AfWASA–GWP / GAPWAS: Strengthened Momentum Between the 2025 Review and the 2026 Strategic Outlook
The strategic meeting between the African Water and Sanitation Association (AAEA) and the German Water Partnership (GWP), held from 2 to 4 February 2026, marked a key milestone in the implementation of the GAPWAS programme. The meeting provided an in-depth review of the 2025 activities under Phase II, prepared the actions for the extension phase, and coordinated GAPWAS’s participation in the 23rd AAEA International Congress and Exhibition, scheduled to take place from 9 to 13 February 2026 in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
The year 2025 was characterized by a significant intensification of joint activities, with numerous technical workshops, networking sessions, “Ask the Expert” formats, and international meetings organized across Africa and Europe. Focused on technological innovation, energy efficiency, smart water management, gender, and managerial capacity building, these initiatives consolidated AAEA’s role as a pan-African reference platform and strengthened exchanges with GWP member companies.
The results achieved demonstrate substantial progress in content production, testimonials, and sectoral visibility, despite persistent challenges related to financing and data culture.
Looking ahead to 2026, the partners intend to capitalize on the AfWASA Congress as a major moment for showcasing results, matchmaking, and programme closure, while also exploring opportunities for continuity. A shared ambition emerges: to firmly position the AAEA–GWP partnership as a strategic lever for impact, innovation, and international cooperation in Africa’s water and sanitation sector.
