Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Egypt reaffirms firm stance on Nile water rights
Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Dr. Hani Sewilam, has reiterated Egypt’s unwavering position regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), emphasizing that Egypt will not tolerate any threats to its historic rights or its water security.
Speaking at a press conference during the opening day of the 8th Cairo Water Week, Minister Sewilam underlined Egypt’s concerns over Ethiopia’s management of the dam, warning that unilateral actions have already led to negative impacts. However, he reassured the public that the Egyptian state is well-prepared to protect citizens from any harm.
“Ethiopia’s approach has caused some damages, but Egypt is capable of managing them to prevent any direct impact on its people,” Sewilam said. He noted that while dams are not the only means to generate electricity, Ethiopia’s current actions are “reckless and uncoordinated,” especially in light of recent floods caused by the sudden release of large volumes of water without proper coordination with downstream countries.
Dr. Sewilam stressed that Egypt’s demands in the GERD negotiations have always been clear—calling for a legally binding agreement that outlines the long-term rules for filling and operating the dam. He warned that random water releases, without data sharing or consultation, could endanger millions of people in Egypt and Sudan.
He further emphasized that Egypt is meticulously documenting all developments to safeguard its rights under international law, and pointed out that the country’s total water resources cover only about half of its actual needs—highlighting the critical importance of Nile water for Egypt’s population.
Regarding future dialogue, Minister Sewilam clarified that Egypt will not return to talks under previous negotiation frameworks unless there is a commitment to respecting international law and the principles of equitable and reasonable use.
The conference, which brings together high-level officials, experts, and delegates from across the globe, is held under the theme: “Innovative Solutions for Enhancing Climate Resilience and Water Resources Sustainability.” Cairo Water Week, now in its eighth year, serves as a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering international cooperation, and advancing the shared goal of global water security and sustainable development.
As water resources become increasingly strained by population growth and climate change, Dr. Sewilam called for rational, sustainable planning and innovative solutions to secure a livable future for all.