The African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) is a professional organisation of stakeholders in the water and sanitation sector. It was founded in February 1980 in Abidjan to respond to the challenges of the water and sanitation sectors in Africa. The AfWASA's vision is of a world where everyone has sustainable access to quality water and adequate sanitation. 
It works for :

• Building the technical and institutional capacity of professionals and institutions in the water and sanitation sector.
• Facilitating regional and international partnerships to meet local needs.
• Promoting technological innovation and unconventional practices.
• Taking greater account of water and sanitation challenges in central and local government policies and programmes, and in the priorities and funding of development partners and donors.
• The development of female leadership and the emergence of young people in the water and sanitation sector.

Activities and Programs

AfWASA organises large-scale events, including its biennial International Congress which brings together high-level experts to discuss trends, innovations and best practice in the water and sanitation sector. 
It also offers training courses, specialised workshops and capacity-building sessions, aimed at a variety of audiences in the sector: regulators, service providers, decision-makers and researchers.

• It facilitates the sharing of knowledge between stakeholders through peer partnerships, benchmarking visits and mentoring activities.
• It disseminates information on the sector and supports research into the water and sanitation sector in Africa.

Partnerships and Networks

AfWASA works closely with international organisations, development agencies and African institutions. It also facilitates the creation of specialised networks, such as those for women, young people, mayors  and journalists.

Impact and outlook

With nearly 1,000 members across Africa and beyond, the AfWASA wants to see improved governance of the water and sanitation sector and inclusive services delivered by well-informed operators, in order to contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6: Ensure access to water and sanitation for all and sustainable management of water resources.

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