The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa heavily rely on the continent’s effective management of its water resources. Water is crucial for achieving several SDGs, including clean water and sanitation, zero hunger, and climate action. However, Africa faces challenges in transboundary water resources governance, irrigation funding, and the scale and spread of irrigation systems. The 6th African Regional Conference (ARC) – International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage will focus on these issues, involving policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders.

Africa has over 60 transboundary river basins, including the Nile, Congo, Niger, and Zambezi basins. However, effective governance of these resources is a significant challenge due to conflicting national interests, weak institutional frameworks, and limited data sharing. Agriculture, the backbone of many African economies, relies on rain-fed systems, making it vulnerable to climate variability. Despite its potential, irrigation development is underfunded across the continent.

Africa’s irrigation potential is largely untapped, with only 6% of cultivated land under irrigation compared to 37% in Asia. To achieve the SDGs, an integrated approach is needed that addresses transboundary water governance, irrigation funding, and the scale and spread of irrigation systems. Key strategies include strengthening regional cooperation, leveraging technology and innovation, policy harmony, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. The dialogue, therefore, will focus on these issues.