ECOWAS calls for inclusive water governance to transform West Africa

Africa, Health, Politics

ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 23, 2026 — In the spirit of World Water Day 2026, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), through its Water Resources Management Centre (WRMC), has urged stronger mobilisation for equitable and inclusive water management across the region.

World Water Day, established by the UN in 1993, highlights water’s vital role in life, health, dignity, and sustainable development. Yet, over two billion people worldwide still lack safe drinking water.

This year’s theme, “Water for Equality,” stresses the urgent need to tackle disparities in access to water and sanitation. In West Africa, these gaps disproportionately affect women, youth, and vulnerable groups, who manage water daily but remain underrepresented in decision-making.

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Progress has been made through regional and national policies integrating gender, youth, and social inclusion, alongside programs improving access to safe water for vulnerable communities.

Still, climate change, population growth, and rising pressure on resources demand a transformation of current approaches. ECOWAS calls for more inclusive, participatory, and sustainable water governance.

The Commission urges Member States, basin organisations, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, women, and youth to commit to equitable water management.

In a statement on Monday, ECOWAS said making water a driver of justice, development, and peace is now a strategic priority for West Africa. This momentum will shape the first West Africa Regional Water Forum (FREAO), set for September 2026 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, under the theme: “Valuing Water to Transform West Africa.”