Enhancing Climate Resilience through Water Operators' Partnerships in the MENA Region

MENA region faces the highest water stress globally, with 83% of its population exposed to extremely high water stress. In 2019, 11 out of the 12 most water-stressed countries were in MENA. Over the past 40 years, MENA's water resources have declined by two-thirds, with projections indicating a further 50% decline by 2050 due to population growth, climate change, and poor water management. This increasing water scarcity will lead to severe socio-economic and environmental consequences, including food and energy insecurity, health risks, and conflicts over shared water resources. Collaboration between water utilities, regulators, and government agencies is crucial to address these challenges and build resilience against climate change. Water Operators’ Partnerships (WOPs), involving peer support exchanges between water operators on a not-for-profit basis, can play a vital role in this effort. WOPs enhance resource efficiency, strengthen water operators' capacity, and improve service delivery. They disseminate best practices for climate change adaptation and mitigation, supporting utilities in becoming more resilient and sustainable. This event will showcase the effectiveness of WOPs through case studies and insights from the MENA region, highlighting their critical role in ensuring safe and reliable water services amidst climate change.
https://gwopa.org/about-us/
  • 11:30 - 13:00 (PICASSO 4)

Conveners

  • Global Water Operators Partnership Alliance

Speakers

  • Mr. Emrah Engindeniz / Germany

  • Mr. Reint-Jan De Blois / Netherlands

  • Mr. António Fantasia / Italy

  • Mr. Mohamed Khaled Zaabar / Tunisia

  • Mr. Michel N’guessan / South Africa

  • Dr. Ihab Abdelaziz Gebreel / Egypt

  • Eng. Ragab Arafa / Egypt

  • Dr. Dahlia Sabri / Egypt

  • Mr. Kees Van der Lugt / Netherlands