Contacts

11 TY Danjuma Street, Abuja Nigeria

info@amcow-online.org
secretariat@amcow-online.org

+234 9096074166

KM Onboarding 21June2023
News

Introductory Meeting with AMCOW Knowledge Management Focal Points

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) has organised an introductory meeting for its first batch of knowledge management (KM) focal persons from 13 member states. It is a significant step forward in its commitment to enhancing KM in the water and sanitation sector. This initiative aligns with the Africa Water and Sanitation Knowledge Management Challenge, launched by AMCOW during the Stockholm World Water Week 2021.

26 Focal Points (14 males, 12 females) attended the meeting, representing Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, South Sudan, Togo, Botswana, and Rwanda. These professionals bring diverse expertise in water supply engineering, general water research, groundwater research, hydrogeology, international relations, water resources development, urban sanitation, data management, geology, knowledge management, and more.

The introductory meeting aimed to welcome the KM Focal Points, familiarise them with the Africa Water and Sanitation KM Challenge and outline the upcoming activities. In his opening remarks, Dr Rashid Mbaziira, the Executive Secretary of AMCOW, represented by Patrice Leumeni, AMCOW’s Monitoring and Reporting Lead, emphasised the importance of the initiative. The Focal Points will undergo training in KM principles and practices and develop country-specific KM strategies. Their contributions will help create a continental Knowledge Agenda for Africa’s water and sanitation sector. They will also help to drive the broader awareness and use of the yearly Africa Water and Sanitation Sector Monitoring (WASSMO) Report produced by AMCOW. Dr Mbaziira also expressed his desire for the Focal Points to actively participate in AMCOW’s sub-regional consultations to deepen their understanding of AMCOW’s programmes.

The meeting featured presentations that provided an overview of AMCOW, the composition of activities within the Knowledge Management Challenge, and subsequent implementation plans. Additionally, the Focal Points were informed that they would also serve as drivers for gender and youth inclusion in their respective countries, where such initiatives may not yet be in place.

An exciting highlight of the meeting was the realisation that the Focal Points would play a vital role in fostering robust south-south collaboration, knowledge creation, and exchange among AMCOW member state through the outlined initiatives. AMCOW Secretariat, in cooperation with its partners, will continue to cultivate and strengthen this initiative while also mobilising the participation of other member states to achieve the target nomination of 110 focal points (two from each country, one male and one female). The Knowledge Management Challenge was launched by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Republic of Namibia and AMCOW President 2020-2022, H E Carl Hermann Schlettwein. Water This introductory meeting marks a significant milestone in AMCOW’s ongoing commitment to improving African water and sanitation practices through enhanced knowledge management. The dedication and expertise of the Focal Points will play a crucial role in achieving the goals of the Africa Water and Sanitation KM Challenge, contributing to sustainable development across the continent.

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News

Titbit: Tunisia holds its first-ever public-private partnership in the water sector

Did you know Tunisia held its first Public-Private Partnership in the water sector with the Suez?

On 26 April, the Suez group teamed up with a state-owned office in Tunisia to clean up wastewater in a southern region that serves almost a million people.

In the collaboration between the Suez group and the state-owned office called Onas, Suez will operate the public sanitation service for several governorates and treat wastewater for the inhabitants of those regions.

This project is meant to help the economic and social development of the country’s south and deal with environmental challenges. The contract is worth 200 million euros and will last for ten years. The World Bank will finance the rehabilitation and extension of the infrastructures, while the Tunisian state will finance their operation and maintenance. The partnership will work on renovating existing equipment and allow wastewater reuse in agriculture while releasing better quality water into the environment.

This is the first public-private partnership in the water sector in Tunisia, and Suez hopes it will make the country a reference for sanitation management on the African continent.

AMCOW President2023-2025
FeaturedSpecial Messages

Prof. Dr Hani Sewilam’s Acceptance Speech as the incoming and new President of AMCOW for 2023-2025

First, allow me to express my great honour to be today among my brothers from all African countries to take over AMCOW Presidency for the next two years on behalf of the North African Region from my dear Brother Honorable Minister Carl Hermann Gustave Schlettwein, Minister for Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Republic of Namibia, who led the African Continent very successfully as AMCOW President during the challenging time of COVID 19 pandemic where water and sanitation were key to overcome the implications of this severe crisis with his vast experience and wisdom.

Hon.-Carl-Schlettwein (1)
FeaturedSpecial Messages

4th Extra-ordinary Session of the Executive Committee of the Governing Council of AMCOW – A handover report from Namibia

4th EXTRA-ORDINARY SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE AFRICAN MINISTERS’ COUNCIL ON WATER (AMCOW)

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News

AMCOW at the 9th World Water Forum

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) participated in the 9th World Water Forum, held in Dakar, Senegal from 22 to 27 March, 2022. 

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Special Messages

Water and Water Infrastructure Key to Sustainable Development

Bali, Indonesia – May 21, 2024:

Another significant session titled “Water and Water Infrastructure for Development: Paving the Path for Water Security and Sustainable Development” took place from 1:00 to 2:30 PM in Kintamani 2. The session, convened by AUDA-NEPAD, the World Bank, UNESCO, and the Republic of Benin, brought together experts and policymakers to address the critical issues surrounding climate-resilient water infrastructure.

The session aimed to gather water management professionals, planners, policymakers, and academics to review experiences, identify gaps, and explore solutions for climate-resilient water infrastructure development. Also, it will strengthen approaches to project preparation, coordination, and capacity building and convene representatives from West African governments, river basin organisations (RBOs), regional organisations, and international bodies.

Key areas discussed include:

  1. WASH Services Access: The increasing number of people lacking access to water and sanitation due to population growth necessitates a corresponding increase in infrastructure development.
  2. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Emphasizing the need to incorporate climate resilience into infrastructure design from the outset to avoid the cycle of building and rebuilding.
  3. CRIDA Tool: Introduction of the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis Tool (CRIDA) by UNESCO, a peer-reviewed methodology aiding in creating climate-proof water infrastructure.

The main topics covered in the projected population increase are putting significant pressure on existing infrastructure and the necessity of transitioning to climate-resilient infrastructure; AUDA-NEPAD’s pivotal role is in supporting regional economic communities (RECs) with capacity building in project preparation and resource mobilisation.

The session identified the need for climate-proof water infrastructure investments and the persistent capacity-building issue to prepare bankable projects, innovative solutions, and best practices. They presented the following solutions:

  1. Carbon Markets: Exploring carbon markets as an innovative financing mechanism for infrastructure while understanding the trade-offs involved.
  2. CRIDA Methodology: Utilizing the CRIDA tool to incorporate climate resilience in the design and planning of water infrastructure projects.

During the session, the participants asked two crucial questions, including:

  • How can countries better integrate climate resilience into their infrastructure planning?
  • What are the trade-offs when using carbon markets to finance water projects?

Participants suggested enhancing regional cooperation to share knowledge on best practices and improve transparency and accountability in implementing water infrastructure projects.

Agreed Actions

Participants suggested developing actionable strategies to incorporate climate resilience in all new infrastructure projects. They also agreed to focus on capacity building to ensure that projects are bankable and attract necessary investments. Overall, the session spotlighted the urgency of incorporating climate resilience into water infrastructure projects to ensure sustainable development in Africa. It highlighted the critical need for capacity building and innovative financing mechanisms to address the challenges of climate change and population growth.

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Special Messages

Mobilising Political Commitment for Climate-Resilient Water Investments in Africa

10th World Water Forum Updates: Day 2 African Events

Bali, Indonesia – May 21, 2024

Day 2 of the 10th World Water Forum saw a critical session on “Mobilising Political Commitment for Accelerating Climate-Resilient Water Investments in Africa.” GWPSA, AUDA-NEPAD, AUC, and AMCOW convened the session from 10:20 to 11:50 AM in Kintamani 7. The session focused on transforming political commitments into actionable investments in Africa’s water sector.

In his opening remarks, HE Jakaya Kikwete, the Alternate Chair of the AUC’s IHL Panel, emphasised the critical need for immediate action. UN Deputy Secretary-General HE Amina Mohamed echoed his sentiments, stressing that Africa’s water security is crucial for sustainable development.

Ministerial Contributions

Statements from ministers of Namibia, Egypt (current AMCOW President), Uganda, Zimbabwe, Senegal, and Tanzania all converged on a common theme: while political commitments abound, the urgent challenge is their implementation. They highlighted the necessity for domestic resource mobilisation and public sector reforms to stimulate a conducive environment for private-sector investment.

Insights from Panel Discussion

A robust panel discussion featuring African Development Bank (AfDB/AWF) representatives, World Bank, UNCDF, UNICEF, GWP, and the European Commission explored strategies to scale up and accelerate investments. The discussion underscored that 90% of current investments in the water sector come from public funds, with private sector contributions lagging at just 10%.

Identified Challenges and Solutions

Participants identified three primary challenges: the gap between political commitments and actionable implementation, the paradox of Africa’s abundant resources juxtaposed with widespread poverty, and the water sector’s limited appeal to private investors.

To address these, innovative solutions such as blended finance were proposed. The Green Bond issued by TANGA Waterboard in Tanzania, which saw overwhelming investor interest, was cited as a successful model of domestic resource mobilisation.

Participants agreed on several actions to drive progress, such as developing clear plans to translate political commitments into tangible actions, enhancing domestic revenue streams to finance water infrastructure and implementing public sector reforms to attract private investment.

It appears that the issue is not a lack of commitment but a need for action kept recurring in the ministerial statements. The panel discussion highlighted “Blended finance, like Tanzania’s Green Bond, as showing the way forward. The session underscored the urgent need to convert political promises into concrete actions, leveraging domestic resources and reforming public sectors to ensure a climate-resilient water future for Africa.

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FeaturedPress Release

10th World Water Forum hosts an Africa Pavilion

Bali, Indonesia, 20 May 2024 –

The 10th World Water Forum commences today with a grand opening ceremony, marking the beginning of another edition of the largest global convention dedicated to water. Throughout 18-25 May 2024, global leaders, heads of international organisations, high-level government officials, experts, scholars, entrepreneurs, and economists will converge to share their knowledge, experiences, and practices on a wide range of water-related topics. This prestigious event seeks to address and strategise solutions for pressing water issues.

A significant moment in the Forum’s history, particularly for Africa, was the Africa Water Vision 2025 launch during the second Forum in 2000. The 2024 World Water Forum is determining for the continent as it will outline and endorse the region’s priorities and supply more impetus to the post-2025 Africa Water Vision.

The African region, spearheaded by the African Union-mandated African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), will be duly represented in the Forum following extensive regional consultations in the past months. Through the collaboration of the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Development Bank (AfDB), AMCOW and the African Water Facility (AWF), the 10th Forum is hosting an African Pavilion. The Pavilion will be a hub for information and knowledge sharing, facilitating bilateral engagements among Africa’s water partners. The pavilion will feature 18 technical discussions by African institutions, clustered into seven sessions throughout the week from 20-25 May. The 10th World Water Forum will also deliver more African events, including nine regional processes, one side event, two special sessions, two high-level panels, and one Africa Regional Process Synthesis Session.

Africa invites participants to join these events, with detailed programmes available through AMCOW’s Mailchimp and social media platforms. Click the following link for a more comprehensive programme: https://worldwaterforum.org/provisional-agenda  

About the World Water Forum

The World Water Forum, co-hosted by the World Water Council and a host city every three years since 1997, is more than a conference. It includes a three-year preparatory phase, a one-week event phase, and a synthesis phase to present results and support collective action. The Forum unites diverse stakeholders from politics, multilateral institutions, academia, civil society, and the private sector. Participation has grown from a few hundred to tens of thousands from the international community and host countries. For more information and a comprehensive programme of the Forum, please visit the World Water Forum official website: https://worldwaterforum.org/

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Procurement

Data Analysis and Visualization Consultant for the 2023 WASSMO Country Data.

10th May 2024

Background

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) has the primary mission of providing political leadership, policy direction and advocacy in the provision, use, and management of water resources for sustainable social and economic development and maintenance of African ecosystems. AMCOW serves as a delivery mechanism on water and sanitation to the Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment (ARDWE) of the African Union Commission.  At the African Union Heads of State and Government Summit of July 2008, the African Minister’s Council on Water (AMCOW) was mandated to report annually on progress achieved in implementing the African Union (AU) commitments made in the 2008 Sharm El-Sheikh Commitments on water and sanitation, taking into account several international agreements including the Africa Water Vision 2025, the Africa Agenda 2063, as well as the global Sustainable Development Goals 6 (SDG-6) targets on clean water and sanitation.

In response to this directive, AMCOW in collaboration with the African Union Commission, and with financial support from Africa Water Facility (AWF) through the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), developed a web-based reporting system, the African Water and Sanitation Sector Monitoring and Reporting System (WASSMO) in October 2015: https://www.africawat-sanreports.org/Ui. This platform provides for reporting on water and sanitation sector indicators under seven themes: water infrastructure for growth; managing and protecting water resources; water supply, sanitation, hygiene, and wastewater; climate change and disaster risk reduction (DRR); governance and institutions; and financing.

To further enhance the WASSMO system’s efficacy, AMCOW is set to upgrade its capabilities by incorporating a new model for improving the tracking of indicators related to water and sanitation. The model, designed to better monitor decreasing and increasing indicators, is depicted as follows:

  • For decreasing indicators:
    t* = tLst + {LOG(Y*/YLst)} / {LOG(1+r-bar)}
  • For increasing indicators:
    t* = tLst + {Y* – YLst} / q-bar

Incorporating this model will allow for a more precise and nuanced understanding of the sector’s progress and challenges, ensuring that the system remains relevant and robust in the face of evolving sector dynamics.

This model integration initiative will be facilitated by the AMCOW M&E Team and the consultant who will assist in embedding the model into the online system, as part of AMCOW’s continuous efforts to improve data quality and reporting standards. The consultant’s role will be critical in ensuring that the WASSMO system is not only comprehensive but also capable of producing high-quality, actionable insights for policy-making and strategic planning. The AMCOW Secretariat is seeking a Data Analyst and Visualisation Consultant (DAVC) to support analysis, visualisation and to provide quality assurance checks on the data to produce the 2023 WASSMO report for high-level recommendations and decisions.

  1. Tasks and Responsibilities

Through a consultative and participatory process, the consultant will work with the AMCOW Secretariat to perform the following activities:

  • Support the integration of the new model for tracking water and sanitation indicators into the WASSMO system, ensuring compatibility and functionality within the existing framework.
  • Perform data validation and cleaning to ensure accuracy and reliability, following international data standards.
  • Interpret data, analyse results using statistical techniques
  • Develop and implement databases, data collection systems, data analytics and other strategies that optimize statistical efficiency and quality.
  • Identify, analyse, and interpret trends or patterns in complex data sets
  • Filter and “clean” data by reviewing computer reports, printouts
  • Assist the team in improving and streamlining processes regarding data flow and data quality assurance checks to improve data accuracy, viability, and value.
  • Support the delivery of analytics and reporting solutions using BI/Data Visualization software or others.
  • Provide analysis presentation – A Data Analyst Consultant will present the findings of the WASSMO report to the AMCOW Secretariat.

Deliverables

  • WASSMO/AFRICASAN data exploration, analysis and modelling performed on the database, resulting in a clean data set to inform the 2023 WASSMO report narrative.  
  • Any additional deliverables that are part of the WASSMO/AFRICASAN data analytics outputs (infographics, charts, etc.).
  • The brief report with the highlights of the findings.

Qualification and Experience

  • A minimum of master’s degree in management information systems, statistics, Business Intelligence, Computer Science, or Statistics is required.
  • Relevant work experience as a data analyst or business data analyst and visualisation for both quantitative and qualitative data.
  • Familiarity with the water and sanitation sector landscape.
  • Ability to write a concise and clear analytical research report on the results of the WASSMO Member States’ data.
  • Excellent command of written and spoken English. French will be an advantage.

Skills and Abilities

  • Highly skilled in research and analysis: Very strong qualitative and analytic skills; keen attention to detail and data accuracy.
  • Technical expertise regarding data models, database design development, data
  • mining and segmentation techniques
  • Knowledge of statistics and experience using statistical packages for analysing
  • datasets (Excel, SPSS, SAS etc)
  • Excellent communication skills: Strong knowledge of and experience with
  • reporting packages (Business Objects etc), databases (SQL etc), and data
  • visualization tools (Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, etc).
  • Other: Demonstrated competence with using standard data software packages
  • (MS Excel, MS Access, etc).

Contract Duration: The contract will be effective from the date of signing and will last for not more than 90 days.

Reporting language: English and French

Mode and Logistics: The consultancy service will be provided remotely.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience are invited to submit:

  • updated CV
  • cover letter explaining their motivation and suitability for the assignment.
  • 1 copy of previous work
  • Budget

Interested applicants should submit their formal proposal and resume not later than May 27th, 2024 in English, addressed and email to:

The Executive Secretary

African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW)

No. 11, T.Y. Danjuma Street, Asokoro District

Abuja, Nigeria.

Email: info@amcow-online.org 

For more information, kindly refer to http://www.amcow-online.org Note: Female candidates with required qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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FeaturedNews

AMCOW Central Africa Sub-Regional Consultation Concludes in Malabo

AMCOW’s statutory meeting of the Technical Experts Committee (TEC) and the Technical Advisory Committee of Central Africa occurred from 22 to 23 April 2024 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The consultation convened representatives from AMCOW’s Central African member states, the Economic Community of the Central African States (ECCAS), the Lake Chad Basin Commission (CBLT), and other regional institutions, aiming to strengthen institutional linkages and operational arrangements while addressing emerging water-related challenges across the continent.

The key objectives of the meeting included apprising member states of the status of the implementation of the decisions of the 13th General Assembly of AMCOW. The meeting collated Central Africa’s inputs into Africa’s key messages and common position for the 10th World Water Forum. Also, the consultation witnessed the nomination of member states to represent Central Africa in AMCOW’s policy organs for the 2025-2027 tenure.

(Left) AMCOW Vice TAC Chair, Madam Ligia Barros, and (right) Minister of Fisheries and Water Resources, Honourable Francisco Medina Catalán, Equatorial Guinea.

The Minister of Fisheries and Water Resources, Honourable Francisco Medina Catalán, who opened the meeting and delivered the closing remark on the last day, warmly received the delegation. At the opening, the Minister expressed Equatorial Guinea’s pleasure in hosting the meeting and stressed that the country is committed to water resource management in Africa and willing to learn from the experiences of other member states. He highlighted the interconnectedness of water security and the recent food crises in Western and Central Africa. Hon. Francisco Medina Catalán urged collective support for Africa’s participation in global water forums led by AMCOW.

Subsequent statements from AMCOW Vice TAC Chair for Central Africa, Madam Ligia Barros, and representatives from ECCAS and CBLT underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing water management challenges. The TAC Vice Chair emphasised the need for increased regional coordination among the Central African member states and encouraged the delegates to participate actively in the upcoming World Water Forum.

A cross-section of participants of the Central Africa sub-regional meeting

With all member states represented, including other participants from regional organisations, the consultation saw fruitful discussions and presentations. ECCAS shared its ongoing efforts to tackle water security challenges and stressed the importance of funding and collaboration for effective water management. Similarly, CBLT and the Global Water Partnership (GWP) presentations promoted water resource management, transboundary cooperation, and capacity building.

During the closing, Minister Francisco Medina Catalán expressed gratitude for the nomination of Equatorial Guinea as AMCOW’s Vice President for Central Africa for 2025-2027. Madam Ligia Barros appreciated all participants and acknowledged their engagement and interventions throughout the consultation. The AMCOW Central Africa Sub-Regional Consultation with TEC and TAC concluded with optimism and renewed energy to work together to deliver Africa’s water agenda.

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Uncategorized

AMCOW Northern Africa Sub-Regional TEC and TAC Consultation, Cairo

April 16, 2024

The African Ministers’ Council on Water – AMCOW Northern Africa Sub-Regional Ministerial Consultation commenced on 16 April 2024, per the Council’s Rules of Procedures to determine regional water resource priorities. Hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt, the event brings together esteemed delegates, the Technical Expert Committee (TEC), and the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) members from Northern Africa. Dr Tahani Sileet, the Minister Assistant for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, Egypt and AMCOW TAC Chair, led the meeting.

The two-day meeting, scheduled for April 16-17, 2024, featured a comprehensive agenda to encourage collaboration, review ongoing initiatives, and set strategic priorities for water resources management in Northern Africa. The provisional agenda, outlined meticulously, encompasses various sessions focusing on critical aspects of water governance, the financial sustainability of AMCOW, regional cooperation, and continental engagement.

The opening session saw esteemed dignitaries and representatives delivering remarks, including Prof. Dr Hani Sewilam, Minister of Water and Irrigation of the Arab Republic of Egypt and AMCOW President, who opened the event, highlighted the challenges that Africa faces in managing water resources, and called for concerted action to address them effectively. Dr. Tahani Sileet, AMCOW TAC Chair, warmly welcomed participants, emphasising Egypt’s commitment to regional collaboration in water resource management.

Key sessions throughout the consultation included an overview of regional priorities, implementation of council decisions, and discussions on improving continental reporting. Participants engaged in constructive dialogue, sharing insights and perspectives to enhance water governance frameworks and address the region’s unique challenges.

The agenda for the second day focused on reviewing programs and projects, updating continental initiatives, preparing for continental and global events, and considering the annotated agenda. With a packed schedule ahead, delegates were poised to indulge in developing key messages and a common position ahead of the 10th World Water Forum in Bali. Also, the region held a closed session to nominate the countries to represent the region in the AMCOW Governing Council from 2025 to 2027.

Africa must seize the opportunities presented by the upcoming continental and global events, such as the 10th World Water Forum, World Water Week, Africa Water Week and Cairo Water Week. These are good opportunities to raise the profile of Africa’s water sector on broader stages, says Prof Sewilam. Dr. Tahani Sileet, AMCOW TAC Chair, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the critical objectives of the consultation and urging active participation from all stakeholders to ensure its success.

In his vote of thanks, the AMCOW Vice Chair for North Africa and TAC member for Mauritania, Mr Gaye Assene, applauded Egypt and the Secretariat for organising such a consultation. He affirmed the region’s willingness to work together to achieve Africa’s water agenda. In closing, Dr Tahani thanked every participant for coming to Egypt and emphasised that this was a memorable event – having the representation of all the countries.

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Special Messages

A Water Theme for the Africa Union in 2026

Distinguished Stakeholders of the African Water Sector,

The AMCOW Secretariat provides the update below on the major achievements from AMCOW’s engagements during the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union. These are in line with ongoing processes to implement Council Decision EXCO/13/2022/WDH/1 on raising the profile of water and sanitation. The Council appealed, through the Specialised Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment (STC on ARDWE), to the Assembly of the African Union to adopt water and sanitation as the theme of the Union in 2026.

To provide context to how the decisions of the organs of the African Union are taken, a basic illustration of the policy organs of the AU is presented below.

The 5th Ordinary Session of the STC on ARDWE was held in November 2023 in Addis Ababa in November 2023. It endorsed, among others, the appeal of the Council of Ministers to make 2026 a year of the African Union on Water and Sanitation.

The full report of the STC on ARDWE is herewith provided as Ref_002b (EX.CL/1471(XLIV)).

The report – EX.CL/1471(XLIV) – was tabled for the consideration of the Executive Council (EX.CL) during its 44th Ordinary Session held on 14-15 February 2024. The relevant decisions of the Executive Council are as follows:

  1. EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/31: ENDORSED for submission to the to the AU in February 2024, the following documents:

ii) the 2022 Annual Report of the Commission on the July 2008 Assembly Declaration regarding the Sharm ElSheikh Commitments for Accelerating the Achievement of Water and Sanitation Goals in Africa, as per Assembly Decision (Assembly/AU/Decl.1 (XI)).

Iii) the Swakopmund Declaration on “Accelerated Action for Inclusive, Sustainable, Resilient and Safely Managed Sanitation and Hygiene Services Delivery in Africa”.

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/32: CONSIDERS and ENDORSES the following frameworks, guidelines and strategies to accelerate agricultural transformation, rural development, water and environment management:

(xx) commitments for Accelerating the Achievement of Water and Sanitation goals in Africa

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/33: FURTHER CONSIDERS AND ADOPTS the following Reports:

(iv) the 2023 Report on the Implementation of the 2015 Ngor Declaration

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/39: URGES the AUC:

(iii) develop an African Water Policy that provides a strategic framework towards inclusive and climate-resilient water security in the continent

(iv) and AMCOW to further strengthen the Partners Coordination Platform (PCP)

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/40: URGES all African Union Member States to:

(ii) develop national climate-resilient water investment programmes and in developing programmes to access climate finance for climate-resilient and inclusive water security programmes.

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/42: APPROVES the proposal to adopt “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063” as the African Union Theme of the year 2026.

The 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU HoSG) was held on 17 – 18 February 2024. The Assembly, among others, adopted the recommendations of the Executive Council on the report of the 5th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment (ARDWE).

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Members of the TAC and the TEC Members for taking the necessary steps to engage Foreign Affairs to elevate water and sanitation issues. It is as a result of this support that the decisions in the foregoing were possible to achieve.

Français

Un thème relatif à l’Eau pour l’Union africaine en 2026 :

Mesdames et Messieurs les membres du Comité technique consultatif et du Comité d’experts de l’AMCOW.

Nous vous présentons ci-dessous les principales réalisations de nos engagements au cours de la 37ème session ordinaire de l’Assemblée de l’Union africaine. Ces réalisations s’inscrivent dans le cadre des processus en cours visant à mettre en œuvre la décision EXCO/13/2022/WDH/1 du Conseil sur l’amélioration de l’image de l’eau et de l’assainissement. Le Conseil, par l’intermédiaire du Comité technique spécialisé sur l’agriculture, le développement rural, l’eau et l’environnement (CTSE), a demandé à l’Assemblée de l’Union africaine d’adopter l’eau et l’assainissement comme thème de l’Union en 2026.

Pour situer le contexte dans lequel les décisions des organes de l’Union africaine sont prises, une illustration de base des organes politiques de l’UA est présentée ci-dessous.

La 5ème session ordinaire du CST sur l’ARDWE s’est tenue en novembre 2023 à Addis-Abeba. Elle a approuvé, entre autres, l’appel du Conseil des ministres à faire de 2026 une année de l’Union africaine sur l’eau et l’assainissement.

Le rapport complet du STC sur l’ARDWE est joint au présent document en tant que Ref_002b (EX.CL/1471(XLIV)).

Le rapport – EX.CL/1471(XLIV) – a été soumis à l’examen du Conseil exécutif (EX.CL) lors de sa 44ème Session ordinaire tenue les 14 et 15 février 2024. Les décisions pertinentes du Conseil exécutif sont les suivantes :

  1. EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/31 : APPROUVE, pour soumission à l’UA en février 2024, les documents suivants :

ii) le rapport annuel 2022 de la Commission sur la Déclaration de l’Assemblée de juillet 2008 concernant les engagements de Sharm El-Sheikh pour accélérer la réalisation des objectifs en matière d’eau et d’assainissement en Afrique, conformément à la décision de l’Assemblée (Assembly/AU/Decl.1 (XI)).

Iii) la déclaration de Swakopmund sur « l’action accélérée pour la fourniture de services d’assainissement et d’hygiène inclusifs, durables, résilients et gérés en toute sécurité en Afrique ».

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/32 : CONSIDÈRE et APPROUVE les cadres, lignes directrices et stratégies suivants pour accélérer la transformation de l’agriculture, le développement rural, la gestion de l’eau et de l’environnement :

(xx) les engagements pour accélérer la réalisation des objectifs en matière d’eau et d’assainissement en Afrique

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/33 : EXAMINE ET ADOPTE les rapports suivants :

(iv) le rapport 2023 sur la mise en œuvre de la déclaration de Ngor de 2015

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/39 : demande instamment à la CUA :

(iii) élaborer une politique africaine de l’eau qui fournisse un cadre stratégique pour une sécurité de l’eau inclusive et résiliente au climat sur le continent

(iv) et AMCOW à renforcer davantage la plateforme de coordination des partenaires (PCP)

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/40 : PRIE INSTAMMENT tous les États membres de l’Union africaine de :

(ii) élaborer des programmes nationaux d’investissement dans l’eau résistants au climat et des programmes d’accès au financement climatique pour des programmes de sécurité de l’eau résistants au climat et inclusifs.

  • EX.CL/Dec.2(XLIV)Rev.1/42 : APPROUVE la proposition d’adopter «Assurer une disponibilité durable de l’eau et des systèmes d’assainissement sûrs pour atteindre les objectifs de l’Agenda 2063 » comme thème de l’Union africaine pour l’année 2026.

La 37ème session ordinaire de la Conférence des chefs d’État et de gouvernement de l’Union africaine (AU HoSG) s’est tenue les 17 et 18 février 2024. La Conférence a, entre autres, adopté les recommandations du Conseil exécutif sur le rapport de la 5ème session ordinaire du Comité technique spécialisé (CTS) sur l’agriculture, le développement rural, l’eau et l’environnement (ARDWE).

Nous voudrions profiter de cette occasion pour remercier les membres du TAC et les membres du TEC d’avoir pris les mesures nécessaires pour inciter le ministère des Affaires étrangères à mettre en avant les questions relatives à l’eau et à l’assainissement. C’est grâce à ce soutien que les décisions mentionnées ci-dessus ont pu être prises.

IMG-20240219-WA0072
News

AMCOW and Partners Set Scene for Gender, Sanitation, and Quality of Life in Africa

The African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW) has joined forces with key partners in an event to address critical issues surrounding gender, sanitation, and overall quality of life.

The event, titled “Convening on Gender, Sanitation, and Quality of Life: Accelerating Progress on Universal Access to Sanitation,” was organised by the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), the meeting convened in Nairobi, Kenya, from February 7th to 8th, 2024. The primary objective was to chart a course of action linking gender, sanitation, and quality of life across policy, practice, and research.

Participants of the gender convening engaged in
a group knowledge-creation session.

AMCOW’s role was significant in the convening, represented by its Monitoring and Evaluation Support Officer and Youth and Gender Lead, Mr. Emmanuel Uguru. He provided regional perspectives and shed light on the intricate connections between sanitation, gender dynamics, and their impact on quality of life. He shared information on AMCOW’s strategic priorities, including monitoring and reporting the state of Africa’s water and sanitation to the African Union. Also, Mr Uguru apprised the participants of AMCOW’s new Youth and Gender Inclusion Strategy and the toolkit for mainstreaming gender and youth in Africa’s water and sanitation development agenda.

Participants of the convening brainstormed on suggestions
collated from the group exercise.

The meeting underscored the urgency of ensuring universal and inclusive access to safely managed sanitation before the coming mid-term review of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of critical actions agreed upon during the event, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, the World Health Organisation and other key partners will collaborate in supporting AMCOW’s gender and youth initiatives in Africa. This partnership will focus on developing and validating gender-specific indicators to enrich reporting mechanisms. These partners will jointly develop and publish an academic article to provide insight into the intricate nexus between gender, sanitation, and quality of life. Also, a community of practice will be established and hosted on the AMCOW knowledge hub to sustain the relationship and momentum generated during the convening.

One of the plenary sessions of the gender convening organised by APHRC and LSHTM in Nairobi, Kenya.
Saudi
Press Release

PRESS RELEASE

11th World Water Forum: Saudi Arabia and Riyadh to host the 11th World Water Forum in 2027

The Governors of the World Water Council have elected Saudi Arabia and Riyadh as the host for the 11th World Water Forum in 2027.

Saudi Arabia and Riyadh’s plan to host the 11th World Water Forum in 2027 on the theme “Action for a Better Future” was elected during the 86th meeting of the Board of Governors of the World Water Council in Istanbul, on February 17, 2024.

Upon the announcement of the election results, World Water Council President Mr. Loïc Fauchon said, “On behalf of the World Water Council, I would like to congratulate Saudi Arabia and Riyadh on its election as the host of the 11th World Water Forum. The World Water Council looks forward to working closely with the Saudi Arabia and Riyadh over the next three years to bring the world together in Riyadh in 2027 to continue to make water a global and political priority.”

The Governors elected the host country and city by secret ballot. Obtaining the majority, Saudi Arabia was elected.

The World Water Forum is the largest international gathering in the water sector involving various stakeholders, co-organized by the World Water Council and a host city. The Forum is held every three years and has been running since 1997. The World Water Forum is not just a conference: it includes a three-year preparation phase (preparatory phase), a one-week event (event phase) and a presentation of the results (synthesis phase), with ongoing support from World Water Council member organizations.  The Forum brings together participants from all levels and fields, including politics, multilateral institutions, academia, civil society, and the private sector, among others. Over the years, the number of Forum participants has grown from a few hundred to tens of thousands, from both the international community and host countries.

COMMUNIQUE

11ème Forum mondial de l’eau : l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh accueilleront le 11ème Forum mondial de l’eau en 2027

Les Gouverneurs du Conseil mondial de l’eau ont élu l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh pour accueillir le 11ème Forum mondial de l’eau en 2027.

Le projet de l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh d’organiser le 11ème Forum mondial de l’eau en 2027 sur le thème « Action pour un meilleur futur » a été élu durant le 86ème réunion du bureau des gouverneurs du Conseil mondial de l’eau, à Istanbul, le 17 février 2024.

A l’annonce des résultats de l’élection, le président du Conseil mondial de l’eau, M. Loïc Fauchon, a déclaré « Au nom du Conseil mondial de l’eau, je tiens à féliciter l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh pour son élection en tant qu’hôte du 11ème Forum mondial de l’eau. Le Conseil mondial de l’eau se réjouit de travailler en étroite collaboration avec l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh au cours des trois prochaines années afin de rassembler le monde à Riyadh en 2027 pour continuer à faire de l’eau une priorité globale et politique. »

Les Gouverneurs ont élu le pays et ville hôtes à bulletin secret. En obtenant la majorité avec l’Arabie saoudite et Riyadh ont été élus.

Le Forum mondial de l’eau est le plus grand rassemblement international dans le secteur de l’eau impliquant diverses parties prenantes, coorganisé par le Conseil mondial de l’eau et une ville hôte. Le Forum se tient tous les trois ans et a lieu depuis 1997. Le Forum mondial de l’eau n’est pas qu’une conférence : il comprend une phase de préparation de trois ans (phase préparatoire), un événement d’une semaine (phase événementielle) et une présentation des résultats (phase de synthèse) avec un accompagnement permanent des organisations membres du Conseil mondial de l’eau.  Le Forum rassemble des participants de tous niveaux et de tous domaines, notamment du monde politique, des institutions multilatérales, du monde universitaire, de la société civile et du secteur privé. Au fil des années, le nombre de personnes participant au Forum est passé de quelques centaines à des dizaines de milliers.

sharing Africa info
Programmes & Initiatives

AMCOW Knowledge Hub of Hubs

The African Ministers’ Council on Water launches an open source web-based Knowledge Hub to collect, store and share indigenous water and sanitation information and knowledge.