An analysis of the influence of the indigent policy on the provision of potable water for rural communities in the Amathole District Municipality

Abstract

This study examined the influence of the implementation of the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) in the provision of water for rural communities and determined possible options for enhancing the policy to improve potable water services delivery. The study was underpinned by social justice theory. The study followed a qualitative research approach. A case study research design was used, and purposive sampling, which is a subtype of the non-probability sampling technique, was employed. The sample for this study included 5 municipal officials, 5 civil society groups, 5 ward councillors and 20 community members who were affected by the phenomenon. Data was collected using both primary and secondary sources, and the study employed thematic data analysis for analysing the data. Despite the ADM making great strides in the implementation of the indigent policy, challenges are still notable. In particular, the ADM is characterised by a backlog with regard to its citizens’ access to potable water. The implementation of the National Framework for Municipal Indigent Policies by the ADM, without any adjustments to deal with the actual needs of rural communities, reinforces existing socio-economic inequalities. This is detrimental to the pursuit of social justice as it amounts to a denial of social recognition. This researcher submits that this policy fails to meet Fraser’s objective precondition for achieving social justice. The researcher recommends that policy reorientation must be prioritised in the ADM in order to meet the needs of the people within its jurisdiction. In addition, there is a need for the robust implementation of the policy to enable the intended beneficiaries to benefit from it. It is imperative for the municipality to prioritise skills development and training programmes in order to capacitate its employees, which may in turn have a positive impact on indigent policy implementation, as they will be able to work effectively and efficiency.