Staff Reporter
CALLE Schlettwein, as Chairperson of the Africa Water Facility (AWF) Governing Council, opened the Council’s 24th meeting in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on 7 November 2024.
Speaking at the meeting, which takes place at a time when African leaders need to be circumspect to their people and their needs, he said, “They need peace, not war, they need sustainability and security, not greed and inequality, they need affordable water and a healthy environment, not desertification and deforestation, nor depletion and destruction of natural ecosystems. As Chairperson of the AWF Governing Council, I am privileged to open this gathering, one that marks another significant chapter in our united pursuit of water security across Africa.”
He added that since its establishment in 2016 by AMCOW and the African Development Bank, the African Water Facility serves as a critical platform for fostering sustainable water management in Africa and to increase beneficiary access to clean water and sanitation, especially for the vulnerable and with a strong focus on urban settings.
“Our meeting today reflects the culmination of dedicated efforts and strategic actions guided by the Revised Strategy of 2017-2025, a roadmap that has guided the AWF in realising its core mandates and impact. Our meeting also constitutes the culmination of this year’s advocacy and outreach efforts undertaken by myself and the AfDB/AWF teams, from Bali to Toronto, from Toronto to Stockholm, and from Stockholm to Cairo. We have been very busy in securing new interest from Partners and Donors alike. Other highlights you will hear about today cover, but not exclusively, AWF’s healthy portfolio, a new and robust pipeline, the significant increase in project approvals, new support and pledges received, an amended Instrument of Establishment making AWF fit-for-purpose for the future, a new website and improved communications, as well as the successful global and Africa launches of the African Urban Sanitation Investment Initiative (AUSII),” Schlettwein said.
He added that another key highlight covers the development of AWF’s new Investment Promotions Strategy with Technical Assistance provided by USAID.
“Allow me to take this occasion to thank again our trusted USAID colleagues for their incredible help and support. Allow me also to welcome USAID as the newest member of the African Water Facility. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship and to your guidance as a member of the AWF Governing Council,” the Namibian minister said.
He added that the meeting will focus on receiving an update from AMCOW on the development of the New Africa Water Vision, reviewing and adopting AWF’s work plan and budget for 2025, as well as examining the progress of our ongoing projects.
