Kampala, Uganda, is set to host the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association International Congress and Exhibition (AfWASA ICE2025) from February 16 to 20, 2025. This landmark event, which also marks AfWASA’s 45th anniversary, is expected to attract over 3,000 delegates from more than 100 countries. Under the theme “Water and Sanitation for All: A Secure Future for Africa,” the congress will bring together professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and innovative solutions aimed at addressing the continent’s water and sanitation challenges.

The AfWASA ICE2025 will feature an extensive program, including over 80 technical and poster sessions, workshops, pre-congress seminars, and special forums. These activities are designed to foster collaboration and accelerate progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all. Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha, AfWASA President and Managing Director of Uganda’s National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “This Congress provides the opportunity for professionals to share knowledge, experiences, and innovations that will accelerate the attainment of SDG6 and ensure a secure future for Africa.”

One of the highlights of the congress will be the official launch of the African Water and Sanitation Academy (AWASA), which will be hosted by NWSC. Recognized as one of Africa’s top utilities, NWSC was chosen to lead this initiative due to its impressive track record in delivering water and sanitation services. The academy aims to build capacity across the continent by training future leaders in the water and sanitation sector. Dr. Mugisha highlighted the academy’s mission, saying, “AWASA will play a crucial role in training future leaders for the water and sanitation sector in Africa, helping to accelerate safe water and sanitation services for all.”

François Olivier Gosso, Executive Director of AfWASA, stressed the urgent need for collective action to address Africa’s water and sanitation challenges. He noted that the continent’s challenges and aspirations are “strikingly similar,” making collaboration essential. With only five years left to achieve the SDG 2030 targets, Africa is still lagging in meeting SDG6, which aims to ensure universal access to clean water and sanitation. The AfWASA ICE2025 is therefore a critical platform for sector players to come together, share ideas, and develop strategies to close this gap.

The congress will feature a diverse lineup of activities, including plenary sessions, technical presentations, workshops, exhibitions, and technical tours. A high-level dialogue focusing on the congress theme will also take place, featuring keynote speakers and panel discussions. These sessions will provide a platform for thought leaders to explore innovative solutions and best practices for improving water and sanitation services across Africa.

In addition to the congress activities, the Ugandan government has reassured delegates and visitors that the country remains a safe and welcoming destination. This assurance comes amid concerns over a single confirmed case of the Sudan Ebola virus. The Ministry of Health has implemented strict measures to contain the virus, including enhanced surveillance at all entry points, targeted vaccination campaigns, and the deployment of rapid response teams. These efforts are aimed at protecting both locals and visitors, ensuring that Uganda remains a secure destination for international travelers.

The AfWASA ICE2025 is not just a conference; it is a call to action for Africa to prioritize water and sanitation as key drivers of sustainable development. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, the event aims to catalyze progress toward achieving SDG6 and improving the quality of life for millions of people across the continent. The launch of AWASA further underscores this commitment, providing a platform for capacity building and knowledge sharing that will benefit future generations.

As Kampala prepares to welcome delegates from around the world, the city is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The congress is expected to shine a spotlight on Uganda’s achievements in the water and sanitation sector, while also highlighting the challenges that remain. By hosting this prestigious event, Uganda is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s efforts to achieve universal access to clean water and sanitation.

The 22nd AfWASA International Congress and Exhibition is a landmark event that promises to shape the future of water and sanitation in Africa. With its focus on innovation, collaboration, and capacity building, the congress offers a unique opportunity to accelerate progress toward SDG6 and ensure a secure future for the continent. As delegates gather in Kampala, the message is clear: water and sanitation for all is not just a goal—it is a necessity for Africa’s sustainable development.

With the launch of AWASA and the collective efforts of stakeholders, Africa is taking bold steps toward achieving this vision. The AfWASA ICE2025 is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to creating a better future for all. As the countdown to the event begins, the world will be watching, eager to see the innovative solutions and partnerships that emerge from this historic gathering.