The Our Water Our Right Africa Coalition (OWORAC) is set to kickstart its fourth annual Week of Action Against Water Privatisation to combat the growing trend of water privatisation across Africa. The event, scheduled for October 21-26, 2024, aims to spotlight the challenges posed by the increasing commodification of water resources on the continent.
A collective of pro-public water advocates, OWORAC argues that the privatisation of water services, often driven by profit motives and neoliberal policies, has left many African citizens struggling to access or afford clean water—a resource they believe should be readily available to all.
“Access to clean water is a fundamental human right,” said a spokesperson for OWORAC. “Yet, across Africa, we’re seeing state authorities increasingly favour the privatisation of basic services over public and democratic management. This trend is leaving many without access to what should be a basic necessity.”
The Week of Action will commence with an international press conference on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 9:00 AM WAT. Under the theme “Water Justice Over Profit,” the conference aims to draw global attention to the water privatisation issue and its impact on African communities.
Throughout the week, OWORAC plans to organise various events and activities to expose the potential dangers of water privatisation. The coalition will advocate for public ownership of water resources and promote a model where water access is guided by justice and human need, rather than profit demands.
Critics of water privatisation argue that it often leads to increased water costs, reduced access for low-income communities, and a prioritisation of profit over public health and environmental concerns.
The Week of Action Against Water Privatisation comes at a time when many African countries are grappling with water scarcity issues, exacerbated by climate change and rapid urbanisation. OWORAC hopes that by raising awareness and mobilising public support, they can influence policy decisions and promote more equitable water management practices across the continent.
The coalition’s persistent efforts highlight the growing debate over water rights and management in Africa—a discussion that is likely to intensify as water resources become increasingly strained in the face of global environmental challenges.
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