Summary of OSS participation in the 10th GEF International Water Conference, September 23-26, 2024

Strengthening cooperation for the sustainable management of transboundary water resources: OSS participation in the 10th GEF International Water Conference, September 23-26, 2024

The OSS participation, represented by Mr. Lamine Babasy, Director of the Water Department and Mr. AbdelKader Dodo, Consultant, in the 10th International Water Conference (IWC) organized by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) was a moment full of exchange and collaboration promises. This event was held in Punta Del Este, Uruguay, from September 23 to 26, 2024, and brought together global stakeholders working in the management of transboundary, marine and freshwater waters. The central theme of this edition, “Transformative Actions and Impacts for the Water and Ocean SDGs: GEF IW’s Response to the Global Challenge,” aimed to strengthen international cooperation around shared water resources, while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The OSS delegation and country representatives first took part in the Pre-Conference, held in Montevideo on September 21-22, 2024.

The crash courses given by thematic experts, helped build the capacities of project managers on topics such as international transboundary water project management and sustainable financing. During the workshops, several multilateral development banks shared their experiences in green and blue financing solutions, allowing participants to learn about concrete tools to ensure the sustainability of post-GEF projects.

A session entitled “Beyond Boundaries and Beyond Impacts – Rethinking Transboundary Aquifer Management” co-organized by the OSS and UNESCO-IHP, was one of the key activities of the Conference. Moderated by the Director of the OSS Water Department, this session highlighted the critical importance of transboundary aquifers for water security, climate resilience, and ecosystem protection. Regional cooperation and results from projects such as ITTAS were also highlighted, with a view to promoting better practices in integrated water management.

Other important workshops addressed diverse topics, such as the joint management of surface and groundwater, innovations in data management in GEF projects, and inclusiveness in international water resources management. Discussions highlighted the use of artificial intelligence for water data collection and visualization, as well as the importance of including marginalized groups, such as young people, indigenous communities and women, in water conservation initiatives.

The OSS delegation participated in bilateral meetings with partners such as GWP-Med and the World Bank. These exchanges helped lay the foundations for future collaborations, particularly in the area of ​​transboundary aquifer management and technical capacity building for water resources management in Africa.

The Conference ended with a series of technical field visits, providing participants with an overview of innovative solutions implemented in Uruguay. The first visit focused on the Montevideo Bay sewerage system, where modern infrastructure treats wastewater before it is discharged into the Río de la Plata, avoiding industrial and domestic pollution. The second visit took place in the Santa Lucía wetlands, an 86,517ha ecosystem, which plays a key role in recharging aquifers, reducing erosion and capturing carbon. These areas are home to a diversified biodiversity and are a good example of the ecosystem services that are crucial for environmental sustainability.