Egypt Pledges Enhanced Support for Uganda's Sustainable Development Goals

Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Hani Sewilam highlighted the strong, long-standing relationship between Egypt and Uganda, reaffirming Egypt's dedication to deepening bilateral cooperation. This commitment builds upon existing development projects aimed at benefiting citizens and advancing sustainable development initiatives within Uganda.

Sewilam's remarks were made during a meeting with Uganda’s Minister of Water and Environment, Kahinda Otafiire, on the sidelines of the ninth Cairo Water Week. The ministers engaged in discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in water resource management and addressing other matters of mutual concern.

The Egyptian minister emphasized the critical importance of ongoing cooperation in integrated water resources management, the implementation of water conservation projects, and enhancing water use efficiency. He also pointed to the expansion of training and capacity-building programs, alongside the exchange of technical expertise, as vital for bolstering the skills of Ugandan professionals in water management.

Furthermore, Sewilam underscored the value of leveraging Egypt’s regional pooled financing mechanism, established to support water projects across Nile Basin countries. He expressed Egypt's readiness to collaborate with Uganda in identifying key areas for cooperation and specific projects that align with development needs and serve their shared interests.

Regarding Nile Basin issues, Sewilam stressed the significance of maintaining the Nile Basin Initiative as the primary collaborative platform for all basin nations. He advocated for enhanced cooperation and coordination among these countries, founded on mutual trust, transparency, and a consideration of shared interests, to foster sustainable development and mutual benefits without negatively impacting any nation.

Sewilam concluded by expressing his anticipation for continued coordination with Uganda to bolster both bilateral and regional cooperation in the upcoming period.