Egypt establishes $100mln fund for water, dam projects in southern Nile Basin states
Egypt has launched a $100 million fund to support development and water infrastructure projects across Nile Basin countries. The initiative aims to foster regional cooperation while Cairo maintains its stance on protecting its water rights under international law.
Why it matters
It highlights the geopolitical tension and diplomatic efforts surrounding water security in the Nile Basin, a critical resource for multiple African nations.
A $100m financing mechanism has been established to study and implement development projects, including dams, in southern Nile Basin countries, as Cairo seeks to expand water and development cooperation across the region.
The mechanism has an initial allocation of $100m and will support projects based on the priorities of participating countries, the Foreign and Irrigation Ministries said in a joint statement.
Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam reviewed the initiative during a meeting focused on relations with Nile Basin countries and coordination on regional and international water issues.
The ministers said Egyptian projects across the basin include dams, most recently Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere hydropower project, as well as solar-powered groundwater wells and stations, river docks, water-storage facilities, rainfall forecasting centres and water-quality laboratories.
Other programmes include flood protection, aquatic weed control, training and capacity building.
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