N’Djamena to host African water forum in 2026

N’Djamena is set to become the epicenter of continental water governance next summer, hosting the African Water Forum from July 15 to 16, 2026. This high-level event will convene policymakers, development partners, and water experts to address the continent’s most pressing hydrological challenges.

The announcement was made during a press briefing by the Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, who emphasized Chad’s pivotal role as a regional water hub. « Chad’s hydrological potential is unmatched in the Sahel, » he stated, highlighting the nation’s vast aquatic resources, including the iconic Lake Chad, the Chari and Logone rivers, as well as transboundary aquifers like the Nubian Sandstone Basin.

The event’s theme, « From Vision to Action, » underscores the urgency of translating policy into tangible solutions. With climate pressures intensifying, rapid population growth straining resources, and infrastructure lagging behind, Chad is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable water management. « Water security is not merely an environmental concern—it is the foundation of development, peace, and community resilience, » the minister noted.

Key priorities for Chad include expanding access to clean drinking water and sanitation, especially for vulnerable populations, boosting agricultural irrigation to safeguard food security, and fostering equitable management of shared water basins with neighboring countries. The government’s commitment aligns with the Water Forward initiative, a holistic framework integrating water for people, agriculture, and planetary health into national development strategies.

A cornerstone of this initiative is a new project under development in collaboration with the World Bank. The initiative reflects Chad’s long-term vision for the water sector, reinforcing the nation’s dedication to regional cooperation and innovative financing mechanisms.

The forum is expected to yield concrete outcomes, including national water compacts for participating countries and robust accountability frameworks to ensure commitments are met. Chad’s role as host goes beyond logistics—it signals the country’s readiness to champion Africa’s water transformation agenda.