Global action needed for equitable, sustainable resource distribution in Africa

Addis Ababa, March 1, 2023 (FBC) – Rapid population growth, urbanization and poor water resource management are threatening access to clean water in Africa, according to the highlights of a report on the 2023 Africa Sustainable Development by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

“Increasing global efforts are required to ensure sustainable and fair distribution to all,” said Adam Elhiraika, ECA Director of Macroeconomic Policy Division, at the ongoing Ninth session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-9) in Niamey, Niger.

“Harnessing digital technologies and promoting free and fair competition will be key to revitalizing African economies by stimulating innovation, economic growth and job creation and enhancing greater connectivity.”

According to a report presented at the event, only 30% of Sub Sahara Africa used safely managed drinking water sources compared to the world average of 74%. Access to safely managed sanitation facilities was only 21% in Sub Sahara Africa compared to the world average 54%.

The ECA director said the negative trend in water stress levels must be reversed particularly in North Africa where water stress levels reached 120.5% in 2019.

“It is crucial to appropriately manage competing demands for water resource and enhance water use efficiency such as through reuse and recycling and ecosystem protection,” note Mr Elhiraika.

“African governments need to strengthen domestic resource mobilization, including through private financing and sustainable public borrowing,” he said, adding that more efforts are needed in strategic development cooperation, “particularly enhanced South – South cooperation and issuance of impact bonds.”