FAQs
When will the call for “abstracts” be released?
A: The call for abstracts is already open! We are not looking for the traditional abstracts or paper, but we are specifically seeking proven solutions for systems transformation in the water and sanitation sector.
If you or your organization have engaged in country systems reforms, or you have specific solutions or youth-led innovations (e.g., data, environmental solutions), you can submit a 2-page summary here. While we cannot guarantee a spot, we will match submissions – and investors - with relevant sessions.
How are sessions curated, and who is involved?
How can different stakeholders participate in the symposium?
A: Partners and diverse stakeholders have multiple ways to engage. For instance:
-
Sponsorship: Contribute in-kind (e.g., sponsoring evening events), bring participants to the symposium or financially see packages;
-
Strategic partnership: Share best practices in systems transformation, promote the symposium through your networks, or submit proven, impactful case studies via the call for submissions;
-
Exhibition: Secure a stand at the conference center here
-
Moderation: Offer to moderate high-level sessions or the market place sessions.
A: Each dialogue and session is led by a diverse group of stakeholders, who are selecting the best solutions in the continent to show case at the symposium, including so far:
-
Government: Ministries of Finance and Infrastructure, municipalities, local governments
-
Regional Bodies and regulators: AMCOW, AU-AIP, ESAWAS, NWASCO, AFUR, RURA
-
Utilities: WASAC (Rwanda), IWA, Ghana Water Company, NWSC (Uganda) GWOPA, VEI and other utilities in the continent
-
Financial Institutions: African Development Bank, Development Bank of Rwanda, World Bank, public development banks and commercial banks with interest in the water and sanitation sector
-
Start ups, incubators: there are many start ups and incubators developing water and sanitation solutions, either digital or technical in nature. We are having bilateral discussions with many of them to come to the market place sessions
-
Continental and Global Partners: SWA, GIZ, WaterAid, IRC, UNICEF, Water for People, Water for Good, ANEW, WSUP and more
-
Youth Groups: Rwanda Young Water Professionals Network
How can we support the member states attending?
-
A:
-
Send delegations including: Ministers of Water, Finance, and Planning; Heads of State representatives; Regulators, utility CEOs, and (domestic) finance institutions.
-
Engage in Ministerial Dialogues to align on credible, investable reforms.
-
Prepare the delegations not with speeches or powerpoints, but with key sector reforms that have taken place or will take place to reach country and continental goals.
-
Prepare Country Transformation Snapshots to showcase reforms and progress.
-
Showcase national innovations (e.g., tariff reforms, digital tools, climate resilience)
-
Encourage youth-led businesses to apply for the Youth Solutions Matchmaking Sessions
-
Participate in the Systems Reform & Investments Marketplace to explore partnerships and de-risking instruments
-
Sponsor attendance of key stakeholders (e.g., district leaders, utility managers, youth leaders) to ensure diverse representation.
-
Coordinate with diplomatic representatives in-country for ensuring alignment of initiatives and smooth travel process
-
Commit to follow-up initiatives (e.g., AU Score Card implementation and end of the year report, regulatory reforms, etc.).
How can partners justify attending the symposium if they cannot present in plenary?
A: We prioritize diversity and representation across all groups. We recognise that podium space is very limited (we want plenary sessions to be engaging and real discussions, not endless power points), however, many partners are involved in curation.
If your organization feels left out, contact us directly (hello@universalevents.rw). We also encourage partners to:
-
Showcase their work via submissions or exhibition stands.
-
Leverage the symposium to network, share experiences, and promote their initiatives.