• Cairo Water Week 2025 shows that innovation, cooperation, and community engagement are the pillars of a water-secure future.

• By: Dr Muhammad Arif

Islamabad: Prof. Dr. Sherif Mohamady, President of the National Water Research Center (NWRC), honored the distinguished researchers in advancing applied research and innovation to address Egypt’s and the region’s water challenges.

The awards were granted on the sidelines of Cairo Water Week 2025.

According to details, Prof. Dr. Sherif Mohamady, President of the National Water Research Center (NWRC), honored the distinguished researchers who won the Best Research Paper Awards during the scientific conference.

This year’s competition witnessed strong participation with 122 research papers submitted by universities and research institutions. NWRC researchers proudly secured first and second place, marking another milestone in the center’s long record of scientific and research excellence.

• 1st Best Paper: “Assessing the effects of stakeholder weighting on allocation dynamics and conflict in a three-country river sharing model”

– Dr. Rameen Abdelhady

• 2nd Best Paper: “Hydro-Morphological Modelling of Nile River Secondary Channels for Restoration Planning”

– Dr. Radwa Abdelhakim

• 3rd Best Paper: “Polymeric Membranes for Lactose Recovery and Dairy Wastewater Treatment: Effect on Sustainability and Circular Economy”

• 

– Dr. Marwa Shalaby

Prof. Dr. Mohamady praised the outstanding efforts of the winners, stressing that such achievements reflect NWRC’s leadership in advancing applied research and innovation to address Egypt’s and the region’s water challenges.

Cairo Water Week 2025 held from October 12th to 16th, 2025 prove catalysts for driving global action for water and climate resilience.

Egyptian capital Cairo became the epicenter of global water and climate discourse as it hosted the 8th edition of Cairo Water Week (CWW). Under the theme “Innovative Solutions for Climate Resilience and Water Sustainability,” the event convened policymakers, scientists, civil society leaders, and private sector innovators from around the world to tackle one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: safeguarding water resources in an era of climate uncertainty.

• A Platform for Global Collaboration for and sustainable water solutions

CWW 2025 was co-organized by Egypt’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and the European Union Delegation to Egypt, reinforcing its role as a multilateral platform for dialogue and action. Over five days, the conference hosted high-level panels, technical sessions, workshops, and exhibitions that explored cutting-edge solutions for water management, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.

The event built on the momentum of the UN 2023 Water Conference, translating global commitments into actionable strategies. It served as a bridge between international policy frameworks and local implementation, particularly across the Middle East and Africa, where water scarcity and climate vulnerability are acute.

• Key Themes and Discussions at Cairo Water Week 2025

CWW 2025 focused on several interlinked themes:

– Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Experts showcased innovations in water infrastructure designed to withstand extreme weather events and rising temperatures.

– Water Governance and Policy: Sessions emphasized the need for integrated water resource management and cross-sectoral coordination.

– Digital Transformation: Technologies such as AI, remote sensing, and smart irrigation systems were highlighted as tools to optimize water use and monitor ecosystems.

– Youth and Community Engagement: Grassroots initiatives and youth-led projects were celebrated for their role in driving behavioral change and local resilience.

One standout session explored the nexus between water security and geopolitical stability, underscoring how transboundary cooperation can mitigate conflict and foster regional integration.

1. Partnerships and Innovation at Cairo Water Week 2025

CWW 2025 was not just a forum—it was a launchpad for partnerships. Governments, NGOs, and private enterprises announced joint ventures and funding mechanisms aimed at scaling water-smart technologies and climate adaptation programs. The exhibition space featured startups and research institutions presenting breakthrough solutions, from desalination innovations to circular water systems.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Egypt’s water sector through technical assistance and investment, while African nations shared success stories from community-based water conservation efforts.

• Voices for global response to water and climate challenges

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s opening remarks set the tone for the week, calling for “a unified global response to water and climate challenges that transcends borders and politics”. His message resonated throughout the event, echoed by ministers, scientists, and activists who stressed the urgency of collective action.

Youth delegates from across the region brought fresh perspectives, advocating for inclusive policies and climate education. Their presence underscored the importance of intergenerational dialogue in shaping sustainable futures.

• Cairo Water Week 2025 offers roadmaps for water strategies across the Global South.

As CWW 2025 concluded, participants left with renewed commitment and concrete roadmaps. The event’s outcomes will feed into upcoming global summits, including COP30, and inform national water strategies across the Global South.

Cairo Water Week continues to evolve as a dynamic nexus where global ambition meets local action. In a world grappling with climate extremes and resource scarcity, CWW 2025 reaffirmed that innovation, cooperation, and community engagement are the pillars of a water-secure future.