Egypt Expands Scope of Ninth Cairo Water Week to Address Global Water Security
Egypt is expanding the international participation and scientific programming of the ninth Cairo Water Week, scheduled for October 25-29, to align with a series of high-level regional and global events on water security. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam confirmed that the event serves as a key component of the international cooperation pillar of Egypt’s “Water 2.0” second-generation strategy.
How is Cairo Water Week evolving its scientific and technical program?
The ministry is expanding the technical programme in cooperation with regional and international partners through a series of specialised sessions. The scientific committee has concluded the initial evaluation of research abstracts and is currently processing extended abstracts and full papers for peer review.
The ministry is also targeting the next generation of engineers and researchers through a series of competitions. Current participation figures include 167 applicants for the Young Innovators competition, 117 entries for the “Ala El-Qad” competition, and 37 participants in the Three-Minute Thesis competition. Applications for the Best Graduation Projects competition are set to open on August 15.
Which international organizations and governments are participating?
Organizers have issued 133 official invitations to representatives from around the world. While coordination with governments and international organisations is ongoing, participants from 13 countries have already confirmed their attendance.
The event will function as a hub for several distinct international agendas:
- The Seventh Arab Water Conference: Taking place October 26-27 under the theme “Water in the Arab Region: Partnerships for Peace and Sustainable Development.” This segment focuses on water-use efficiency, the governance of shared water resources, innovative financing, non-conventional water resources, and smart water management.
- World Water Council and China: A high-level international event on water security organized by the World Water Council in cooperation with China’s Ministry of Water Resources.
- United Nations: The conference will host the final preparatory session for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.
- Road to Riyadh 2027: A special session coordinated with the organisers of the 11th World Water Forum.
What is the strategic objective of the Water 2.0 strategy?
According to Minister Hani Sewilam, Cairo Water Week is a key component of the international cooperation pillar of Egypt’s second-generation Water 2.0 strategy. This framework brings together policymakers, experts, international organisations and development partners to exchange expertise and strengthen cooperation on global water challenges. By integrating these high-level tracks into a single week, Egypt intends to reflect its growing international role in advancing dialogue and regional cooperation on water issues.
The ministry continues to monitor the technical and organisational preparations to ensure the event reflects Egypt’s growing international role in advancing dialogue and regional cooperation on water issues.
