Preheat the oven to 375˚F.
In a large bowl, beat together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and water until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly mix in the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes. Let the cookies cool for around 3 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.