Tunisia has been chosen to host the Arab Water Forum in 2027, an event organized by the Arab Atomic Energy Agency under the theme 'The Role of Nuclear Technologies in Enhancing Arab Water Security'. The forum aims to explore ways to utilize nuclear and isotopic applications to address water scarcity and deteriorating water quality in the Arab region. According to Salem Hamdi, Director-General of the Arab Atomic Energy Agency, the forum will highlight the potential of nuclear technologies in improving water resource management.

The Arab region faces increasing challenges in water and food security due to limited water resources, climate change, desertification, and growing demand for water and food. The region also experiences deteriorating water quality, which exacerbates the issue. Hamdi emphasized that nuclear technologies can provide accurate scientific data to help decision-makers understand water resource characteristics and identify ways to exploit them more efficiently and sustainably.

The Arab Atomic Energy Agency has been working to develop cooperation in the field of water and exchange scientific and technical expertise among Arab countries. The agency has also been promoting the use of nuclear applications in water management. Hamdi noted that the forum's organization in Tunisia is part of the agency's efforts to enhance Arab cooperation in the field of water and promote the use of nuclear technologies in water management.

Nuclear technologies can be used to explore groundwater, determine its sources, estimate its age, and assess its recharge rates. These technologies can also help study water movement, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies to mitigate them. Furthermore, nuclear technologies can be employed to treat wastewater and reduce organic and industrial pollutants, supporting the reuse of treated water according to health and environmental standards.

The Arab Water Forum will provide an opportunity to discuss ways to address water challenges in the Arab region and explore the potential of nuclear technologies in improving water security. The forum will also focus on enhancing cooperation and exchanging experiences among Arab countries in the field of water management. By sharing knowledge and expertise, Arab countries can develop effective strategies to manage their water resources sustainably.

The Arab Atomic Energy Agency was established in 1989 and is headquartered in Tunisia. The agency is a specialized Arab organization that operates within the framework of the League of Arab States to develop peaceful uses of atomic energy and nuclear sciences in member states. The agency has been working to promote cooperation and exchange of expertise among Arab countries in the field of nuclear energy and sciences.

The organization of the Arab Water Forum in Tunisia reflects the country's commitment to addressing water challenges and promoting sustainable water management practices. The forum is expected to contribute to the development of effective strategies to manage water resources in the Arab region and enhance cooperation among Arab countries in this field. By hosting the forum, Tunisia aims to play a key role in promoting water security and sustainable development in the region.

Key points

  • The Arab Water Forum will focus on the role of nuclear technologies in enhancing water security in the Arab region.
  • The forum aims to promote cooperation and exchange of expertise among Arab countries in water management.
  • Nuclear technologies can be used to improve water resource management, including groundwater exploration and wastewater treatment.

Reporting sources

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.