Hani Swailem, Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, participated in the inauguration of the Julius Nyerere dam and hydroelectric power plant in Tanzania. The official stated that the inauguration represents an important occasion to demonstrate that cooperation between Nile Basin countries can translate into concrete projects that achieve development and shared interests.
Swailem noted that the Julius Nyerere project constitutes a practical model of cooperation between an upstream and downstream country, within a framework of partnership and mutual respect. He explained in statements to the press that the financing is Tanzanian, while the expertise and knowledge come from Egypt, resulting in shared gains and development that benefits everyone.
The minister emphasised that the project's execution by Orascom Construction Misr and Elsewedy Electric companies reflects the technical capabilities of Egyptian national enterprises to compete and execute major infrastructure, energy and water facility projects inside and outside Egypt. He highlighted that the presence of Egyptian companies in Nile Basin countries supports development and strengthens economic partnership with African brothers and sisters.
He explained that the Julius Nyerere project is not only an energy generation facility, but a development project that contributes to Tanzania's economy and strengthens capacities in the sectors of production, agriculture, industry and services. Swailem emphasised the importance of integration between water, energy and agriculture to achieve sustainable development on the African continent.
He noted that Egypt has maintained cooperation with Tanzania in water resources since 2007, with deep well projects for potable water. He indicated that procedures are being completed for a new phase of bilateral cooperation that will include 30 additional deep wells, construction of two dams for rainwater harvesting, and training programmes. Swailem stated that Egyptian projects in Tanzania demonstrate that Egypt is a country of development, cooperation and friendship that offers a genuine model of shared development.