Egypt speeds up canal digitisation and modern irrigation reforms

EGYPT – Egypt has stepped up efforts to digitise private irrigation canals and expand modern irrigation systems as part of a wider plan to improve water management and support food security.

During a meeting of the joint coordination committee, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam and Agriculture Minister Alaa Farouk reviewed ongoing projects between their ministries and agreed on closer coordination.

Sewilam said his ministry will continue to work closely with the Agriculture Ministry to solve problems facing joint projects. “Strong coordination between our teams will improve the efficiency of the water system, support farmers, and serve national food security goals,” he said.

Farouk stressed that his ministry continues to work on raising crop yields and improving farm performance through clear planning and joint action. “We aim to maximise productivity and strengthen food security through integrated work between all concerned bodies,” he said.

First phase of canal digitisation completed

Earlier this month, the two ministries completed the first phase of a project to digitise private irrigation canals. The project created a digital platform and recorded data for more than 22,000 private canals covering over 17,000 kilometres across 11 irrigation directorates in seven governorates. A total of 44 joint technical teams carried out the work.

Officials said the new system allows teams to monitor canal conditions on a regular basis, identify maintenance needs that beneficiaries must address, and plan future rehabilitation work. The platform also supports the formation and operation of water users’ associations and aims to ensure fair water distribution.

The ministers instructed technical teams to continue entering data and to expand the project across the country. They also called for training more staff and setting a clear timetable to complete coverage in the Nile Valley and Delta.

Modern irrigation and joint oversight

The meeting also reviewed steps to modernise on farm irrigation. These steps include laser land levelling and raised bed cultivation, both of which reduce water use and improve crop quality and yields. Officials confirmed that Egypt requires modern irrigation systems in newly reclaimed sandy lands under national regulations.

Both ministers agreed to set up a central joint unit to oversee irrigation development projects and the rollout of modern irrigation systems. This unit will supervise projects from design to implementation and assess their impact.

The meeting further covered coordination on irrigation and drainage upgrades in areas managed by the land reclamation authority, as part of national efforts to improve agricultural sustainability and water management.

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