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Intergovernmental fiscal relations in the water services sector - Assessing oversight and accountability measures

This brief evaluates the strength of accountability and oversight mechanisms in intergovernmental fiscal relations, particularly relating to water ...

The state of sanitation and wastewater treatment services in South Africa

Effective sanitation services contribute significantly to reducing health risks and protecting the environment. But accessing safe and dignified sanitation ...

COVID-19: Opportunities and challenges for the water, sanitation and hygiene sector

Disasters are undesirable events; but, if managed well, they can be catalysts for beneficial systematic change. The necessity for efficacy in COVID-19 pandemic ...

Developing water sensitive cities I: Rethinking how we manage urban water

Given the current pressure on water sources, South African cities must rethink their approach to urban water management. The concept of water sensitive cities ...

Municipalities II: Assessing mechanisms of municipal oversight

This brief series explores three institutional arrangements that influence municipal functioning. Part I evaluates executive authority in municipalities; Part ...

Understanding water issues and challenges II: Municipalities and the delivery of water services

Municipalities, defined as water services authorities, are required to provide basic water and sanitation services, but systemic issues are impacting their ...

Understanding water issues and challenges III: Water boards and bulk water services

Water boards are instrumental in providing bulk water services across the country. But failing governance, financial mismanagement and unpaid debt are ...

Understanding water issues and challenges IV: Water infrastructure assessment

The condition of water resource and supply infrastructure influences government’s ability to perform the functions prescribed by the National Water Act and the ...

Water infrastructure backlog and access to water infrastructure delivered

Since 1994, South Africa has achieved major reductions in water infrastructure backlog with consequent improvement in access to water infrastructure delivery. ...

Water Quality, Reliability and Payment for Services: Household Perspectives I - Context and Water Quality

In this two-part series, Charles Simkins sets out what can be learnt about household perceptions of water services, water quality and interruptions from the ...