By Maxwell Oyekunle

The African Union, AU, has set water security and sanitation as its central priority for 2026, adopting a theme focused on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems to drive the goals of Agenda 2063.

Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said the decision was taken during the bloc’s 39th Ordinary Session in Addis Ababa, noting that water remains fundamental to Africa’s development, public health and economic growth.

Mr Youssouf said water scarcity and poor sanitation continue to hinder progress across the continent, with millions still lacking access to clean water and basic sanitation, particularly in rural communities.

He stated that the situation disproportionately affects women and girls, who often travel long distances to fetch water, limiting opportunities for education and economic participation.

The AU Commission Chairperson warned that climate change is worsening the crisis through increased droughts, floods and changing rainfall patterns, threatening livelihoods dependent on agriculture.

Mr Youssouf added that nearly 60 per cent of Africa’s freshwater resources are transboundary, stressing the need for stronger cooperation among countries to prevent conflicts and ensure equitable use.

He said the African Union is developing an implementation strategy to promote innovation, strengthen water governance and expand sanitation infrastructure, with a focus on community participation and inclusion of youth and women.

Mr Youssouf called on governments, the private sector and development partners to invest in water and sanitation systems, noting that Africa’s growing population will intensify pressure on existing resources.

He maintained that success would be measured by improved access to clean water and functional sanitation systems, rather than policy declarations.

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