| dc.description.abstract | The water sector in many developing countries in the world is characterised by inadequacies and
inefficiencies in service delivery (Gardner-Outlaw and Engelman, 1997). These among other things are
reflected by disrupted flow of water, frequent system breakdown, long waiting periods for connection,
escalating unaccounted for water losses in the distribution networks, unsatisfactory customer relations and
haphazard water projects’ implementation and Botswana is no exception. The purpose of this study was to
assess the impact of institutional arrangements on water service delivery at household level in villages of
Botswana based on a case study of Kanye and Molapowabojang. Empirical data was obtained by
employing qualitative approach from January to April 2007. Key informant interviews, focus group
discussions and document review were the main tools for data collection. Three indicators of coverage
levels, reliability of water supply and consumer satisfaction were used in assessing the efficiency of water
service delivery.
Two main water supply sources are used by households in Kanye and Molapowabojang – public
standpipes and private connections. However majority of the households in Molapowabojang depend on
public standpipes mainly because private connections hardly pump out water. Despite this fact, most
households prefer to have a higher level of service, the private connection for the convenience it offers, as
it does not require walking out of the compound to obtain water. The study findings revealed that the
current institutional set up to rural water service delivery at household level is relatively efficient in terms
of water reticulation infrastructure provision, functioning sources, access to and use of water (time and
distance) and to a very limited extent, willingness to pay to sustain existing service levels. Although there
is water reticulation infrastructure in the two villages, there are short comings in their operation and
maintenance as well the ability to meet user preferences. The efficiency of the approach is in doubt as
communities are to a very limited extent involved in the planning, implementation, operation and
maintenance and evaluation of their water supply systems. Responsibility for these activities is seen to
rest with the Department of Water Affairs and the District Council which are seen as inefficient.
The study therefore is of the opinion that the current institutional arrangement is inadequately performing
in the management of water supply schemes and service delivery at household level. This can be
redressed by affording rural communities and private sector greater involvement in decisions relating to
the water service delivery. There needs to be a reassessment and reorientation of existing institutional
structures related to water supply. In addition, there is need for understanding the level of water
development in the country. Though it is important to separate the roles of service provision from
regulation and resource management, it is imperative to understand the level at which service provision is
at. The water institutions in Botswana should be developed and empowered to successfully operate and
maintain the infrastructure in place.
Key Words: Service Delivery, Water Institutions, Coverage level, reliability, consumer satisfaction,
Botswana, village, Integrated Water Resources Management | en_ZW |
