African Union Summit: Ramaphosa & Leaders Focus on Water Security & Potential Conflicts

African Leaders Gather in Addis Ababa, Focusing on Water Security and Sustainable Sanitation

February 14, 2026 – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is hosting the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) this weekend, with water security taking center stage as a critical issue for the continent’s development. The summit’s theme, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” reflects a growing urgency to address the challenges posed by climate change, rapid population growth, and strained infrastructure.

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa arrived in Addis Ababa on Saturday to participate in the summit, according to a post from The Presidency of South Africa on X (formerly Twitter). He will be attending meetings focused on peace and security, climate change, and economic integration alongside other African leaders.

The urgency surrounding water security stems from a confluence of factors. Africa’s population, exceeding 1.5 billion, is growing at a rate that outpaces the development of essential infrastructure. Simultaneously, the continent is experiencing more frequent and intense droughts, floods, and unpredictable rainfall patterns – all linked to the broader impacts of global warming. These climate shocks are disrupting agricultural production, impacting hydropower generation, and placing immense pressure on urban water supplies.

Policy analysts suggest that effective water management is no longer simply an environmental concern, but a fundamental adaptation challenge with direct consequences for food security, energy reliability, and the livelihoods of millions. The summit is expected to explore ways to integrate water systems more effectively with public health initiatives and disease prevention strategies, recognizing the interconnectedness of these critical areas.

Ahead of the main assembly, high-level meetings facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and AU bodies have already begun. These discussions are centering on climate-resilient investments and sustainable groundwater management, with a particular focus on the Horn of Africa. Sanitation gaps, which contribute to preventable diseases and hinder productivity, are also a key area of concern.

The AU summit also comes as the continent seeks a greater voice on the global stage. AU Chief Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has stated that, in the interest of justice, Africa must be granted permanent representation on the UN Security Council. This push for increased representation underscores the continent’s desire to play a more central role in shaping global peace and security initiatives.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is expected to deliver his final address before leaving his post later this year, has emphasized the importance of collaboration between the AU and the UN. He believes the AU is increasingly vital in shaping global peace efforts.

President Ramaphosa is also scheduled to brief fellow leaders on the outcome of the G20 Leaders’ Summit held in South Africa in November 2025, and provide a report on the AU’s participation in that event. This briefing highlights the growing importance of multilateral partnerships for addressing complex global challenges.

While the summit agenda is broad, encompassing issues of peace, security, and economic integration, the focus on water security signals a recognition that sustainable development in Africa is inextricably linked to the responsible management of this vital resource. The discussions in Addis Ababa this weekend will be crucial in determining how the continent can navigate the challenges ahead and build a more resilient future.

The summit’s emphasis on sanitation also reflects a growing understanding of its impact on public health and economic development. Addressing sanitation gaps is seen as essential for reducing preventable diseases, improving productivity, and fostering human capital development.

As African leaders convene, the question of potential “water wars” looms large, with some analysts suggesting that competition for scarce water resources could exacerbate existing tensions. The AU’s decision to prioritize water security is, in part, a response to these concerns, aiming to proactively address the challenges before they escalate.