Message from the Executive Director of AfWASA On the Occasion of World Water Day 2026
On this 22nd of March 2026, the international community celebrates World Water Day, established by the United Nations in 1992, as a key moment for collective mobilization around a resource essential to life. This day reminds us that water is not merely a natural resource, but a fundamental human right, a driver of development, and a powerful vector of equality. More than three decades after its creation, its relevance remains stronger than ever in light of the growing challenges related to access, sustainable management, and preservation of water resources.
In Africa, water and sanitation are indispensable pillars of sustainable development. They underpin public health, food security, education, economic growth, and resilience to climate change. Yet, despite the progress made, nearly 400 million Africans still lack access to safely managed drinking water, thereby undermining the continent’s ambitions to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6.
Inequalities in access persist and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls. In many communities, they still bear the heavy burden of water collection, to the detriment of their education, health, and economic empowerment. This reality is not only a social injustice but also a major obstacle to inclusive and equitable development in our societies.
In response to these challenges, AfWASA, alongside its members and partners, remains firmly committed to promoting inclusive, sustainable, and resilient water and sanitation services. Through capacity building, the development of strategic partnerships, the promotion of innovation, and the integration of gender-responsive approaches, AfWASA is working to bring about lasting transformation across the sector throughout the continent.
On this World Water Day 2026, under the theme “Water for Equality,” I call for stronger mobilization of all stakeholders, governments, institutions, the private sector, civil society, and technical and financial partners. Together, let us make water a true driver of equity, dignity, and prosperity for all. For without water, there can be no equality, and without equality, there can be no sustainable development.
