Egypt approves updated water strategy 2050 to boost resource efficiency, security

CAIRO – 30 April 2026: Egypt has approved the final version of its updated national water strategy 2050, aiming to enhance the efficiency of water resource management and achieve water security.

During a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly on Wednesday, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam said the strategy underscores water as a top strategic priority for the Egyptian state, framing it as a matter of national security.

The strategy sets out a comprehensive and updated vision to achieve water security, focusing on diversifying water resources and maximizing the value of every drop of water, he noted.

It also emphasizes expanding wastewater treatment and reuse, alongside increased reliance on modern technologies and digital transformation.

The plan includes developing Egypt’s water system to meet both current and future needs, in line with the latest global practices in water resource management, the minister said.

A dedicated mechanism will be developed to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the strategy, he added.

The Cabient has also given initial approval to the principles governing a national framework for distribution of water resources, which is set to be finalized by the beginning of August.

Sewilam said the framework aims to improve the efficiency of available resources and ensure equitable allocation across all user sectors, in line with sustainability and environmental protection standards.