The Chadian government, led by State Minister of Finance Tahir Hamid Nguilin, alongside the World Bank’s resident representative in Chad, Farouk Mollah Banna, held a press briefing on May 22 to unveil details about the upcoming African Water Forum.
The event, titled From Vision to Action, is scheduled for July 15–16, 2026, in N’Djamena. State Minister Nguilin expressed enthusiasm over Chad’s role as host, emphasizing the nation’s pivotal position in regional water governance.
« Chad stands as a true water nation, » Nguilin noted, highlighting the country’s vast hydrological assets—including Lake Chad, major rivers such as the Chari and Logone, and lakes like Fitri, Léré, and Iro. He also underscored Chad’s shared responsibilities in transboundary basins like the Nubian Aquifer, which sustains multiple West and Central African nations.
Despite these resources, Chad faces mounting challenges: climate-induced water stress, rapid population growth, and underdeveloped hydraulic infrastructure. The minister framed the forum as a critical platform to address these crises and elevate water security in national and continental agendas.
« Hosting this forum reflects Chad’s commitment to placing water security at the forefront of our development priorities, » he stated. « It also signals our partners’ confidence in our ability to lead meaningful dialogue on sustainable water management. »
Farouk Mollah Banna, the World Bank’s representative in Chad, announced a major financial initiative to bolster the country’s water sector. « A $160 million project is currently in development, » he revealed, « with board approval slated for two weeks prior to the forum. » The initiative aims to strengthen infrastructure, enhance access to clean water, and improve resilience against droughts.
The forum will convene policymakers, technical experts, and financial partners from across Africa. Discussions will focus on actionable strategies for better water governance, equitable resource distribution, and long-term solutions to the continent’s water challenges.
