West African Regional Water Forum concludes in Abidjan

The inaugural West African Regional Water Forum (FREAO) was held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, from September 24 to 25, 2026. Organized by ECOWAS through its Water Resources Coordination Centre, in collaboration with UEMOA, CILSS, and the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, the event focused on the theme “Valuing water to transform West Africa.”

The forum convened ministers, researchers, civil society representatives, and technical partners to establish a regional vision for water governance across the 28 shared river basins in West Africa. Discussions emphasized transboundary cooperation, hydrodiplomacy, and the use of water resources to promote regional integration, peace, and stability.

The event concluded with the adoption of the Abidjan Declaration. This document calls for increased investment mobilization and strengthened regional cooperation. It also aims to establish a unified West African position ahead of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. The next FREAO is scheduled to take place in Praia, Cabo Verde.