A critical review of public-private partnerships in the management of water services delivery : the case of Nelspruit.
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Date
2006
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Abstract
This study sought to investigate the complexities and challenges posed by the adoption of a
Private-Public Partnership (PPP) as a mechanism for delivering services in a South African
local government context. The rationale of using PPP is to be effective, efficient, accountable
and transparent. The study highlights the post-apartheid government's efforts to transform
water services delivery through introducing various policies and legislation in order to
provide water services to communities that were previously denied access to reliable and
portable water supplies.
This study looks at both positive and negative aspects of public service management in
general and has identified New Public Management (NPM) as a theory that seeks to address
the inadequacies commonly attributed to classic public service management. PPP is an
example of emerging model of service delivery from the New Public Management school of
thought.
New Public Management, the study's adopted theoretical framework, is concerned with
reformation in a public sector organization (in this case the local government), so that it can
perform effectively and efficiently. Another area of concern in New Public Management is
ensuring that the public sector organizations provide decision makers with sound advice on
all aspect of policy: conceptualization, review, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
The research methodology that this study used was a qualitative approach. Secondary sources
of data were employed, while the method of data analysis was content analysis. Themes
emerging from the data formed the basis for analysis in line with the adopted theoretical
framework.
The findings were based on the four sets of objectives of the study, using research questions
as a guide. The process involved applying New Public Management (NPM) concepts to the
case study. An examination of the manner in which networks have been managed in
Nelspruit. Also examined is the legislative and policy framework that allowed and
accommodated the inclusion and operation of PPP. Opportunities and threats surrounding the
Greater Nelspruit Utility Company (GNUC) Concession were also identified. Finally, lessons
and implications in the usage of the PPP approach as a mechanism of water services delivery
concludes the discussion on the findings.
Description
Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.
Keywords
Public-private sector cooperation., Water-supply--South Africa., Theses--Policy and development studies.