The Minister of Water and Energy of Cameroon inaugurates the International Exhibition of the 23rd AfWASA Congress
On the sidelines of the official opening of the 23rd International Congress of the African Water and Sanitation Association, the Minister of Water and Energy of Cameroon, Mr. Gaston Eloundou Essomba, presided over the solemn opening of the International Exhibition, which traditionally accompanies AfWASA congresses.
A true technological showcase for the sector, this exhibition is one of the key pillars of AfWASA congresses, which have consistently chosen to link strategic reflection with the concrete demonstration of solutions. It brings together industrial players, specialized companies, engineering firms, institutions and start-ups from around the world, presenting the most innovative technologies in the fields of drinking water supply, sanitation, treatment, distribution, digitalization and climate resilience.
An immersion at the heart of solutions for Africa
Following the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Minister of Water and Energy conducted an in-depth visit of the exhibition stands, during which exhibitors presented their products, equipment, services and solutions tailored to African realities. Pumps, water treatment systems, urban and non-collective sanitation solutions, technologies to reduce non-revenue water, digital tools for network management, as well as energy-efficient and climate-resilient innovations: the diversity and quality of the solutions on display reflect the dynamism and growing maturity of the sector.
At each stage of the visit, discussions highlighted the strategic role of innovation and public-private partnerships in accelerating universal access to water and sanitation. The Minister praised the ingenuity of the exhibitors and their essential contribution to the sustainable transformation of the sector.
A space for dialogue, partnerships and opportunities
More than a simple exhibition area, the AfWASA International Exhibition positions itself as a platform for dialogue between decision-makers, utilities, industrial actors and technical and financial partners. It offers public water and sanitation services the opportunity to discover proven solutions, engage with suppliers and initiate strategic collaborations.
This exhibition perfectly reflects the spirit of the Congress theme, “Water and Sanitation for All: Bold Actions for Africa,” by translating political and institutional ambitions into concrete and operational responses. It also demonstrates that Africa is not only a continent of challenges, but also a market of innovation, talent and sustainable solutions.
A key contribution to the success of the Congress
By officially opening the Exhibition, the Minister of Water and Energy reaffirmed the importance of an engaged and innovative private sector, acting as a partner to public policies. Through this platform, AAEA confirms its role as a bridge between strategic visions, the needs of utilities and available technological solutions.
Throughout the week, the International Exhibition of the 23rd AfWASA Congress will continue to welcome visitors, delegations and professionals, fully contributing to making Yaoundé a continental hub for innovation in water and sanitation.