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Download fileThe strategic role of water in sustainable economic growth and development: the case of South Africa
conference contribution
posted on 12.02.2018, 15:07 authored by Gift ManaseThis paper analyses the strategic role of water in South Africa’s economy at the macro and sectoral
levels. At the macroeconomic
level, an analysis of the correlation between precipitation and economic
growth shows that although the country is relatively water scarce, investment in water infrastructure and
diversification has played an important role in building the economy and reducing vulnerability.
However, the country’s current per capita water storage of 700m 3 is very low compared to other middle
income countries and may compromise attainment and sustenance of the targeted 6% economic growth
rate. At the sectoral level, the paper highlights efficiency and water productivity issues that require
urgent attention especially in agriculture. The paper concludes that there is a strong correlation between
water and the economy highlighting the impact of floods and droughts in other SADC countries and
makes the case that investing in water infrastructure, management and services is absolutely essential
and a necessary prerequisite for sustainable economic growth, poverty alleviation and social
development.
History
School
- Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering
Research Unit
- Water, Engineering and Development Centre (WEDC)