Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation
Ministry Mandates
The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is responsible for planning, managing, developing and protecting Egypt’s water resources, improving water-use efficiency, and overseeing the irrigation and drainage systems and water infrastructure, supporting national water security and sustainable development.
The Ministry’s Role
Key Areas of Responsibility
An integrated system for managing, protecting and developing water resources while achieving the highest possible efficiency in water use.
Water Resources Management
- Planning and managing the use of water resources.
- Meeting water requirements for different uses.
- Monitoring water levels and discharges.
- Managing and operating water infrastructure.
- Monitoring water quality and condition.
- Managing risks associated with water resources.
Irrigation and Drainage Development
- Developing and managing irrigation and drainage systems.
- Improving irrigation water-use efficiency.
- Developing and maintaining irrigation and drainage networks.
- Monitoring infrastructure and works related to irrigation systems.
- Improving water distribution services.
Development and Protection of Water Resources
- Monitoring water levels and discharges and managing water distribution.
- Operating, managing and maintaining water infrastructure.
- Monitoring and assessing water quality.
- Managing risks and challenges associated with water resources.
- Promoting the optimal and sustainable use of water resources.
Protection of the Nile River and Waterways
- Protecting the Nile River and waterways from encroachments.
- Preserving the waterway capacity of the Nile River.
- Monitoring structures located along waterways.
- Implementing river protection and development works.
Coastal Protection
- Protecting coastal areas from erosion and shoreline retreat.
- Implementing coastal protection projects.
- Assessing the impacts of climate change on coastal areas.
- Supporting climate change adaptation plans.
Flood Management and Rainwater Harvesting
- Constructing and developing rainwater and floodwater harvesting structures.
- Utilizing rainfall and floodwater to support water resources.
- Preparing studies and models for forecasting flood risks.
- Protecting communities, infrastructure and roads from flood hazards.
Digital Transformation and Smart Management
- Developing digital transformation systems across the Ministry’s sectors.
- Utilizing Geographic Information Systems and remote sensing for water management.
- Developing monitoring, measurement and real-time tracking systems.
- Supporting decision-making through data and smart analytics.
- Developing water databases and information systems.
Regional and International Cooperation
- Strengthening cooperation with Nile Basin countries.
- Participating in international forums and organizations concerned with water.
- Exchanging expertise and knowledge in water resources management.
- Supporting international cooperation to address water and climate challenges.
Legislative Framework
Water Resources and Irrigation Law
The legislative framework provides the basis for regulating the management, development and protection of water resources, regulating their uses, and protecting the Nile River, waterways and related infrastructure.