Understanding the water-energy-health nexus in urban contexts in Africa: towards biogas-supported decentralized water treatment system for communities in Diepsloot (South Africa) and Chambisi (Zambia): a feasibility study

Abstract

This project explored the potential of renewable-energy driven, decentralized water supply for the sustainable development of townships in growing African cities. The study sites were Twaiteka Ward in Chambishi, Zambia, and Diepsloot Township in South Africa. Both are located on the outskirts of the two growing cities of Kitwe and Johannesburg, respectively, and they face common challenges: They both have rapid population growth and inadequate (or in some cases, total lack of) essential services from their respective local authorities, and both experience a plethora of socio-economic challenges. Findings show that a one-size-fits-all approach cannot be applied as each location requires context-specific solutions given the spatial variations in the nature and character of the vulnerable communities in the respective communities