Retno Marsudi, the United Nations Special Envoy for Water Issues, was named Champion for Water Investment by the South African Government and the Global Outlook Council on Water Investment during the Africa Water Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Cape Town.
This recognition is part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and acknowledges Retno's critical role in advancing investments in the water sector.
In a video message, Retno expressed her gratitude, stating, "It is a great honor to be nominated as Champion for water investment. This reflects the trust in the UN’s efforts to address the challenges faced by countries and communities regarding water issues,” she said as quoted in a statement on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Retno, Indonesia’s former Foreign Minister, emphasized that water investment goes beyond funding, also encompassing political commitment, institutional capacity, human resources, and strategic cooperation.
She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting and collaborating with all water stakeholders through the "Triple A for Water" principles − Advocacy, Alignment, and Acceleration.
The Champion nomination by South Africa aims to be a concrete result of the Africa Infrastructure Summit 2025. As a Champion for water investment, Retno will contribute to strengthening global investments in water, particularly in regions and countries in need.
The Global Outlook Council, announced as a G20 Presidency initiative, is designed to track progress, unlock funding potential, and align efforts in the water sector, involving the G20, the UN, and other multilateral development banks.
Other individuals recognized as Champions, include former President of Tanzania, Jakaya Kikwete; South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina; Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, Celeste Saulo; and former UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon.
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