Egypt and Sudan have signed a new water cooperation agreement aimed at repairing damaged infrastructure and supporting reconstruction projects in Sudan. The memorandum of understanding was signed on Monday, 2 November, during ministerial discussions between the two neighbouring countries. Officials said the agreement would strengthen cooperation in water management while supporting communities affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam and his Sudanese counterpart, Ismat Qurashi Abdullah Mohamed, signed the agreement. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Sudanese Foreign Minister Mohieldin Salem attended the ceremony, highlighting the importance both governments place on cooperation over shared water resources.
The agreement covers the rehabilitation of water facilities damaged during Sudan’s conflict. It also includes projects designed to improve flood protection, collect rainwater and establish solar-powered drinking water stations. These measures are intended to help communities gain better access to water and improve the safety of local infrastructure.
Training and technical support form another important part of the agreement. Both countries want to strengthen the skills of water management professionals and improve the ability of Sudanese institutions to operate and maintain essential facilities. Officials believe that technical cooperation can help ensure that new projects deliver long-term benefits.
The memorandum falls under Egypt’s initiative to support development in Nile Basin countries. The programme aims to expand cooperation with regional partners through infrastructure, technical assistance and development projects.
Water management is a major issue for both countries because communities depend on the Nile for drinking water, agriculture and economic activity. Flood protection and reliable water systems are particularly important for areas where damaged infrastructure has limited access to essential services.
The agreement also reflects the wider relationship between Cairo and Khartoum. Both governments have an interest in maintaining regular communication and coordinating their positions on issues affecting the Nile Basin.
The next stage will involve turning the commitments into practical projects. Officials will need to identify priorities, arrange technical teams and establish timelines for implementation. If the plans move forward successfully, the agreement could contribute to Sudan’s recovery while strengthening long-standing cooperation between the two countries.
