message from the Executive Director of AfWASA
Ing. Olivier GOSSO
African Water and Sanitation Executive Director
It is with a deep sense of gratitude and heartfelt enthusiasm that I address you on the eve of the 23rd International Congress and Exhibition of the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), to be held from February 9 to 13, 2026, in Yaoundé, under the theme: “Water and Sanitation for All: Strong Actions for Africa.”
This theme is far from being a mere slogan; it represents a collective call to action, a demand for transformative commitment. At a time when Africa is facing urgent challenges demographic growth, rapid urbanization, recurrent droughts, unequal access, water stress, and climate vulnerabilities it is vital to move beyond intention and translate
ambitions into concrete, measurable, and sustainable actions.
In this respect, I wish to express, on behalf of the entire AfWASA community, our deepest appreciation to the highest authorities of the Republic of Cameroon for accepting to host this strategic edition of the Congress. This choice honors a country whose leadership in the WASH sector, institutional engagement within our network, and legendary hospitality are exemplary across Africa.
Since its founding in 1980 in Abidjan, AfWASA has established itself as a benchmark platform for technical cooperation, sectoral advocacy, capacity building, and innovation. With more than 300 members from all continents, our association works daily to sustainably improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation across the continent. Over the past decade, several million dollars have been mobilized to support modernization programs, reduce non-revenue water, improve service quality, and build the capacity of local stakeholders.
The 2026 Yaoundé Congress will mark a pivotal moment in this transformative momentum. It will be structured around three core segments:
- A scientific segment, featuring over 300 high-level papers, technical sessions, posters, and knowledge exchange forums;
- An exhibition, bringing together more than a hundred exhibitors to showcase technological innovations, effective management models, and locally-driven solutions;
- An event-based segment, conceived as an inclusive space for strategic dialogue between public decision-makers, institutions, operators, youth, women leaders, media, and communities.
Beyond its scale, Yaoundé 2026 will embody a genuine Pan-African movement in support of the Sustainable Development Goals especially SDG 6.
To all stakeholders governments, institutions, local authorities, companies, researchers, NGOs, and engaged citizens, I issue a passionate call: get involved, take part actively, and enrich this Congress with your expertise, energy, and convictions.
Let us meet in Yaoundé, from February 9 to 13, 2026, to jointly build a resilient, equitable, and prosperous Africa through water.