Africa's Water Crisis: Demand Will Surge, But Data Remains Scarce

African countries need to understand how much water their farms, cities, and factories will require in the coming years. A new assessment aims to measure water demand across the continent — by location and by economic sector. The study focuses on "spatial and sectoral water demand" — meaning it examines how much water is needed in specific places and for specific uses, such as agriculture, industry, and households. Currently, such detailed data for Africa is limited. Without it, governments and planners struggle to prepare for growing populations and economic expansion. The assessment seeks to fill this gap. It will map where water demand is rising and which sectors are driving that demand. This information is critical for managing shared water resources and avoiding shortages. The findings could help policymakers prioritize investments in infrastructure and water conservation. As Africa's cities grow and its economies develop, the pressure on water supplies will only increase. Reliable demand estimates are a first step toward securing water for the future.