Iyke Bede Waterlight Save Initiative has called for increased global cooperation to improve water systems using science, technology, and innovation. The appeal was made at the United Nations STI Forum 2026, where stakeholders gathered to discuss sustainable development strategies. Prince Ero Ibhafidon, Founder and President of the initiative, spoke during a high-level session on transforming water systems. He described clean water access as a fundamental human right and essential to health, economic growth, climate resilience, peace, and sustainability.
Ibhafidon highlighted ongoing challenges in vulnerable communities, especially in Africa and other developing regions, citing water insecurity, poor sanitation, climate change effects, and weak infrastructure. The organisation used the forum to present its current projects, which focus on expanding clean water access, improving hygiene and sanitation, empowering youth, and strengthening climate resilience in underserved areas. It advocated for the integration of renewable energy, digital tools, data-driven planning, and climate-smart infrastructure into water systems to scale impact.
The initiative urged deeper collaboration among governments, private sector actors, civil society, multilateral institutions, and technology innovators to close gaps in global water access. It stated that achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) demands more than policy statements, requiring measurable investments and decisive action at the grassroots level. Waterlight Save Initiative said it continues to grow its international presence through programmes in water access, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, renewable energy, and sustainable livelihoods. These efforts have reached millions of children and young people across Africa and other regions.
Prince Ero Ibhafidon demands global tech-driven solutions for water access while his initiative operates in regions where basic infrastructure remains absent. The call for digital and renewable integration rings hollow where communities still lack functional boreholes and sanitation systems. If technology is the answer, it must first address the gap between pilot projects and widespread, reliable delivery. Reaching millions means little if those reached remain dependent on the next forum promise.
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