The International Water Association (IWA) Water and Development Congress and Exhibition 2023 formally opened on Monday in the Rwandan capital of Kigali.
The events bring together water professionals worldwide. It is to address pressing challenges and explore innovative solutions in the water and sanitation sector.
Under the theme “Water, Sanitation, and Climate Resilience — Keys to a Water-Wise Future,” the congress aims to facilitate discussions among policymakers, technologists, researchers, academia, civil society members and financiers.
Speaking at the event, Tom Mollenkopf, President of IWA, emphasised the urgency of addressing water-related challenges.
“The 2030 deadline to reach the UN Sustainable Development Goals is approaching fast.
“I believe those gathered in Kigali share a sense of urgency to meet on the vital issues around water. They will also share insights and experience, and to better secure progress towards those goals,” Mollenkopt said.
Abimana Fidele, Permanent Secretary of Rwandan Ministry of Infrastructure, highlighted the common challenges facing developed and developing economies.
Such challenges include inadequate water supply, sanitation services, climate change issues and management among water utilities.
Fidele expressed optimism that the congress would provide an opportunity to explore smart innovations and lessons to accelerate positive change.
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Kala Vairavamoorthy, Executive Director of IWA, emphasized the potential for low and middle-income countries to pursue sanitation.
The countries, he said, are combining decentralised and off-grid technologies with circular economy approaches.
According to him, the Congress provides governments and stakeholders with a unique platform to share insights on specific needs and interests that could be game-changers for low and middle-income countries in the water and sanitation sector.
Opening the event, Jimmy Gasore, Rwandan Minister of Infrastructure, urged participants to engage in activities aimed at preserving water as a natural resource managed globally.
The congress that runs through Thursday has attracted about 1,000 participants.
Participants include 100 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing solutions in the water and sanitation sector.
The event underscores the collaboration between governments and stakeholders.
The collaboration aimed at addressing specific needs of low and middle-income countries in the water and sanitation sector. (Xinhua)
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