Alexandre Kanga has been supporting the German-African GAPWAS project as a project employee on the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) side since December 2024. In his dual role as Project Officer in the GAPWAS project and Data and Strategy Manager at AfWASA, he plays a key role in strengthening the cooperation between AfWASA and GWP. In this interview, he talks about his motivation, strategic work in the water sector – and why data plays a key role in sustainable development.
What role do you play in the GAPWAS project, and how do you contribute to achieving its goals?
I have been working as a Project Officer in the GAPWAS project since 2023, where I coordinate various activities. Additionally, I serve as the Data and Strategy Manager for AfWASA (African Water and Sanitation Association). My role involves aligning our projects with the broader strategic goals of AfWASA, managing and analyzing data, and ensuring effective collaboration between AfWASA and other stakeholders like German Water Partnership (GWP).
I coordinate efforts related to water utilities, capacity building, and knowledge sharing. My primary responsibility is to strengthen the relationship between AfWASA and GWP, ensuring both sides work together to improve the water and sanitation sector.
Was there a specific project or challenge within GAPWAS that was particularly formative for you? What did you learn from it?
A key project within GAPWAS has been facilitating the collaboration between AfWASA and GWP, particularly focusing on networking, capacity building, and linking water utilities. This experience has been formative because it involved developing strategies that aligned the goals of both organizations, while addressing the practical needs of water utilities.
Through this project, I learned how important it is to develop a shared understanding and strong cooperation between different organizations and stakeholders. Sharing knowledge, evaluating progress, and strategizing together is crucial for achieving sustainable improvements in the water sector.
How long have you been working at AfWASA, and what motivated you to work there?
I have been working at AfWASA for two years. I joined the organization because I was passionate about addressing the challenges in the water sector and saw an opportunity to make a significant impact. Under the leadership of François Olivier GOSSO, the Executive Director, I was inspired by the direction the organization was taking, particularly in terms of strategic growth and membership.
With a background in Computer Science, I was eager to apply my technical skills in data management and strategic planning to help AfWASA improve water access and sanitation. My personal motivation comes from the belief that “water is life,” and even small contributions to this sector can lead to significant improvements in people’s lives.
How do you use data and strategic planning in your work to promote sustainable projects in the water and sanitation sector?
I develop internal strategies to measure and track our achievements, as well as identify areas for improvement. I work closely with Director GOSSO to create reports and use data to guide decision-making processes. One of my key accomplishments has been helping AfWASA achieve 100 members in 2024, with a goal of doubling that number annually.
My strategy involves providing key insights to help others understand how to improve their efforts. I focus on ensuring that our projects are sustainable and impactful, aligning our goals with measurable results.
What added value does your position as Data and Strategy Manager bring to AfWASA?
In my role as Data and Strategy Manager, I bring a unique combination of technical expertise and strategic insight. With a background in Computer Science, I am able to leverage data to optimize processes and drive decision-making. I focus on developing data-driven strategies that improve the efficiency and impact of AfWASA’s projects, particularly in the areas of water management and climate resilience.
My work ensures that the organization remains adaptable and can respond effectively to evolving challenges in the water and sanitation sector.
