Water crisis in N’Djamena: hope and doubt at the african water forum
Water crisis in N’Djamena: hope and doubt at the African Water Forum
N’Djamena hosts the African Water Forum this week, with the World Bank Group as a key partner. Under the theme “From Vision to Action,” leaders from across Africa are gathering to tackle the continent’s water access crisis. Yet, for many in Chad, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Nearly 40% of Chad’s population still lacks access to clean drinking water, according to official figures. As diplomats and experts deliberate, citizens voice both cautious optimism and deep skepticism about whether this gathering will yield real change.
Mixed reactions in Chad’s capital
Residents of N’Djamena share divided opinions about the forum’s potential impact. Eliane, a homemaker, voices the hopes of many: “As a Chadian woman, I’m looking to this forum for progress in clean water access. The water quality here is appalling. If this event can spark change, I’m all for it.”
The forum aims to convert political will into action by fostering partnerships between governments, investors, and private enterprises to fast-track water infrastructure projects. Yet, lingering doubts persist.
Skepticism overshadows optimism
Not everyone is convinced. Richard, a local teacher, reflects a common sentiment: “We’ve seen forums like this before. Nothing ever changes. I don’t believe this one will improve water access in Chad. What’s needed first is real political commitment.”
Moussa, a small business owner, echoes this sentiment: “The funds spent on organizing this forum could have built thousands of water points. Too often, these gatherings end with reports that gather dust on shelves.”
These reactions highlight the gap between high-level pledges and the persistent challenges faced by rural communities, where water scarcity remains a daily struggle.
Uneven progress across regions
While the government cites a national clean water access rate of 63.5%, this figure masks stark disparities. In provinces like Guéra, Wadi Fira, and Sila, only 10-21% of residents have reliable access to safe drinking water.
Many communities still rely on contaminated ponds or unsafe wells, leading to widespread waterborne diseases and malnutrition. The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has urged authorities to accelerate investments in water infrastructure, sanitation, and climate-resilient management.
“Access to water is fundamental to peace, social cohesion, food security, and human development,” stressed CNDH President Belngar Larmé Laguerre, calling for stronger international partnerships to support sustainable solutions.
Questions about governance
The forum’s organization raises eyebrows. Responsibility for the event was assigned to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning rather than the Ministry of Water. This decision has sparked questions about the government’s coordination in addressing water challenges.
For millions of Chadians, the forum represents more than a diplomatic gathering—it’s a test of whether words will translate into lasting solutions for a basic human need.