Africa has formally adopted the African Water Policy Vision 2063, a landmark framework aimed at reshaping how the continent manages its most critical resource. The blueprint, endorsed during the 14th session of the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) in Dakar, Senegal, places water at the center of Africa’s economic growth, social development, and climate resilience strategies. It emphasizes integrated water resource management, technological innovation, climate adaptation, and financial self-reliance as key pillars.
The adoption is the result of years of negotiation and technical input, with Senegal playing a decisive role in drafting the final text. Nearly 30 delegations, including 17 ministers, attended the Dakar session one of AMCOW’s strongest showings in recent years. Ministers also approved steps to strengthen AMCOW itself, notably by raising member-state contributions to reduce dependence on external funding.
The water vision will next be presented to the African Union Commission before being forwarded to the AU Summit of Heads of State, where it is expected to receive final endorsement. The move comes as Africa faces mounting water stress. According to the UN Economic Commission for Africa, over 400 million Africans currently lack access to safe drinking water, while climate change is projected to intensify droughts and floods across the continent.
Senegal’s leadership in water diplomacy was also underscored during the event. The country will co-host the 2026 UN Water Conference with the United Arab Emirates, with a high-level preparatory meeting already scheduled in Dakar for early 2025. By adopting Vision 2063, African leaders say they are laying the foundation for a future where water is not only a basic human right but also a driver of food security, energy, and industrial growth.
