Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam highlighted the connection between water management and food security at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi. He spoke during a high-level roundtable focused on building resilient agricultural systems across the continent. The event brought together officials and experts to discuss practical steps for sustainable development.
Sewilam stressed that sustainable water management is key to strengthening food security and helping African agriculture withstand climate change and water shortages. He noted that Egypt is working to improve water-use efficiency amid growing climate and population pressures to support steady agricultural output.
The roundtable examined ways to move from discussion to action through partnerships, financing tools, and specific timelines for projects. Participants reviewed blended finance options and the roles of public and private sectors in areas such as research, production, and processing.
Key sectors discussed included grains, oilseeds, animal feed, dairy, horticulture, and cash crops. Sewilam said Egypt’s involvement shows the direct link between water security and food security on the continent.