Some two hundred delegates made up of experts, decision-makers and professionals from the water and sanitation sector from all over Africa have gathered in Lomé, the Togolese capital, for the 93rd meeting of the African Water and Sanitation Association. This event, held under the theme “Resilience of water utilities in Africa in the face of climate change”, reflects the growing challenges facing the continent in terms of water resource management and sanitation in a context of climate change.

The opening ceremony was marked by inspiring speeches highlighting the importance of regional collaboration and innovation to strengthen the resilience of water infrastructures.

Speech by the Managing Director of Société Togolaise des Eaux

In his opening remark, the Managing Director of Togolaise des Eaux (TdE), Mr. Gbati Yawanké Waké, highlighted the importance of adaptation and resilience in the face of the challenges imposed by climate change. “The event that brings us together today in Lomé is very significant for us as players in harmonious social development,” said the Managing Director. He emphasized the impact of global warming on water supply and sanitation services, as well as on the sustainability of water resources. These challenges are exacerbated by the development of the grey economy, which must be counterbalanced by a green economy and greater efforts to protect the environment. He emphasized the need to invest in adaptive technologies and build institutional and technical capacity to address effectively climate crises. “We must redouble our efforts to meet the demands of this vital commodity, water, while promoting sanitation services and protecting our environment,” he asserted.

Speech by the Chairman of the Strategic and Technological Council (STC)

The Chairman of the STC, Dr Papa Samba Diop, stressed the urgent need for a global, coordinated response. He highlighted the importance of resilience financing mechanisms, calling for a paradigm shift to better mobilize global funds for AfWASA programs and projects, under the innovative concept of “BLUE in GREEN,” which symbolizes the integration of water and biodiversity in the fight against climate change.

Speech by AfWASA Executive Director

For Mr. Olivier Gosso, Executive Director of AfWASA, the theme of the conference highlights the complex challenges facing the continent. He stressed the importance of developing adaptation strategies to deal with the effects of climate change, such as unpredictable rainfall, floods and droughts. He also spoke of the climate injustice suffered by Africa, despite its low greenhouse gas emissions. To meet this challenge, he called on all stakeholders to develop adaptation strategies.

Speech by the Minister of the Environment and Forest Resources

The opening ceremony was chaired by the Minister of FOLI-BAZI Katari. In his address, the Minister made a vibrant appeal for united efforts to strengthen the resilience of African utilities in the face of the challenges of climate change. In his speech, he emphasized the crucial importance of a practical, integrated approach to meeting these challenges, stressing the need to invest in adaptive technologies and strengthen the technical and institutional skills of operators in the sector.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of integrated water resource management systems as a key element in adapting to the impacts of climate change. “It is imperative that we adopt a practical and integrated approach by investing in adaptive technologies, such as integrated water resource management systems,” he said. These systems enable more efficient and sustainable use of water resources, which are crucial to the survival and economic development of communities.

The first day of the conference was also marked by the inauguration of the exhibition, followed by a tour of the stands manned by manufacturers offering innovative technologies to meet the challenges of water and sanitation. Delegates were also able to attend conferences and panels offering a platform for constructive exchanges.

AfWASA's meeting continues until Thursday August 1st.