Water sector value chain challenges: The case of Chris Hani District Municipality

Background: This study examined the challenges faced by the water sector value chain in the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM). The investigation was prompted by the issues related to water shortages and the poor quality of potable water in the area. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the challenges in the water sector that are responsible for the precarious water provision services that are experienced at CHDM. Setting: The study was undertaken at CHDM, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: The study used qualitative research techniques to delve deeper into the water issues at CHDM, and 10 sampled participants were interviewed. Results: The results show that the CHDM does not seem to adhere to some of the regulations of the Water Services Act of 1997. There is also a continuation of the non-payment culture by some water consumers because of poor affordability, resistance and municipal billing challenges. Conclusion: Regarding the interplay between water as a constitutional right and water as a business, the study concludes that consumers who can afford to pay should do so, while the indigent should be subsidised by the government. In terms of infrastructure, bulk water supply should be upgraded, dilapidated infrastructure should be replaced, revenue collection should be improved and there should be ring-fenced revenue for the provision of water services. Contribution: The study’s contribution is primarily on addressing some of the service delivery issues such as the municipality’s performance in relation to the provision of water services.