The African Water Forum, themed From Vision to Action, will take place in N’Djamena, Chad, on July 15 and 16, 2026. This high-level event will convene policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from across the continent to address pressing water challenges and opportunities.
Chad’s pivotal role in continental water governance
During a press briefing, the Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation highlighted Chad’s unique position as a hydrological hub. The country boasts vital water systems, including the Lake Chad basin, major rivers like the Chari and Logone, as well as lakes Fitri, Léré, Iro, and Bahr Aouk. These resources are shared with neighboring nations through transboundary aquifers such as the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer.
The Minister emphasized that as a Sahelian nation, Chad faces severe water-related threats—climate-induced pressures, rapid population growth, and inadequate infrastructure. « Hosting this Forum reflects our commitment to placing water security at the heart of national priorities, » he stated. « Water is not merely a natural resource; it is the foundation of development, peace, and community resilience. »
Strategic priorities and international partnerships
The government outlined its ambitious water agenda, focusing on three key pillars:
- Universal access to clean water and sanitation—ensuring marginalized communities are included in national water distribution plans.
- Sustainable irrigation systems—boosting agricultural productivity to combat food insecurity in the region.
- Integrated water resource management—collaborating with neighboring countries to preserve shared basins like Lake Chad and the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer.
In a significant show of support, the World Bank has renewed its partnership with Chad. A forthcoming project will align with the government’s long-term vision, reinforcing infrastructure and policy frameworks under the Water Forward initiative. This global movement prioritizes « water for people, food, and the planet, » directly informing Chad’s national development plan guided by the President’s policy agenda.
What to expect from the 2026 Forum
Organizers anticipate actionable outcomes, including:
- National Water Compacts—binding commitments from participating countries to accelerate water-related reforms.
- Accountability frameworks—structured mechanisms to track progress and enforce pledges made during the event.
As host, Chad is poised to champion water security not only for its citizens but as a catalyst for Africa’s hydrological transformation. The Forum underscores the nation’s leadership in turning continental challenges into shared opportunities for growth and stability.
