Opening Remarks and Context Setting

The AfricaSan7 Conference began with a celebration of the Republic of Namibia, the Anthem, a short film about its landscape, development and culture. The conference is hosted by the Republic of Namibia under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform led by Hon Carl Hermann-Gustav Schlettwein.

The Executive Director Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Namibia, Ms Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, moderated the opening of the AfricaSan7 Conference. The Conference, themed “Strengthening Systems and Partnerships for Accelerated Action on Safely Managed Sanitation and Hygiene” seeks to unite key stakeholders to address sanitation and hygiene challenges in Africa and globally.

The Governor of Erongo Region, Hon. Neville Andre, welcomed the conference delegates. In his welcome address, he highlighted the disparities in sanitation between rural and urban areas and the need for improved systems and partnerships.

AMCOW’s Executive Secretary, Dr Rashid Mbaziira, welcomed all the AfricaSan7 Conference participants to the opening plenary. He demonstrated how honoured it was for him to address all the participants, experts, policymakers, practitioners, and advocates who are committed to improving hygiene and sanitation across Africa. Dr Rashid emphasised the Africa Sanitation Conference as a platform for technical and political dialogue with governments and stakeholders for knowledge-sharing. He further stressed the urgency required of addressing sanitation conditions in the continent to improve livelihoods.

Unveiling of AfricaSan7 Banner

Host Minister, Hon Carl Hermann Gustav Schlettwein, unveiled the AfricaSan7 Banner – an initiative launched to promote integration of arts and youth inclusion in African Sanitation and Hygiene. AMCOW has introduced the AfricaSan Banner Design Award as one of the AfricaSan Awards. The idea is to challenge young Africans under 35 to illustrate sanitation conditions as known to them within their communities or to demonstrate future sanitation aspirations in the continent. This aligns with promoting the thoughts behind the African Union Agenda 2063-the Africa We Want. 

Goodwill messages, Policy, and Technical Discussions

Various speakers, including Eric Momani from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, discussed technical issues and the importance of partnerships, government policies, and funding mechanisms to improve sanitation services. The African Development Bank (AfDB) outlined their support and strategic priorities, which align with their high-level goals, including a new sanitation investment initiative. The World Toilet Organisation (WTO), through its founder, Prof. Jack Sim, highlighted the role of the private sector while speaking on the Sanitation Economy and Private Sector Engagement.

Opening address by Hon Carl Hermann Gustav Schlettwein

The high point of the event was the opening address by Hon Carl Hermann Gustav Schlettwein, the Minister for Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Republic of Namibia, AWF Governing Council Chairperson, and AMCOW President (2021-2023). The Minister warmly welcomed the conference participants and urged them to ensure that the meeting delivers a solid water and sanitation agenda by the end of the week. Hon Schlettwein, delivered a inspirational insights demonstrating the value of water and access to sanitation services beyond money. The profile of water and sanitation was immediately raised in the mind of each individual listening to his remarks.

Cultural Engagement and Private Sector Involvement

The conference included cultural elements, such as traditional Namibian dance. In a vibrant display of Namibian cultural heritage, traditional dancers took the stage at the conference’s opening plenary. With rhythmic movements and purely native attire, the performers brought to life the rich traditions and cultural essence of Namibia. Participants were captivated by their spirited and charming native dance – you could see them watching with rapt attention and many capturing photographs with their mobile devices.

Regional Insights and Commitments Hon. Dr Esther Muinjangue, Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, Republic of Namibia, set the scene for the Thematic Sessions – speaking on the Strategic Priorities for Sanitation and Hygiene in Namibia. Representatives from various African regions shared their progress and challenges. Senegal showcased its institutional organisation and resource mobilisation for sanitation, while Namibia discussed efforts toward waste reuse and environmental protection. South Africa and Ethiopia shared their approaches to mobilise resources and ensure coordination and leadership in sanitation efforts.

Job Function: Reports to the Director of Programmes

Classification: Grade: Grade: P4 (out of a P1 – P5 professional grading structure)

Date Posted: 20 Oct. 2023

Background:

AMCOW is an intergovernmental, non-budgetary institution working under the Specialised Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment of the African Union (AU). AMCOW’s mission is to provide political leadership, policy direction and advocacy in the provision, use and management of water resources for sustainable social and economic development and maintenance of African ecosystems. For more information, refer to: http://www.amcow-online.org/.

The position of Senior Monitoring, Evaluation and Results Officer (SME&R Officer) is one of the key management functions under the Director of Programmes at the AMCOW Secretariat located in Abuja, Nigeria. The SME&R Officer will be the focal point person on all issues related to monitoring and evaluation of the AMCOW Work Programmes and project portfolio. The SME&R Officer provides technical guidance and advice to task teams on appropriate results management frameworks.

The scope of responsibilities of the role is described below.

Responsibilities:

Key responsibilities of SME&R Officer include overseeing the process of developing high-quality Water and Sanitation Sector Progress Reports and their submission at the African Union Commission (AUC) and development partners. The SME&R Officer will also lead the development and implementation of AMCOW’s monitoring and evaluation work. Further, the incumbent will lead the development of a result-based management system and support building capacity for implementation.   Other responsibilities will include systematizing existing results frameworks for greater consistency. This will involve scaling up and refining AMCOW’s monitoring systems to generate rich analysis that track progress of annual plans and implementation of AMCOW’s strategy. The SME&R Officer will also support project managers to develop realistic plans, reviews, and evaluations. This will include developing progress reports for various stakeholders. The SME&R Officer will also coordinate independent evaluation of AMCOW work including operational plans. The SM&E Officer, under the guidance of the Senior Management Team, will coordinate all the teams in the development of the AMCOW Annual report and corporate reports.   The detailed SME&R Officer’s primary scope of responsibilities consists of the following:  

Results and Reporting:

1. Lead and coordinate processes for the development and submission of high-quality annual reports of the Commission on the implementation of the July 2008 Assembly Declaration on the Sharm El Sheikh Commitments for Accelerating the Achievement of Water and Sanitation Goals in Africa.
2. Coordinate donor-funded projects’ reporting processes, ensuring that all accountabilities and responsibilities are met, in line with AMCOW’s obligations. This also include monitoring all project activities, expenditures, and progress towards achieving the project output.
3. Devise ways and strategies to support building capacity for water and sanitation reporting at Member State level.
4. Promote alignment of Continental and Global Reporting processes
5. Lead and conduct sector resource mapping and manage resource mapping database. This includes providing various sector resource/financing analysis.
6. Design and operationalize a functional Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and results system which aligns with the AMCOW strategy and accountability needs.
7. Assist AMCOW’s Project development team in smartly integrating AMCOW monitoring, evaluation and learning systems into partnership agreements, with a view to effectively tracking progress, minimizing deviation from, and misalignment with AMCOW’s core mandate.

Frameworks:

1. Lead the development and updating of AMCOW’s multi-year organizational results frameworks and strategic operational plans (SOPs).
2. Coordinate the development of AMCOW’s annual organizational objectives, key performance indicators and targets that guide programmatic work.
3. Support staff in developing programmatic and continental level results frameworks to measure progress against program and continental strategies – including work led in partnership with other organizations.

Systems and Analysis:

1. Coordinate monitoring, evaluation, and results analysis across projects and programmes and ensure data standardization and quality.
2. Facilitate and support capacity building activities towards water and sanitation sector system performance monitoring.
3. Refine and improve AMCOW’s existing monitoring systems towards increased access and use by staff. This includes the automation and visualization of analysis, and integration of new data points, for individual and group learning as well as internal and external accountability.
4. Commission and coordinate research and studies on key topics to help fill information gaps in the water and sanitation sector.
5. Oversee the development of quarterly monitoring reports against organizational objectives; Lead analysis of progress against results, bi-annual analysis of research and data metrics.

Learning:

1. Lead and facilitate reflection opportunities, including meetings and retreats, towards developing a strong organizational learning culture.
2. Organize brown bag seminars with staff and, where relevant, externals.
3. Draw lessons from analysis to deepen reflection to improve program design.
4. Develop strategies for improving efficiency and effectiveness of projects by identifying bottlenecks.
5. Contribute to processes of drafting learning papers to capture lessons from AMCOW’s work to inform policy in the water and sanitation sector in Africa.
6. Input into the development of impactful case studies, to showcase insights and instances of success in AMCOW’s work.
7. Lead initiatives and communities of practice that aim to share lessons, good practices and models in the water and sanitation sector in Africa.  

Evaluation:

1. Commission and oversee independent evaluation of AMCOW’s work.
2. Work with the institutional leadership team to define focus and research questions that generate maximum learning and value to inform AMCOW’s strategies.
3. Support AMCOW staff in designing and implementing program evaluations.  

Management and Capacity:

1. Manage consultants and or interns to undertake relevant analysis.
2. Coordinate and facilitate technical working groups with development partners to harmonize efforts and improve the overall water and sanitation sector performance.
3. Forge and consolidate working relationships with Universities and Academic Research Institutions to support filling information gaps at different levels. This includes streamlining work programme with the AUDA-NEPAD Centers of Excellence and capacity building networks and institutions.
4. Work in close collaboration with team members to raise funding in support of AMCOW activities including monitoring and reporting.
5. Perform other duties as required and assigned.

Experience and Requirements:

1. At least a Master’s Degree in water or related disciplines including health, economics, statistics, social sciences, monitoring and evaluation, and international development.
2. At least 10 years of direct relevant work experience in monitoring, evaluation and systems at senior level.
3. Direct experience working with partners supporting monitoring, reporting as well as work programmes for the African Union Commission (AUC), AMCOW, AUDA-NEPAD, UN Agencies, and Development Partners.
4. Experience in qualitative and quantitative operational research across countries, with substantive experience in preparing case studies.
5. Experience in providing the following types of support: technical assistance, policy analysis, sector systems performance reviews, policy advocacy, and grant making; and targeting one or more of the following stakeholders: the AUC, governments, civil society, development partners towards improvements in governance policy and practice.
6. Excellent diplomacy and relationship building skills, with an ability to prioritise, negotiate, and work with a variety of cross-cultural and high-profile technical experts and development partners.
7. Experience in analyzing and presenting cross country data effectively, for a wide range of audiences, with attention to detail.
8. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
9. Ability to work well under pressure, to meet multiple deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.
10. Multi-tasking skills, able to wear many hats in a fast-paced, challenging and rewarding environment.
11. Strong facilitation and capacity building skills.
12. Strong analytical skills and data/results visualization.

Technical Expertise:

Required Expertise:

Ability to effectively manage complex databases and systems. Interpret and implement different monitoring and results measurements strategies and also ensure a proper system is in place.

Language Requirements:

1. Fluent and superior mastery of English and/or French through education and experience in a work context.
2. Portuguese and/or Arabic languages would be an asset.

Skills:

1. Strong proactive business development skills.Superior communication and presentation skills.
2. Highly refined diplomacy and persuasive skills.Very good learning and knowledge sharing skills.
3. Strong team building and motivating skills.

Computer Literacy:

1. Expert-level use of the Office suite of applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).Familiarity with project management tools.
2. Good knowledge and preferably work experience with Cloud-based technologies.

Age Requirement:

Candidate shall not be more than 55 years as at the publication of this job advert

Values:

1. High professional ethics beyond legal compliance.
2. Commitment to the public good.
3. Commitment to quality and excellence, knowledge sharing and maintaining public trust.
4. Accountability to AMCOW Secretariat, the AU member States and AMCOW Partners and Stakeholders.
5. Transparency, honesty, and integrity including cross-cultural openness and flexibility.

Citizenship Requirement:

Citizen of any of the AU countries.

Submissions of Applications:

Interested candidates for this position should submit their formal application not later than 20^th November 2023 at the address/email below.

The Executive Secretary,
African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), No. 11, T.Y. Danjuma Street, Asokoro District, Abuja, Nigeria.
Email: info@amcow-online.org;  
Female candidates are encouraged to apply.  

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

October 14, 2023 – BALI, INDONESIA

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) has been actively engaged in discussions and cooperation agreements at the 10th World Water Forum 2nd Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting, held on October 13, 2023, in Bali, Indonesia. This meeting, titled “Interaction Between Processes,” focused on deepening efforts to prepare for the forthcoming 10th World Water Forum in 2024.

AMCOW, represented by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Rashid Mbaziira, and the Chair of the AMCOW Technical Advisory Committee, Dr. Tahani Sileet, attended the event as a member of the Governing Board. A key highlight of AMCOW’s participation was signing a significant Letter of Intent to enhance cooperation and support for the organisation of the 10th World Water Forum. The Letter of Intent, signed between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, the World Water Council, and the African Minister’s Council on Water, outlines a commitment to collaborative efforts in preparation for the 10th World Water Forum, which is scheduled to take place in Bali, Indonesia, in May 2024. This agreement follows the Framework Agreement signed in October 2022 between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the World Water Council for the organisation of the 10th World Water Forum.

AMCOW’s critical role in this agreement highlights its dedication to fostering cooperation, socio-economic development, and adequate water resource management across Africa. As coordinators of the Africa Region of the Regional Process for the 10th World Water Forum, AMCOW plays a vital role in addressing the unique water challenges faced by the African continent. This commitment underscores the importance of the Africa Regional Process in addressing the diverse water needs of the region for shared prosperity.

Indonesia’s active involvement in global water issues and its hosting of the 10th World Water Forum in 2024 reflect its dedication to resolving water challenges on a global scale. The World Water Council, as an international multi-stakeholder platform, is committed to stimulating action on critical water issues at all levels, with a primary focus on the political dimensions of water security, adaptation, and sustainability. The World Water Council also owns the “World Water Forum” brand, recognised as the most significant global event dedicated to water.

The Letter of Intent signifies the Parties’ intent to jointly carry out activities in preparing the Africa Regional Process for the 10th World Water Forum. These activities will be defined further in subsequent agreements, specifying the roles and responsibilities of each Party. Notably, the Letter of Intent does not create legal obligations under international law, but only a commitment to cooperation in successfully organising the 10th Forum in Bali in May 2024.

During this strategic engagement, Dr. Rashid Mbaziira, the Executive Secretary of AMCOW, seized the opportunity to exchange insights with Indonesia’s Honourable Minister for Public Works and Housing, Hon. Basuki Hadimuljono. Their discussions revolved around critical issues within the water and sanitation sector, including the highly anticipated AfricaSan7 Conference.

Furthermore, Dr. Mbaziira discussed with various other African delegates at the event. Among these notable figures were Mamadou Mamour Diallo, the Director-General of the National Office for Sanitation (ONAS) in Senegal, Mouhamadou Gueye, the Director of Autonomous Sanitation, also from Senegal, and Dr. Diatta, who represented Senegal as well.

These interactions underscore the commitment of AMCOW and its key members to the sustainable management of water resources in Africa and the broader global community. By actively participating in the preparatory meetings and engaging in constructive dialogues, AMCOW is ensuring that the African perspective contributes effectively to global water and sanitation policies and the achievement of sustainable development goals.

Overall, AMCOW’s presence at the 10th World Water Forum Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting and its participation in this cooperation agreement reaffirm its dedication to addressing critical water issues and advancing water management solutions in Africa and on a global scale. The collaboration between these parties sets the stage for a promising and impactful 10th World Water Forum in 2024.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, October 3, 2023.

The African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) Secretariat successfully hosted the 4th meeting of the African Water and Sanitation Partners’ Coordination Platform (PCP) on October 2-3, 2023, at the AUC Headquarters. The conference aimed to build upon previous successes and strategies for advancing Africa’s water and sanitation agenda.

The PCP meeting focused on key objectives, including guiding the shaping of the post-African Water Vision 2025 and garnering support for adopting ‘Water Security and Sanitation for Peace and Development’ as the African Union’s theme for 2026. The meeting is also planned for the third Pan-African Implementation and Partnership Conference on Water (PANAFCON-3) and the coordination of Africa’s contribution to the 10th World Water Forum in Indonesia.

A total of 40 participants engaged in the meeting, with 24 attending in person and 16 participating virtually via Zoom. Participants included representatives of the Member States, AUC, AUDA-NEPAD Water Centres for Excellence, AMCOW Secretariat, African Civil Society Network on Water and Sanitation (ANEW), Regional Economic Communities (RECs), River and Lake Basin Organisations (RLBOs), Global Water Partnership (GWP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Un-Water, UNECE Water Convention, WaterAid, International Water and Sanitation Centre (IRC), Africa Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), and Africa Renaissance.

Several opening remarks were delivered, emphasising the importance of collaboration and coordination. The Executive Secretary of AMCOW, Dr Rashid Mbaziira, called for a revitalisation of the operational arrangements of the PCP, stressing the need for more interaction within thematic clusters. Dr Zebene Lakew Teffera highlighted Africa’s water and sanitation challenges, urging stakeholders to address gaps and align efforts with upcoming events. Dr Mohy Tohami emphasised the continent’s potential to realise its water goals through joint endeavours. And the Representative of the Director SEBE, on behalf of H.E. Amb. Josefa Sacko underscored the meeting’s role in advancing the water and sanitation agenda for socio-economic development.

Discussion Points, Outcomes, and Agreed Actions

Thematic Clusters

The meeting addressed thematic clusters, recognising the initiatives of partner organisations. Attendees acknowledged the progress made by UNDRR and the AUDA-NEPAD CoE in capacity development. Questions were raised about the utilisation of research and data discrepancies. The PCP agreed to inquire about interest in joining clusters, convene online meetings, and revitalise the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the PCP cluster working group.

Partners presented overviews of water and sanitation support. The PCP acknowledged partner actions and emphasised ongoing support to Member States, RLBOs, and RECs. Efforts to improve water wisdom through a harmonised Knowledge Agenda for the continent were also highlighted.

On updates of the World Water Forum (WWF), the PCP discussed the progress report on the Dakar Declaration and emphasised the need for a comprehensive UN Water Strategy. Actions were agreed upon for adopting the ‘Water Security and Sanitation for Peace and Development’ theme for 2026.

Concerning the high-level meeting on transboundary water management, the PCP noted progress on the outcomes and the way forward for the high-level meeting on transboundary water management in Africa.

The PCP acknowledged progress on implementing water projects of transboundary dimension under PIDA-PAP II. During the deliberation on Africa Climate Week Activities, participants sought clarification on the roadmap for implementing the Nairobi Declaration, with the AUC committing to sharing the declaration.

The progress towards Africa Water Vision 2025 was discussed against indicators of continental commitments on water and sanitation. A post-2025 Africa Water Vision roadmap was developed, emphasising coordination and capacity development.

Strategies were agreed upon to promote the water theme for 2026. Also, the meeting discussed hosting the AfricaSan 7 Conference in Namibia.

Overall, the PCP was deemed engaging and successful, with participants committing to actions for timely delivery and reporting at the next PCP in 2024.

Institutions: AMCOW with the support of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)

Detailed Description of the Activity:

Background

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) has the primary mission of providing political leadership, policy direction and advocacy in the provision, use, and management of water resources for sustainable social and economic development and maintenance of African ecosystems. The African Union Commission considers AMCOW serves as a support mechanism to its Specialized Technical Committee (STC) to drive the achievement of impactful results in the water and sanitation sectors. At the African Union Heads of State and Government Summit of July 2008, the African Minister’s Council on Water (AMCOW) was mandated to report annually on progress achieved in implementing the African Union (AU) commitments made in the 2008 Sharm El-Sheikh Commitments on water and sanitation, taking into account several international agreements including the Africa Water Vision 2025, the Africa Agenda 2063, as well as the global Sustainable Development Goals 6 (SDG-6) targets on clean water and sanitation.

In response to this directive, AMCOW in collaboration with the African Union Commission, and with financial support from Africa Water Facility (AWF) through the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), developed a web-based reporting system, the African Water and Sanitation Sector Monitoring and Reporting System (WASSMO) in October 2015: https://www.africawat-sanreports.org/Ui. This platform provides for reporting on water and sanitation sector indicators under seven themes: water infrastructure for growth; managing and protecting water resources; water supply, sanitation, hygiene, and wastewater; climate change and disaster risk reduction (DRR); governance and institutions; and financing.  

In June, AMCOW launched the 2023 WASSMO data collection campaign. This year’s data drive is focused on completing the missing baseline information and addressing the current data gaps from 2016 to date. The Secretariat of AMCOW will be conducting in-country missions to provide technical support to Member States as a means of strengthening their capacity to adequately collect the required quality of data for developing Africa’s Water and Sanitation Sector (WASSMO) 2023 Report. It is for this purpose that AMCOW requires the technical assistance of a data analyst expert that will support the cleaning, quality checks, analysis, and visualization of the WASSMO data. The aim is to contribute to the development of a high-quality WASSMO report that is of international reporting standards.  

The AMCOW Secretariat is seeking a data analyst and visualisation consultant to support in the analysis and interpretation of the data for developing the 2023 WASSMO report that includes strategic high-level findings and recommendations for insightful decisions by water and sanitation sector decision makers. Data analyst consultant will present the key findings of the different sections of the WASSMO report to AMCOW Secretariat

Tasks and Responsibilities

Through a consultative and participatory process, the consultant will work with the AMCOW Secretariat to perform the following activities:

• Interpret data, analyse results using statistical techniques and provide periodic updates on activity progress.
• Review the existing excel data analytics tools and ensure their compatibility with the WASSMO data collection systems and explore other strategies to enhance statistical efficiency and quality.

• Identify, analyse, and interpret trends or patterns in data sets.
• Filter and “clean” data by reviewing computer reports, printouts.
• Assist the team in improving and streamlining processes regarding data flow and data quality to improve data accuracy, viability, and value.
• Support the delivery of analytics and reporting solutions using Power BI/Data Visualization software or others.
• Present the analysis per themes and country status.

Deliverables

• WASSMO data exploration, analysis and modelling performed on the database, resulting in a clean data set to inform the 2023 WASSMO report narrative.  
• Any additional deliverables that are part of the WASSMO data analytics outputs (infographics, charts, etc.)

Qualification and Experience

• Minimum of a master’s degree in Statistics, Economics, Information Systems, Mathematics, Business Analysis, Management, or related field. PhD is an added advantage.
• At least 15 years experiences as senior statistician or related field.
• High Intelligence Quotient, Computer Science, or Knowledge in working with several Statistical Software is required.
• Relevant work experience as a data analyst or business data analyst and visualisation for both quantitative and qualitative data.
• Familiarity with AMCOW Secretariat work and water and sanitation sector landscape in Africa.
• Strong writing abilities with articulative skills to develop a concise quality research analytic report on the results of Member States’ WASSMO data.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English. French will be an added advantage.

Skills and abilities

• Highly skilled in research and analysis: Very strong qualitative and analytic skills; keen attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Technical expertise regarding data models, database design development, data mining and segmentation techniques
• Knowledge of statistics and experience using statistical packages for analysing datasets (Excel, SPSS, STATA, SAS etc.)
• Excellent communication skills: Strong knowledge of and experience with Data reporting packages (Business Objects etc.), databases (SQL etc.), and data visualization tools (Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
• Other: Demonstrated competence with using standard data software packages (MS Excel, MS Access, etc.).

Contract duration

The contract will be effective from date of signing and for a maximum of 90 days

Reporting language

English

Mode and logistics

The consultancy service will be provided remotely

How to apply

Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience are invited to submit updated profile and cover letter explaining their motivation and why best suited for the assignment. Candidates are also encouraged to provide samples of previous related works.

AMCOW only accept applications sent via email – info@amcow-online.org

Please forward the application in English through the stated email no later than 29 September 2023.

The Executive Secretary,

African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW)

No. 11 T. Y. Danjuma Street, Asokoro District, Abuja, Nigeria.

For more information about AMCOW and its work programme, kindly refer to AMCOW website www.amcow-online.org

Nairobi, Republic of Kenya – September 6, 2023 – The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) held a two-day East Africa Sub-Regional Ministerial Consultation and Technical Expert Committee Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya. The event, which took place from September 6 to 7, 2023, convened key stakeholders to discuss critical water and sanitation issues facing the Eastern Africa region. The Governance Framework of AMCOW requires that its subsidiary bodies such as the Sub-Regional Ministerial Committees (SRMCs) and Technical Expert Committees (TECs), hold annual meetings. This is essential to ensure that the decisions of the Governing Council are informed and influenced by the real needs of the Member States across Sub-Regions. Against this background, the East Africa Sub-Regional meeting was held to discuss key water priorities that are unique to the Sub-Region.

The Director Department of Transboundary Water Resources, Ministry of Water and Sanitation and Irrigation, Mrs Gladys Wekesa chaired the meeting. In her remarks, she stated that the consultation is a significant follow-up to the 13th Ordinary Session of the AMCOW Council of Ministers held from June 13 to 15, 2023 in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt.

During the meeting, experts discussed vital topics, including AMCOW Secretariat’s financial progress report from January 2023 to June 2023, progress towards the achievement of goals of the 2008 Sharm el-Sheikh Declaration on water and sanitation, the post-2025 Africa Water Vision, and the AfricaSan 7 Conference, Action on Water Adaptation and Resilience (AWARe) Initiative, and Africa’s preparatory process towards the 10th World Water Forum to be held in May 2024 in Indonesia.

This subregional meeting also presented an opportunity for AMCOW to highlight several ongoing initiatives and key events, including the AMCOW Youth and Gender Inclusion (YoGI) Strategy, and AMCOW’s Communications and Visibility Strategy and the Africa’s Voice on Water (AVoW) magazine. Further discussions were on the preparations towards the Africa Water Facility (AWF) Governing Council Meeting, the 5th Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment (ARDW), and the Cairo Water Week 2023.

Overall, the consultation is a critical platform for fostering cooperation, sharing knowledge, and making collective decisions to address the water challenges in the regions. AMCOW remains committed to advancing water-related issues for the benefit of the people and the environment across the five Sub-Regions in Africa. The proposed decisions reached by the Technical Experts Committee were documented in the Aide Memoire and recommended for submission for the consideration of the Ministerial Council.

ABUJA, Nigeria, September 2023

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Government of the Republic of Namibia, will convene the Seventh Africa Sanitation and Hygiene Conference, commonly called the AfricaSan7 Conference. The event will take place in Swakopmund, Namibia, on 6 – 11 November 2023 – under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR).

The AfricaSan Conference is organised biennially to promote high-level political prioritisation of sanitation and hygiene issues across Africa. This 7th Edition is convened on the theme: “Strengthening Systems and Partnerships for Accelerated Action on Safely Managed Sanitation and Hygiene.”

The overall objective of the AfricaSan7 Conference is to revitalise the pursuit of the targets of the 2008 Ngor Declaration of African Ministers responsible for sanitation and hygiene. Among others, one specific Conference objective includes strengthening partnerships and facilitating knowledge exchange for action on delivering safely managed sanitation and hygiene services.

AfricaSan7 will convene ministers responsible for sanitation and hygiene in Africa, together with senior civil servants, academics, civil society, development partners and the private sector to take stock of the following:

1. The 2023 AfricaSan Ngor report highlighting Member States’ advancements in sanitation.
2. The Dakar Declaration’s suggestions from the 9th World Water Forum that elevate sanitation’s role in national development and, 
3. The UN 2023 Water Conference decisions to hastening SDG on sanitation and hygiene.

The AfricaSan7 follows in the tradition of six previous editions of the Africa Sanitation and Hygiene Conferences – held on a rotational basis across the five African sub-regions. The Government of the Republic of Namibia will host this editionat the prestigious MTC Dome in Swakopmund.

Arrangements have been in top gear since 17 August when the Cabinet of the Government of the Republic of Namibia approved the joint hosting of the AfricaSan7 Conference with AMCOW.

The technical sessions, Ministerial Dialogues, country and sector dialogues will address several thematic areas across different conference segments. The conference’s attendees will be African Union Member States, UN Agencies, networks of development partners, the private sector, civil societies, community-based organisations, and the media.

For more information about the AfricaSan7 Conference, click on: www.africasan.amcow-online.org

About the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW)

The African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) is an intergovernmental institution of the African Union. AMCOW’s organs and structures serve as the Working Group of the African Union’s Water and Sanitation Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE).

AMCOW’s mission is to provide political leadership, policy direction, and advocacy for water management and sustainable sanitation services delivery in Africa. The Council convenes the AU Member States and all stakeholders, pursuing the Africa Water Vision, Ngor commitments, and SDGs. Our mandate involves mobilising collective action to achieve water and sanitation goals, streamlining efforts for a broader impact. Additionally, we share knowledge to support evidence-based policies and responsive initiatives. Efficient resource utilisation is crucial to guide funding and investments for effective outcomes. AMCOW strives to improve water and sanitation services in Africa through political leadership, policy direction, and strategic collaboration among diverse actors.

To arrange for interviews please contact

Obinna Anah

AMCOW Knowledge Management, Communications and Visibility Officer

oanah@amcow-online.org

And

Jona Musheko

Communication Officer at Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Namibia

Jona.Musheko@mawlr.gov.na

For more information, visit https://www.amcow-online.org  

Follow AMCOW/MAWLR: 

Twitter: @amcowafrica

LinkedIn: https://ng.linkedin.com/company/amcowafrica

Twitter: @MAWLR_Nam

Facebook: Ministry of Agriculture, Water & Land Reform

AMCOW is making concerted effort to advance the adoption of the post-2025 Africa Water Vision at the forthcoming African Union Summit in February 2026. As a result, the Executive Secretary, Dr Rashid Mbaziira embarked on a diplomatic mission across several member states, including Gambia, Sao Tome, Eswatini, and Burkina Faso. The purpose of these visits, held in July-August 2023, was to raise awareness and foster engagement among member states on critical water and sanitation issues and priorities.

Focusing on Water and Sanitation for Africa’s Development

During these diplomatic visits, the AMCOW Executive Secretary emphasised the critical role of water and sanitation in driving socio-economic development throughout the continent. He stressed water’s vitality across multiple sectors, spanning extraction, production, finance, insurance, real estate, public administration, ICT, transportation, and trade. He also demonstrated how effective water management, coupled with the provision of water, sanitation, and hygiene services, exerts a profound impact on economic growth, job creation, labour productivity, prosperity, general wellbeing, peace, and security.

Dr Rashid highlighted how data from the Africa Water and Sanitation Sector Monitoring (WASSMO) system reveal substantial gaps in the pursuit of water and sanitation goals across Africa. He went forward to explain how these gaps hold direct implications for Africa’s overarching agenda, aiming at fostering economic growth and prosperity for all.

The Post-2025 Africa Water Vision

With less than three years remaining before the final milestone of the Africa Water Vision 2025 (AWV2025), meticulous preparations are already underway to transition into the post-2025 era. AMCOW Executive Secretary presented the principal goal of securing the adoption of the post-2025 Africa Water Vision by the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU-HoSG), while also ensuring its alignment with AU Agenda 2063. In line with this, there has been a proposal to adopt ‘Water Security and Sanitation for Peace and Development’ as the theme for the African Union in 2026.

AfricaSan7 Conference and Commitments to Sanitation

Another critical aspect of the engagements with member states was to underscore the significance of active participation in the forthcoming 7th edition of the Africa Sanitation and Hygiene (AfricaSan7) Conference, scheduled to take place from November 6-11, 2026. Dr Mbaziira stressed that the conference will facilitate the assessment of progress by member states in meeting their sanitation and hygiene commitments, as outlined in the 2023 AfricaSan Ngor report. He further explained that the conference will consider the recommendations from the Dakar Declaration of the 9th World Water Forum and commitments arising from the UN 2023 Water Conference.

Enhancing Data for Informed Decision-Making

The visits discussed efforts to mobilise member states’ contribution to the preparation of the 2023 WASSMO report. He demonstrated that the report will be the foundational framework for crafting technical proposals for the post-2025 Africa Water Vision, while keeping Africa Agenda 2063 in sight. He spoke about the importance of collecting high-quality data as it is essential for effectively addressing the actual challenges to water security in Africa. He also stressed that efforts to harness Africa’s vast water resources for social transformation, economic growth, trade, peace, and security necessitates the creation of a comprehensive action framework.

Regional Engagement for Ownership and Impact

Furthermore, Dr Mbaziira highlighted that the imperativeness of member states’ ownership in water-related initiatives has made AMCOW embark on efforts to operationalise water management functions at the regional level. He stressed that the approach acknowledges that continental policy initiatives must be closely aligned with the genuine needs of member states and developed through a Bottom-Up-Top-Down approach. The strategy entails the annual convening of sub-regional Ministerial Committee meetings across AMCOW’s five regions, wherein member states actively participate in shaping continental policy formulation and implementation.

Anticipated Outcomes

These engagements with member states are underpinned by four overarching priorities:

1. The adoption of ‘Water Security and Sanitation for Peace and Development’ as the theme for the African Union in 2026.
2. Active engagement and leadership of Ministers responsible for water, sanitation, and hygiene affairs at the AfricaSan7 Conference.
3. The active contribution of information from a minimum of 50 member states for the preparation of the 2023 WASSMO Report, thereby providing a solid situational analysis for shaping the post-2025 Africa Water Vision.
4. Active involvement of member states in sub-regional Ministerial Committee meetings, serving as the driving force behind continental policy formulation and implementation.

The commitment of AMCOW, in partnership with its member states, remains unwavering in tackling the water and sanitation challenges facing Africa.

The hunt is on for the public and private sector institutions contributing most to private capital mobilization and developing bankable and investable Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) projects in Africa.

Africa, as a continent, needs to mobilise $3trn to meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) projects by 2030, while the whole world only managed to mobilise $2.8trn for renewable energy investments over the past 20 years, with Africa only receiving 2% of that global sum.

Announced at the Global NDC Conference in Berlin, the 2023 NDC Investment Summit and Awards will be presented in December at COP28 in the UAE.

Hosted by the African investor (Ai) and sponsored by the African Green Infrastructure Investment Bank (AfGIIB), these NDC awards are the only international, pan-African NDC investment awards that recognize and reward both public and private sector institutions that are working to innovate and break new ground to mobilize private capital and private sector participation at scale, to Africa’s bankable NDC investment commitments and projects.

Could your organisation or project be a 2023 NDC Investment Initiative of the Year?

Entry is a simple 500-word nomination outlining how your organisation meets the awards criteria. Entries from any public or private institution, whether African or international, are welcome, provided they meet the attached category criteria.

DOWNLOAD NDC INVESTMENT AWARDS ENTRY PACK HERE

NDC Investment Awards will be presented in the following categories:

Best NDC Sector Initiatives of the Year:

1. Best Waste NDC Initiative of the Year
2. Best Energy NDC Initiative of the Year
3. Best Transport NDC Initiative of the Year
4. Best Urban Development NDC of the Year
5. Best Forestry NDC Initiative of the Year
6. Best Agriculture NDC Initiative of the Year
7. Best Education NDC Initiative of the Year
8. Best Health NDC Initiative of the Year
9. Best Water NDC Initiative of the Year
10. Best Tourism NDC Initiative of the Year

Private Capital Mobilization Initiatives of the Year:

1. Best Investable NDC Adaption Initiative of the Year
2. Best Bankable Donor NDC Initiative of the Year (technical assistance/financing/project development).
3. Best Blended Investment NDC Initiative of the Year
4. Best Financeable NDC City Initiative of the Year
5. Best GreenTech NDC Initiative of the Year

The NDC Awards Secretariat will present the following Honorary NDC Presidential Investment Statesman of the Year Awards to recognise exemplary Presidential investment leadership on Africa’s climate transition.

Honorary NDC Presidential Investment Statesman of the Year Awards.

1) Presidential ” Green Infrastructure Investment Statesman” of the Year

2) Presidential “Just Transition Investment Statesman ” of the Year

3) Presidential ” Carbon Exchange Investment Statesman”  of the Year

4) Presidential” Transport Investment Statesman” of the Year

5) Presidential “Water Investment Statesman” of the Year

6)  Presidential “Agriculture Investment Statesman” of the Year

The 2023 NDC Investment Awards high-level Adjudication panel consists:

• Dr. Hubert Danso, Chairman of Africa Investor Group and the Chair of the NDC Awards Adjudication panel.
• Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and UN SRSG for Sustainable Energy for All, Co-Chair of UN-Energy.
• John Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
• Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, President of the World Association of PPP Units (WAPPP).
• Kandeh Yumkella, Former UN Under-Secretary-General and Secretary-General’s Special Representative and CEO.

Commenting on the Ai NDC Investment Awards winners, Dr Hubert Danso, Chairman of Africa Investor Group and the Chair of the NDC Awards Adjudication panel, said, “Africa investor (Ai) is proud to use its global investment platform to showcase and recognize Africa’s NDC project sponsors, developers, financiers, investors and Presidential Champions. This growing community of leaders are critical to the continent mobilising the required $3trn of green investment for our NDCs by 2030 to pursue Africa’s NetZero aspirations.

He went on to say, “The importance of these global NDC Investment Awards cannot be overstated, given the scale, urgency and fact that the majority of Africa’s $3trn of NDC’s investment requirements will need to mobilize and secure unprecedented allocations of private capital at scale and speed, which is why we are pleased to add this year, a dedicated Private Capital Mobilization category.

The deadline for entry submissions is August 31 this year, and the shortlist will be announced the following month, on September 22, during UN Climate Week in New York. The Award winners will be announced in December at COP28 in the UAE.

Please see and feel free to share this entry pack link widely with your networks, which sets out the entry criteria and submission dates: https://ndcinvestmentawards.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NDC-Investment-Awards-2023-F1.pdf

To submit your entry, please click here.

ENDS**

Note to Editors

For more information on the Ai African NDC Investment Awards, visit: www.ndcinvestmentawards.com, or email: tmutasa@africainvestor.com

About The NDC Investment Awards Headline sponsor

The African Green Infrastructure Investment Bank (AfGIIB) is an African Union-convened and supported African institutional investor-led, global climate investment platform to catalyze private capital for Africa’s green transition. Visit www.afgiib.com for more information.

About Africa investor (Ai) Group

Africa investor (Ai) Group is an institutional investment holding platform that aligns its pools of capital from sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, family offices, and long-term investors with vetted infrastructure, private equity, and technology investment opportunities in Africa. Visit www.africainvestor.com

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