Retno Marsudi Honored as Water Investment Champion at Africa Water Infrastructure Summit

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi, has been named a Champion in Water Investment by the South African Government and the Global Outlook Council on Water Investment. The prestigious award was presented at the Africa Water Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Cape Town, an event held under South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

The accolade recognizes the pertinent role of Marsudi, who is an Indonesian former minister of foreign affairs, in promoting investment in the global water sector. As the first UN Special Envoy on Water, she has consistently highlighted the critical importance of water investment in her discussions with governments and various water stakeholders.

A Commitment to Water Security

In a video message accepting the honor, Marsudi emphasized that the award reflects the trust placed in the United Nations’ efforts to address water-related needs worldwide. She highlighted that water investment extends beyond just financial commitments.

“It is a great honor for me to accept the invitation to be one of the Champions in water investment. It demonstrates trust in the United Nations in our endeavors of addressing the needs faced by countries and the people on the ground, especially in water agenda,” Marsudi stated.

She affirmed her commitment to collaborating with all water stakeholders through her “Triple A Principle on Water”: Advocacy, Alignment, and Acceleration of actions. This principle serves as a guiding framework for her work in strengthening water security globally.

Global Leaders Join the Initiative

The “Champion” nomination is a key outcome of the Africa Water Infrastructure Summit. As a champion, Marsudi will support efforts to boost water investment worldwide, with a particular focus on regions and countries in need.

The Global Outlook Council on Water Investment, a new investment platform, was also launched at the summit. It aims to track progress, unlock finance, and align water-related initiatives across major global processes like the G20, the UN, and various multilateral development banks.

Other distinguished individuals recognized as Champions alongside Retno Marsudi include:

• Jakaya Kikwete, Former President of Tanzania

• Pemmy Majodina, Minister for Water and Sanitation of South Africa

• Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization

• Ban Ki-moon, Former UN Secretary-General

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