Confirmations of the Imminent Resumption of River Navigation Between Sudan and Egypt
The Acting Executive Deputy of Halfa Locality, Ali Hashem Mohamed, along with the Egyptian Consul in Wadi Halfa, the local security committee, the Director of Halfa Port, representatives of the Nile Valley Authority (Halfa Office), the Supreme Council of Halfa Residents, and other official leaders—amid broad public participation—received the Chairman of the Board of the Nile Valley River Transport Authority, Colonel Mohamed Adam Abkar, and the Chairman of 3A International Company, Engineer Abdel Latif Abdel Moneim Abdel Latif, aboard the vessel “Sinai” during a trial voyage at Wadi Halfa Port on Friday.
The Acting Executive Director of Halfa Locality, Ali Hashem, welcomed the delegation on behalf of the executive and official bodies and all components of the locality, stressing the importance of resuming river navigation between Halfa and Aswan after a long suspension. He noted its emotional significance for the peoples of the Nile Valley, in addition to its role in increasing passenger and cargo transport and boosting commercial activity.
Ambassador Basel Taman, Consul General of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Wadi Halfa, praised the people of Halfa for their warm reception, congratulating the return of river navigation and affirming support for all joint projects between the two countries. He emphasized resolving key challenges—foremost among them transportation—and facilitating visa procedures to ensure smooth movement between the two nations.
The Chairman of 3A International Company stated that the popular reception reflects genuine emotional ties and real cohesion regarding Nile river transport and communication between Aswan and Halfa, praising the hospitality and authenticity of Halfa’s residents.
He confirmed the imminent resumption of navigation between Sudan and Egypt, describing it as a vital link between Halfa and Aswan. He explained that river vessels have been ready for over a year, but fluctuating water levels and ongoing rehabilitation work at Halfa Port docks had caused delays.
He added that the current trial voyage aims to ensure the safety of navigation routes and complete necessary coordination procedures in preparation for the official relaunch of river trips between Aswan and Wadi Halfa. This follows a six-year suspension to reorganize technical arrangements and ensure service efficiency. He also noted that Halfa is expected to become a key gateway for international trade into Africa.
Colonel Mohamed Adam Abkar, Chairman of the Nile Valley Authority, described the voyage as the real starting point for the return of river navigation in the coming days, announcing the resumption of Nile steamer trips between the High Dam and Wadi Halfa through 3A International, which has held the operation and management contract for the route since 2017.
A representative of the Supreme Council of Halfa Residents affirmed that reactivating this vital route represents a true lifeline connecting the peoples of the Nile Valley, restoring family ties between the two nations, and reflecting the fruits of bilateral integration.
