Cairo:Egypt has taken significant steps to secure its water supply and ensure sustainable agricultural practices with an investment of EGP 800 billion. These efforts were emphasized by Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam during his address at the Egypt Forum 2026, as he outlined the nation's proactive measures against challenges such as unilateral actions, climate change, and population growth.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the investment has facilitated the scaling of recycled water usage to 23.2 billion cubic meters annually, supported by mega-treatment plants like New Delta. The infrastructure advancements have allowed water to be pumped against natural slopes and across major waterways, effectively irrigating over 2.2 million acres in Egypt's Western Desert.

Minister Sewilam also discussed the rapid expansion of land reclamation in Toshka, which has increased green coverage while maintaining Egypt's historical Nile water share of 55.5 billion cubic meters. In the context of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), he mentioned that despite exhausting all negotiation avenues, talks were halted due to Ethiopian non-compliance. Nevertheless, Egypt remains committed to protecting its water rights and shielding its citizens from any potential impacts.

Beyond the GERD issue, Egypt is actively promoting regional cooperation among the 11 Nile Basin countries. The nation has invested $120 million in grants for projects such as solar-powered drinking wells, flood protection, and meteorological centers. Sewilam advocated for regional energy integration through solar and wind alternatives, emphasizing the importance of finding mutual "win-win" solutions across the Basin.