Tchad hosts african water forum in 2026 to tackle hydric challenges

The Tchadian government has unveiled plans to host the African Water Forum From Vision to Action in N’Djamena on July 15–16, 2026, marking a landmark event for the country.

Chad bets on water security as it prepares to welcome continental leaders

Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Tchad’s Minister of State for Finance, outlined the nation’s commitment to water governance during a May 22 press conference alongside Farouk Mollah Banna, the World Bank’s Resident Representative in the country.

The minister highlighted Tchad’s rich hydrological landscape, calling it a « land of water » thanks to its vast lakes and rivers: Lake Tchad, the Chari and Logone rivers, and smaller bodies such as Lakes Fitri, Léré and Iro. He also pointed to Tchad’s role in shared basins like the Nubian Aquifer and other transboundary systems that sustain neighboring regions.

Yet despite these resources, Tchad faces mounting pressures: climate change, rapid population growth and aging water infrastructure are straining supply networks. Addressing these concerns, the Minister stressed the forum’s urgency: « These challenges demand a continental response. By hosting this event, we signal our government’s resolve to make water security a national priority. »

World Bank to unveil $160 million water project before forum

Farouk Mollah Banna confirmed that the World Bank is finalizing a major $160 million investment package aimed at modernizing Tchad’s water sector. The proposal will be submitted to the executive board two weeks ahead of the forum, he noted.

The event will convene ministers, technical experts and development partners from across Africa to craft actionable strategies for sustainable water management. Discussions will focus on cross-border cooperation, climate resilience and equitable access to potable water.