The African Water Forum, co-organized with the World Bank, kicked off in N’Djamena this week under the banner “From Vision to Action.” The gathering brings together African heads of state, experts, and technical and financial partners to craft solutions for the continent’s water accessibility challenges.

Yet, as delegates deliberate, the spotlight remains on Chad, where access to clean drinking water remains a pressing issue. Official figures reveal that nearly 40% of the population still lacks reliable access to potable water.

mixed reactions from chadians

For many residents, this forum offers a glimmer of hope for progress on a critical issue affecting daily life.

“As a woman and a Chadian citizen, I hope this forum will improve access to clean water. The quality of water some of us drink is appalling. If this gathering can bring about change, why not?”, shares Eliane, a homemaker in N’Djamena.

The forum aims to convert political commitments into tangible projects by fostering partnerships between states, donors, and the private sector to accelerate investments in water infrastructure.

doubts linger over tangible outcomes

Not everyone shares the same optimism. Several locals interviewed express skepticism about the forum’s potential to drive meaningful change.

“We’ve seen similar events before, but nothing has changed. I don’t believe this forum will improve Chad’s water situation. What’s needed first is political will,” argues Richard, a teacher.

Moussa, a local trader, echoes this sentiment: “The funds spent on organizing this forum could have been used to build thousands of water points directly. Often, these events end with recommendations that are never implemented.”

These reactions highlight the gap between ambitious declarations and the persistent struggles faced by many, particularly in rural areas.

uneven access across the country

While the government cites a national average of 63.5% access to clean water, this figure masks stark disparities. In regions like Guéra, Wadi Fira, or Sila, only 10% to 21% of residents have access to safe drinking water.

Many communities still rely on contaminated water sources, leading to severe public health consequences, including waterborne diseases and malnutrition.

The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has urged authorities to accelerate investments in water infrastructure. “Access to water is essential for peace, social cohesion, food security, and human development,” emphasizes its president, Belngar Larmé Laguerre.

The CNDH calls on the government to prioritize investments in water infrastructure, sanitation, and resource management while urging international partners to bolster support for sustainable and climate-resilient solutions.

questions raised about forum organization

Beyond water challenges, another concern has emerged: the forum’s organization was entrusted to the Ministry of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, rather than the Ministry of Water.

This decision has sparked questions among observers and sector stakeholders, who view it as a sign of governance gaps in water policy. Millions of Chadians are waiting for sustainable access to clean drinking water.