Riyadh, December 11, 2024 – Dr. Hani Sewilam, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, unveiled an ambitious solar-powered desalination project targeting agricultural applications. This regional initiative includes Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, and Morocco and aims to address the pressing issue of water scarcity in the Arab world.
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainability
The project, introduced during the COP16 conference in Riyadh, is spearheaded under the AWARe Initiative and executed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Representatives from the four countries participated in a workshop to draft a memorandum of understanding and establish consultancy frameworks for implementing modern desalination technologies.
Tackling Water Scarcity with Technology
Dr. Sewilam highlighted the significance of regional and international collaboration to reduce the cost of desalinating brackish and polluted water using cutting-edge technology. The ultimate goal is to bolster sustainable food security and increase agricultural productivity amidst the challenges of water scarcity in the region.
Driving Innovation and Best Practices
This initiative not only addresses water scarcity challenges but also fosters the exchange of expertise and research among Arab nations to establish best practices for sustainable agriculture and water management.
A Step Towards Regional Security
As water scarcity remains a critical issue for the Arab world, this collaborative effort sets a promising precedent for tackling environmental challenges and ensuring long-term agricultural and food security.