Public-private partnerships: a governance analysis of the Durban Water Reclamation Plant.

Abstract

Public-Private partnerships (PPPs) are considered as a model of good governance. PPPs have assisted in delivering services and improving infrastructure facilities worldwide. PPPs have been understood in theoretical and practical terms both globally and in South Africa. This study established the rationale for PPPs in general as well as in South Africa. It describes the different forms and types of PPPs and provides examples of PPPs. The legislative and policy framework for PPPs in South Africa is presented and analyzed. This study focuses on PPPs in the water sector. Particular attention is paid to the Durban Water Reclamation Plant which is a PPP in the eThekwini metropolitan municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and is the case study of this study. The study examines how the Durban Water Reclamation Plant has governed, its strengths and challenges and what lessons can be learnt. The study concludes that this is a successful PPP because it aims and outcomes have been beneficial to all the partners concerned, and has serving the socio-economic needs of the region it is serving.