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East Africa Frontline News

NextFrontier Africa is a media platform spotlighting Africa’s emerging opportunities in technology, tourism, aviation, agriculture, health, logistics, real estate, trade, education, and e-commerce.

August 16.2025

2 Minutes Read

Investing in Water: A Call to Action for E-Commerce in Africa

A leader speaks at a G20 event, Investing in Water Infrastructure.

A Call to Action: Water as Central to Climate Investment

In a pivotal move for addressing Africa's pressing water infrastructure challenges, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently ignited attention at the Africa Water Investment Summit. He urged key players in trade and finance to prioritize water investments amidst climate discussions. Ramaphosa emphasized that water investment should no longer be an 'afterthought,' especially given Africa's staggering $30 billion annual investment gap in water infrastructure.

Collaborative Leadership for a Water Revolution

Under Ramaphosa's leadership, collaboration with notable co-chairs like UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and world-renowned philanthropist Bill Gates signals a unified response to tackling Africa's water crisis. This collaboration aims to mobilize capital, align efforts, and ensure that every community has access to essential water services. According to WHO and UNICEF data, access is declining, with 387 million people lacking basic drinking water services in sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the urgent need for action.

Water as a Human Right: The Broader Economic Implication

Investing in water infrastructure is not just an environmental issue; it ties directly into the goals of trade and commerce within Africa. As Ramaphosa noted, transforming water from a crisis sector into an opportunity sector can boost the continent's economic standing. By recognizing water as a human right, leaders can foster resilient communities and enable e-commerce and cross-border trade across Africa.

Next Steps for Stakeholders in Trade and Commerce

For exporters, importers, and businesses engaged in e-commerce, this call to action provides a framework for how investing in sustainable water management can yield long-term economic benefits. As the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gains momentum, ensuring that all Africans have access to safe water can significantly enhance trade relations and economic growth.

Join the Movement for Sustainable Growth

As discussions around water investment take center stage at the G20, stakeholders in trade and commerce should align their strategies to support water sustainability. The future of Africa's economic growth is intricately linked to how effectively we can mobilize resources for water initiatives. By uniting efforts around water, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous Africa.

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Investing in Water: A Call to Action for E-Commerce in Africa

A Call to Action: Water as Central to Climate Investment

Collaborative Leadership for a Water Revolution

Water as a Human Right: The Broader Economic Implication

Next Steps for Stakeholders in Trade and Commerce

Join the Movement for Sustainable Growth

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