On Monday, Angola presented its strategy to combat the effects of drought in the southern part of the country at the United Nations in New York. The initiative is expected to benefit an estimated 3.5 million people.
Speaking at the preparatory session for the United Nations Water Conference, Angola’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Francisco José da Cruz, stated that the strategy will also enable the development of infrastructure to supply water to the most drought-affected areas and populations.
As a result of these efforts, he highlighted the Cafu Canal, a system that captures and transfers water from the Cunene River to several cities through a 160 km pipeline. This project currently benefits 235,000 residents and irrigates 5,000 hectares of agricultural land.
The ambassador pointed out that rapid urbanization, desertification, and climate change have further strained the country’s water resources. Drought has severely impacted the provinces of Cunene, Namibe, Cuando, and Cubango, affecting more than 2.3 million people.
To address these challenges, he emphasized Angola’s partnerships with international stakeholders, which have facilitated progress in water management and sustainability. Key measures include expanding rural water access programs, increasing concessional financing and Official Development Assistance (ODA) for water projects, supporting technology transfer and capacity building initiatives, strengthening transboundary water cooperation for equitable resource sharing, and enhancing private sector involvement in water infrastructure projects.
The ambassador stressed that improving water access will foster economic growth, enhance food security, and reduce disease burdens, contributing to more sustainable and inclusive development.
He reaffirmed Angola’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and noted that its water management strategies align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018-2028).
The United Nations Water Conference will take place from December 2-4, 2026, in the United Arab Emirates. Co-organized by the UAE and Senegal, the event aims to accelerate the implementation of SDG 6: “Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.”
Source: Angop
