Thirsting for solutions: Unpacking inadequate water provision in rural communities

Abstract

Background: In South Africa, access to water is not equally spread across the population. As a result, 19% of those living in rural areas lack access to a dependable water source and 33% lack basic sanitation services.

Aim: This study aimed to identify obstacles municipalities face in delivering water services to rural communities and challenges surrounding water scarcity.

Setting: This study focused on the rural areas of the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa.

Methods: A qualitative research approach was employed, with a case study design and an interpretivism paradigm. The data collection process utilised semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis to interpret the findings comprehensively.

Results: Findings reveal that ageing infrastructure, ineffective governance structures, limited financial resources, and uneven distribution of water resources exacerbate the problem.

Conclusion: Part of the recommendations is that significant investment is needed in upgrading water infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and governance structures should be strengthened to ensure effective management and equitable distribution of water resources.

Contribution: Through delineating strategic recommendations, this study identified the root causes behind insufficient water provision within rural communities. This contributes to the direction of policymaking efforts and expands its impact on future researchers within the field of public administration. Moreover, to bridge the gap between ensuring adequate water provision and promoting efficient water utilisation, it makes strategic proposals for improving water management and distribution, which will affect policymaking and future public administration research.