By Business Insider Reporter
African ministers responsible for water, sanitation, environment, climate, and finance will convene in Madrid, Spain this week to accelerate regional action against water insecurity and climate change, two of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The high-level meeting – jointly organised by the Government of Spain, UNICEF, and the Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) partnership—will take place under the theme “Breaking Silos: Uniting Political Leadership to Integrate Water, Sanitation and Climate Action.”
According to organisers, the forum will gather ministers and senior officials from more than 60 African and international governments, alongside development partners, to push for integrated, actionable policies that link water management, climate resilience, and sustainable sanitation.
A continent under pressure
A recent joint monitoring report by WHO and UNICEF paints a stark picture: nearly 400 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to safe drinking water, while over 700 million live without safely managed sanitation.
These deficiencies are being worsened by the accelerating impacts of climate change – from prolonged droughts in the Horn of Africa to devastating floods in the Sahel and persistent water shortages in Southern Africa.
“Climate change is magnifying inequalities and exposing how fragile Africa’s water systems have become,” said Muyatwa Sitali, Acting Chief of SWA. “This meeting is about turning global promises into tangible action, ensuring that commitments are matched with progress on the ground.”
Towards collective action
The Madrid meeting aims to strengthen coordination among African governments and development partners, building on the growing recognition that water, sanitation, and climate policies must be addressed together rather than in isolation.
It will also explore how financial instruments – such as climate adaptation funds and blended finance models – can help countries mobilise resources for water infrastructure and resilience projects.
Ministers are expected to present national case studies and propose regional frameworks to accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) – ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030.
Uniting political leadership
By bringing together leaders from water, environment, and finance portfolios, organisers hope to overcome the fragmentation that has historically slowed policy implementation across the continent.
“This is not just a technical meeting,” said a UNICEF spokesperson. “It’s about aligning political will and financial resources to secure Africa’s water future. Without strong leadership and integrated planning, millions will remain vulnerable to waterborne diseases, food insecurity, and displacement.”
A step toward resilience
The meeting in Madrid represents a critical moment for Africa as it confronts the dual crises of climate change and water scarcity.
Experts say that sustained regional cooperation, coupled with innovative financing and technology transfer, could significantly strengthen Africa’s resilience and reduce the economic toll of water-related disasters.
Participants are expected to issue a joint ministerial declaration reaffirming Africa’s commitment to regional collaboration, increased investment in water infrastructure, and stronger climate adaptation strategies.
As Sitali concluded, “Africa’s voice and leadership are essential in shaping solutions that not only serve the continent but also contribute to global climate resilience.” The Madrid summit is expected to set the stage for renewed partnerships and concrete actions – transforming dialogue into measurable progress for millions across Africa.
