Water service delivery challenges in Modimolle-Mookgophong Local Municipality, Limpopo, South Africa

Background: Water is not equally accessible, and climate change is altering patterns of weather and rainwater around the world, causing shortages that will both intensify water scarcity and threaten the quality of the current water supply. Aim: The study analyses the effectiveness of Modimolle-Mookgophong Local Municipality (MMLM) in provisioning water services. This study took place in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Methods: A mixed-method approach was adopted under a pragmatic paradigm. The researcher used both probability and non-probability sampling techniques, including random and purposive sampling, to select participants for interviews and questionnaires. This was done to understand the challenges of water service delivery among the MMLM community members. Results: Research findings revealed that the MMLM operates at about 70% capacity as a Water Service Authority. The water system, mostly asbestos pipes, is heavily deteriorated, affecting around 80% of the network. Frequent winter pipe bursts particularly common in winter and illegal connections in informal settlements further strain water provision. Conclusion: The study established that MMLM faces several service delivery challenges related to the delivery of water. Although the local government has the primary constitutional obligation to deliver basic services such as water provisioning, the national and provincial governments should play a significant role in supporting municipalities to fulfil these obligations. Contribution: This study will benefit municipalities and officials in improving future water service delivery. It will also guide other local municipalities facing similar challenges, helping establish a more efficient and effective water service system.