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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Environmental health and sanitation explored through a framework of governance: a case study of informal settlements in South Africa
Author:Allison, Maria
Year:2002
Periodical:Urban Forum
Volume:13
Issue:4
Pages:169-186
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:popular participation
informal settlements
health
urban areas
sanitation
External link:https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12132-002-0020-3
Abstract:Social-political context is a recognized determinant of urban environmental health. Policymakers envisage partnerships with community-based organizations (CBO) as a means to achieve a healthier living environment. However, there has been insufficient consideration of what this means in practical terms. This paper looks into the question of what factors may promote or inhibit the involvement of CBOs in the sanitation provision process. An exploration of these factors was undertaken in 1996-1997 in two settlements (Masiphumelele and Victoria Mxenge) in Cape Town, South Africa. Both settlements were in the process of developing sanitation. The paper focuses on one of the factors investigated - the extent to which a common interest is identified around sanitation. The identification by individual residents of a common interest to improve their living environment and a shared understanding of how this is to be achieved relates to the cultural dimension of governance. Evidence from the case studies shows that in countries in transition, local governments at the front-line of governance may lack the capacity to identify common interests in environmental health and form effective and equal partnerships with communities. Bibliogr. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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