Egypt's Water Security Hinges on Nile: Minister Calls for African Cooperation

Egypt's Irrigation Minister, Hani Sewilam, highlighted the critical reliance on the Nile River, stating it provides approximately 98 percent of the nation's total water resources. Speaking at Cairo Water Week during a session focused on the Africa Water Vision 2063, Sewilam emphasized the importance of international cooperation in managing shared water basins, which hold about 90 percent of Africa’s surface water. He stressed the necessity of adhering to international water law, facilitating data sharing, and conducting prior consultations for transboundary projects.

Minister Sewilam also underscored that Egypt's pursuit of national water security should not negatively impact other Nile basin nations. He revealed that Egypt is currently reviewing 36 downstream Nile projects. Looking ahead, Sewilam urged for a unified African stance in preparation for the 2026 UN Water Conference, aiming to secure sustainable financing and development for water resources across the continent.