LUSAKA, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Zambia has emphasized the importance of African countries strengthening cooperation in the management of water resources through a guiding continental framework.
Mulambo Haimbe, Zambia's minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, made the remarks after attending the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), currently underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
"It is important that Africa adopts a common position and a unified policy framework on water resources. While each country has its own specific circumstances and developmental needs, we must have a guiding continental framework that ensures coordination, sustainability and shared progress," he said in a statement.
The session is being held under the theme "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063."
Haimbe said the theme is particularly relevant to Zambia, noting that water is a priority area closely linked to sustainable development, public health, food security, energy security and the overall well-being of African citizens.
He called on AU members to adopt the proposed continental water policy and work toward a harmonized African approach.
Water is also critical to achieving the goals of the AU Agenda 2063, he said, as it has the potential to drive industrialization, reduce poverty, enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods.
Zambia, he added, is committed to working with other AU members to ensure the effective management of water resources and to promote policies that strengthen resilience against climate-related shocks, including drought.
He cited the drought Zambia experienced during the 2023/2024 rainy season, which affected food production and hydroelectric power generation, saying such challenges elevate water from a development issue to a security concern.
