Towards the realization of free basic sanitation : evaluation, review and recommendations

The aim of this study was to assess the experience of municipalities in South Africa in the implementation of free basic sanitation (FBSan) services and to develop economic and financial models for sustainable FBSan service. Based on the findings of the study recommendations were made for improving the delivery of FBSan services to poor. The study involved a review of national and international literature, and an evaluation of FBSan services in South Africa through eight municipal case studies and a survey in 17 district municipalities. Two separate modelling exercises were undertaken to explore different aspects of implementing the FBSan strategy. A review of international and national experience on the provision of subsidized sanitation services to the severely marginalized individuals and groups was conducted to identify good practice. The findings of this review were used as a basis for the development of guidelines for sanitation subsidies for the severely marginalized individuals and groups. The overall conclusion from the study is that the provision of an FBSan service to all households is not financially viable for all categories of municipalities.