96th AfWASA STC: High-Level Panel Presents the Fundamental Principles of Integrated Water Resources Management in Cameroon
The 96th Strategic and Technological Council of the African Water and Sanitation Association featured a high-level panel dedicated to the fundamental principles of water resources management, moderated by Dr. Blaise Moussa, President of AfWASA and Managing Director of CAMWATER, Cameroon’s water company.
This interactive and highly engaging session brought together renowned experts to discuss strategic themes ranging from national water policy to technological innovations for water and sanitation management.
Mr. Madi VONDOU, Director of Water Resources Management at the Ministry of Water and Energy, opened the session by presenting the integrated approach to water resources management, emphasizing the importance of coordination across domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses, as well as ecosystem protection. He stressed the need for strengthened governance and the mobilization of financing to ensure universal access to safe drinking water.
Dr. Kiming Ignatius NGALA, Specialist in applied Climatology at the National Climate Change Observatory (ONAC), outlined national and sub-regional public policies aimed at preserving water resources, integrating the challenges of climate change. The focus was on adaptation, sustainability, and the implementation of long-term resilient strategies.
Mr. Idriss Kouato Njoya, WASH expert at UNICEF, shared perspectives on the transition to climate-resilient water and sanitation services, highlighting the need to strengthen infrastructure and systems to cope with climate impacts.
Mr. Thierry Davy from the World Bank presented the Cameroon Water Security Project, illustrating how strategic financing and service improvements can transform the sector and protect water resources.
Finally, Mr. Raymond Patrice OWONA from CAMWATER highlighted the role of new technologies and predictive tools for more efficient and proactive management of water and sanitation utilities.
The panel concluded by emphasizing the importance of interaction between experts and participants, underlining that sustainable water management in Africa requires a combination of strategy, innovation, governance, and operational action. The common goal is to guarantee every citizen sustainable access to drinking water while preserving the environment and strengthening resilience to climate change.
