MWRI, FAO Expand Sustainable Irrigation Efforts in Upper Egypt

In collaboration with FAO and the Netherlands Embassy Water Team, Egypt’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation (MWRI), is advancing efforts to modernize irrigation systems and support rural livelihoods in Upper Egypt through climate-smart agricultural projects targeting smallholder farmers.

During a visit to the governorates of Luxor and Qena, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sweilam, accompanied by the development partners, reviewed ongoing cooperation projects aimed at promoting sustainable irrigation practices and improving agricultural productivity in Upper Egypt.

The visit included a tour of a solar-powered pumping station on the Khozam Canal, as well as newly installed drip irrigation systems under the project “Modernization of Irrigation Techniques to Improve Livelihoods of Smallholder Farmers in Upper Egypt.” The initiative is being implemented in cooperation with Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Egypt’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation.

According to the ministry, the project seeks to enhance water-use efficiency, expand renewable energy applications in agriculture, and strengthen community-based water management systems in rural areas vulnerable to climate-related pressures.

The delegation also met with local farmers, Water Users Associations, women participating in Farmer Field Schools, and young people engaged in small and medium-sized enterprise activities linked to the project. Discussions focused on the impact of modern irrigation technologies on agricultural productivity, entrepreneurship opportunities, and household incomes.

Currently operating in 45 villages across the governorates of Assiut, Sohag, and Qena, the project is benefiting more than 17,000 households through improved irrigation services, renewable energy solutions, and support for sustainable rural development initiatives.

Egypt has increasingly prioritized water management and agricultural modernization amid growing concerns over water scarcity and the impact of climate change on food security and rural communities.