N’Djamena, Chad — African leaders, development partners, and business executives gathered in N’Djamena from July 15-16 for a Forum on Water, with one clear message: Africa must act faster to secure its water future.
‘On the front line‘
President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno set the tone early. He warned that Africa is ‘on the front line of climate change and water security.’ He also pressed governments and partners to move from promises to results. ‘Water must not be a luxury,’ he said, ‘but a fundamental right.’
Water and dignity
Similarly, State Minister for Finance, Economy and Planning Tahir Hamid Nguilin stressed that same urgency. He framed water access as central to development at every level. ‘When people have access to water, it is not only their thirst that is quenched,’ he said. ‘Their economy, health and dignity are strengthened.’
Four priorities on the table
Beyond the speeches, the forum has also set out four concrete priorities for the two days of talks. These include expanding access to clean water, building climate-resilient agriculture, strengthening cooperation over shared river basins, and increasing investment in water infrastructure.
A surprise announcement
Then came the day’s biggest headline. President Mahamat Deby announced that Chad will waive visa requirements for all Africans starting January 1, 2027. He described the move as another step toward ‘African integration’.
The forum continues through Thursday. It brings together four African heads of state, ministers, international organizations, and private sector leaders.
