Water access in Chad: hope and doubt at the african water forum
The African Water Forum, themed “From Vision to Action”, kicked off today in N’Djamena, Chad. Co-hosted with the World Bank Group, the event has drawn leaders, experts, and financial partners to tackle Africa’s water access crisis—with the host nation’s struggles taking center stage.
Nearly 40% of Chad‘s population still lacks reliable access to clean drinking water, according to official figures. As delegates deliberate over policy shifts and funding strategies, ordinary citizens remain divided between cautious optimism and deep skepticism about real change.
Chadians voice their hopes and frustrations
For many residents of N’Djamena, this forum represents a chance to push for tangible improvements in daily life. Eliane, a homemaker, speaks for a growing number of locals: “As a woman and a citizen, I hope this forum will improve access to clean water. Some of the water people drink here is appalling. If this gathering can make a difference, why not?”
The event aims to turn high-level discussions into concrete projects, fostering collaboration between governments, donors, and private investors to speed up water infrastructure development across the continent.
Skepticism lingers over past failures
Not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. Richard, a teacher in the capital, reflects a common sentiment: “We’ve seen similar events before, but nothing changes. I’m doubtful this forum will fix Chad’s water crisis. What’s really needed is strong political will.”
Moussa, a local trader, adds: “The money spent organizing this forum could have built thousands of water points. Too often, these summits end with reports that gather dust on shelves.”
These voices highlight the gap between ambitious declarations and the persistent realities faced by rural communities, where access to water remains a distant dream.
Uneven progress across regions
While the government reports a national average of 63.5% access to clean water, the reality varies sharply. In provinces like Guéra, Wadi Fira, and Sila, only 10 to 21% of residents have safe water sources. Many still rely on contaminated ponds or shallow wells, fueling waterborne diseases and malnutrition.
The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has urged authorities to prioritize water infrastructure, sanitation, and climate-resilient management. Its chair, Belngar Larmé Laguerre, stresses: “Water access is essential for peace, social cohesion, food security, and human development.”
Governance questioned
Questions also arise about the forum’s organization, which falls under the Ministry of Finance and Economic Cooperation—not the Water Ministry. Critics argue this signals weaknesses in public water policy governance, leaving millions still waiting for lasting solutions.
