As major continental summits approach, the diplomacy of “blue gold” is gaining significant momentum across West Africa. The Palais de la Marina in Cotonou served as the venue for a strategic high-level meeting between Tchad and Bénin, signaling a joint determination to place the management of hydraulic resources at the center of their development agendas.

A diplomatic mission to Cotonou

The Tchadian Minister of State, Tahir Hamid Nguilin, was received for an official audience by the Béninese leader Romuald Wadagni. Serving as a special envoy and carrying a direct message from the President of the Republic of Tchad, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, the Tchadian representative outlined his nation’s aspirations for the continent’s future.

This visit is part of an extensive awareness campaign launched by the authorities in N’Djamena. By engaging with key regional leaders, the goal is to establish a unified front and a collective vision to combat the water crisis that currently threatens economic stability and growth across Africa.

N’Djamena to host the African Water Forum

A primary focus of the discussions was the preparation for the upcoming African Water Forum. This international event, organized through a partnership between the Tchadian government and the World Bank, along with various multilateral financial institutions, will bring together policymakers, technical experts, and global investors.

The forum is designed as a high-level platform to address several urgent priorities:

• Achieving universal access to clean drinking water and modern sanitation services.
• Protecting fragile ecosystems under pressure from climate change, particularly the Lake Tchad basin.
• Securing funding for major hydraulic infrastructure projects across the continent.

A shared strategic vision

For Bénin, a nation already deeply involved in reforming basic service access and managing its river systems, this Tchadian initiative represents a significant opportunity. The dialogue in Cotonou emphasizes the necessity for African nations to move beyond passive roles and instead co-lead financing strategies alongside international organizations.

The ultimate success of the N’Djamena Forum will depend on the strength of this political mobilization. By selecting Bénin as a crucial stop on this diplomatic tour, Tchad is securing the backing of an influential regional partner, ensuring that Africa speaks with a unified voice regarding global climate challenges.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst