In preparation for the 9th World Water Forum (Dakar 2021) and as co-chair of its Rural Development Pilot Group, Dean Rabi Mohtar organized a webinar in which he shared and discussed the concept note “Water as a catalyst for rural economic development." The webinar also featured FAO Deputy Director for Land and Water Division, Dr. Sasha KooOshima, who led attendees in a discussion on the importance of water management as a catalyst for rural development. A summary of the Five Pillars Alliance (Water-Energy-Food-Health-Education framework, built on a holistic system-based approach, was presented. Also discussed was the concept “One-water, One health" in the context of rural development and access to water, agriculture, foreign investment, and engaging and empowering rural communities. Over 50 people from organizations and water institutions across the world attended the webinar.