The 7th International Forum of the Rural Water Supply Network Experts (RWSN) was held from November 29 to December 2, 2016 in Abidjan. About 650 professionals from the water sector attended this event, which discussed the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in rural areas and small towns.

The vision of the RWSN is that of a world where all rural populations have access to reliable and sustainable sources of water. This is why the theme chosen for this event was "Water for All". A theme through which professionals of the sector and development partners were able to ensure that all water supply services are more efficient in providing water in sufficient quantity, at an affordable price, and at a reasonable distance from the users’ home.

The RWSN is a global network of professionals and organizations specializing in rural water supply. It has over 8,500 members and 37 rural water supply organizations committed to developing their knowledge, skills and professionalism to realize the vision of the RWSN, which focuses on innovation in documentation, research and capacity building.

The sessions took place over three days and consisted of presentations and lectures, as well as an exhibition and optional field visits. For the Director of the RWSN Secretariat, Dr. Kerstin Danert, this event helps to ensure that all water services are more efficient in providing "sufficient, safe and affordable water at a reasonable distance from the user’s' home ".

The opening ceremony was attended by many personalities, including the Ivorian Prime Minister, Daniel Kablan Duncan, the Ivorian Minister of Economic Infrastructure, Patrick Achi, and the UNICEF Representative in Côte d'Ivoire, Dr. Aboubacar Kampo.