Perspectives, challenges and opportunities for water supply management in Rustenburg: A case study of Tlhabane township
Perspectives, challenges and opportunities for water supply management in Rustenburg: A case study of Tlhabane township
Author: Tsie Omphile Mathope
ISSN: 3078-2821
Affiliations: Walter Sisulu University
Source: International Journal of African Reflections 2025, p. 116-159
https://doi.org/10.47348/IJAR/2025/a7
Abstract
Water is perceived to be one of the precious resources that should not be denied to any person; however, without the knowledge and attitude of how to sustain it, water will continue to be in short supply. This study aimed to contribute more knowledge about the perspectives on, the challenges of and the opportunities for water supply management in the Rustenburg Local Municipality, specifically in the township of Tlhabane, a small suburb of the municipality situated in North West province, South Africa. The problems leading to poor water supply and management that are experienced by various local communities were explored, with particular reference to Tlhabane township. A descriptive research design was used in this study and the researcher applied the qualitative research method because the two approaches are best used concurrently. The target population identified to respond to the research questions of this study were the community members of Tlhabane who have been facing great water-supply challenges. A probability sampling method was chosen in this study due to its ability to give every person an equal chance of being selected. A systematic random sampling technique was also used in this study, the researcher having determined a sample size of 300 as being sufficient to represent a subset of the Tlhabane community. The data were gathered by distributing open- and close-ended questionnaires to the community members. In addition, five unstructured interviews were conducted with the municipal staff members in the Directorate of Technical and Infrastructure (the Water Supply Unit). The study’s key findings reveal that the community members of Tlhabane expressed frustration at having unreliable access to water. This has led to a growing reliance on self-supply methods. An ageing water infrastructure (eg, asbestos-cement pipes) has led to frequent pipe leaks and bursts. High levels of water loss have been caused by inadequate pipeline maintenance, leading to community protests as a result of persistent water shortages. Limited financial resources have also hindered water infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. The water distribution infrastructure must be upgraded to reduce leaks and wastage. Public–private partnerships must be strengthened for better water management, community participation must be encouraged in water conservation efforts and alternative water sources such as recycled water and sustainable water-supply strategies must be leveraged. Recommendations are made that can be adopted to ensure good service delivery of water to the Tlhabane community. Once these measures are implemented, it is believed the water-supply problems will be overcome. These recommendations are meant to help the municipality to improve its water services to the community by eradicating water shortages. This will serve to ensure that there is economic well-being, employment, peace and stability in the area.