On Sunday, February 8th, 2026, ahead of the Congress, pre-congress workshops organized by sponsors, exhibitors, and other partners will enrich the experience. These will include: the Young and Women Water and Sanitation Professionals Forum, a Civil Society Forum, and the first-ever Academic Forum dedicated to research in the sector.

On Monday, 9th February 2026, the official inauguration of the Congress will take place in a prestigious setting, providing a grand introduction to its theme and unique location. This ceremony, combining solemn welcome addresses with refined cultural interludes, will set the stage for a week of high-level exchanges, strategic debates, and moments of conviviality.

A highlight of the programme, the AfWASA ICE 2026 Symposium will be entirely dedicated to the Congress’ central theme. It will open with an inspiring keynote address, followed by a panel of influential speakers, leading international experts, and recognized decision-makers, offering strategic insights into the future of the sector.

On 10th and 11th February 2026, the days will begin with plenary sessions where prominent personalities will explore key topics that resonate with the Congress’ objectives and priorities.

The technical programme will combine scientific expertise with operational feedback. It will feature around ten parallel sessions and workshops, totalling over 600 presentations. Renowned invited speakers will share the stage with presenters selected through the call for papers. Parallel events organized by partners will further enrich this exceptional programme.

In line with its commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and meeting the needs of its members, AfWASA will host an exclusive forum for Chief Executive Officers of utilities and member institutions during the Yaoundé Congress. This exceptional gathering will offer these high-level executives the opportunity to build privileged relationships with like-minded peers from around the world.
Beyond serving as a space for discussions on major industry trends, the forum will be a platform for reflection on organizational and policy issues related to the evolving role of water utilities in addressing Africa’s water and sanitation challenges. This prestigious, invitation-only event will be open to Presidents and CEOs attending the Congress.

The AfWASA Congress in Yaoundé will also provide an ideal platform to foster professional interactions and stimulate the creation of business partnerships. Tailor-made one-on-one meetings will be organized to connect delegates with potential business partners.
Before the event, each participant will receive a link to a database containing key profiles and information on all delegates. Participants will be invited to submit a priority list of up to ten people they wish to meet. Personalized meeting schedules, based on these choices, will be sent to participants prior to the Congress.

During the Congress, leading water and sanitation experts will host roundtables on targeted themes. Delegates, upon prior registration, will have the opportunity to select the discussion that best aligns with their interests and professional challenges. These sessions will provide a privileged setting for exchanging experiences, challenges, and solutions with other professionals facing similar issues.

The Exhibition will also serve as a unique showcase for young innovators and start-up entrepreneurs. This Start-ups Forum will offer them a platform to present their ideas, share creative and disruptive solutions, and demonstrate their contribution to transforming the water and sanitation sector.

Believing that recognizing outstanding performance and disseminating remarkable innovations is key to driving change, AfWASA will present several prestigious awards during the Yaoundé Congress. These will include the AfWASA JPEA Award, the Best Project Award, the Best Sanitation Innovation Award, and the Best Water Innovation Award, among others. The awards will be presented during the gala dinner, in an elegant and festive atmosphere.

The AfWASA CIE 2026 will offer a rich and refined social program, designed to give delegates and partners the opportunity to discover the gems of Yaoundé and Cameroon, while enjoying the typical food and beverages of this welcoming city. These moments of conviviality will also be an opportunity to strengthen professional ties in a relaxed setting. Here are some of the social events planned:

Welcome Reception 
All registered delegates and guests are invited to the welcome reception on February 9, 2026. This will be an excellent opportunity to reconnect with old acquaintances and make new ones as we welcome you to Yaoundé with a delicious meal and refreshments. The welcome reception is covered by the registration fee for delegates and guests. If you require additional tickets, please indicate this on your registration form.

Dinner hosted by AfWASA President 
An exclusive event, accessible by invitation only on February 8, 2026.

Young Water Professionals Night Out
A dynamic and convivial pre-conference evening dedicated to young talent and those who are young at heart on February 10, 2026. The perfect opportunity to experience the atmosphere of Njoka nightlife.

Gala Dinner and Innovation Awards Ceremony 
A memorable end to the Congress, this exceptional evening will offer a culinary journey to the heart of Cameroonian gastronomy, in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere on February 11, 2026. It will also be the highlight of the event, when AfWASA Awards will be presented to the winners.

Dinner is not included in the registration fee; reservations can be made using the form provided for this purpose.

Technical visits
To enrich the Congress experience, technical visits combining professional interest and cultural discovery will be offered. Participants will have access to leading sites and facilities, selected for their relevance and added value for Congress attendees. These tours, organized outside of the technical sessions, will include round-trip bus transportation.

Optional tours
Designed for delegates and their companions, these excursions will highlight the most iconic attractions of Cameroon, a true “Africa in miniature.” They will include the services of a professional guide, entrance fees, meals and, where applicable, accommodation. Each tour is subject to a minimum number of participants, and if this number is not reached, alternatives will be offered based on the order of reservations.