About the Symposium
A civil society platform to launch continental engagement on the AU Theme of the Year 2026 and strengthen collaboration for water and sanitation outcomes.
Water is the lifeblood of Africa’s transformation. Yet millions still face daily water scarcity, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate sanitation—challenges that undermine dignity, health, and sustainable development.
The symposium convenes African civil society, AU institutions, Member States, RECs, research institutions, utilities, development partners, the private sector, and the media to unpack the 2026 Theme’s action framework and co-develop practical strategies for implementation.
Objectives & Expected Outcomes
What we aim to achieve
Turning the 2026 AU Theme into coordinated action.
What success looks like
Aligned stakeholders and stronger implementation pathways.
Partners & Co-Organizers
Co-Conveners
Working with ECOSOCC to broaden ownership and follow-up.
Partners
Additional partners supporting water and sanitation programmes.
Event Schedule
A hybrid programme (in-person + virtual options). Session times will be confirmed in the official agenda shared with registered participants.
Monday, 9 February 2026
Opening & Launch of Civil Society Engagement
Setting the agenda for implementation of the AU Theme of the Year 2026.
Policy Alignment & Action Framework
Connecting Agenda 2063, Africa Policy on Water, and UN Water Conference 2026.
Climate-Resilient, Inclusive Water Governance
Transboundary cooperation, inclusion, and gender-responsive approaches.
Partnerships, Innovation & Resource Mobilisation
From commitments to delivery—finance, technology, and accountability.
Tuesday, 10 February 2026
Breakfast Meeting
Stock-taking on the 2025 Theme of the Year and lessons to strengthen the 2026 roll-out.
All times will be listed in the official agenda once confirmed by the organizers.
Concept Note
Download the full concept note for background, objectives, outcomes, and partnerships.
Media Advisory
Download the Media Advisory.
Registration Information
This is an OPEN CALL for self-sponsored participants to register interest in attending the ECOSOCC events.
- Main Symposium: 9 February 2026 (Hybrid: in-person + virtual options)
- High-Level Breakfast Meeting: 10 February 2026 (Invitation only)
- Registration deadline: 31 January 2026
- Note: Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements (self-sponsored).