AU Summit 2026 Focuses on Water Security

Water security as an economic priority

The 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government is taking place on 14 and 15 February 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Convened under the theme “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” the summit underscores the economic dimension of water security across the continent.

Water and sanitation infrastructure remains closely tied to productivity, public health, and industrial expansion. According to the World Bank, improved water management systems can significantly raise agricultural output and urban efficiency. Therefore, the summit’s agenda reflects a broader push to align infrastructure investment with long-term growth strategies.

Financing infrastructure for Agenda 2063

Agenda 2063 outlines water resilience as a pillar of inclusive development. However, financing gaps persist. The African Development Bank has repeatedly highlighted the need for blended finance, sovereign commitment, and regional coordination to scale water projects.

In addition, multilateral engagement is expected to feature prominently. The UN-Water platform continues to support African governments in aligning sanitation targets with Sustainable Development Goals. As a result, policy coherence between continental frameworks and global climate finance mechanisms remains essential.

Regional integration and climate resilience

Climate variability is intensifying pressure on freshwater resources. Consequently, cross-border river basin management has become a strategic priority. Institutions such as the East African Community are advancing cooperative water governance models to prevent resource stress and improve agricultural sustainability.

Moreover, stronger ties with partners in Asia and the Gulf region are expanding technology transfer in desalination, irrigation efficiency, and wastewater treatment. These collaborations reflect a pragmatic approach to bridging expertise gaps while fostering investment inflows.

Urbanisation and sanitation systems

Africa’s rapid urban growth further elevates the urgency of modern sanitation systems. According to data from the United Nations, urban populations are projected to double by 2050. Therefore, integrated planning is critical to avoid infrastructure deficits that could constrain economic expansion.

The 39th AU Summit 2026 signals a coordinated political commitment to accelerate reform. While implementation will require sustained financing and regulatory clarity, the summit reinforces water security as a foundational investment for Africa’s industrialisation and resilience agenda.

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