Background
Freshwater quality is intrinsically linked with human health, poverty reduction, gender equality, food security, livelihoods, the preservation of ecosystems, as well as economic growth and social development. In West Africa, water quality problems represent a major challenge and new threats are emerging, such as emerging pollutants (EP), caused by personal care products, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics, and industrial and household chemicals.
Objectives
The objective of this activity is to build capacity of water quality experts from relevant ministries, research centers and institutions on “Gender sensitive water quality management and transboundary water management, in light of the SDGs”. Moreover, through this activity, UNESCO will assist the Lake Chad Basin Commission in the implementation of the Water Charter of the Lake Chad Basin.
Delivery
Participants acquired relevant skills and knowledge for the management of water quality and of transboundary waters, with a focus on Emerging Pollutants. The activity was executed in partnership with UNESCO Category II Centre on Integrated River Basin Management.
Achievements
A regional training workshop on effective management of water quality and emerging pollutants in water and wastewater in sub-Saharan Africa took place on 25th- 27th September 2018, in Accra, Ghana.
Over 70 participants from 26 African countries attended the workshop. The participants’ knowledge and skills were strengthened to response to water security challenges towards the achievement of water-related SDGs and targets.
Member States have strengthened their response to water security challenges towards the achievement of water-related SDGs and targets, and other targets from relevant international water agendas.