Communities, civil society groups, and trade unionists across Africa have united under the banner of water justice, launching the fourth annual Africa Week of Action Against Water Privatisation.
The Our Water, Our Right African Coalition (OWORAC) is leading the charge against corporate control of water resources, advocating for equitable access to safe water free from profit-driven schemes.
OWORAC, comprising leaders from nearly a dozen African countries, aims to counter the detrimental impacts of water privatization, which has led to increased costs, compromised infrastructure, and environmental degradation.
Amid protests and mounting public frustration, the coalition underscores the urgency of prioritizing public welfare over corporate profits.
“At its core, water privatization undermines the human right to water,” stated Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) and OWORAC member.
He highlighted the detrimental effects on communities and workers, stressing the need for governments to reject privatization and uphold their duty to provide essential services.
The coalition's efforts coincide with global financial meetings, challenging institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, which often promote privatization policies in the Global South.
These policies, critics argue, exacerbate economic inequalities and prioritize foreign interests over local needs.
In Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and beyond, OWORAC members have documented the negative impacts of privatization on water quality, access, and community health.
Instances of contamination and environmental degradation have been linked to corporate negligence, prompting widespread calls for systemic change.
The Africa Week of Action serves as a platform for community engagement, policy advocacy, and media outreach to raise awareness about the dangers of water privatization.
It demands accountability from governments and corporations alike, urging a shift towards sustainable, community-centred water management solutions.
As the week unfolds, OWORAC plans to intensify its campaign, fostering dialogue among stakeholders and amplifying grassroots voices demanding water justice across the continent.
The coalition's message is clear: safeguarding the human right to water is essential for social equity and environmental sustainability in Africa.
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