packed with juice...
0:22:57 > 0:22:59- ..from soil - in the middle of a desert.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03- You'd struggle to call it soil.
0:23:04 > 0:23:05- It's a miracle.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- Ahmed believes that his project - will solve Egypt's problems.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21- Despite all this sweet talk...
0:23:22 > 0:23:25- ..there remains a huge problem - in Toshka.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32- They need more water - than ever before...
0:23:32 > 0:23:36- ..five billion cubic metres - per annum, to be precise.
0:23:37 > 0:23:38- Is there anything you can't grow?
0:23:38 > 0:23:40- Is there anything you can't grow?- - Everything can grow.
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- This has angered some countries...
0:23:45 > 0:23:50- ..who believe Egypt receives - more than its fair share already.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57- The Nile flows through - ten African countries...
0:23:57 > 0:24:01- ..but Egypt utilizes - most of the water.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03- 65% of it.
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- Little remains - for the other nine countries.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13- You'd think - that these divisions existed...
0:24:13 > 0:24:16- ..because of the natural flow - of the river.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19- But no, - nature has nothing to do with it.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23- It exists because - of an old imperialist agreement.
0:24:26 > 0:24:32- In 1929, Britain's Empire stretched - to many territories along the Nile.
0:24:32 > 0:24:37- Britain granted Egypt the right - to prevent any developments...
0:24:38 > 0:24:41- ..which would alter the - river's channel into its country.
0:24:43 > 0:24:48- In return for cheap cotton - and an easy passage to India...
0:24:48 > 0:24:52- ..Egypt was given - complete control of the Nile.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56- The greatest surprise...
0:24:56 > 0:25:01- ..more surprising than the miracle - of growing fruit in the desert...
0:25:01 > 0:25:06- ..is that this right, which ignores - the claims of other countries...
0:25:06 > 0:25:08- ..still exists today.
0:25:17 > 0:25:18- .
0:25:21 > 0:25:21- 888
0:25:21 > 0:25:23- 888- - 888
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- My journey along - the banks of the Nile...
0:25:36 > 0:25:38- ..has been full of unexpected turns.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- Having spent some time in Egypt...
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- ..the Hollywood-esque image I had - of the river has been shattered.
0:25:47 > 0:25:50- As I crossed the border - into a new country...
0:25:50 > 0:25:53- ..I was about to experience - a bigger surprise.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03- From the land of the Pharaohs...
0:26:03 > 0:26:07- ..the Nile twists and turns - through Sudan...
0:26:07 > 0:26:09- ..before splitting in two.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12- From here, - the main channel becomes two rivers.
0:26:13 > 0:26:15- The White Nile, - with its source in Uganda...
0:26:15 > 0:26:19- ..and the Blue Nile, which takes me - to the source of my story, Ethiopia.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33- When I was in Egypt...
0:26:35 > 0:26:38- ..the Nile twisted and turned.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43- It was easily accessible - and ever present.
0:26:44 > 0:26:46- It was impossible to avoid.
0:26:46 > 0:26:51- Here, in Ethiopia, - it's buried in the landscape.
0:26:51 > 0:26:56- I'm not sure how people could reach - the water if they wanted to use it.
0:26:56 > 0:26:58- With a bucket and rope, possibly.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05- Before I even set foot on land...
0:27:05 > 0:27:09- ..Ethiopia posed more questions - than ever before.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- But I'd already learnt one thing.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15- The relationship - of this country with the Nile...
0:27:15 > 0:27:18- ..is very different - to the relationship...
0:27:18 > 0:27:20- ..between Egypt and the river.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29- The Nile's source is in Ethiopia.
0:27:29 > 0:27:33- This country also provides - 90% of Egypt's water supply.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37- Far from being poor - in terms of water...
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- ..this is a country - with evidently more than enough.
0:27:44 > 0:27:48- Ethiopia's problem is not - being able to utilize it properly.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- The cruel paradox - for these people...
0:27:56 > 0:28:01- ..is although this is the country - that provides water for the Nile...
0:28:01 > 0:28:05- ..it fails to make use of that water - for its own benefit.
0:28:10 > 0:28:15- One man who knows this - better than most is Enuew Temesgen.
0:28:18 > 0:28:22- Enuew and wife Wubit - own a farm in central Ethiopia.
0:28:23 > 0:28:27- Although the Nile flows - right through their fields...
0:28:27 > 0:28:30- ..Enuew is unable to use - the majority of its water.
0:28:33 > 0:28:35- The Nile is far away for me.
0:28:35 > 0:28:40- I can't afford a water pump - and I can't carry it in my hands.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44- Only my cattle drink the water.
0:28:44 > 0:28:49- If I could, I'd happily use the Nile - but I can't.
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- Enuew used to work as a farmhand - on other farms.
0:29:00 > 0:29:04- He managed to save enough money - to buy a plot of land and marry.
0:29:10 > 0:29:14- His family all work together - to make a living for themselves.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25- In stark contrast to Egypt...
0:29:26 > 0:29:30- ..Ethiopia has no irrigation - or water storage systems.
0:29:30 > 0:29:32- These farmers - rely on the wet season.
0:29:39 > 0:29:42- When it rains, - there's plenty of food.
0:29:42 > 0:29:46- In three months' time, - these fields will be dust bowls.
0:29:47 > 0:29:48- It's hard to believe.
0:29:53 > 0:29:58- I feel as if I've stepped - out of one world and into another.
0:29:58 > 0:30:03- My original impression of Ethiopia - and what I've found here today...
0:30:03 > 0:30:05- ..are two very different things.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- This greenery is thanks - to the farmer's skill...
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- ..and the fact that it rains - for three months every year.
0:30:13 > 0:30:17- It has nothing to do with - Africa's most natural resource...
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- ..which flows around 100kms - in that direction.
0:30:21 > 0:30:24- Ethiopia exists despite - the existence of the Nile.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28- It's a very different scenario - to the one we saw in Egypt...
0:30:28 > 0:30:31- ..where life - revolves around the river.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40- This is certainly the case - for Enuew and Wubit.
0:30:48 > 0:30:53- Since they don't have the same - benefits as farmers in Egypt...
0:30:53 > 0:30:56- ..the only thing that Enuew - and his family can do...
0:30:56 > 0:31:00- ..is carry small amounts - to their home and fields.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08- Wubit makes this trip - five times a day...
0:31:08 > 0:31:11- ..to collect enough water - for cooking and washing.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16- I only made one trip and that took - long enough, thank you very much.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- Evidently...
0:31:23 > 0:31:27- ..they're very skilful and elegant.
0:31:27 > 0:31:31- I obviously haven't had - the same deportment lessons.
0:31:41 > 0:31:45- Enuew hopes that Wubit won't - have to do this work one day...
0:31:45 > 0:31:50- ..and that he can start irrigating - the land and feed his family.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57- Then our country will flourish.
0:31:57 > 0:31:59- Machines will do the work...
0:32:00 > 0:32:04- ..and the water will be used - to benefit the country.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11- If farmers could utilize the Nile...
0:32:12 > 0:32:14- ..we would have vast areas - of farmland.
0:32:14 > 0:32:18- If that happened, - I would be a very wealthy man.
0:32:36 > 0:32:42- This vast country has almost four - million acres of good farmland...
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- ..an area the size of Belgium.
0:32:45 > 0:32:50- It's ready to be used and irrigated - to feed the entire nation.
0:32:52 > 0:32:56- For this to happen, - the water of the Nile is needed.
0:32:56 > 0:32:59- This would also reduce the flow - into Egypt...
0:32:59 > 0:33:03- ..a situation which would - meet with fierce opposition.
0:33:07 > 0:33:13- The political situation - stops any possible developments.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16- In the meantime, nothing is done...
0:33:16 > 0:33:19- ..to help the starving people - of Ethiopia.
0:33:38 > 0:33:42- The truth is this country - remains a very poor country...
0:33:42 > 0:33:46- ..which finds it hard - to support its population.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49- That was obvious - even to an old tourist like me.
0:33:55 > 0:33:58- For a country so reliant - on the forces of nature...
0:33:58 > 0:34:02- ..where famine and drought - are old friends...
0:34:03 > 0:34:07- ..it's no surprise that some people - cling to old beliefs.
0:34:15 > 0:34:21- It's a common sight in Ethiopia, - and especially around the Nile...
0:34:21 > 0:34:25- ..to find groups of people sitting - together on the riverbanks...
0:34:26 > 0:34:30- ..mumbling verses and throwing - oblations into the river.
0:34:30 > 0:34:35- A piece of bread, a cup of coffee, - and sometimes, a live offering.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01- The Woito tribe is one of Africa's - most ancient tribes.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- Their way of life has changed little - in thousands of years.
0:35:17 > 0:35:22- Life for the Woito tribe - is totally dependant on the Nile...
0:35:22 > 0:35:24- ..but we don't own the river.
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- The Nile is owned by the land.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31- As it flows across the land, - the Nile isn't owned by anyone.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39- Merewi Tahir, - one of the tribe's elders...
0:35:40 > 0:35:44- ..explained the respect - they have for the Nile.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50- The flow of the world's energy - is in this river, he remarked.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55- It belongs to us all - but is owned by no-one.
0:36:00 > 0:36:04- Every now and then, the tribe - sacrifices a sheep or a cow.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07- Today, a hen or two will suffice.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- Blood will be poured carefully - into the water...
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- ..making sure that not a drop - touches the ground.
0:36:15 > 0:36:20- I'm not sure what difference that - would make but it wouldn't be good.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28- The Woito have always lived - on the banks of the Nile.
0:36:29 > 0:36:31- They depend on the Nile - for everything.
0:36:32 > 0:36:34- They have no land or livestock.
0:36:34 > 0:36:36- They fish the river...
0:36:36 > 0:36:39- ..and use the reeds and papaya - from the riverbank...
0:36:40 > 0:36:42- ..to make baskets and boats.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45- You could say - they worship the river.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48- That is precisely - what's happening here now.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- Unfortunately, the hen's fate - has already been sealed.
0:37:08 > 0:37:12- The Nile looks after us.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15- It provides everything we need.
0:37:15 > 0:37:18- When we swam in it as children, - we were never in danger...
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- ..because we offered the river - our sacrifices.
0:37:25 > 0:37:26- Over the past few years...
0:37:27 > 0:37:31- ..the sacrifices haven't been - as effective for the Woito tribe.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34- The Nile and its environment - is changing...
0:37:34 > 0:37:37- ..but they don't know - what to do about it.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44- As the sun sets - over the Woito tribe...
0:37:44 > 0:37:49- ..and I head for the hotel before - continuing my journey tomorrow...
0:37:49 > 0:37:51- ..I remember Merewi Tahir's words.
0:37:52 > 0:37:55- The flow of the world's energy - is in this river.
0:37:55 > 0:37:59- It belongs to us all - but is owned by no-one.
0:38:05 > 0:38:05- .
0:38:10 > 0:38:10- 888
0:38:10 > 0:38:12- 888- - 888
0:38:23 > 0:38:28- For 4,000 miles, the Nile - flows through forests and valleys...
0:38:28 > 0:38:31- ..deserts and mountains...
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- ..over some of Africa's - most glorious landscapes.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39- I've followed it - for a part of its journey...
0:38:40 > 0:38:43- ..travelling through - Cairo and Giza...
0:38:43 > 0:38:47- ..passing farmland, the Nile Valley - and Ethiopia's fertile land.
0:38:47 > 0:38:51- I'm about to reach - the final stage of my journey...
0:38:51 > 0:38:56- ..the stage which brings me to - the source of the Nile - Lake Tana.
0:38:57 > 0:38:59- For those of you well versed - in your Bible...
0:38:59 > 0:39:02- ..the history of Ethiopia - will be familiar to you.
0:39:03 > 0:39:06- I was surprised to discover that - Ethiopia is a Christian country.
0:39:06 > 0:39:11- Ethiopia's Orthodox Church is one - of the world's oldest denominations.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15- Within the borders of this lake, - there are 37 islands.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17- There are monasteries - on some of them.
0:39:18 > 0:39:22- We're visiting a monastery today - to unlock the story of the Nile.
0:39:27 > 0:39:32- Since Ethiopia is one of the - world's most Christian countries...
0:39:33 > 0:39:35- ..there has always been - a strong link...
0:39:36 > 0:39:38- ..between its religion and politics.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44- This spiritual bond - is one of the main reasons...
0:39:44 > 0:39:49- ..why Ethiopia has failed - to use water from its sacred river.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- I've come to visit - Brother Haile Mariam...
0:39:55 > 0:39:59- ..a young man who's lived as a monk - on one of Tana's islands...
0:39:59 > 0:40:01- ..for the past ten years.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05- He's leading the way to - the monastery's old scriptorium...
0:40:06 > 0:40:10- ..to reveal why religion has been - such a bone of contention...
0:40:10 > 0:40:12- ..for his country's development.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18- Here's the all-important book.
0:40:22 > 0:40:25- Look, here is the explanation - about Egypt.
0:40:25 > 0:40:30- The book was made from parchment - and written a long, long time ago.
0:40:32 > 0:40:36- In this ancient scripture - from the Middle Ages...
0:40:36 > 0:40:40- ..it notes how an archbishop - from Egypt visited Ethiopia.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45- This line reveals everything.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58- In the all-important sphere - of religion...
0:40:58 > 0:41:02- ..Ethiopia came under the control - of the Egyptian Church.
0:41:03 > 0:41:07- Even the archbishop - was sent over from Egypt.
0:41:16 > 0:41:20- It's no surprise that Ethiopians - have lived under Egypt's shadow...
0:41:20 > 0:41:24- ..worried that if they dared - change the river's course...
0:41:25 > 0:41:27- ..they would lose - their spiritual flow.
0:41:34 > 0:41:38- This situation lasted for centuries.
0:41:38 > 0:41:42- Then, in 1959, - with Ethiopian confidence growing...
0:41:42 > 0:41:45- ..the Ethiopian Church - broke free from Egypt.
0:41:45 > 0:41:49- As it released itself - from spiritual dependence...
0:41:50 > 0:41:55- ..Ethiopia left itself open - to a situation of great conflict.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10- The Nile is a gift from God.
0:42:10 > 0:42:15- If it were a gift from man, - it would have disappeared long ago.
0:42:16 > 0:42:18- It will be with us forever.
0:42:37 > 0:42:39- With little contact - with the outside world...
0:42:40 > 0:42:43- ..Brother Haile Mariam - and his community...
0:42:43 > 0:42:46- ..are unaware - that the future of the Nile...
0:42:47 > 0:42:49- ..is very unstable.
0:42:53 > 0:42:58- 125 miles from Lake Tana, - on one of the Nile's tributaries...
0:42:59 > 0:43:01- ..is a huge concrete structure...
0:43:01 > 0:43:04- ..which could affect - the river's flow.
0:43:07 > 0:43:10- If the river Tekeze - is stopped here...
0:43:10 > 0:43:13- ..the Nile will also be held back.
0:43:21 > 0:43:24- On its completion, - the Tekeze is scheduled...
0:43:25 > 0:43:27- ..to generate only electricity.
0:43:29 > 0:43:33- It has the potential to store - an incredible volume of water...
0:43:33 > 0:43:38- ..to irrigate the land and prevent - much of the water reaching Egypt.
0:43:42 > 0:43:48- If the project is successful, - Ethiopia will build more dams.
0:43:49 > 0:43:52- If that happens, - some experts predict...
0:43:52 > 0:43:55- ..that Egypt will lose - 40% of its water supply.
0:44:02 > 0:44:04- We're in the middle of nowhere.
0:44:04 > 0:44:07- To be honest, we passed - the middle of nowhere an hour ago.
0:44:08 > 0:44:11- We're here to see - this beast of a dam.
0:44:13 > 0:44:14- Dear me!
0:44:14 > 0:44:18- When it's completed - in around 18 months' time...
0:44:18 > 0:44:21- ..it will be - the biggest dam in Africa.
0:44:21 > 0:44:25- I've visited Ethiopia - and I've warmed to the people.
0:44:25 > 0:44:29- I've felt a lot of the injustice - about how the Nile should be used.
0:44:29 > 0:44:34- Seeing this, half built, gives me - a sense of pride in some ways.
0:44:35 > 0:44:37- I almost feel as if I'm one of them.
0:44:37 > 0:44:39- I'm not, I know.
0:44:46 > 0:44:48- Asfaw Shirga is the site manager.
0:44:49 > 0:44:52- He's been working here - for six years.
0:44:53 > 0:44:57- He hardly ever sees his family - who live in Addis Ababa.
0:45:01 > 0:45:05- He told me how all the work - and sacrifice will be well worth it.
0:45:07 > 0:45:11- His children were very young - during the famine of the 1980s.
0:45:11 > 0:45:15- He never wants to live - through such a period again.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21- The Government aims to change - the lives of the poor...
0:45:22 > 0:45:25- ..by providing electricity - and building dams...
0:45:25 > 0:45:27- ..to provide clean water.
0:45:27 > 0:45:31- Some have to walk seven hours - for drinking water.
0:45:34 > 0:45:36- Our focus is our people.
0:45:41 > 0:45:45- Now is the time to eradicate famine.
0:45:49 > 0:45:53- The Tekeze project has been - in the pipeline for many years...
0:45:53 > 0:45:56- ..but any financial backers - from the West...
0:45:56 > 0:46:00- ..like the World Bank, were scared - off by opposition from Egypt.
0:46:01 > 0:46:04- Ethiopia turned its sights - to the East for help.
0:46:04 > 0:46:09- Eight years ago, they received - financial support from China.
0:46:14 > 0:46:19- The Tekeze is an important turning - point in the country's history.
0:46:19 > 0:46:23- It will allow them to use - the Nile's waters.
0:46:24 > 0:46:30- In addition to this, the dam - realizes some of Egypt's fears.
0:46:32 > 0:46:37- After centuries of allowing the - river to flow through its fingers...
0:46:37 > 0:46:41- ..Ethiopia's ability - to harness the river's force...
0:46:41 > 0:46:45- ..will create tensions with Egypt.
0:46:46 > 0:46:50- Both sides have already threatened - the possibility of conflict.
0:46:51 > 0:46:54- Asfaw believes that - any conflict can be avoided.
0:47:02 > 0:47:06- When we do things like this, - to provide for our people...
0:47:06 > 0:47:11- ..Egypt, our neighbour and friend, - needn't worry at all.
0:47:11 > 0:47:15- Previously, there was - no common ground between us.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18- Now, we understand - each other better.
0:47:25 > 0:47:29- For the first time ever, - the ten countries along the Nile...
0:47:29 > 0:47:34- ..are meeting to discuss ways - of distributing the water fairly.
0:47:37 > 0:47:40- Despite this and despite - Asfaw's positive attitude...
0:47:41 > 0:47:43- ..the situation remains difficult.
0:47:44 > 0:47:47- Agreement between the countries - seems a long way away.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52- However, there is hope.
0:47:52 > 0:47:56- Ethiopia and Egypt - are working together...
0:47:56 > 0:47:59- ..to find a solution - for their different needs.
0:48:03 > 0:48:06- As I approach - the end of my journey...
0:48:07 > 0:48:09- ..I'll hold on to that hope.
0:48:17 > 0:48:19- There has been so much debate...
0:48:20 > 0:48:23- ..about who has the right - to control this river.
0:48:23 > 0:48:25- However, it continues to flow...
0:48:25 > 0:48:29- ..blissfully unaware - of the trouble that surrounds it.
0:48:29 > 0:48:33- It's almost like a mother - who refuses to take sides...
0:48:33 > 0:48:35- ..as her children bicker - around her ankles.
0:48:37 > 0:48:41- There will be agreement - - they have to agree.
0:48:41 > 0:48:46- The last thing these two countries - need is another war.
0:48:46 > 0:48:49- I think they've had - enough of those already.
0:49:21 > 0:49:24- S4C subtitles by Simian 04
0:49:24 > 0:49:24- .