On behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, led the Emirati delegation to the Africa Water Investment Summit held in Cape Town, South Africa, from August 13 to 15.
The delegation also included His Excellency Abdullah Al Ola, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability.
The summit was organized by the Republic of South Africa as part of its G20 presidency, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the African Continental Water Investment Program (AIP), the African Union’s High-Level International Committee on Water Investment, and the African Development Agency (NEPAD). The event brought together international leaders with the primary goal of mobilizing investments in climate-resilient water and sanitation projects to enhance water security, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.
As the host nation in partnership with the United Nations Water Conference 2026, the UAE participated in this high-level gathering as a pivotal part of the extensive, inclusive, and transparent preparation process it has been leading for over a year.
During the opening session, His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout stated: “The UAE views investment in water security in Africa as a commitment to global stability, prosperity, and shared climate goals. We aim, through the UN Water Conference 2026, to bring all parties—from governments to investors—to the same table, creating a platform for real agreements and tangible impacts.”
He further emphasized: “The UAE’s dedication to addressing water issues in Africa is inspired by our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who prioritized clean water and public health in his philanthropic efforts. We continue this legacy today, exemplified by the launch of the Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative in February 2024, aimed at tackling global water scarcity through innovative technologies.”
During the summit, His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi, President of Botswana, presented awards to six heads of state and government as part of the “Global Water Change Makers” initiative, recognizing leaders who demonstrate commitment and leadership in enhancing climate-resilient water investments and financing for greater water security. The UAE was among the awardees for its role as a host partner for the 2026 UN Water Conference.
The UAE’s participation also focused on the ongoing preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference, including involvement in a high-level ministerial roundtable and leading a general session that engaged over 1,000 stakeholders in identifying actionable outcomes for water financing and investment in advance of the 2026 conference. This session was conducted in partnership with Senegal, the African Development Agency, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, the Global Climate Finance Center, and the Global Water Partnership.
The summit occurred one month after UN member states unanimously approved six topics for the interactive dialogue at the 2026 UN Water Conference, including a specific focus on water investment.