Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, urged global collaboration on non-conventional water resources and increased financing for water projects in developing countries during a preparatory meeting for the 11th World Water Forum, scheduled for March 2027 in Riyadh. The statement came during a ministerial consultation held at the inaugural Saudi Water Week in Jeddah, where Sewilam joined ministers, senior officials, and representatives from international water sector organizations, according to a ministry statement.
Sewilam emphasized that water security is central to sustainable development, food security, climate resilience, and regional stability, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. He highlighted the need for adaptive water management strategies, including digital technologies, satellite monitoring, and decision-support systems, to address growing demand and resource scarcity. “Smart and flexible water management is essential to mitigate risks posed by climate variability and population growth,” he said.
Egypt’s second-generation Water 2.0 program, outlined by Sewilam, includes expanding desalination and water treatment infrastructure, adopting digital transformation tools, and integrating nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration and soil moisture conservation. The initiative also prioritizes resilient infrastructure to withstand climate shocks, according to the ministry. Sewilam noted that the program aligns with Egypt’s broader goals to reduce dependency on traditional water sources like the Nile River.
The minister called for integrated river basin management, advocating for the sustainable use of “green water” resources—rainfall that is stored in soil and used by plants—in high-rainfall areas. This approach, he said, could alleviate pressure on shared water systems like the Nile and enhance regional food security. “Cooperation and transparency in managing transboundary waters are non-negotiable,” Sewilam stated, referencing principles of international water law such as prior notification, consultation, and data exchange.
Sewilam also addressed the growing gap between water demand and availability, urging greater efficiency in agricultural practices. He cited modern irrigation systems, expanded wastewater reuse, and policies to support smallholder farmers as critical measures. “Agriculture accounts for 85% of global freshwater use, yet inefficiencies waste vast quantities,” he said. The minister proposed an international initiative to train young water leaders and establish financing mechanisms to support developing nations in building climate-resilient water systems.
The 11th World Water Forum, set to convene in Riyadh, will serve as a platform for nations to advance these priorities. Sewilam’s proposals align with global efforts to address water scarcity, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water for all by 2030. However, the success of his calls for a global partnership will depend on political will and financial commitments from member states, according to water policy analysts.
