The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), and the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) have adopted a joint declaration and a regional roadmap on water security. This development came at the end of the first West Africa Regional Water Forum (FREAO), which took place in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, on September 24-25. The forum brought together government leaders, ministers, regional institutions, river basin organizations, development partners, academics, private sector representatives, and civil society.
The forum, themed "Valuing Water to Transform West Africa," focused on integrated water resource management, sustainable sector financing, climate resilience, water diplomacy, and transboundary cooperation. Participants also designated Cabo Verde to host the next edition of the Regional Water Forum. The joint declaration and regional roadmap prioritize water security, climate resilience, sustainable development, and regional integration. These efforts aim to address common challenges related to water in West Africa.
At the forum's opening, Ivorian Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, speaking on behalf of the Ivorian government, emphasized the need for strengthened cooperation in managing shared water resources. He described water governance as a strategic political choice and a pillar of regional stability. Mambé's remarks set the tone for discussions on effective water management and cooperation.
Amin Amidu Sulemani, Commissioner for the ECOWAS Commission, presented the forum as a regional call to action to enhance water security and climate resilience. He spoke on behalf of ECOWAS Commission President General Birame Diop. The forum aligns with efforts by ECOWAS, UEMOA, and CILSS to promote a common approach to water-related issues in West Africa.
Cheikh Tidiane Dièye, President of the African Ministers' Council on Water (AMCOW) and Senegalese Minister of Water and Sanitation, linked the forum's work to the continental water agenda and preparations for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. The forum's outcomes will contribute to global discussions on water security and sustainable development.
The adopted roadmap and declaration aim to promote a common approach to water challenges in West Africa. By prioritizing water security, climate resilience, and sustainable development, the region seeks to address pressing water-related issues. Effective implementation of the roadmap will require continued cooperation among stakeholders.
The first West Africa Regional Water Forum marked a significant step towards addressing water security and climate resilience in the region. The outcomes of the forum will inform future discussions and initiatives on water management and cooperation in West Africa. Key stakeholders will continue to work together to ensure the effective implementation of the adopted roadmap.
Key points
- West African nations adopt a regional roadmap on water security, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
- The roadmap prioritizes water security, climate resilience, sustainable development, and regional integration.
- Cabo Verde will host the next edition of the Regional Water Forum.
