Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 24–25 September 2026 – The first edition of the West Africa Regional Water Forum (FREAO 2026), initiated by the Water Resources Management Centre (WRMC) of the ECOWAS Commission, brought together key stakeholders in the water sector to address challenges related to water governance, regional cooperation and sustainable development.
Held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Abidjan, the Forum gathered representatives of ECOWAS Member States, regional and international institutions, river basin organisations, technical and financial partners, experts and civil society organisations.
A Strategic Platform for Dialogue and Cooperation
Against the backdrop of climate change, water pollution and increasing demand for water resources, FREAO 2026 provided an important platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing and the development of collaborative solutions.
Discussions focused on integrated water resources management, transboundary cooperation, financing, climate resilience and technological innovation.
Significant Institutional Progress
Ahead of the Forum, the 13th Session of the Technical Committee of Experts on Integrated Water Resources Management in West Africa, held on 21–22 September, and the 6th Ordinary Session of the Ministerial Monitoring Committee, held on 23 September 2026, helped strengthen regional strategic priorities.
The ministerial session adopted nine resolutions, including one on the institutionalisation of FREAO, marking an important step towards establishing a sustainable regional platform for dialogue on water issues.
Honouring the Builders of West Africa's Water Sector
One of the highlights of FREAO 2026 was the awards ceremony honouring the "Builders of the Water Sector in West Africa".
This initiative recognised distinguished individuals whose leadership, dedication and contributions have significantly advanced water resources management and regional cooperation.
Towards a More Resilient West Africa
Through this inaugural edition, the ECOWAS Water Resources Management Centre reaffirmed its commitment to promoting coordinated and sustainable water governance.
FREAO 2026 has opened new opportunities for regional cooperation, partnership mobilisation and the implementation of initiatives that benefit communities across West Africa.
"Valuing Water to Transform West Africa."