7TH INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR HYDRO-ENVIRONMENT ENGINEERING AND RESEARCH (IAHR) AFRICA CONGRESS (8–11 DECEMBER 2026)
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.
WELCOME TO THE 7TH IAHR AFRICA CONGRESS
Prof. Ignace GATARE
Congress Chair, 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026
Principal, College of Science and Technology – University of Rwanda
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
We are delighted to welcome you to the 7th Africa Congress of the International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR), taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, from 8–11 December 2026.
The International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research is a global, independent organization founded in 1935 and dedicated to advancing water science, engineering, and innovation. With members spanning universities, research institutes, and industry, IAHR fosters collaboration through professional groups, scientific research, capacity development, and world-class conferences. Its mission is to promote sustainable water management and support cutting-edge hydro-environmental solutions for societies worldwide.
Prof. Philippe Gourbesville
President, IAHR
The IAHR Africa Division works to strengthen IAHR’s presence on the continent by connecting African researchers, practitioners, and institutions to global networks of water expertise. Through programs such as the Africa Online Summer School, free memberships for African professionals, and high-level regional dialogues on water security, the Division is building a strong ecosystem of collaboration and capacity development. Its vision is to harness African knowledge, innovation, and partnerships to address the continent’s diverse water challenges.
Prof. Moez Louati
Africa Division Chair, IAHR
THEMES PRESENTED:
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
DISCOVER RWANDA
The Land of a Thousand Hills
Welcome to 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.
ON BEHALF OF THE LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE OF THE 7TH IAHR AFRICA CONGRESS AND THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR HYDRO-ENVIRONMENT ENGINEERING AND RESEARCH (IAHR), WE ARE DELIGHTED TO INVITE YOU TO JOIN US IN KIGALI, RWANDA, FROM 8–11 DECEMBER 2026.
ORGANISED BY
SUPPORTED BY
