The Third International Conference on Managing Shared Aquifer Resources in Africa took place in Tripoli, Libya, from 25-27 May 2008.

The Conference brought together over 150 experts from 20 African countries, UN organizations and international institutions. An overview of the 38 Transboundary Aquifer Systems in Africa, which was prepared by the International Hydrological Programme of UNESCO, the Global Environmental Facility’s International Waters Programme and various universities, and which takes into account hydrogeological as well as socio-economic conditions and legal frameworks, served as the basis for discussion. Participants identified the lack of adequate governance for these transboundary systems and tabled recommendations to address these issues. Participants also heard a presentation by the special rapporteur of the UN International Law Commission, Ambassador Yamada, about the set of draft articles on the Law of Transboundary Aquifers, and took note of the relevance of this international law instrument for the African continent. Also during the conference, the Centre on Transboundary Aquifer Resources Management in Africa and the Arab States was launched. It was established by the Libyan Government in Tripoli under the auspices of UNESCO. Participants requested UNESCO to continue its support to African countries in the study and management of Transboundary Aquifers (IISD sources).