Irrigation minister: Egypt pursuing an integrated approach to maximize efficient use of available water resources

Egypt is implementing a comprehensive strategy to optimize the use of its limited water resources amid growing demand, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam announced. The approach focuses on enhancing water-use efficiency, expanding the reuse of agricultural drainage water, and ensuring every drop is utilized effectively.

Sewilam detailed Egypt's water resource system, security measures, and sustainable management practices during a lecture at the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17) in Mongolia. He stressed Egypt's commitment to regional cooperation, particularly with Nile Basin and other African nations, viewing it as essential for advancing sustainable development and fostering the exchange of expertise in water resource management for mutual benefit.

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Egypt is pursuing an integrated approach to maximize the efficient use of its available water resources by improving water-use efficiency, expanding the reuse of agricultural drainage water and optimizing the use of every drop of water, particularly in light of the country’s limited water resources and growing demand.

The minister outlined the "Water 2.0" initiative, Egypt's second-generation water management system. This involves rehabilitating infrastructure and adopting advanced technologies, including satellite imagery and drones, for real-time monitoring and improved decision-making. Egypt's digital twin project for the Ismailia Canal was presented as a pioneering example of integrating technology into water management for enhanced operational efficiency.

Egypt is also prioritizing the treatment and reuse of agricultural drainage water as a key strategy to maximize available resources. Additionally, efforts are underway to protect coastlines using environmentally friendly and nature-based solutions to mitigate climate change impacts. Sewilam underscored the importance of good governance and strengthening institutional capacity, including empowering Water User Associations and improving communication.

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Egypt attaches great importance to regional cooperation as a means of advancing sustainable development and promoting the exchange of expertise and knowledge in water resources management, in a manner that serves the common interests of African peoples.