The Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation held a press conference to unveil the African Water Forum: “From Vision to Action.” Scheduled for July 15-16, 2026, in N’Djamena, the event will gather key stakeholders, including the World Bank’s resident representative in Chad.

During the announcement, the minister highlighted Chad’s abundant water resources, including Lake Chad, major rivers such as the Chari and Logone, and other vital bodies of water like Lake Fitri, Lake Léré, Lake Iro, Bahr Aouk, Batha, and Bitéha. “We also share the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer and multiple transboundary basins that sustain our region,” he noted. “As a Sahelian nation, we face unique water challenges—climate pressures, rapid population growth, and fragile infrastructure. That’s why Chad is stepping forward to lead this continental dialogue.”

The Forum reflects both partner confidence and the government’s commitment to prioritize water security. “Water is not just a natural resource; it is the foundation of development, peace, and community resilience,” he emphasized.

Chad’s leadership is focused on three core objectives: expanding access to clean drinking water and sanitation for all citizens, including the most vulnerable; boosting irrigation to safeguard food production; and ensuring sustainable management of shared water resources, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin and Nubian Sandstone Aquifer.

Discussing the partnership with the World Bank, the minister underscored the institution’s renewed dedication to Chad. “A new project in development marks a significant milestone in our long-term water sector strategy,” he stated. The initiative aligns with Water Forward principles—water for people, food, and the planet—which are central to the country’s national development plan, inspired by the President’s political agenda.

The Forum aims to yield tangible outcomes, including national water compacts for participating countries and accountability mechanisms to track commitments. “Chad is ready to lead not only as host but as a driving force in Africa’s water transformation,” the minister concluded.