Namibia has called for stronger cooperation between countries sharing rivers and water resources, warning that transboundary water management is falling behind and could undermine progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

Speaking on behalf of the Transboundary Water Cooperation Coalition at the UN High-Level Political Forum, Namibia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Penda Naanda, said cooperation is key to ensuring water security, peace and sustainable development.

"Transboundary water cooperation is among the most off-track dimensions of SDG 6, yet it determines the success of the entire 2030 Agenda. Transboundary basins span 153 countries and host 40% of the world's population. Yet, only 43 states have operational arrangements covering most of their shared waters. Climate impacts do not respect borders, and only 14% of transboundary basins have joint adaptation strategies. Cooperation secures water, stability, peace and prosperity for all."

Naanda urged countries to strengthen legal frameworks and joint water management institutions, saying greater cooperation would unlock investment, improve climate resilience and support the sustainable management of shared water resources.