N’Djamena will be the host city for the African Water Forum, a major continental event taking place on July 15 and 16, 2026. The gathering will bring together policymakers, development partners, and water sector experts to address the most pressing water challenges facing Africa today.
The country’s water wealth highlighted ahead of the forum
In a press briefing ahead of the event, the Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation underlined Chad’s strategic position as a water-rich nation. The country is home to the Lac Tchad, one of Africa’s largest wetlands, as well as significant river systems including the Logone and Chari, which play a crucial role in regional water security. Other key water bodies include Lakes Fitri, Léré, Iro, and the Bahr Aouk, along with extensive transboundary aquifers such as the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System.
« Chad’s abundant water resources are not only a national asset but a shared responsibility, » the minister stated. « As a Sahelian country, we face unique water-related challenges—climate pressures, rapid population growth, and underdeveloped infrastructure. That’s why we are taking a leading role in shaping continental water policy through this forum. »
Water security as a pillar of national development
The upcoming forum, themed « From Vision to Action », reflects Chad’s commitment to placing water security at the heart of its national agenda. The government has outlined three key priorities: expanding access to clean drinking water and sanitation for all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable; enhancing agricultural irrigation to stabilize food supplies; and ensuring the sustainable management of shared water resources with neighboring countries in the Lac Tchad Basin and Nubian Sandstone Aquifer regions.
The minister also emphasized the importance of international partnerships, particularly with the World Bank, in advancing these goals. « Our collaboration is not just about short-term projects—it’s about building long-term resilience, » he explained. « The new initiative we are developing with our partners aligns with our national development plan and the President’s vision for sustainable growth. »
The forum is expected to yield tangible outcomes, including national water compacts for participating countries and accountability frameworks to track progress. As host, Chad is not only facilitating dialogue but positioning itself as a proactive leader in Africa’s water transformation journey.
With water scarcity threatening millions across the continent, the event in N’Djamena could mark a turning point in how Africa manages its most vital resource.
