The African Civil Society Network on Water and Sanitation (ANEW) stands as a powerful, Africa-wide platform uniting more than 225 local and national civil society organisations across over 30 countries. Recognised by governments and key sector stakeholders, ANEW has firmly established itself as a leading civil society voice in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and water resources management (WRM). Its mandate spans from grassroots mobilisation to influencing national, regional, Pan-African, and global policy processes ensuring that the voices of communities are not only heard but actively shape decisions.
ANEW’s work goes far beyond advocacy for women and girls, even as gender justice remains a cornerstone of its mission. The Network is driven by a broader vision: to advance the human rights to water and sanitation, strengthen accountability for public commitments, promote good governance, and champion climate-resilient and nature-based solutions. It also plays a critical role in advancing sustainable financing for WASH and WRM, while ensuring that communities especially marginalised groups such as youth, persons with disabilities, women, girls, and those in informal settlements and climate-vulnerable areas are meaningfully included in decision-making spaces.
Through its diverse membership and strategic partnerships, ANEW bridges the gap between lived community experiences and high-level continental processes. It strengthens national civil society platforms, supports evidence-based advocacy, convenes stakeholders around African Union and AMCOW engagements, and consistently amplifies the realities of underserved populations in key policy arenas.
It is against this backdrop that the ANEW 2025 Annual Report is presented.
This report captures a year of impact, resilience, and strategic influence. It highlights how ANEW and its members have translated their mandate into action driving policy change, strengthening accountability mechanisms, fostering inclusive participation, and advancing sustainable and climate-responsive WASH solutions across the continent. The 2025 Annual Report not only documents achievements but also reflects on lessons learned, emerging challenges, and the Network’s continued commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of universal access to water and sanitation.
