11858 The “Hub of Hubs:” knowledge-sharing platform for peace

In 2008, the African Union committed to improving water and sanitation information and knowledge management, leading AMCOW to establish a central knowledge hub. By December 2016, AMCOW's Secretariat was tasked by its Executive Committee with creating a platform for free access to water and sanitation resources. In October 2021, the Mukhtari Shehu Shagari Resource Centre was launched, housing a web-based knowledge hub and library. Recognizing the need for broader participation, the General Assembly directed the Secretariat in 2021 to forge partnerships and mobilize resources. This aims to involve member states, regional institutions, academia, and others in advancing water and sanitation initiatives in Africa. AMCOW engaged stakeholders during 2021 World Water Week (amidst COVID-19) on a session with the themed AMCOW knowledge management hub: Connecting African Water Practitioners. Its overall goal is to contribute to all water-related goals and priorities of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. The session will discuss the benefits and challenges of operationalization of a “go to” water knowledge sharing platform: The Hub of Hubs. This will present AMCOW’s efforts and way forward, including, among others, strengthening knowledge systems and partnerships at member states levels, and other partners.