More than 300 million Africans live in water-scarce environment, says report

Addis Ababa, 28 March 2007 --- More than 300 million Africans live in water-scarce environment where progress is hampered through constrained food production, health and industrial development, according to a new report by the NEPAD Support Unit of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

To redress the situation, says the report, "Water in Africa: Managing Options to Enhance Survival and Growth," African countries need to invest in the continent's potential water resources, reduce the number of people without access to safe water and sanitation, ensure food security by expanding irrigation areas and manage droughts, floods and desertification.

It says Africa is using less than 4 per cent of its renewable water resources for agriculture, domestic supply, sanitation and industry.

"There are, therefore, water resources available that, if developed and managed sustainably, will enable Africa reach its water-related goals set within the framework of the MDGs and the Africa Water Vision 2025," the report says.

To assist African countries stay the course, the report says ECA had collaborated with other UN agencies and partners to develop a "Portfolio of sub regional water projects/Programmes"; set up the African Water Facility; institutionalize the Africa Water Development Report, and establish the Africa Water Information Clearing House.

:: Click here for report