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

Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, has emphasized that the nation is adopting an integrated strategy to optimize the effective utilization of its limited water resources. During a lecture on water management innovations, Sewilam detailed Egypt's approach, which includes improving water-use efficiency, enhancing the reuse of agricultural drainage water, and optimizing water usage across the board.

Sewilam's remarks came during his participation in the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, held in Mongolia. He provided an overview of Egypt's water resources system, reviewed the country's water needs, and discussed measures to bolster water security and foster sustainable management of resources.

The minister also underlined Egypt's commitment to regional cooperation, particularly with Nile Basin countries and other African nations, viewing collaboration as vital for advancing sustainable development and sharing expertise in water resources management. Egypt's second generation water management system (Water 2.0) focuses on rehabilitating water infrastructure, adopting advanced technologies, and employing satellite imagery and drones for real-time monitoring and surveillance.

Sewilam highlighted the ministry's digital twin project for the Ismailia Canal, a pioneering example of integrating technology into water management to improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the ministry is working on treating and reusing agricultural drainage water, a crucial step in maximizing available water resources.

Efforts to protect Egypt's coastlines through environmentally-friendly materials and nature-based solutions have been bolstered to mitigate climate change impacts and safeguard vulnerable coastal areas.

Good governance and institutional capacity-building have been stressed as key to effective water resources management. The ministry has been working to increase water user participation through Water User Associations and improve communication with legislative bodies. A notable initiative involves training rural women to use water hyacinth for handicrafts, transforming an environmental issue into an opportunity for economic empowerment and job creation.

Sewilam reiterated Egypt's commitment to modernize and strengthen its water management system by integrating modern infrastructure, advanced technology, water reuse, nature-based solutions, sound governance, and community participation. This comprehensive approach is vital for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Egypt's water resources, enhancing water security, and supporting the nation's broader development goals.