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7th IAHR AFRICA CONGRESS

KIGALI

RWANDA

Theme: Water Resilience & Innovation

8 - 11 DECEMBER 2026

WELCOME TO THE 7TH IAHR AFRICA CONGRESS

Prof. Ignace GATARE

The University of Rwanda stands as a beacon of excellence, shaping a new generation of leaders and innovators dedicated to Africa's sustainable development. Through a model anchored in research, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, our programs directly address the continent's pressing challenges — from food security to urban resilience, and climate-responsive public policies.

Prof. Ignace GATARE

Congress Chair, 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026

Prof. Omar MUNYANEZA

Dear Participants and Water Sector Leaders, Africa's future depends on our collective ability to transform challenges into opportunities. This Congress is more than a scientific gathering; it is a call to action. Together, through evidence-based solutions, applied research, and shared expertise, we can secure resilient, sustainable water futures for our communities.

Prof. Omar MUNYANEZA

Co-Chair, 7th IAHR Africa Congress 2026

On behalf of the International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR), it is my great honor to invite you to the 7th IAHR Africa Congress in Kigali, Rwanda, from December 8th to 11th, 2026.

Following the success of our previous edition in Morocco, this congress continues to be a flagship event uniting leading experts, policymakers, and young professionals tackling climate resilience and water security challenges across Africa and globally. Your presence will enrich vital conversations and contribute to shaping innovative, actionable pathways for a better future.

IAHR President

Prof. Philippe Gourbesville

President, IAHR

Africa Division Chair

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

The challenges facing Africa's water sector are immense — yet so too are the opportunities. This Congress convenes a diverse, dynamic community of researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers ready to co-create transformative solutions. Let us embrace this opportunity for collaboration, innovation, and solidarity as we work towards a sustainable, climate-resilient water future for Africa.

Warm regards,

Prof. Moez Louati

Africa Division Chair, IAHR

Beyond the Venue

Maximize your visit to Rwanda by exploring its natural wonders and cultural heritage:

Akagera National Park: Enjoy a thrilling Big Five safari, 2.5 hours from Kigali.
Lake Kivu: Kayak, take boat trips, or relax at lakeside resorts.
Bisoke Crater Lake Hike: Trek to the crater lake in Volcanoes National Park.
Gishwati-Mukura Biosphere Reserve: Discover a UNESCO biodiversity treasure.
Gorilla Trekking: Meet mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Nyungwe National Park: Explore ancient rainforests and observe over 300 bird species.

Seamless Visa Process

Rwanda provides a fully digital e-Visa system for conferences, valid for up to 30 days. Nationals from African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie countries can access Visa on Arrival.

Accommodation

Kigali has hotel capacity to host over 5,000 guests, offering options from luxury to budget. Top-tier hotels that are not far from the venue include:

Radisson Blu Hotel
Kigali Marriott Hotel
Four Points by Sheraton
Mille Collines Hotel
Kigali Serena Hotel
Numerous boutique hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments

Discover RWANDA

The Land of a Thousand Hills

WHY RWANDA?

Rwanda has established itself as the hub for hybrid meetings and conventions in Africa. Moreover, Rwanda is perceived as the leading African destination for first class incentives and events. Also, being one of the leading MICE destinations in the Africa, Rwanda national airline flies to over 30 destinations and the network is growing. Major airlines that fly to Kigali international airport include KLM, Qatar, emirates, Ethiopian airline and Kenyan airlines. All these advantages make Rwanda an ideal destination for the IAHR 2026 Africa Congress.

Kigali is easy to move around. In fact, transport in Kigali has improved massively in recent years. High quality roads, decent traffic management, robust public transport, and the introduction of ride hailing apps making easierthan most majorcities in Africa.The city of Kigali has restored urban wetland / Ecotourism Parks that can be considered in organizing the pre or post congress technical tours, to explore restored ecosystems, including a fig forest of native species, rehabilitated streams, and ponds for flood alleviation of the wetland and the reed-bed for pollution abatement of the wetland.

ORGANIZERS

The event is hosted through a collaboration of Water Partnership Rwanda, the University of Rwanda/ College of Science and Technology, the Rwanda Young Water Professional with the support of key government agencies and various partner organizations.

University of Rwanda
IAHR - International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research
Water Partnership Rwanda
Rwanda Young Water Professional

With support from key government agencies:

Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) Group
Rwanda Water Resources Board
Rwanda Environmental Management Authority