Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Dr. Hani Suwelim, participated in the opening of the Sahara Expo. The event was attended by various high-profile individuals, including Agriculture and Land Reclamation Minister, Mr. Alaa Farouk, and several ambassadors, investors, and experts. The expo aims to bring together the fields of water, agriculture, technology, and investment.
During his speech at the expo, Dr. Suwelim expressed his pleasure with the event, describing it as a crucial platform that combines water, agriculture, technology, and investment. He emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships between the government, farmers, private sector, scientists, and entrepreneurs. The minister hopes that the expo will lead to tangible solutions, investments, and projects on the ground.
Dr. Suwelim highlighted the challenges Egypt faces in the water sector due to population growth and climate change impacts. He noted that the per capita share of water has decreased significantly over the years, from 2000 cubic meters per year in the 1960s to around 472 cubic meters per year currently. Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is working efficiently to meet the water needs of various stakeholders.
The minister emphasized the need for modern technological tools in irrigation and agriculture to optimize water consumption and maximize agricultural productivity. He mentioned that the ministry is working with the Agriculture and Land Reclamation Ministry and the private sector to achieve this goal. The "Second Generation of the Water System 2.0" vision focuses on using technology and scientific research to manage the water system.
Dr. Suwelim mentioned that Egypt has made significant progress in maximizing the use of every drop of water, with a notable increase in water treatment and reuse. He cited the construction of new water treatment plants, such as the Delta, Bahar Al-Baqar, and Al-Mahsama plants, which add around 4.8 billion cubic meters of treated water to the system annually.
The minister also highlighted the importance of governance and coordination among various stakeholders in the water sector. He mentioned that the National Water Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, has been established to enhance coordination and communication among different parties. The ministry is also expanding the formation of water user associations at various levels.
The Sahara Expo aims to provide a platform for innovation and partnership between the government and private sector. Dr. Suwelim's participation in the event underscores the government's commitment to addressing the challenges facing the water and agriculture sectors. The expo is expected to lead to new opportunities and solutions for sustainable development in Egypt.
Key points
- Dr. Hani Suwelim inaugurated the Sahara Expo to promote innovation and partnership in water and agriculture.
- The expo aims to address the challenges facing Egypt's water and agriculture sectors.
- Dr. Suwelim emphasized the importance of technology and scientific research in managing the water system.
