Nigeria and the African Union Commission are intensifying their efforts to accelerate water provision on the continent.

Written by Mohamed Ragab

Intensified Nigeria وUnion Commission African Their efforts to accelerate access to clean water and sanitation services, following a high-level meeting held in the capital AbujaWith the participation of officials from the African Ministers“ Council on Water (AMCOW) and international partners.

During the meeting, the Nigerian Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation received Professor Joseph Otsev, an African delegation headed by Harsen Nyambi, Director of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy, along with officials from international institutions.

The minister stressed that this visit reflects a shared commitment to strengthening water security in Africa, emphasizing that water and sanitation are a fundamental pillar for achieving development.

Water is the foundation of development 

Otsev pointed out that achieving water security is a prerequisite for economic growth, explaining that the absence of safe water and sanitation services hinders food security, industrialization, and the ability to cope with climate change.

He also pointed out that the water and sanitation file was chosen as one of the main topics Agenda 2063 It reflects a growing awareness of its importance to the future of the continent.

The minister explained that the meetings focus on preparing an implementation plan for the period from 2026 to 2033 within the “Africa Water Vision 2063”, with the aim of transforming commitments into practical programs that have a direct impact on the lives of citizens, especially in the most needy areas.

For his part, Harsen Nyambe praised Nigeria's leading role in the water sector, stressing that it represents a key pillar of support. African Ministers' Council on Water (AMCOW).

He added that the visit comes as part of broader consultations to enhance cooperation with member states and accelerate the implementation of continental initiatives.

Ongoing challenges 

Despite this momentum, the continent still faces significant challenges, with the United Nations estimating that more than 400 million people in Africa lack access to safe drinking water, while more than 700 million suffer from a lack of sanitation services.

In Nigeria, the gap persists, particularly in rural areas, impacting public health and limiting development opportunities.

Through these partnerships, stakeholders seek to mobilize investments and enhance governance in the water sector, ensuring inclusive and sustainable access, in line with continental development goals.

The outcomes of the Abuja meeting are expected to accelerate regional efforts, with an increased focus on high-impact programs, to ensure that no group is left without water and sanitation services, within the framework of a comprehensive vision for Africa’s development by 2063.