The African Development Bank (AfDB) has strengthened its commitment to improving access to clean water across Africa by investing over $8 billion in infrastructure projects that have now reached 92 million people in 40 countries.
At the AMCOW West Africa sub-regional meeting in Abuja, the bank said its role in financing water projects is to support economic growth, sanitation and climate resilience.
Speaking at the event, AfDB’s Director of Water Development and Sanitation, Johannes Chirwa, stated that the bank is shaping a post-2025 Africa Water Vision by ensuring that future investments address long-term sustainability and governance challenges.
The bank’s investment spans projects aimed at expanding water access, upgrading sanitation facilities and improving water resource management across the continent.
AfDB has also played a leading role in policy discussions, working through initiatives such as Africa Water Week and the Africa Water Investment Programme to drive regulatory reforms and funding strategies.
Stakeholders at the event said regional collaboration is important to ensure Africa’s water security goals are met.
Jihane El Gaouzi, speaking on behalf of the African Union Commission (AUC), acknowledged the progress made but stressed the need for stronger policies to ensure equitable water access.
As part of the next phase of Africa’s water agenda, upcoming events such as the Africa Water Summit in 2025 and the UN Water Conference in 2026 will focus on mobilizing further investments and policy actions.
The African Union has also declared water and sanitation a priority for 2026, aligning with its long-term Agenda 2063 development framework.
AfDB remains committed to enhancing water governance, supporting large-scale infrastructure projects and working with governments and private investors to bridge Africa’s water access gap.
With new strategies set to take effect after 2025, efforts to expand clean water supply and sanitation services are expected to accelerate.
