|
Protocol The last few years have witnessed an extraordinary flow of ideas and discussions on water in the global and regional contexts. The challenges in the water sector are particularly critical for Africa, having regionally the lowest access to water supply and sanitation; lowest level of development and utilization of water resources relative to its needs, and the lowest capacity to address the challenges. We all agree there has been enough discussion and conceptualization. It is now time to act decisively, imaginatively and courageously. Water resources development and management in Africa depends not only on financial resources, but financial resources are essential. Financial estimates vary on our needs to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and the African Water Vision. The Framework for Action of the African Water Vision estimates requirements at about 20 billion US Dollars per year, but other estimates are much higher. The crucial issue is that required investments are multiples of the current level. The African Water Facility is designed to mobilize financial resources for investment in the African water sector. It aims to mobilize about USD 620 million to finance the medium term programme, 2004-2008. Programme areas would include program, project preparation and implementation; IWRM planning; reform; capacity building; information and knowledge, environmental management; and gender integration. It would support the local, national, sub-regional and transboundary levels. Facility, through its operations, will facilitate mobilization of much larger investment required in the African Water sector. The African Development Bank will host the Facility. The legal instrument developed by AfDB for hosting the Facility is in principle approved by AMCOW. Sequel to which approval of AfDB Board of Directors will trigger the operation of the Facility. The African Water Facility is a unique idea. The UN is advising other regions to emulate this initiative. The extensive support that the Facility has received at may fora and by several of our development partners give us much hope for its success. CIDA, The Netherlands and Germany have made financial commitments. Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the EU have given indications of support. The African Water Facility is real. We therefore urge support of governments, regional economic institutions, river basins organizations and NGOs. We particularly solicit our international development partners to support us. The success of the Facility depend on collaboration and partnerships with other initiatives like NEPAD water program, EU Water Initiative for Africa, on-going operations of the African Development Bank, the World Bank and other donor institutions. AMCOW regards this Facility as a source of hope and inspiration for the major task of promoting sustainable development in Africa. PLEASE JOIN US TO MAKING THE AFRICA WATER FACILITY A SUCCESS.
|
| |