An investigation of water supply constraints in Giyani Township, Greater Giyani Local Municipality, Mopani District, Limpopo Province

Abstract

In South Africa, inadequate water supply is currently a national crisis hence, referred to as a water stressed country. The study’s aim was to assess water supply constraints in Giyani Township of the Greater Giyani Local Municipality that falls under the Mopani District Municipality. The Constitution of the country recognises water as a constitutional right. However, many households in Giyani Township do not receive regular water supply. In some communities, water infrastructure is available but not frequently maintained and that led to irregularity in water supply. The study used qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Self-administered structured questionnaire that consisted of open-ended and close-ended questions helped to collect primary data from the 382 sampled respondents of Giyani Township. Key Informants Interview (interview of people who are authorities responsible for water supply services) supplied information with regard to water delivery services in Giyani Township. Observation method assisted in the evaluation of the condition of the water supply infrastructures as well as the availability of water on a daily basis. Findings of the study indicated that most residents relied on piped water from Giyani Local Municipality, although water was not always readily available from the municipality. Incorrect billing for water services and delays in completion of water relief projects in addition to natural causes and lack of skilled workers were some of the causes that affected the regular supply of water in the township. The study concluded that Greater Giyani Local Municipality experienced a problem of water service delivery that impact negatively on communities and development as a whole The study recommended that the community should voice out grievances about the irregular water supply and request for further clarifications from the municipality during community meetings.. Keywords: Water, water constraints, water supply, Greater Giyani Local Municipality.