Egypt's finance and irrigation ministries discuss funding for modern irrigation projects

Egypt's Minister of Finance Ahmed Kouchouk and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam met to discuss strengthening coordination on water management policies and financing plans for irrigation modernization. The discussions centered on inter-ministerial cooperation to support Egypt’s water system and implement development objectives, particularly upgrading irrigation infrastructure and improving water use efficiency in agriculture. Kouchouk emphasized the positive impact of inter-ministerial coordination on public welfare and the government's commitment to initiatives improving water-use efficiency through modern technologies. Sewilam highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Finance for timely execution of water sector projects and reviewed a proposed protocol involving the Ministries of Water Resources and Irrigation, Agriculture, and Finance, along with state-owned banks, to finance the transition to modern irrigation systems. This initiative aims to support agricultural modernization by expanding financing for irrigation upgrades and promoting efficient farming practices. Sewilam noted that modern irrigation systems are mandatory in desert areas under water law, alongside canal development and field improvements, to boost productivity, improve crop quality, and reduce water consumption, ultimately enhancing water resource allocation.