African nations must urgently harness digital technologies to enhance water data management and resilience as climate-induced floods, droughts, and water scarcity intensify across the continent.

At the opening of the Pan-African Symposium on Digital Solutions for Water Management in Addis Ababa, senior officials and experts underscored the critical need for Africa to leverage digital technologies to improve water governance and strengthen resilience against climate shocks.

Michael Mehari, Senior Advisor at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy, commended the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) for advancing digital transformation and fostering partnerships in the water sector.

He stressed that as water challenges become more complex under climate variability and competing demands, “digital technologies are no longer optional but essential.”

He noted that tools such as AI-based forecasting systems, real-time monitoring, and digital control systems now enable governments to manage water resources more efficiently and transparently.

Ethiopia, he said, has made commendable progress through its National Water Information System, which integrates hydrological, hydrogeological, and water-use data across basins.

Efforts also include developing real-time monitoring stations, GIS-based catchment planning, and digital twin models for water-energy-food systems.

However, Mehari acknowledged persistent challenges in infrastructure, data fragmentation, and capacity development.

He called for scaling up successful pilots, investing in digital skills, and strengthening partnerships among governments, research institutions, and the private sector.

Abdisa Yilma, Director General of the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI), highlighted the vital role of space and geospatial technologies in addressing Africa’s water challenges.

He explained that SSGI is developing data platforms that support sustainable water management and research across multiple sectors.

Despite Africa’s abundant water resources, Yilma noted, the lack of comprehensive data and growing demand continue to hinder effective planning and management.

He emphasized that digital innovation is not a luxury but a necessity for Africa’s sustainable future.

By integrating technology, data, and community-based solutions, he said, African nations can build resilient and inclusive water systems that promote development, equity, and climate adaptation.

Co-convened by IWMI and the Ministry of Water and Energy, with support from The Helmsley Charitable Trust, the symposium brings together representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, Burkina Faso, and Ghana, as well as global partners such as the World Bank, UNECA, and the Nile Basin Initiative.

The event showcases innovations across Africa aimed at building climate-resilient water systems.