An assessment of the effects of the shortage of water supply in Vhembe District

Water supply shortage is a global phenomenon that has brought about diverse impacts on people's livelihood and societal well-being. This study was focused on investigating the effects of the shortage of water supply in Vhembe District Municipality. The study is grounded on the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. This study was conducted along the qualitative dictates and interpretive paradigm. A phenomenology research design guided this study. A structured interviewed guide was used to collect data from 20 participants in District Municipality. The participants were purposively selected. The collected data was transcribed using Microsoft word and analysed using ATLAS. ti version 8.4. The findings of the study revealed that many human-related activities significantly impact water availability. Rapid population growth without corresponding water supply infrastructure development, industrial and agricultural water usage, illegal water connections, and water theft are some of the factors contributing to water shortage supply. Environmental challenges, institutional shortcomings, and social behaviours also play a role in exacerbating the water shortage supply. The study recommends that the government should implement both short-term and long-term measures to address the water crisis. Short-term measures include water trucking to provide emergency relief to affected communities until more sustainable solutions are implemented. Public awareness campaigns should be conducted to promote water conservation and responsible water usage among residents. The government should collaborate with neighbouring regions to explore water-sharing agreements and optimize the use of available water resources during times of scarcity. Infrastructural projects should be undertaken to improve water storage and distribution systems, aiming to alleviate water shortages in the long term. Seeking funds for water infrastructure development, providing relief measures for affected communities, and assessing long-term sustainability and solutions are other measures that should be taken by government officials.

Author dc:creator

• Nengwekhulu, Tshilidzi Winnie

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Nkuna, N.
• Kone, L.

• Effects
• Water supply
• Water shortage

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2720

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2720