Egypt's irrigation minister calls for African water law adherence
Hani Sewilam stated that 90 percent of Africa’s surface water is in shared basins, requiring data sharing and consultation.
Egypt's Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam stated Tuesday that 90 percent of Africa’s surface water is located within shared international basins. He emphasized the need for strict adherence to international water law, data sharing, and prior consultation on transboundary projects. Sewilam spoke at Cairo Water Week during a session on the Africa Water Vision 2063.
Sewilam highlighted that the Nile River provides approximately 98 percent of Egypt’s total water resources. He stressed that Egypt's national water security should not negatively impact other Nile basin nations. The minister also noted that Egypt is reviewing 36 downstream Nile projects.
Ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference, Sewilam urged for a unified African stance to secure sustainable financing and development for water projects.
Why it mattersEgypt's water security is directly impacted by the Nile River, which supplies 98 percent of its water resources.