Chad : Celebrates World Water Day with Focus on Lake Conservation

Editorial : Hala El Bassir

The Minister of Water and Energy, Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, presided over the commemoration of World Water Day on yestraday, The event gathered representatives from key technical and financial partners in Chad, including UNICEF, AFD, Swiss Cooperation, the European Union, and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Under the national theme “Preserving Lakes,” the day served as a platform for discussing improvements in access to drinking water, currently at 63% according to the Ministry of Water, and the need to safeguard aquatic systems. Speakers also emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the 2.2 billion people worldwide who lack access to this vital resource.

Minister Passalé highlighted the significance of both water and lakes, calling them often overlooked natural treasures. He pointed out that Chad is home to several major lakes, such as Lake Chad, which has lost 90% of its surface area due to climate change, Lake Fitri, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the Ounianga Lakes, a series of 18 lakes also listed as UNESCO World Heritage. These lakes are essential for biodiversity, water supply, fishing, and agriculture. However, they face increasing pressure from human activity and climate change, disrupting their fragile balance. The Minister emphasized that while preserving these lakes remains a significant challenge, it is one that can be overcome with the continued commitment of the country and in line with the vision of Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno.