Cairo: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam emphasized the enduring cooperation between Egypt and Uganda, a partnership that has lasted over 26 years. He pointed out the collaborative efforts within the framework of the sixth phase of the Egyptian-Ugandan project aimed at combating aquatic weeds in the Great Lakes, an agreement signed in November 2023.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Sewilam’s comments followed his receipt of a report from Aref Gharib, Head of the Nile Water Sector, concerning the commencement of the 13th meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the Egyptian-Ugandan Aquatic Weed Control Project (UEAWCP). The meeting was co-chaired by Gharib and his Ugandan counterpart and included committee members from both countries.

The discussions during the meeting focused on the progress made in controlling water weeds and the development of an urban fish market and river marina in Kamunja, located on the shores of Lake Victoria. Additionally, the meeting covered the
project’s work plan and the implementation of the aquatic weed management project, conducted in collaboration with the Channel Maintenance Research Institute (CMRI).

The Ugandan delegation acknowledged the significant outcomes achieved during the current phase of the project and expressed a desire to further enhance cooperation with Egypt. This partnership aims to ensure continued joint success, maintain ecological balance, and support sustainable livelihoods for local communities in the Great Lakes region.