Overview 

The IAHR Africa Division, invites researchers, practitioners, industry professionals, young water professionals, and policymakers to submit extended abstracts for presentation at the 7th IAHR Africa Congress.

This Congress provides a high-visibility platform for sharing innovations, research, and best practices addressing Africa's water and climate challenges.

With the theme "Water Resilience & Innovation," the 7th IAHR Africa Congress will be held from 8–11 December 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda. The Congress will gather hydro-environment professionals across Africa and beyond to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange on the continent's most pressing water and environmental challenges.

The Congress will explore the multi-faceted issues at the intersection of water resources management, climate resilience, and the links between water, energy, food security, and ecosystems. It will provide a platform for experts, researchers, practitioners, young professionals, and decision-makers to share cutting-edge insights, scientific research, and innovative solutions in hydro-environmental engineering and water management.

Rooted in the theme of innovation and resilience, the Congress aims to advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and support both rural and urban communities in building climate-resilient, sustainable water futures.

Prof. Ignace GATARE, Congress Chair, Principal, College of Science and Technology, University of Rwanda

Prof. Moez Louati, Chair IAHR Africa Division 

 Congress Theme "Water Resilience and Innovation" 

The 7th IAHR Africa Congress is a landmark event that centers around the pivotal theme of Water Resilience & Innovation. The global gathering will address the multifaceted challenges posed by the dynamic intersection of water resources management, climate change adaptation, and the intricate interplay between water, energy, food security, and nature. It shall provide a platform for experts, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to converge and share cutting-edge insights, groundbreaking research, and new solutions in the field of water engineering to meet these challenges.

As nations grapple with the effects of climate change, the Congress will delve into innovative water engineering that adapts to the evolving challenges posed by a changing hydro-environment. Another focal point of the Congress will be the exploration of innovative concepts that alleviate the increasing pressure on the water-energy-food nexus and acknowledge the intrinsic linkages between these vital resources. Understanding and optimizing this nexus is crucial for fostering sustainable development, and the Congress shall promote the global exchange and collaboration for integrated approaches that maximize these interconnected resources.

Finally, a key objective of the 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026 in Kigali is to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water resources. These goals encompass a spectrum of global targets to tackle issues ranging from clean water and sanitation access to sustainable cities and communities, climate action, and life below water and on land.

Submit your abstract by 15 April 2026!

 Congress Sub-themes 

• Water supply & Sanitation technologies and services

• Water Regulatory Services

• Integrated water management and planning

• Urban resilience in African cities

• Flood and drought management

• Wetlands and critical ecosystems management

Papers addressing Africa-specific challenges, inclusive governance, and context-aware solutions are strongly encouraged.

 Keydates

• Extended Abstracts submission deadline 15 April 2026

• Notification of Acceptance 31 May 2026

• Congress Dates 8-11 December 2026

 Kigali, Rwanda

Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa's premier destinations for international conferences, hybrid meetings, and high-level events. With world-class venues, excellent connectivity, and warm hospitality, the country offers an ideal environment for participants attending the 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026.

Kigali, the capital, is celebrated for its safety, cleanliness, and welcoming atmosphere. Getting around the city is easy and enjoyable, thanks to well-maintained roads, efficient public transport, and convenient ride-hailing services. Visitors often remark on how effortless it is to navigate Kigali and how organized the city feels.

Rwanda's reputation as a top MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination continues to grow. RwandAir connects to more than 30 destinations, while major international carriers such as KLM, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways ensure seamless travel to and from Kigali. Delegates also benefit from a visitor-friendly visa policy, with a fully digital e-Visa system and visa on arrival for nationals of African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie countries.

Beyond the conference venues, Kigali offers a unique mix of nature and innovation. The city features restored urban wetlands and eco-parks that showcase Rwanda's leadership in environmental conservation. These green spaces, including native fig forests, rehabilitated streams, ponds for flood control, and reed-bed systems for natural water purification, provide peaceful spots to walk, relax, or enjoy the city's biodiversity.

For those looking to explore further, Rwanda's natural wonders are truly unforgettable. Visitors can go on a Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, meet mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, soak in the beauty of Lake Kivu, hike to Bisoke Crater Lake, or explore the rainforests of Nyungwe and Gishwati–Mukura. Every destination reflects Rwanda's commitment to conservation, sustainability, and genuine hospitality.

 Hohai University Special Award for IAHR Africa Congress 2026

We are excited to announce the Hohai University Special Award for the 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026 edition. Modeled similarly to the John F Kennedy Student Paper Competition for the IAHR World Congress, this award will recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions during the event to the field of hydro-environmental research and engineering. The Hohai University IAHR Africa Congress Student Paper Competition recognises conference papers from undergraduate and postgraduate students on the basis of written and oral presentations at the IAHR Africa Congress.

"We are honored to recognize and support talented students whose work focuses on addressing Africa’s water-related challenges, including water security, water scarcity, and the impact of climate change."

Prof. Jinhai Zheng, Hohai University  

Click here to learn more about the Award. 

Organisers

Supporting Organisations

Related

Save the date for the 7th IAHR Africa Division Congress
Hohai University Special Award for the 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026
IAHR Africa Regional Division
IAHR Rwanda Young Professionals Network