Patterns of domestic water inadequacy on the South African West Coast

Spatial patterns of water shortages on the west coast of South Africa were mapped, to assist in finding supply solutions. A survey in August and September, 1995 of 62 communities between the Orange River and the edge of Cape Town investigated the occurrence of shortages and deficiencies in water quality and accessibility. Shortages are defined at two levels-short- and medium-term. Seven communities were identified as having short-term shortages, while 12 experienced medium-term shortages. All of these are small, agriculturally-, mission-, or service-based communities. Most are in south central Namaqualand.