An evaluation of water supply in rural areas of Limpopo Province: case study of Gaba and Tshifudi

Abstract

This study deals with community experiences regarding rural water supply systems and management issues at Gaba and Tshifudi villages. The provision of free and adequate basic water for domestic uses and a more equal distribution of water for productive uses are seen as important instruments to redress inequalities from the past and eradicate poverty in South Africa. Limpopo province has the lowest total water supply coverage. Currently about 10 million people in Limpopo province do not have access to safe water and about 15 million have no access to sanitation. The study used both quantitative and qualitative techniques for data collection and analysis. Qualitative techniques were mostly used in that they provide the researcher with an understanding of experiences and problems faced by communities who receive inadequate water supply. Random and purposive samplings were used for the selection of sample for the study. Both primary and secondary data were used for analysis in this study. Secondary data were obtained from government publication, research publication, and report. Primary data were obtained through personal observation, household's questionnaires, individual interviews and focus group discussions. Although the government has committed itself to providing adequate basic water service for all, the findings of this study indicated that this fundamental principle is still far to be reached particularly in Gaba and Tshifudi villages. Inadequate water supply and poor management in the study area affects culinary and personal hygiene in households. Lack of access to safe and reliable supply of domestic water; poor maintenance of water system, poor services delivery and poor sanitation awareness results in poor health for rural people and loss in productive time due to sickness. School children often miss schooling while adults incurred increased medical expenditure. Women and children primarily

bear the responsibility for collecting water and are the worst affected by this situation. Therefore, the study recommends the strategy which is based on the efficient management and equitable supply of water to rural domestic users.