‘Rationalisation, resource development best solutions to water scarcity’

Rationalising water consumption and developing water resources are the best ways to address water scarcity.

Egypt has plans for more water desalination plants, while working in the water sector in to face increasing challenges.

These statements by Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala el-Saeed came during a session on Tuesday on ‘Water Desalination Projects in the Middle East’ on the sidelines of the Gender and Water Day, part of the COP27 summit.

Egypt is at the forefront of countries that have launched the Trans-Regional Statement on Water which was signed by 168 countries and 11 organisations in 2021, said the minister, who was session chairperson.

While changing weather patterns and drought caused by climate change threaten water security, focus should be on the attainment of all water-related goals stated in the 2030 Agenda, the minister added.

According to estimates, by 2050 half of the world’s population will live in places where there is insufficient water to meet their needs, el-Saeed said.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region will be particularly vulnerable to severe water shortage, so the issue of water remains an integral part of combating climate change effects on human life, el-Saeed added.

Climate change has negatively impacted water security in Africa for more than half of the continent, which is experiencing drought, coupled with a 0.9 C rise in temperature in the last three decades, she said.

Temperatures are expected to keep rising in the years to come, she said, adding that these changes negatively affect Africa’s water security and, accordingly, its food security.

Sea levels continue to rise annually, which threatens Africa’s coastal regions, she added.

Therefore, it is time to implement climate adaptation projects, honour global climate pledges, and double international interest in water issues, the minister said, noting that water is a top-priority issue for the Egyptian government, which co-ordinates with all relevant parties to ensure access to water.