Wayne Lumbasi
Egypt has proposed a $100 million financing package to support dam construction and water infrastructure projects in Kenya, signaling a renewed push to strengthen cooperation among countries that share the Nile Basin. The offer was presented during high-level meetings in Nairobi as part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral ties and expand collaboration on water security and regional development.
The proposal was conveyed by Egypt’s Foreign Minister BadrAbdelatty and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam during discussions with Kenyan leaders, including President William Ruto. Egyptian officials indicated that the funding would target multi-purpose dams, rainwater harvesting systems, groundwater development and related water infrastructure aimed at boosting irrigation, food production and climate resilience.
Projects under consideration include developments in the Sio-Malakisi River basin and the proposed Koru Dam, both viewed as vital to improving water storage capacity and supporting agricultural communities in western Kenya. The financing package is expected to include technical cooperation, engineering expertise and capacity building to ensure long-term sustainability of the projects.
Egyptian officials described the initiative as part of a broader diplomatic strategy to encourage inclusive and consensus-driven management of shared Nile waters. Egypt, which depends heavily on the Nile for its freshwater supply, has consistently advocated for cooperative frameworks that balance the interests of upstream and downstream countries. During the talks, emphasis was placed on adherence to international water law and engagement within the Nile Basin Initiative.
The discussions also fall under a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement signed between the two nations in 2025, aimed at expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure, agriculture and regional security. Beyond dam construction, both sides explored opportunities to strengthen maritime connectivity between Egyptian ports and Kenyan coastal hubs to enhance trade flows across Africa.
Kenya’s role in regional water diplomacy remains sensitive amid ongoing discussions surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. While Egypt has raised concerns about downstream water flows, Kenya has maintained support for African-led dialogue and equitable utilisation of shared water resources among Nile riparian states.
Officials from both countries said further technical consultations will take place in the coming months to refine project plans and financing structures. The proposed investment underscores Egypt’s growing engagement in East Africa and highlights Kenya’s strategic position in shaping future cooperation across the Nile Basin.
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