Informations et ressources scientifiques
sur le développement des zones arides et semi-arides

Titre : An analysis of the water crisis and its impact on sustainable development in Cape Town, South Africa

Auteur : Shiriyedete, Josias

Université de soutenance : University of South Africa

Grade : M.A. (Development Studies) 2022

Résumé
The access and availability of water have been South Africa’s challenge for millennia. Cape Town has experienced a severe water crisis, never witnessed since its establishment in 1652. The city’s water problems began in 2015 when below-average precipitation was received. Consecutive droughts were experienced until 2018 when water problems reached its peak and became a crisis as taps were expected to run dry. The systems theory and sustainable development concept guided the research process. The study was exploratory and descriptive, following a qualitative approach that used interviews and documentary sources. The study explored the causes and impacts of Cape Town’s water crisis and the implemented strategic interventions, and the role of public participation for improved access and availability of water to a population nearing 5 million. Purposive sampling was used because units were sampled strategically according to their relevance to the research problem. Snowball sampling was also used where the researcher asked for referral to other participants. Data-rich participants were selected for interviews, particularly from government, business, industry and institutions. Forty-two participants were interviewed for the required data. Climate change and governance issues were established as critical factors causing the crisis. Impacts were severe across agriculture, tourism, industrial and retail sectors. Local to national level economy as well as individual and households were impacted. Diversification of water sources, especially by desalinisation, reuse and groundwater, as strategic intervention, was established, although with some challenges. Public participation has gained support in alleviating water problems and establishing cohesion in a racially divided Cape Town. The study advances critical lessons, knowledge and understanding required for effective policy reforms, preparedness against climate change, design and implementation of strategic interventions, excellent governance, and the role of public participation in advancing the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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