An examination of policy implementation of water and sanitation services in the city of Cape Town: a case study of the informal settlements in the Khayelitsha area

Abstract

The focus of the study is on the implementation of public policies through provision of basic services such as water and sanitation in the City of Cape Town. The case study of the research is the informal settlements of Khayelitsha area which falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Cape Town. The study identified and analysed the socioeconomic conditions of the people living in the informal settlements of Khayelitsha and the impact of such conditions to their lives. The study emphasizes the role of all spheres of government in the implementation of public policies.The study identified various challenges faced by government in the implementation of public policies, particularly at local government level. Among the challenges is the lack of communication, lack of public participation and lack of capacity. The study emphasizes the importance of intergovernmental relations and cooperate governance in order to achieve the objectives of good governance and effective and efficient service delivery. The study reveals that civil society plays an important role in the implementation of public policies and also holds the government accountable to the people. It is important to indicate that government cannot achieve the goals and objectives of providing clean water and adequate sanitation facilities if communities do not form part of the structures that implement projects and programmes of development in their respective areas.Hence, the study emphasizes the importance of communication and consultation of communities on issues that directly affect them. The study emphasizes the fact that communities need to take control of the resources and infrastructure provided to them in order to avoid unnecessary expenditure of replacing and repairing resources damaged and destroyed by the very same community.