An analysis of sanitation and water service delivery in Mahikeng Local Municipality

Abstract

This study analyses various statutes and policies on water and sanitation service delivery in Mahikeng. The water and sanitation services delivery system of the Mahikeng Local Municipality is problematic because of the absence of a formal policy that outlines the duties of the municipality as a water service provider. Through a thematic approach, the study concludes that Mahikeng Local Municipality officials are complacent and at times do not exercise their discretion to avoid foreseeable harm in water and sanitation service provision. Accountability and responsiveness manifest themselves through encouraging community participation for collaboration with the Mahikeng community in decision-making. Community participation is not a guarantee to adequate sanitation and water service delivery but an ideal arrangement is envisaged when an experienced private company takes over some of the functions of the Mahikeng Local Municipality through a contract with specific terms of reference that are subject to review after engaging stakeholders in the fashion that Johannesburg has resorted to in order to provide improved water quality