ACBF launches strategic mission in Abidjan to strengthen AfWASA institutional capacity

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), a specialized institution of the African Union, began a working mission with the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) on Monday in Abidjan. This initiative officially launches a multi-year partnership aimed at sustainably strengthening the Association's institutional capacities.

This initiative is part of the Citywide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) program, implemented by the AfWASA with financial support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The stated ambition is to consolidate the AfWASA as a regional reference institution, equipped with robust, credible mechanisms capable of steering the structural transformations needed in the WASH sector across the continent.

This mission is the first formal interaction between the two organizations. Its purpose is to lay the foundations for an effective collaboration framework, deepen understanding of the AfWASA's internal workings and strategic priorities, and conduct a comprehensive assessment of institutional capacity needs (Capacity Needs Assessment – CNA).
The findings of this assessment will inform the development of a Customized Institutional Improvement Plan (CIIP), which will guide the overall institutional strengthening program.

On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the first day of work allowed both parties to present their respective organizations and approve the mission agenda.

In his welcome address, AfWASA Executive Director Olivier Gosso expressed his satisfaction at seeing ACBF representatives again. He emphasized the central role now played by the Association in the African water and sanitation landscape and reaffirmed the full availability of his teams to support the process until the set objectives are achieved.

ACBF experts praised the AfWASA's openness and reiterated the strategic importance of this partnership, which is essential for strengthening African institutions engaged in transforming the WASH sector. They reiterated their commitment to providing methodical, progressive support geared toward concrete results.

The ACBF delegation consists of Ms. Betina Edziwa, Director of Special Programs, Mr. Siaka Coulibaly, Technical Expert, Ms. Patience Yakobe, Program Officer, and Mr. Spencer Bokosha, Chief Financial Officer.                                                                                                                        

The mission will continue until Monday, December 8.