Analysis of challenges affecting access to water in rural communities within the Greater Giyani Municipality

Abstract

Rural communities in the Greater Giyani Municipality (GGM) are facing water access challenges for over a decade. Intervention measures were taken by the national government to ensure access water, however, the rural communities in GGM are still in dire need of water. The research methodology adopted the qualitative approach which deployed literature review, document analysis, interviews, case studies and observations for data collection. Thematic analysis was adopted to present the results and findings of the study. It was found that water sources, bulk water distribution, water reticulation, implementation of plans, policy and legal documents, and compliance with the blue drop and green drop programme were the major challenges affecting access to water. Therefore, the study recommended the implementation of resource-directed measures, review of water use authorisations, adoption of adaptive water management approach, implementation of preventive and corrective maintenance, upgrading of water infrastructure, implementation of water conservation and water demand management strategy, employment of water law enforcement officers, enhancement of public participation for women, and improvement in the implementation of water planning and legal documents.