A Context Marked by Major Challenges
In his opening remarks, Abdoulaye SENE, Chair of GWP-WA, highlighted key issues:
- Water security and climate resilience,
- Political instability and economic pressures,
while commending the progress made since the last AP in 2023.
He stressed the need to align actions with the GWP Global Strategy 2026–2030, focused on financing, governance, and digital transformation.
Sessions Rich in Exchanges and Decisions
The Assembly reviewed and approved:
- Chair’s moral report (2023–2025),
- Financial report: a cumulative budget of €4.34 million over three years, with an overall execution rate of 62%,
- 2026 Work Plan and 2026–2027 Program,
- GWP Strategy 2026–2030, aiming to mobilize €15 billion in investments and improve water governance in 150 contexts by 2030.
Strategic Communications
Highlights included:
- Dr. Boubacar BARRY advocated for water valorization as a lever for sovereignty and peace, emphasizing hydrodiplomacy, infrastructure, and climate finance.
- Mahamane TOURE (ECOWAS) presented the West Africa Regional Water Forum (FREAO), scheduled for 2026 in Abidjan, as a major platform for cooperation and financing.
- K. Armand HOUANYE launched the Manual of Good IWRM Practices in the WAEMU Area, the result of a two-year participatory process, capitalizing on 33 innovative initiatives.
- GWPO unveiled the main pillars of the 2026–2030 Strategy, centered on finance, governance, and knowledge.
Key Decisions and Resolutions
The PA adopted six major resolutions, including:
- Appointment of Mr. Amadou Lamine NDIAYE as the new Executive Secretary of GWP-WA,
- Extension of the mandates of the Chair and Steering Committee until 2027,
- Approval of strategic and financial documents,
- Validation of the mandatory 15% contribution on projects, with a progressive implementation mechanism.
A Call for Collective Action
Closing the session, Mr SENE praised the collective ownership of the new strategy and announced preparations for the “Future of Water” Conference in 2026. He urged partners to maintain innovation, rigor, and mobilization to meet financial and operational challenges.