Cairo:Egypt is integrating artificial intelligence and drones to identify the needs of agricultural lands and improve water management. This initiative is part of a broader effort to transition towards technology-driven irrigation systems, as announced by Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Minister Sewilam revealed at the Cairo ICT 2026 event that the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation initiated a plan four years ago to modernize irrigation. This plan focuses on digital transformation and advanced technologies to enhance the management and efficiency of water resources.

The Ministry has developed a comprehensive database covering approximately 55,000 kilometers of canals and has documented information on 60,000 water facilities using digital tools. AI and drone technologies are being employed to map agricultural lands, identify areas that require water distribution or development, and monitor groundwater resources. Currently, these services are being implemented in Ismailia and Suez, with intentions to extend them to other governorates.

Furthermore, Sewilam emphasized the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and advocated for the discontinuation of paper-based work at the Survey Authority.