Addressing heads of state, water experts, and development partners in Chad’s capital, the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) highlighted his nation’s vast water potential. Yet he emphasized that this potential must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens through expanded access to essential services.

The DRC’s long-term vision includes ensuring 60% of the population has reliable access to clean drinking water by 2035. Beyond sanitation, the government also aims to provide 50% access to hygiene and sanitation services within the same timeframe. These dual objectives aim to curb waterborne diseases and significantly improve daily living conditions across the country.

Strengthening social infrastructure remains a cornerstone of the strategy. By 2035, authorities plan to ensure that 80% of schools and health facilities across the DRC have adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene services. Such measures are expected to enhance learning environments, improve public health outcomes, and reinforce foundational social services for all communities.

Ahead of regional leaders, the Congolese President stressed the urgency of these initiatives, stating:

« Guaranteeing reliable water, sanitation, and hygiene access in 80% of schools and health centers is not just a goal—it is a necessity. These institutions serve as pillars of community resilience, and their protection is central to our national progress. »

To achieve these targets, Kinshasa is rallying multiple stakeholders. The government is mobilizing public funds, encouraging private sector investment, and seeking international partnerships to bridge critical infrastructure gaps. A coordinated, multi-sector approach is deemed essential to deliver sustainable water solutions across the sprawling nation.

Five pillars to revolutionize Africa’s water future

The DRC’s leader outlined five strategic priorities to reshape water sector challenges continent-wide. These include integrating public policies, strengthening institutional governance, ensuring transparent infrastructure management, and preparing bankable, technically sound projects capable of attracting investment. He also emphasized the importance of domestic manufacturing to reduce import dependency and stimulate local job creation.

Central to this vision is the development of a robust local water industry. The President called for expanded production of essential equipment such as pipes, pumps, meters, treatment systems, irrigation tools, and digital solutions. He argued that building domestic capacity in these areas would not only secure supply chains but also spur industrial growth and economic resilience.

A well-structured, data-driven planning framework is equally vital, he noted. Only through meticulously prepared, financially viable, and technically feasible projects can Africa unlock the capital needed to modernize its water infrastructure. For the DRC, this agenda represents a path toward greater access, stronger governance, and a self-sufficient water industry—one capable of supporting sustainable national development.