Egypt Champions Integrated Water Management Strategies to Maximize Resource Efficiency

Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam highlighted Egypt's commitment to an integrated approach aimed at maximizing the efficient use of available water resources. Speaking during a lecture titled “Innovations in Water Resources Management” at the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17) in Mongolia, Sewilam emphasized the importance of improving water-use efficiency and expanding agricultural drainage water reuse.

During his address, the minister outlined the core components of Egypt's water resources system and detailed ongoing initiatives to bolster water security. He also stressed the significance of regional cooperation with Nile Basin countries and other African nations to advance sustainable development and share knowledge in water management.

Sewilam introduced the pillars of the second generation of Egypt’s water management system, known as Water 2.0. This framework focuses on upgrading infrastructure and incorporating advanced technologies such as satellite imagery, drones, and the digital twin project for the Ismailia Canal to enhance data collection and operational efficiency.

Furthermore, the minister discussed state efforts in coastline protection using nature-based solutions, institutional capacity-building through Water User Associations, and community empowerment initiatives, including training rural women to utilize water hyacinth for economic opportunities. Sewilam concluded that this multi-faceted strategy is vital for securing Egypt's long-term water sustainability.