AfWASA/RAM-WASH Webinar: Digitalization of WASH Services, a Key Issue at the Heart of Discussions
On April 23, 2026, the African Media Network for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (RAM-WASH), under the auspices of the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), organized a webinar focused on digitalization and innovation in water and sanitation services in Africa.
In a context marked by rapid urbanization and persistent challenges in access to water, discussions highlighted the growing role of digital technologies—such as smart metering, mobile money, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT)—as key drivers for improving performance, management efficiency, and customer engagement.
In his opening remarks, the President of RAM-WASH, El Hadj Moussa Thiam, emphasized that digitalization is not a luxury but a necessity. Drawing on several African examples, he highlighted the potential of simple and context-adapted solutions, while calling for collective mobilization of sector stakeholders and greater public ownership of digital tools.
The discussions also underscored that digital transformation relies прежде all on a gradual approach, strong leadership, sound data governance, and sustained investment in human capacity. Concrete experiences, particularly from Uganda and Togo, demonstrated significant improvements in both technical and commercial performance.
At the end of the webinar, one key message emerged: digitalization must be viewed as a strategic lever to enhance performance and achieve universal access to water and sanitation services—not as an end in itself.
It is worth noting that this webinar was attended by 162 participants from 34 countries and 106 organisations.
The report will be available very soon
