The International High-Level Panel on Water Investments for Africa, which draws representatives from current and former Heads of State as well as other global leaders, was launched at the 9th World Water Forum in Dakar, Senegal. The Panel was convened by the African Minister’s Council on Water, African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, United Nations Development Programme, UNICEF, African Development Bank, Global Center on Adaptation, and Global Water Partnership.

The objective of the panel is to develop actionable pathways for mobilising USD 30 billion annually by 2030, for implementing the Continental Africa Water Investment Programme (AIP) and close the existing water investment gap in Africa estimated at US$11-US$20 billion/year.

Led by three Co-Chairs-Senegal, Namibia, Netherlands and an Alternate Co-Chair, the session presented its Road Map towards COP 27 and the UN 2023 Conference and progress of its work in developing an investment action plan and emerging pathways for mobilising US$30 billion/year by 2030 to close the water security and sanitation investment gap in Africa. Concrete case studies on how the panel is catalysing investment mobilisation on the ground were showcased as well as opportunities on how development partners can contribute to the work of the panel. Perspectives for enhancing climate resilience, gender equality and private sector engagement were explored.