Cairo: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hany Sewilam stated on Monday, February 23, 2026, that training and capacity building are essential areas of cooperation between Egypt and African countries. He emphasized the importance of initiatives like the 'African Water Ambassadors' training program in transferring expertise to African partners through skilled water experts, which aids in developing a resilient Africa capable of facing water and climate challenges.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Sewilam's remarks followed a report from Salwa Aboul Ela, Head of the Regional Training Center for Water Resources and Irrigation, on the completion of the 'African Water Ambassadors' program. This seven-week program, conducted in January and February through the Center's online platform under the AWAR (Action on Water Adaptation and Resilience) initiative, included 170 participants from 25 African countries.
The program addressed various integrated topics such as water ethics and hydro-diplomacy, water-use efficiency, integrated water resources management, and transboundary water management. It also covered modern water technologies, the use of artificial intelligence tools in water management, sustainable development in water governance, climate change impacts, smart water and irrigation systems, leadership and networking skills, international cooperation and legal frameworks, and issues related to gender, youth, and social inclusion.
Sewilam underlined the ambassadors' vital role in promoting water conservation, enhancing water management practices, and fostering cooperation and knowledge exchange among African nations in the water resources sector. He urged them to be effective advocates for sustainable water management within their institutions and communities.
The involvement of 25 African countries highlights Egypt's commitment to collaborative efforts and reflects a spirit of African solidarity and a shared resolve to create a sustainable future for the continent, Sewilam noted. He added that Egypt perceives water as a crucial element for development, stability, and regional cooperation, especially considering Africa's growing challenges related to water scarcity, climate change, population growth, resource pressure, and limited human capacity.
The minister stressed the necessity of advancing practical and specialized training for young African engineers who need further applied expertise.