Events
Image: Cecil Nundwe, African Water Facility’s Principal Water Resource Manager at the AU-AIP event
The recent high-level consultation on mobilising commitments towards the AU-AIP Water Investment Summit in South Africa, marked a significant step forward in addressing Africa's water investment needs. The African Water Facility participated in the meeting, focusing on mobilizing resources to bridge the substantial gap in water investment in Africa by 2030.
Key discussions focused on cross-sectoral political leadership and mutual accountability, urging governments to allocate at least 5% of national budgets to the water and sanitation sector. The consultation also promoted innovative funding sources, strengthening institutions, and creating a pipeline of bankable projects. The African Water Facility shared strategic insights on resource mobilization and highlighted the need for policy reforms to enhance effectiveness and efficiency of operations in the sector.
Other important topics included forming strategic partnerships, proposals for a dedicated water investment bank, and ensuring water issues remain central in global development talks. Participants were encouraged to engage with new financial mechanisms to de-risk water investments.
Plans for a collaborative agenda with key international players such as the G20, and bilateral engagements, especially with South Africa taking a lead role, are set to advance the AU-AIP process further. Dialogue will continue among the participants and other stakeholders with a plan to develop of a detailed roadmap to the AU-AIP Summit to be held in August 2025.