October 14, 2023 – BALI, INDONESIA
The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) has been actively engaged in discussions and cooperation agreements at the 10th World Water Forum 2nd Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting, held on October 13, 2023, in Bali, Indonesia. This meeting, titled “Interaction Between Processes,” focused on deepening efforts to prepare for the forthcoming 10th World Water Forum in 2024.
AMCOW, represented by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Rashid Mbaziira, and the Chair of the AMCOW Technical Advisory Committee, Dr. Tahani Sileet, attended the event as a member of the Governing Board. A key highlight of AMCOW’s participation was signing a significant Letter of Intent to enhance cooperation and support for the organisation of the 10th World Water Forum. The Letter of Intent, signed between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, the World Water Council, and the African Minister’s Council on Water, outlines a commitment to collaborative efforts in preparation for the 10th World Water Forum, which is scheduled to take place in Bali, Indonesia, in May 2024. This agreement follows the Framework Agreement signed in October 2022 between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the World Water Council for the organisation of the 10th World Water Forum.
AMCOW’s critical role in this agreement highlights its dedication to fostering cooperation, socio-economic development, and adequate water resource management across Africa. As coordinators of the Africa Region of the Regional Process for the 10th World Water Forum, AMCOW plays a vital role in addressing the unique water challenges faced by the African continent. This commitment underscores the importance of the Africa Regional Process in addressing the diverse water needs of the region for shared prosperity.
Indonesia’s active involvement in global water issues and its hosting of the 10th World Water Forum in 2024 reflect its dedication to resolving water challenges on a global scale. The World Water Council, as an international multi-stakeholder platform, is committed to stimulating action on critical water issues at all levels, with a primary focus on the political dimensions of water security, adaptation, and sustainability. The World Water Council also owns the “World Water Forum” brand, recognised as the most significant global event dedicated to water.
The Letter of Intent signifies the Parties’ intent to jointly carry out activities in preparing the Africa Regional Process for the 10th World Water Forum. These activities will be defined further in subsequent agreements, specifying the roles and responsibilities of each Party. Notably, the Letter of Intent does not create legal obligations under international law, but only a commitment to cooperation in successfully organising the 10th Forum in Bali in May 2024.
During this strategic engagement, Dr. Rashid Mbaziira, the Executive Secretary of AMCOW, seized the opportunity to exchange insights with Indonesia’s Honourable Minister for Public Works and Housing, Hon. Basuki Hadimuljono. Their discussions revolved around critical issues within the water and sanitation sector, including the highly anticipated AfricaSan7 Conference.
Furthermore, Dr. Mbaziira discussed with various other African delegates at the event. Among these notable figures were Mamadou Mamour Diallo, the Director-General of the National Office for Sanitation (ONAS) in Senegal, Mouhamadou Gueye, the Director of Autonomous Sanitation, also from Senegal, and Dr. Diatta, who represented Senegal as well.
These interactions underscore the commitment of AMCOW and its key members to the sustainable management of water resources in Africa and the broader global community. By actively participating in the preparatory meetings and engaging in constructive dialogues, AMCOW is ensuring that the African perspective contributes effectively to global water and sanitation policies and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Overall, AMCOW’s presence at the 10th World Water Forum Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting and its participation in this cooperation agreement reaffirm its dedication to addressing critical water issues and advancing water management solutions in Africa and on a global scale. The collaboration between these parties sets the stage for a promising and impactful 10th World Water Forum in 2024.
