professionals whose participation will make this gathering a defining moment for our continent.  Your commitment confirms that water is not merely a resource it is a catalyst for solidarity, innovation, and transformation.

Africa faces pressing challenges in water and sanitation: rapid population growth, climate change, urban expansion, and persistent underfunding.  This congress offers a unique opportunity to tackle these issues with resolve, clarity, and ambition.

The theme, “Water and Sanitation for All: Bold Actions for Africa”, reflects this desire for a step change.  It urges us to move beyond analysis to impactful action, forging robust partnerships for sustainable and inclusive solutions. A robust and ambitious framework has been put in place. Thanks to early mobilisation of authorities, public and private partners, and regional and international institutions, we are crafting a congress that is scientific, economic, cultural, and deeply human.

The international exhibition, alongside dedicated forums for youth, start-ups, women, and local authorities, high-level plenaries, and technical workshops, will establish Yaoundé 2026 as a leading pan-African platform for innovation and cooperation.

I call upon AfWASA members, governments, sector operators, research institutions, NGOs, investors, and media to fully engage in this dynamic initiative. Africa needs your talents, courage, and vision.

Together, let us make Yaoundé 2026 a milestone in achieving universal access to water and sanitation,  elevating this shared ambition to the forefront of Africa’s priorities.