Hani Sweilam, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, held a meeting to review governance measures for sustainable groundwater management in the New Valley Governorate. The discussions centered on ensuring efficient use of groundwater, particularly in light of a recent inspection by officials from the Groundwater and Irrigation Development sectors, who assessed model farms relying on groundwater.
During the meeting, the minister stressed the importance of adhering to regulations for responsible water usage. He called for strict compliance with guidelines to ensure the sustainable management of groundwater reserves, urging the expansion of modern irrigation systems in the New Valley to optimize water use. Efforts to survey groundwater wells will continue, and measures will be taken to address violations, including unauthorized drilling or over-extraction beyond permissible limits.
Sweilam emphasized the ministry’s commitment to developing comprehensive policies for groundwater usage and protection. This includes promoting conservation efforts, setting regulations for its use, and monitoring both the quantity and quality of groundwater resources. The minister highlighted the 2021 Water Resources and Irrigation Law (Law No. 147), which provides a legal framework for managing Egypt’s vital water resources.
In line with Egypt’s renewable energy goals, the ministry is also promoting solar-powered groundwater wells. Additionally, a digital licensing system for groundwater wells is being developed to enhance transparency, improve user interactions, and reduce corruption. Monthly meetings of the Supreme Committee for Licensing Groundwater Wells ensure streamlined operations and the enforcement of regulations.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing projects in the New Valley Governorate, which focus on efficient water management and sustainable agricultural development, receiving an annual investment of approximately LE 325 million.
Earlier in November, officials from the Groundwater and Irrigation Development sectors conducted an inspection visit to the New Valley, specifically to Al-Kharga Oasis, where they evaluated agricultural practices and development projects reliant on groundwater. They visited a farm managed by a young investor cultivating aromatic plants, prickly pear, and mulberry using advanced drip irrigation systems. The officials also met with water user associations operating at government-run wells in the region.
Minister Sweilam emphasized the role of water user associations in managing groundwater resources, encouraging them to collaborate with the ministry to ensure sustainable practices that protect this critical resource.
The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation remains committed to improving groundwater governance, promoting sustainable water use practices, and supporting agricultural development in arid regions like the New Valley Governorate.
