ZAAn expert from DNA Economics, Shirley Robinson, argues that South Africa's water crisis is primarily due to weak municipal governance, poor financial management, and the inability of local authorities to generate revenue, rather than a lack of infrastructure. During a webinar organized by the South African Institute of International Affairs and other partners, Robinson emphasized that the core issue lies in the capacity of municipalities to sustain long-term infrastructure investment. She noted that while national government handles strategic water infrastructure like dams, municipalities are responsible for delivering water and sanitation services directly to residents. Robinson stressed that financial challenges stem from systemic failures in planning, budgeting, revenue generation, procurement, and governance, rather than simply a lack of available capital.
Bias read (Center): The article presents an analysis of South Africa's water crisis from an economic and institutional perspective, focusing on governance and financial systems rather than partisan politics. While the topic is politically charged due to its implications for public service delivery and government policy
