Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam said on Monday, March 9, 2026, that Egypt and South Africa face multiple water-related challenges stemming from water scarcity, climate change, population growth and mounting pressure on limited water resources.
Speaking during the opening of a joint virtual seminar with South African Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina, Sewilam noted that both countries rely on international rivers for their renewable water resources, making continuous dialogue and technical cooperation critically important.
The seminar, held under the theme “water for people,” brought together a group of female engineers, scientists and water sector specialists from both countries.
It aims to highlight the role of women in water resources management, strengthen cooperation in the field of transboundary waters and support sustainable development and peacebuilding through the exchange of expertise and best practices.
Discussions also focused on ways to empower women and enhance their participation in water governance and water diplomacy.
Sewilam reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening women’s leadership in the water sector, noting that the theme of the seminar carries a powerful message that water represents life, dignity, stability and development.
He stressed that access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services is a fundamental human right and an essential prerequisite for achieving sustainable development.
He also highlighted the ministry’s efforts to create supportive environments for women’s leadership and pointed to Egypt’s notable progress in empowering women within the water sector.
Meanwhile, Majodina praised the strong cooperation between Egypt and South Africa in the water sector and highlighted the similarities in the water challenges faced by both countries.
