Egypt’s Ministry of Irrigation Unveils New Regulations for Water User Associations

Dr. Hani Sweilam, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, convened a meeting to discuss the foundational regulations for Water User Associations and the General Union of Water Users. This initiative is part of the implementation of Law No. 147 of 2021 concerning water resources and irrigation, aimed at enhancing farmers’ involvement in managing water systems as key partners in protecting and conserving water resources.

The meeting included members of the Board of Directors of the General Union of Water Users, led by Representative Raef Tamraz, a member of parliament and president of the union. Other attendees included Khaled Abdel Zaher, the union’s treasurer; Al-Kashk, the union’s secretary; Khaled Farag, secretary general for Menoufia Governorate; Mohamed Qotb, secretary general for Beheira Governorate; Hajj Naguib Al-Mohammadi, secretary general for Dakahlia Governorate; Engineer Abdel-Aal Al-Daqishi, secretary general for Assiut Governorate; and Engineer Mohamed Shams, representing Alexandria’s associations.

The newly introduced regulations aim to activate participatory management among beneficiaries and ministry agencies in operating and maintaining irrigation and drainage systems. This is expected to contribute to optimal water usage while protecting it from pollution and ensuring its sustainability.

The regulations stipulate the establishment of Water User Associations as non-profit legal entities with mandatory membership for all beneficiaries. These associations will encompass various components of the irrigation and drainage system and will be managed through elected councils serving four-year terms.

Additionally, the regulations outline the responsibilities of these associations in ensuring equitable water distribution, maintaining and cleaning networks, addressing encroachments, and supporting the transition to modern irrigation systems. Financial oversight by relevant authorities will ensure transparency and effective management.

The regulations also introduce institutional mechanisms for resolving disputes among beneficiaries while organizing the General Union’s operations nationwide. This aims to enhance capacity building, strategic planning, and support for resource management in coordination with relevant entities.

The ministry emphasized that these regulations mark a significant step toward strengthening partnerships between the state and farmers, enabling qualified associations to participate actively in managing and operating parts of irrigation and drainage networks. This initiative aims to promote sustainable water resource management while enhancing service efficiency provided to beneficiaries.