Investigating Underutilization of the Municipal Water Infrastructure Grant (MWIG) in Leekwa-Teemane Local Municipality (LTLM)

Abstract

Access to potable water and sanitation remains a pressing issue in South Africa, where 3 million people lack clean water and 14 million lack adequate sanitation. Informal settlements and rural areas are disproportionately affected due to ageing infrastructure, insufficient investment, and poor governance. This study aims to investigate the challenges hindering Leekwa Teemane Local Municipality (LTLM) from leveraging the Municipal Water Infrastructure Grant (MWIG) to address water infrastructure backlogs. Using a qualitative methodology, the research analyses documents, conducts stakeholder semi-structured interviews, and explores a case study to identify institutional, financial, and operational constraints. Interviews were conducted with key stakeholders who are involved in infrastructure grant spending, with questions addressing expenditure, rate of project completion, and other significant challenges faced by the municipality. The findings indicate that inadequate planning, limited technical capacity, and complex grant application processes are the primary obstacles faced by LTLM. The study concludes with actionable recommendations to streamline grant processes by enhancing technical capacity and improving accountability mechanisms. These insights provide strategies for LTLM and similar municipalities to overcome barriers, ensuring the delivery of essential water infrastructure.