Millions of Africans still lack basic drinking water

African countries have combined their efforts to improve access to safe drinking water across the continent. Efforts were made after discussions at the African Water Association International Congress and Exhibition, held between Monday and Thursday, in Abidjan, the capital city of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire.

While giving the opening remarks Patrick Achi, Ivorian Prime Minister, stressed that tackling the challenges of water and sanitation in Africa have become more imperative as the continent continues to experience its highest population growth.

"Nearly 420 million Africans, or one in three inhabitants, still lack basic drinking water today. This has resulted in the death of 500 children under five years of age per day in sub-Saharan Africa, due to diarrheal diseases related to lack of water and hygiene," Achi said.

According to Silver Mugisha, the president of the African Water and Sanitation Association, Africa’s water and sanitation sector is grappling with aging infrastructure and rapid urbanization which stresses the water system resulting in operational inefficiencies.

He added that Africa’s water and sanitation sector was badly affected by COVID-19 which worsened its already existing problems. However, he believes that action can change the African water and sanitation sector.

"The water problem can be solved through technological innovation; advancing sustainable infrastructure financing options; and strengthening people and systems through excessive productivity management measures, leadership competencies, and identifying talents," Mugisha said.

Bouake Fofana, Ivorian Minister of Sanitation and Health noted that most African countries cannot meet the 6th 2030 Sustainable Development Goal target on water and sanitation, and stressed that the conference has provided a timely opportunity to explore new solutions.

He also stressed the need to prioritize rural communities, which currently represent more than 50 percent of the African continent and where open defecation is still a major issue.

"Challenges are still preventing us achieving sustainable development goals connected to drinking water and sanitation, and affordability of water specifically. In addition, funding is still a major problem we are facing," Fofana said.