The 39th Assembly of the African Union emphasizes the importance of water security as fundamental to development and climate issues, especially given the statistics of millions lacking access to water and sanitation.
The 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union, taking place in Addis Ababa on February 14th, focuses on the critical theme of water security, highlighting its significance as a strategic issue for development, peace, and climate resilience. The assembly responds to alarming statistics revealing that 400 million people in Africa lack sufficient water for daily needs and over 800 million lack basic hygiene services. This pressing situation makes the theme particularly relevant as African leaders come together to address these challenges.
The theme for 2026, "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063," is aligned with the African Union's strategic framework aimed at transforming the continent over the next 50 years. Agenda 2063 outlines goals for inclusive growth, poverty eradication, improved food security, and enhanced climate resilience, with water security playing an integral role in achieving these objectives. Leaders recognize that ensuring access to safe and reliable water sources is crucial for societal advancement and must be prioritized in policy and investment decisions.
As the assembly convenes, the implications of this theme extend beyond immediate water access; it reflects broader socio-economic development goals that impact peace and stability across the continent. The focus on water security is also a call to action for collaboration among member states, emphasizing the interconnectedness of water resources, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Thus, this gathering serves not only as an avenue for discussing water issues but also as a platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation on sustainable development across African nations.
