Egypt is working with the United Nations Development Program to expand climate adaptation initiatives in the water sector, with a focus on coastal protection and sustainable resource management, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam said on Tuesday.

In a statement, the ministry said discussions underscored the need to strengthen cooperation on early warning systems for climate risks, alongside the implementation of scalable adaptation projects.

The talks also reviewed progress on a $31.4 million project funded by the Green Climate Fund, which aims to enhance climate resilience along Egypt’s northern coast and the Nile Delta. The project is scheduled for completion in November 2026.

The initiative includes risk mapping related to sea level rise, saltwater intrusion and flooding, along with upgrades to coastal monitoring systems and the development of an integrated coastal zone management plan.

Both sides also discussed a potential second phase of the project, which would incorporate nature-based approaches, including beach nourishment, to strengthen shoreline protection.

Discussions further covered a renewable energy-powered desalination project for agricultural use, launched in 2023, with efforts underway to secure international financing for its expansion.

The meeting also addressed Egypt’s national water adaptation plan, including assessments of climate change impacts on water resources and the development of data systems to support flood protection projects.