Climate change adaptation and water security in the case of rural women in Zonyama village, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Abstract

Climate adaptation involves the development of policy and practices for a set actions that the local state and communities in a geographical location can employ to limit and control both expected and unexpected climate change impacts. These impacts differ in scale and extent, and vary according to set conditions at a given location. This thesis presents the results of qualitative research based on the Community-based Adaptation (CbA) practices as adopted by women of the rural Zonyama village of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The main objective of this research was to identify the practices that the women of Zonyama village employ in efforts to secure their household water consumption needs during a drought period as brought about by climate change. This thesis uses Community-based Adaptation theoretical approach, , to investigate the practices employed by the women of Zonyama village in addressing their household water consumption needs. The theory is also used to assess the impact of these practices and the challenges that the women may experience as a consequence. Using field observation and the semi-structured interview method, the research concludes that women have the agency to determine how to access water for their household consumption needs, although women continue to rely on the voices of men to advocate for policy to be actioned on behalf of the women, regardless of marital status. The problem-solving and decision making centred around issues of water and access remains a female problem with little contribution and action from men and hence is gendered in its practices. This research contributes to the understanding of some issues of access to places without sufficient and reliable water for household consumption from the perspective of rural women in addressing climate adaptation. The participants for the research were purposively selected and excluded persons over the age of 18 years old, due to ethical considerations. The research acknowledged the sensitivity around the conservative nature of the community, avoiding questions that may challenge the social security of the participants. A total of 30 interviews representative of 30 households from the village community out of 107 households were conducted. The research found that place attachment to the land is a major factor that shapes water security in Zonyama village. Households would rather not have water for prolonged periods than to relocate away from their village. Poverty is also a constraining factor, as the desire to relocate may exist, but the means to do so may not be readily available. Women are less likely to participate in the planning and decision-making surrounding the greater community’s water ii needs as these engagements are determined by the men in the community and the village Indunas, the Chief and the Councillor, and a Traditional Council largely made up of elected men of the community.