N’Djamena is hosting the African Water Forum this week, bringing together African leaders, experts, and financial partners under the theme “From Vision to Action”. While the event aims to address Africa’s water access challenges, many in Chad remain skeptical about its potential impact.
Nearly 40% of Chad’s population still lacks reliable access to clean drinking water, despite government claims of a 63.5% national coverage rate. The discrepancy highlights deep regional disparities, with provinces like Guéra, Wadi Fira, and Sila reporting water access rates as low as 10-21%.
In N’Djamena, residents share mixed feelings about the forum’s potential. Eliane, a local homemaker, voices cautious optimism: “As a woman and citizen, I hope this forum brings real change. The water quality in some areas is appalling—if this gathering can make a difference, I’m all for it.”
promises vs. reality
Not everyone is convinced. Richard, a teacher in the capital, reflects a common sentiment: “We’ve seen these forums before—nothing ever changes. Real progress requires political will, not just declarations.”
Moussa, a small business owner, adds: “The funds spent on organizing this event could have built thousands of water points. Instead, we get recommendations that gather dust.”
These concerns underscore the gap between high-level commitments and on-the-ground realities, particularly in rural areas where communities still rely on contaminated water sources, risking waterborne diseases and malnutrition.
a call for urgent action
The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has urged authorities to prioritize water infrastructure investments, emphasizing that “access to water is essential for peace, social cohesion, food security, and human development.” Its president, Belngar Larmé Laguerre, stresses the need for sustainable solutions amid growing climate pressures.
Another point of contention is the forum’s organization being led by the Ministry of Finance rather than the Ministry of Water, raising questions about institutional coordination in addressing Chad’s water crisis.
With millions still waiting for reliable access, the forum’s success hinges on turning discussions into tangible, long-term investments.
