The 22nd African Water Association International Congress and Exhibition 2025 has opened in Munyonyo, Uganda, with urgent calls for African governments to strengthen institutional frameworks to address the continent’s worsening water crisis.
Bringing together delegates from all 52 African nations, the congress seeks to find sustainable solutions to the critical water and sanitation challenges affecting millions.
A 2024 Afrobarometer survey found that 39 out of 52 African countries still face major water supply issues, highlighting the urgent need for stronger policies and investment.
Eng Silver Mugisha, president of the African Water and Sanitation Association (Afwasa), outlined the congress’s key thematic areas, emphasizing the need for collaboration.
"The conference will address the critical water and sanitation issues facing the continent and explore sustainable solutions," said Mugisha, who is also the executive director of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation.
While urban centers have made some progress, rural areas remain severely affected. Professor Kalanithy Viaravamoorthy, executive director of the International Water Association (UK), warned that the situation is far worse in rural communities.
"Water supply is a far greater concern in most rural areas than in cities," he noted, calling for more resources and capacity-building efforts to bridge the gap.
Experts at the congress stressed the need to align national strategies with global development goals.
"The agenda must align with SDG 6 and the African Agenda 2063," said Professor Abedellatif Zerga, underlining the importance of coordinated efforts to improve water and sanitation access.
In a speech read by Uganda’s Third Deputy Prime Minister, Rukia Isanga Nakadama, President Museveni urged African leaders to demonstrate stronger commitment.
"African leaders must enhance efforts aimed at ensuring clean water and sanitation for their citizens," he said, emphasizing the role of leadership in addressing the crisis.
As discussions continue, the congress is expected to shape stronger institutional policies and innovative solutions to improve water access across the continent.
