A Pan-African policy group has urged governments across the continent to accelerate action on water security and sanitation, warning that gaps in both sectors continue to undermine Africa’s long-term development goals.

Speaking in Abuja, President of the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission, Steven Ben-Joel, said reliable access to clean water and safe sanitation must be treated as strategic priorities by member states of the African Union. He described the sectors as fundamental pillars for achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent.

The remarks were made during a briefing to unveil activities for the 2026 African Day celebrations and the inauguration of a Local Organising Committee. According to Ben-Joel, the event is intended to serve as both a policy-driven platform and a unifying moment for Africans to reflect on shared development responsibilities.

He noted that African Day, marked annually on May 25, commemorates the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, and remains a symbol of continental unity and collective ambition, as captured in Agenda 2063.

This year’s celebration, scheduled for May 23 to 25, 2026, will focus on the theme of ensuring sustainable water access and safe sanitation systems—an issue Ben-Joel described as urgent, given that millions across Africa still lack basic services. He stressed that inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure continues to impact public health, education outcomes, and economic productivity.

The organisation called on governments, development partners and private sector actors to increase investment, promote innovation, and strengthen collaboration within the sector. It also emphasised the importance of empowering local communities to take ownership of development initiatives.

Organisers say the three-day programme in Abuja is expected to attract more than 5,000 participants from across Africa and beyond, combining policy dialogue with cultural showcases. Activities will also include the launch of the 2026 Africa Day Essay Competition for primary and secondary school students, aimed at encouraging young Africans to contribute ideas on the continent’s future.

In her closing remarks, Director-General of the mission, Elizabeth Emeka-Onwuchekwa, underscored the need for Africans to take collective responsibility for the continent’s transformation, noting that the success of Agenda 2063 depends on sustained commitment beyond its initiators.

The committee for the 2026 celebration was also inaugurated, with Philip Nwachukwu appointed as chairman, while Emeka-Onwuchekwa will serve as secretary.

The AU’s Agenda 2063 framework outlines a 50-year roadmap aimed at transforming Africa through inclusive growth, improved living standards, job creation and poverty reduction.