Addis Ababa:Ethiopia is intensifying its efforts to identify, document, and manage its water resources in response to increasing national demand driven by population growth, industrialization, and agricultural expansion. This initiative is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE).
According to Ethiopian News Agency, these remarks were made during the 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week, with a particular focus on Water Day. The event emphasized strategic discussions on drinking water supply, sanitation, sustainable resource management, and progress towards the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event, themed “Evidence to Action Science-Based Solutions for Integrated WASH and Water Resource Management,” brought together industry experts and policymakers. They evaluated the progress made over the past decade in drinking water and sanitation, celebrated key milestones, and addressed ongoing challenges nationwide.
Yoseph Abebe, a Senior Expert in Water Resource Development at MoWE, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to map surface and groundwater resources. This includes introducing modern instruments and databases to improve the collection, organization, and management of water-related information. Despite Ethiopia's reputation as a water-abundant nation, Yoseph noted that efforts to adequately assess and harness these resources have been insufficient.
Yoseph also stressed the significance of watershed conservation in protecting water resources and enhancing their sustainability. He cited the Green Legacy Initiative's conservation activities, which have improved groundwater recharge, shown signs of recovery in declining water sources, and reduced soil erosion and sedimentation in water bodies.
The discussions on Water Day also underscored the importance of improved planning, infrastructure development, and partnerships in addressing Ethiopia’s water supply and sanitation challenges. Azeb Tadesse, head of the Urban Water Supply Study, Design, and Construction Supervision Desk at MoWE, noted that the event focused on sustaining water resources and showcasing innovations in water, sanitation, and energy.
Azeb mentioned that the sessions reviewed developments in drinking water supply and sanitation over the past decade, identifying challenges and exploring measures to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. The discussions also considered ways to expand private-sector participation in Ethiopia’s water sector through partnerships and supportive policy frameworks. Local and international presenters shared experiences and practices to inform the development of water supply and sanitation services.
Source Ethiopian News Agency
