The Framework was developed by AMCOW to help senior professionals and decision-makers to identify and develop “no or low regret” investment strategies, to integrate these into planning processes, and to influence future development activities so they become more resilient to climate change and variability.
According to Mr Bai Mass Taal, AMCOW Executive Secretary, the Framework “has been formulated to support the implementation of climate change related commitments expressed by African heads of state in the 2008 Sharm el Sheikh declaration on water and sanitation. The Sharm el Sheikh Declaration in particular calls for African countries to put in place adaptation measures and investment plans to improve the resilience of countries to the increasing threat of climate change and variability to water resources, and enhance capacity to meet the water and sanitation targets.”
At least 23 AMCOW Ministers witnessed the launch.
Mrs Rhoda Peace Tumusiime, Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture at the African Union Commission calls the Framework “a key milestone towards the attainment of the Africa Water Vision 2025 of equity and sustainability in the use and management of water resources for poverty alleviation, socio-economic development, regional cooperation, and the environment.”
Honorable S.S. Nkomo, Vice President of the African Minsters Council on Water, and Minister of Water Resources and Development, Zimbabwe said: "AMCOW values the partnership with GWP and partners, and here by welcomes this Framework. As I hand over the AMCOW Presidency, I am pleased to launch the Framework for Water Security and Climate Resilient Development as a contribution to Africa’s efforts in implementing economic growth and social development programs in Africa."
GWP Executive Secretary Dr Ania Grobicki said that "this important Framework that will support on-going efforts for the achievement of the Africa Water Vision and contribute to climate resilient growth and development in Africa."
CDKN African Director: "AMCOW is showing real vision in assisting African economies to grow in a way that ensures water security in a changing climate. The Framework provides an effective tool for robust water management despite an uncertain future. It puts countries in a strong position to climate-proof investment decisions and fast-track ‘no or low regret’ financing strategies that are cost effective, and deliver action and development benefits now."
The Strategic Framework has been developed as part of the Water, Climate and Development Programme (WACDEP), an AMCOW programme implemented by Global Water Partnership (GWP). It has evolved through a strong collaborative relationship between AMCOW and its Technical Advisory Committee, GWP and the Climate Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) who funded the work.
More information: www.gwp.org/wacdep, www.amcow-online.org