By Ncaba Ntshakala
Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Prince Lonkhokhela has left the country to attend two major international water conferences which is the 7th Cairo Water Week and the 9th Africa Water Week.
The minister has been invited as a special guest of the Egyptian Minister of Natural Resources and Irrigation.
Hosted at the Triumph Luxury Hotel in Cairo from October 13 to 17, 2024, these events will bring together ministers, policymakers, water experts, and stakeholders from across the African continent and beyond to deliberate on sustainable water management and development solutions.
Both forums were said to be critical platforms for addressing Africa’s water challenges, enhancing collaboration, and driving innovative policies for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
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The Africa Water Week, an initiative led by the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), aims to promote the exchange of knowledge, facilitate networking, and generate actionable strategies for water management in Africa.
Since its inception in 2008, the event has become a biennial fixture that draws participation from over 1,000 individuals, including ministers, development partners, river basin organizations, civil society groups, and researchers.
Youth organizations, academics, and media representatives also play a key role in amplifying the discussions and bringing widespread attention to Africa’s water-related issues.
AMCOW organizes the event in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and other partners.
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On the other hand, the Cairo Water Week 2024 is an essential forum for global stakeholders to transform high-level commitments into tangible solutions.
The event focuses on knowledge sharing, showcasing innovative water technologies, and forging partnerships aimed at shaping sustainable water futures.
With a strong emphasis on practical outcomes, the conference offers a unique space for participants to align efforts and turn discussions into action on water-related challenges.