Capital expenditure, population growth and access to water services in South Africa

Abstract

Access to sustainable and improved water services is a global concern. In South Africa, households should by law access water services within 200 m of their homes. However, many households still access water from sources more than 200 m away. This study examines the impact of capital expenditure and population growth on access to water services in South Africa. The study highlights access to water services in the country and how it is affected by capital expenditure and population growth. The fixed and random effects estimators are used to analyze panel data for 52 big municipalities during the period 2009 to 2018. Among other findings, the study reports that while capital expenditure improves access to water services, population growth is undoing municipal efforts. Thus, evidence-based planning backed by reliable population growth forecasts is essential for improved access to water services. Studies that quantify the impact of capital expenditure and population growth on access to water services are important as they aid policy formulation and implementation.