Water, Households and Rural Livelihoods Promoting access of the poor to sustainable water supplies for domestic and productive uses in areas of water scarcity. A joint Indian, South African & European project

Introduction Who are AWARD Background of area Major changes in Water Policy

Economics Study Enough evidence to support RDP standard Main challenge is to operationalise this with regards to institutional, technical and economic perspectives to ensure sustainability Water-based activities play an important role in rural livelihood systems. More research on how they feature in overall strategies need to be done. Rural water sector policy should not only be driven by “basic needs” but also the economic opportunities that access to additional water can generate. Alternative ways of providing water for productive uses need to be explored. Provision of water for productive uses needs to be done without compromising the provision of basic needs.

Snap Shot Survey results Water from domestic services is not used for basic needs only. There are complex water systems in all villages. There are often multiple uses associated with each source Wealth is not a determinant in productive use activities but does factor in scale of activity payment for water does take place ( vendor,O&M etc.) Women collect water and engage in productive activities. Management of water supply is not for all sources, usually piped systems only.

Ongoing work Seasonal study Basic Human Needs Reserve determination plus support for allocation and licensing. Development of methodology for livelihoods centered approach to rural water supply.