At the prestigious 10th World Water Forum, currently holding in Bali, Indonesia, Amb.Mrs. Amaka Nweke JP of Enugu State, Nigeria, delivered a powerful address advocating a revolutionary approach to water rights and management.
Representing the Network of Water Rights Initiative and supported by the Enugu State Government, Nweke outlined a transformative strategy aimed at eradicating water scarcity in Enugu state.
The forum, themed “Water for Shared Prosperity,” commenced on May 18, 2024, bringing together global leaders and experts to discuss sustainable water management practices.
Pix: Amb. Amaka Nweke in a handshake with Mr. Basuki Hadimuljono, minister of public works and housing, Indonesia.
Speaking at the session T4CC1 on the topic, “Hearing the unheard : Water Justice for Humans and Nature,” Wednesday, , 22nd May 2024, Amb. Nweke highlighted the progress Enugu State Government has made through a human rights and responsibility-based approach to water access.
She recounted the severe water scarcity that plagued Enugu State for over three decades. She proudly announced the success of the “claim your water rights” campaign, which has shifted Enugu from a state of persistent water scarcity to one where residents can assert their right to clean water.
On Government and Community Collaboration, Nweke emphasized the collaborative efforts of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration in tackling water scarcity. By partnering with civil society organizations and engaging with marginalized communities, the government has made significant strides. She quoted Governor Mbah, who acknowledged the role of these organizations as “watchdogs” ensuring government accountability.
Pix: Amb Nweke delivering a paper
On Infrastructure and Technological Innovation, Nweke said that
significant investments in water infrastructure, including water treatment plants, pipelines, and storage facilities, have been pivotal. She highlighted the increase in water generation capacity from 2 million cubic liters per day to 120 million cubic liters per day. The increase was as a result of the 9th Mile and Ajali rehabilitation projects.
Speaking on Community Engagement and Legislative Advances, she said the Network of Water Rights Initiative has been instrumental in assessing water facilities and engaging stakeholders. Regular town hall meetings, collaborations with the Ministry of Water Resources, and advocacy for legislative reforms have been crucial. “The passage of the Enugu State Water Bill into law, which establishes the Enugu State Water Regulatory Commission, marks a significant milestone in water governance,” Amb. Nweke said.
Pix:. Nweke at the forum
On Sustainable Practices and Awareness Campaigns, she said
the government has promoted water conservation practices and groundwater recharge to mitigate scarcity. Public awareness campaigns on responsible water usage are empowering citizens to become proactive stewards of water resources.
Nweke’s address underscored the importance of a participatory, bottom-up approach to water management. She called for global support to amplify these efforts, highlighting that Enugu’s journey from “Coal city to water city” serves as an inspiring example of how innovative strategies can address water challenges.
Pix: Participants
Amb Mrs. Amaka Nweke’s address at the 10th World Water Forum spotlighted the transformative impact of Enugu State’s disruptive innovation in water management. By fostering community participation, investing in infrastructure, and embracing sustainable practices, Enugu is paving the way for a resilient and prosperous future. Her call to action resonated with attendees, emphasizing that the collective effort is crucial to ensuring universal access to clean and safe drinking water.
Nweke expressed deep gratitude to the forum organizers and the Enugu State Government for their support, urging continued collaboration to safeguard water rights for all.
As the 10th World Water Forum continues, the experiences and strategies shared by Amb. Nweke offer valuable insights into the global discourse on water justice and sustainable management practices.
Pix: Nweke in a handshake with Mr. Pierre-Alain Roche. Coordinator T4CC1 Session: Hearing the Unheard: Water for Humans and Naturexster of public works and housing, Indonesia.
Appreciating the efforts of Enugu state Government , she said,””I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, Barr Peter Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State, Nigeria for his unwavering support and commitment to ending water scarcity in our region.
“Governor Mbah’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the significant progress we have achieved. His administration’s dedication to collaborative governance, infrastructure development, and innovative solutions has transformed Enugu from a state struggling with water scarcity to one that is rapidly becoming a model for water sustainability.
” The Governor’s recognition of civil society organizations as key partners and his openness to being held accountable by the people have set a new standard for responsive and responsible governance.
Pix: Amb. Amaka Nweke presenting her paper
“I also want to express my deep gratitude to the Network of Water Rights Initiative (NEWARI) for empowering me with the platform to represent Enugu State on this global stage. NEWARI’s relentless advocacy and dedication to water rights have been the backbone of our collective efforts. The opportunities to engage with various stakeholders, assess water facilities, and drive legislative changes have been invaluable in our mission.
” The support and encouragement from the entire NEWARI team have been a source of strength and inspiration, enabling us to make meaningful strides towards ensuring that every citizen in Enugu has access to clean and safe water.
“Together, we are making a profound impact and laying the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future for our communities” Amb Nweke said.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama