Egypt weighs financing plan for shift to modern irrigation systems

Egypt’s finance and irrigation ministers discussed on Tuesday plans to finance a transition to modern irrigation systems, as the government steps up efforts to improve water efficiency and agricultural productivity.

Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk and Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hany Swailem reviewed coordination between their ministries on water-related projects, alongside broader efforts to strengthen the country’s water management system.

The talks covered a proposed protocol involving the irrigation, agriculture, and finance ministries, as well as national banks, to fund projects designed to shift to modern irrigation methods.

Kouchouk said the finance ministry would continue to support efforts to rationalise water use and improve efficiency through the application of modern technology, highlighting the importance of coordination across government entities.

Swailem said cooperation with the finance ministry would help ensure water projects are implemented on schedule, adding that the transition to modern irrigation systems is essential—particularly in sandy lands—in line with the Water Resources and Irrigation Law.

He added that the shift would coincide with the development of irrigation canals and the adoption of modern farming practices at the field level, helping to increase productivity, improve crop quality, and optimise water use.

The measures are also expected to improve water management and ensure supplies reach agricultural lands in appropriate quantities and at suitable times, benefiting farmers, he said.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English