Thread by @BBCAfrica

A major UN conference on water is taking place in New York for first the time in nearly half-a-century.

Today is #WorldWaterDay2023; this year’s theme is “accelerating change” to solve the water and sanitation crisis. #UNWaterConference2023

Here's what you need to know👇

But the UN say that despite progress we are “seriously off-track” to meet this goal. #unwaterconference2023

To achieve the UN’s goals, the rate of progress in Africa will need to increase dramatically. #WaterAction

Here’s by how much 👇

One big problem is money.
A report across 41 countries by the charity @ActionAgainstHunger titled ‘Funding the World’s Water Crisis: How Donors Are Missing the Mark’ says there is a dangerous gap between funding and needs.

Jean Lapegue, Senior WASH Advisor @ACFUSA says: “Not only is (access to clean water) essential to grow and prepare food, but it also prevents the spread of disease.”

Somalia is experiencing its worst drought in 40 years.
Sa’diyo Adan Hassan is a Somalian mother of five who used to carry a 20-liter jerrycan of muddy water on her back each day from the nearest well, about a mile from her home.

However, @UNICEF say progress have been made towards universal water access and sanitation. #WorldWaterDay_2023 #WaterAction

The UN say the technology to manage water so there is enough for everybody exists here but, just as with climate, a global mobilisation is needed.

Listen to the UN under-secretary general and water resources specialist Usha Rao-Monari. #WorldWaterDay

bbc.in/3JXaWf5