Water is life. It sustains communities, drives economic growth, ensures food security, protects ecosystems, and underpins public health. Yet across Africa, water insecurity remains one of the most pressing development challenges of our time. Climate change, rapid urbanization, population growth, environmental degradation, and weak governance systems are intensifying pressure on already fragile water resources.
In response to these urgent challenges, the Africa Water Security Conference 2026 (AWS–2026) will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 21–23 September 2026 under the theme:
“Towards a Water-Secure and Resilient Africa: Connecting Science, Policy, and Practice.”
This major continental event will bring together researchers, policymakers, development partners, practitioners, and innovators to explore sustainable solutions for Africa’s water future.
Why Water Security Matters Now More Than Ever
Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing cities and economies. However, millions of people still lack access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation. Rural communities struggle with droughts. Urban centers face flooding. Transboundary rivers often become sources of political tension. Water pollution threatens ecosystems and public health.
Water security is no longer just an environmental issue—it is:
- A development issue
- A governance issue
- A climate issue
- A peace and security issue
Without strong water systems, it becomes impossible to achieve food security, energy security, industrial growth, or climate resilience.
AWS–2026 comes at a critical time when Africa must strengthen cooperation, innovation, and research-based policymaking.
Organized by ACEWM at Addis Ababa University
The conference is organized by the Africa Center of Excellence for Water Management (ACEWM) at Addis Ababa University (AAU).
ACEWM has established itself as a leading institution in water research, capacity building, and policy engagement in Africa. Through graduate training, research partnerships, and regional collaboration, the center contributes to strengthening water management systems across the continent.
By hosting AWS–2026 in Addis Ababa—the diplomatic capital of Africa—the organizers aim to create a powerful platform for continental dialogue and action.
Call for Abstracts: Who Should Participate?
The conference has officially announced a Call for Abstracts, inviting contributions from:
- Researchers
- Academics
- Policymakers
- Practitioners
- Water engineers
- Climate experts
- Public health professionals
- Development partners
- Graduate students
This is an opportunity for professionals across Africa and beyond to present innovative research, policy experiences, and practical solutions.
Key Thematic Areas
Participants are invited to submit abstracts in the following focus areas:
1. Climate Resilience and Adaptive Water Management
Climate variability is increasing droughts, floods, and extreme weather events across Africa. This theme focuses on:
- Climate adaptation strategies
- Integrated water resource management
- Early warning systems
- Drought and flood mitigation
- Nature-based solutions
As climate shocks intensify, adaptive water systems become essential for resilience.
2. Water Governance & Transboundary Cooperation
Africa shares many river basins across national borders, including the Nile, Niger, Congo, and Zambezi basins. Effective cooperation is vital.
This theme addresses:
- Transboundary water governance
- Water diplomacy
- Institutional frameworks
- Policy harmonization
- Conflict prevention and resolution
Strengthening water governance is fundamental for peace and regional integration.
3. Sustainable Sanitation and Public Health
Water security is closely linked to public health outcomes. Inadequate sanitation contributes to disease outbreaks and child mortality.
This track explores:
- Urban and rural sanitation systems
- Wastewater treatment technologies
- WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs
- Public health impacts
- Community engagement strategies
Improving sanitation is critical for sustainable development.
4. Innovation in Water Technology and Infrastructure
Technology is transforming water management. From smart irrigation systems to advanced water recycling technologies, innovation is reshaping the sector.
Topics include:
- Smart water systems
- Digital monitoring tools
- Water infrastructure financing
- Irrigation technologies
- Desalination and reuse
Africa must embrace technological innovation to overcome water scarcity challenges.
5. Ecosystem Restoration & Water Quality
Healthy ecosystems support sustainable water cycles. However, pollution and environmental degradation threaten water bodies.
This theme covers:
- Watershed restoration
- River basin rehabilitation
- Wetland protection
- Water quality monitoring
- Pollution control strategies
Protecting ecosystems is essential for long-term water sustainability.
Important Dates to Remember
If you are planning to submit an abstract or attend the conference, mark these dates carefully:
- 01 December 2025 – Registration & abstract submission opens
- 30 April 2026 – Abstract submission deadline
- 30 May 2026 – Notification of acceptance
- 30 June 2026 – Early-bird registration deadline
- 31 August 2026 – Standard registration deadline
Submitting early is highly recommended to secure participation.
Submission Guidelines
Abstract submissions must follow these requirements:
- Maximum 300 words
- Clearly structured with:
- Background
- Methods
- Results
- Conclusion
Authors are encouraged to present original research, case studies, innovative policy experiences, or practical implementation lessons.
Clear, concise, and well-structured abstracts are more likely to be accepted.
Why This Conference is Important for Ethiopia
Hosting AWS–2026 in Addis Ababa has strategic significance.
Ethiopia faces:
- Recurring droughts
- Urban water shortages
- Rapid population growth
- Agricultural water demand pressures
At the same time, the country is central to major transboundary water discussions, particularly within the Nile Basin.
This conference positions Ethiopia as a key player in shaping continental water dialogue and strengthens its role in research and policy leadership.
Connecting Science, Policy, and Practice
One of the most powerful aspects of AWS–2026 is its emphasis on bridging gaps.
Often, scientific research remains in academic journals without influencing policy. Meanwhile, policymakers sometimes make decisions without sufficient scientific evidence.
AWS–2026 aims to:
- Translate research into policy action
- Encourage dialogue between scientists and decision-makers
- Showcase practical implementation experiences
- Promote collaboration between universities and governments
This integrated approach is essential for achieving real, measurable impact.
Opportunities for Young Researchers and Students
Graduate students and early-career researchers are strongly encouraged to participate.
Benefits include:
- Presenting research to an international audience
- Networking with leading experts
- Receiving feedback from senior scholars
- Building professional collaborations
- Exploring funding and research opportunities
For African PhD and MSc students, this is a valuable continental platform.
Networking and Collaboration
Beyond presentations, conferences create opportunities for:
- Institutional partnerships
- Joint research proposals
- Regional capacity building
- Policy dialogues
- Private sector engagement
Water security requires collaboration across disciplines and countries. AWS–2026 provides that space.
Addis Ababa: A Strategic Venue
Addis Ababa is often referred to as the political capital of Africa. It hosts major continental institutions and diplomatic missions.
By holding AWS–2026 in Addis Ababa, organizers create opportunities for:
- Strong political engagement
- Continental visibility
- Strategic policy influence
Participants will also experience Ethiopia’s rich culture, hospitality, and historical significance.
Contact and Further Information
For inquiries, interested participants may contact:
- Prof. Feleke Zewge – [email protected]
- Dr. Berhanu Yitayew – [email protected]
Conference website:
👉 https://www.aws-2026.org/
A Call to Action
Africa’s water challenges are complex—but they are not impossible to solve.
Through research, innovation, cooperation, and policy reform, the continent can achieve water security and climate resilience.
The Africa Water Security Conference 2026 is more than an academic gathering. It is:
- A platform for solutions
- A space for continental dialogue
- A catalyst for innovation
- A step toward sustainable development
Researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and students are encouraged to prepare their abstracts and be part of this transformative event.
Water security is Africa’s future—and the future starts now.
