The President of the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission, Dr. Steven Ben-Joel, has urged African countries to place greater emphasis on ensuring access to sustainable water resources and safe sanitation systems.
He described both as essential pillars for achieving the continent’s long-term development goals.
Ben-Joel made the appeal during a news conference in Abuja to unveil the 2026 African Day celebration programme and inaugurate the Local Organising Committee (LOC).
He noted that the event serves as a call for collective action on issues that directly impact Africa’s future and shared responsibilities.
According to him, African Day, observed every May 25, marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 and symbolises unity, resilience, and a shared vision for a prosperous continent under Agenda 2063.
He disclosed that the 2026 celebration, scheduled to hold from May 23 to May 25, would bring together stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.
The theme for the event, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation System to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” underscores the urgency of addressing water and sanitation challenges across the continent.
Ben-Joel stressed that millions of Africans still lack access to clean water and proper sanitation, a situation that continues to affect public health, education, productivity, and overall well-being.
He called on governments, development partners, and the private sector to increase investment, foster innovation, and strengthen collaboration in the sector.
He also emphasised the need to empower local communities to take ownership of sustainable development initiatives.
The programme is expected to attract more than 5,000 participants, featuring a mix of policy discussions and cultural activities.
As part of the activities, organisers will launch the 2026 Africa Day Essay Competition for primary and secondary school students, aimed at encouraging young Africans to share ideas on the continent’s future.
The initiative is also intended to promote critical thinking and deepen understanding of Africa’s history and development path in line with Agenda 2063.
In her remarks, the Director-General of the mission, Dr. Elizabeth Emeka-Onwuchekwa, said the responsibility for Africa’s development rests with its people.
She urged Africans to remain committed to translating the vision of Agenda 2063 into tangible progress.
The event also saw the inauguration of Mr Philip Nwachukwu as Chairman of the African Day Local Organising Committee, with Emeka-Onwuchekwa serving as secretary.
The mission reaffirmed its dedication to promoting policies and partnerships that deliver meaningful development outcomes across the continent.