Across Africa, young people live in very different social, economic, environmental, and political contexts. What they share is an aspiration: equitable access to safe water, healthy communities, a protected environment, and a real say in the decisions that shape their lives.
On 12 August 2026, the African Youth Water Forum commemorates International Youth Day under the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations" with a virtual dialogue on Youth Leading Water Governance Across Africa.
Why this conversation
Water is central to Africa's development, yet the continent still faces significant challenges around access, governance, climate change, pollution, infrastructure, and rising demand. Young people are not only affected by those challenges — they are also innovators, researchers, advocates, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and policy actors with practical solutions to offer.
The dialogue brings young Africans together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and examine how youth can take a more meaningful role in water governance and decision-making across the continent.
What we will discuss
- Youth participation in water governance and decision-making.
- The role of young people in advancing water security in Africa.
- Youth-led advocacy and policy engagement.
- Research, innovation, and technology for sustainable water management.
- Climate change and resilient water systems.
- Building partnerships between youth, governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
From consultation to leadership
AYWF believes youth participation must move beyond consultation to meaningful engagement, leadership, co-creation, and decision-making. We aspire to an Africa where young people are not merely invited into water discussions, but are trusted, empowered, and given real opportunities to lead.
Join us
12 August 2026 · 11:00–12:30 GMT · Virtual event on Google Meet. Speaker announcements are coming soon.
Whether you are a young water professional, researcher, student, activist, innovator, WASH practitioner, community leader, policymaker, or an organization working on water and sustainable development, you are welcome.
Different contexts. Common aspirations. One continent. A shared water future.
