By Abdullahi Lukman
Stakeholders from across West Africa on Tuesday commenced deliberations in Abuja on a new implementation plan to advance water security and sanitation under the Africa Water Vision 2063.
The consultation is focused on developing a framework for the 2026–2033 period, including priorities, financing strategies and institutional mechanisms.
The meeting, convened by the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria, aims to align regional efforts with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
It is expected to produce a draft plan for submission to AU policy organs later in the year.
Declaring the session open on Tuesday, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, described the moment as critical for Africa’s development, citing increasing pressure on water resources due to urbanisation and climate variability.
He noted that the continent still possesses the capacity and resources to drive sustainable growth.
Utsev said the new implementation phase would focus on measurable outcomes in water supply, sanitation services and climate resilience, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to these goals.
Chairman of the Technical Advisory Committee, Dr. Mukaila Babarinde, said the consultation marked a significant step toward translating policy into action, urging stakeholders to produce a practical and inclusive roadmap.
AMCOW representative, Mr. Nelson Gomonda, described the Africa Water Vision 2063 as a major milestone for the continent, calling for intensified efforts and national-level implementation plans to ensure accountability.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also pledged support, with its representative, Mr. Kouassi Alexis, announcing a review of the region’s 2008 water policy and plans to host a regional water forum ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
From the African Union Commission, Dr. Nyambe Nyambe highlighted challenges including rapid urbanisation, pollution and inadequate infrastructure, stressing that access to clean water remains uneven across many areas.
Participants identified climate change, population growth and infrastructure deficits as key constraints, calling for stronger financing, improved governance and enhanced transboundary cooperation.
The Africa Water Vision 2063 is a continental framework designed to promote equitable and sustainable water resource management in line with long-term development goals.