Cairo:The world is grappling with multiple crises fueled by geopolitical changes, according to World Water Council (WWC) President Loïc Fauchon. Speaking on October 25, 2026, at the opening session of the ninth Cairo Water Week (CWW), Fauchon emphasized the urgent need for global management of natural resources to mitigate environmental threats.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the event, themed 'Water as a Catalyst for Peace, Shared Prosperity and a Sustainable Planet,' is supported by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and attended by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, ministers, ambassadors, and heads of Arab and African delegations.
Fauchon underscored the deteriorating climate and rapid population growth, which intensify pressure on natural resources. He highlighted advances in water technology, such as efficient water use and desalination, and praised Egypt's Gabal el-Asfar wastewater treatment plant as a leader in this field. He called for regulated water consumption and a shift in perception to acknowledge water scarcity, advocating for daily conservation efforts to ensure future availability.
The WWC President also urged a reevaluation of food waste and water-intensive product losses. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation to adopt best practices and the need to engage young people to enhance their understanding and awareness of water issues.
The ninth CWW features participation from several international and regional organizations, offering 137 sessions and competitions. Notable participants include the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the European Union, UNESCO, the International Water Management Institute, the Islamic Network for Water Resources Development and Management, the German Agency for International Cooperation, and the WWC.
The program includes a preparatory session for the United Nations 2026 World Water Conference, discussions on green water, and a UNESCO session on capacity building in Africa and the Arab region. Additionally, it features the sixth International High-Level Seminar on Water Security, in collaboration with China's Ministry of Water Resources and the WWC.