President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that water scarcity and inadequate sanitation could fuel migration, displacement and conflict across Africa if urgent action is not taken.

Delivering remarks at a High-Level Breakfast side event of the African Union and the Africa Water Investment Programme, co-hosted by South Africa and the African Union Commission, the President highlighted the growing pressures caused by climate change and limited water resources.

“You should also note that water scarcity and sanitation pressure can lead to migration and displacement, which could trigger internal and cross-border conflicts,” she said, adding, “In Namibia, we are already seeing communities fighting over grazing, and that is because we are not getting enough water.”

She expressed hope that renewed commitments would mobilise the necessary funding to achieve water security and sanitation for all across Africa, adding that Namibia would contribute to water management programmes.

The Africa Water Investment Programme aims to strengthen water security and sanitation investment programmes while promoting the integration of water into economic planning and the implementation of SDG 6-related targets in various sectors. 

Meanwhile, the World Bank called for the development of bankable projects in the water sector and pledged to collaborate in funding initiatives.