The African Development Bank Group, in collaboration with the African Water Facility and the Association of European Development Finance Institutions, is set to host a high-level event aimed at generating investment for water and sanitation services in Africa. Scheduled for 18 March 2025 in Brussels, the event will bring together development finance institutions, private sector investors, and philanthropic organizations.
At the event, the African Development Bank and African Water Facility will showcase investment-ready projects and those in their pipeline, providing opportunities for investors and development financiers to support impactful water and sanitation initiatives. These projects, including homegrown solutions, are designed to drive economic growth, social stability, and improvements in public health across Africa.
The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as Africa grapples with significant water and sanitation challenges exacerbated by a growing population that is expected to double by 2050. Currently, millions of people lack access to safe drinking water, essential sanitation services, and basic hygiene facilities, according to a 2020 report by UNICEF and the WHO. This lack of access contributes to public health crises, including the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera and diarrhea, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths annually on the continent.
The economic costs of inadequate water and sanitation access are staggering, with sub-Saharan Africa losing up to $5.5 billion per year due to healthcare expenses and lost productivity. However, investing in climate-resilient water and sanitation services could yield significant economic returns, with every $1 spent potentially resulting in $7 in returns.
Mtchera Chirwa, Director for Water Development and Sanitation at the African Development Bank, emphasized the importance of investing in water and sanitation infrastructure for economic growth and public health. He highlighted the potential for job creation, improved health outcomes, and economic growth through funding high-impact projects.
In addition to funding opportunities, the event will facilitate discussions on public-private partnerships, blended finance models, and innovative financing mechanisms to accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 – universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.
David Kuijper, CEO of the Association of European Development Finance Institutions, underscored the importance of collaboration in driving transformative change. He expressed the value of partnering with the African Development Bank and African Water Facility to mobilize financial and technical resources for water and sanitation projects in Africa.
As the event approaches, stakeholders are gearing up to explore opportunities for investment and partnership to address Africa’s water and sanitation challenges. By leveraging resources and expertise, these organizations aim to make a meaningful impact on public health, economic development, and social well-being across the continent.
For media inquiries, contact Mary Ajayi, Communications Specialist for Water Development and Sanitation at media@afdb.org. To learn more about the African Development Bank Group and its initiatives, visit www.AfDB.org.
