Basic training and tools can fix minor faults

This infographic summarises findings from Asivikelane’s work tracking basic service delivery in informal settlements (PDF, 758.85 KB), where residents routinely report long delays in getting communal taps, toilets and other shared infrastructure repaired even when faults are reported through official channels. Since frequent breakdowns severely affect access to water and sanitation, Asivikelane explored whether empowering residents to handle simple repairs could improve outcomes. As part of this research, residents were asked whether they would be willing to fix minor faults themselves if provided with basic tools and training, and 79% said yes. This result underpins Asivikelane’s community‑based plumbing initiative, already underway in Cape Town and Knysna, where trained residents repair small leaks and minor faults while municipal technicians focus on complex infrastructure. The infographic therefore highlights how community plumbers can reduce waiting times, strengthen daily service delivery, and improve access to water and sanitation.

Abstract based on original source.