A Global Call for Non-Conventional Water
Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, has issued a call for a global partnership on non-conventional water resources. Speaking at a ministerial consultation during the inaugural Saudi Water Week in Jeddah, Sewilam argued for increased financing for water projects in developing countries. As global scarcity intensifies, he noted that water security is a cornerstone of regional stability, food security, and climate resilience.
Bridging the Deficit Through Technology
The Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation reports a widening gap between available water resources and growing demand. Minister Sewilam advocates for water management based on digital technologies, monitoring and forecasting systems, modelling, satellite imagery, and decision-support tools. The minister argues that a global partnership is essential to help developing nations secure the necessary financing for water projects. This push serves as a key pillar in the preparatory process for the 11th World Water Forum, scheduled for Riyadh in March 2027.
The “Water 2.0” Strategy
To secure its own future, Egypt is currently executing its “Water 2.0” programme, a second-generation national strategy targeting the country’s hydrological challenges. The initiative focuses on:
- Digital Transformation: Leveraging satellite imagery, advanced modelling, and real-time monitoring to optimize water management.
- Infrastructure Resilience: Expanding water treatment and desalination capacity.
- Nature-Based Solutions: Employing environmental strategies to manage water flows.
- Demand Management: Promoting modern irrigation techniques to increase water-use efficiency while supporting small-scale farmers.
Governance of Shared River Basins
Beyond domestic policy, Sewilam emphasized that shared river basins require adherence to international water law. According to the ministry, success hinges on principles including the obligation to prevent significant harm, prior notification, consultation, cooperation, and regular data exchange. The minister maintained that good governance and cooperation remain paths to reducing pressure on shared resources.
Actionable Outcomes for Riyadh 2027
The Egyptian delegation is pushing for the 11th World Water Forum to produce practical outcomes. The ministry’s proposed agenda includes:
- Establishing a global partnership dedicated to non-conventional water and green water management.
- Launching an international initiative to build the capacity of young water leaders.
- Creating expanded financing mechanisms for water projects in developing countries to strengthen climate resilience and water security.
These proposals arrive as the gap between available water resources and growing demand widens.