Improving global water security

Context

Around four billion people live in countries where water is scarce. Climate change and impaired ecosystems are exacerbating the situation and increasing the risk of migration, conflict and inequality.

Water security is essential for humans and nature: it ensures better drinking water supplies and sanitation, and thus promotes hygiene. Functioning ecosystems are dependent on water security, as are food and energy security. Peace and stability in the countries concerned are also closely connected to it. Furthermore, water security contributes to more effective responses to climate extremes such as droughts, and supports the long-term development of societies.

Objective

Global water security has increased. Partner institutions throughout Africa have improved their cooperation and take a targeted approach to managing it.

Approach

The project advises the African Union Commission (AUC) and African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), with the aim of better managing and supporting Africa’s water architecture. Advisory services cover a large number of officials in local, national and transnational administrations. The river and lake basin organisations play a particularly important role here as they manage transboundary waters.

The project contributes to improving institutional frameworks and water governance. For example, the aim is for AUC and AMCOW to secure investment in water infrastructure and monitor the water situation in Africa. The project thus supports these partners in increasing water security. In this way, cross-border resource conflicts can be reduced.

The project also plans to establish a global knowledge and advisory platform to share innovative approaches to water security, with a focus on transboundary issues.

The project is cofinanced by the European Union as part of a Team Europe Initiative.

Last update: September 2024