COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN WATER AND SANITATION SERVICE DELIVERY:AN EMPIRICAL CASE OF MANTSOPA MUNICIPALITY, SOUTH AFRICA.

This study examined the impact of community participation on water and sanitation services in the Mantsopa Municipality. Qualitative methods, including interviews with community representatives and municipal officials, were used to gather and analyze data thematically. The results indicated that community involvement can enhance service delivery and improve resident satisfaction. However, the quality of water and sanitation facilities remains a concern due to long-standing maintenance and population growth issues. Barriers to decision-making were identified, including limited funding, public awareness and education, socio-cultural, political and economic constraints which discouraged participation. Collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities is necessary to overcome these systemic barriers. Municipal authorities should consider the cultural, social, political, and economic factors and drivers at play in redesigning the water supply and sanitation systems to accommodate population growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]