Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Swailem reviewed preparations for the ninth edition of Cairo Water Week, scheduled to take place from October 25 to 29, 2026. The update came in a report presented by Walid Hagigi, Head of Planning Sector and Executive Director of the event, outlining progress across organisational and technical tracks.
Swailem emphasised that Cairo Water Week is a key mechanism for implementing the international cooperation pillar of Egypt’s Water System 2.0. He noted that the forum provides a global platform bringing together decision-makers, experts, international organisations, and development partners to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and support efforts to address water challenges and achieve sustainable development.
The scientific committee has completed the first stage of evaluating research abstracts and is now receiving extended summaries and full papers for final selection.
The technical programme is expanding through partnerships with international and regional stakeholders to organisespecialised sessions, while additional events are being prepared to address pressing water issues.
To boost global participation, 133 official invitations have been sent to representatives worldwide, with responses received from 13 countries so far. Competitions aimed at youth and researchers are also underway, including 167 entries for the “Young Innovators” contest, 117 projects for “On Budget,” and 37 submissions for the “Three-Minute Thesis.” A new competition for best graduation projects will open on August 15, 2026.
The week will host several high-level regional and international events, including the Seventh Arab Water Conference on October 26–27 under the theme “Water in the Arab Region: Partnerships for Peace and Sustainable Development.”
Discussions will cover water efficiency, governance of shared resources, innovative financing, non-traditional resources, and smart water management.
Other highlights include an international event on water security organised by the World Water Council in cooperation with China’s Ministry of Water Resources, and the final preparatory session for the UN Water Conference 2026.
Coordination is also underway with organisers of the 11th World Water Forum in Saudi Arabia to hold a special session under the “Road to Riyadh 2027” track, ensuring continuity of dialogue and integration of outcomes.
Swailem confirmed that preparations are being closely monitored to ensure the ninth edition of Cairo Water Week reflects Egypt’s leadership in fostering international dialogue on water issues and advancing regional and global cooperation.
