Egyptian govt focuses on maximizing state-run irrigation and drainage firms: Sweilem

Egypt’s state-run irrigation and drainage sector, Hani Sweilem, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, has emphasized the government’s commitment to maximizing the capabilities of the Holding Company for Irrigation and Drainage and its two subsidiaries: the Egyptian Company for Irrigation and Drainage and the Egyptian Dredging Company.

During a meeting to review progress in the performance improvement process, Sweilem highlighted the importance of fully utilizing the company’s resources to enhance its participation in local and international projects. “We need to focus on competing in various tenders, studying both local and global market needs, and making the most of our available resources, whether in human talent or equipment,” said Sweilem.

He also underscored the significance of continuously improving equipment efficiency and maintenance, while providing workforce training to raise skill levels. “Improving the financial standing of the company is crucial,” the minister added, stressing the need for leveraging assets for maximum investment returns and ensuring projects are completed on time.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Khaled Wasif, Assistant Minister for Companies and Investment, Alaa Khaled, Non-Executive Chairperson of the Holding Company for Irrigation and Drainage, and Mahmoud Ghalloush, the company’s Executive Managing Director.

The company has made substantial strides since its board was restructured a year ago. With the merger, two subsidiaries were retained—the Egyptian Company for Irrigation and Drainage, headquartered in Assiut, and the Egyptian Dredging Company, based in Cairo. The new board has successfully paid off EGP 87 million in debt and secured new projects worth EGP 600 million, positioning the company for future growth.

This focus on improving the firm’s performance and financial health reflects the government’s broader aim of enhancing the country’s irrigation and drainage infrastructure.