Implementation of a “Free Basic Services” Policy in the Republic of South Africa

The South African Government made a commitment to insuring the delivery of a basic level of municipal services to all households. At the heart of this commitment is a belief in the right of all South Africans to receive at least a common minimum standard of service. The Capstone team was asked by the Department of Provincial and Local Government (DPLG) to assist in setting up an implementation strategy for basic municipal services. The Capstone team first reviewed the work already undertaken by DPLG and other line sector departments on the implementation of free basic services. In addition, the Capstone team conducted a literature review of best practices learned in implementing basic services in other countries (Columbia, Georgia, Hungary and Uganda) in order to come up with norms and standards for basic services. The team examined current service provision on a sector basis (health, water, sanitation, electricity, waste disposal) and determined whether these services facilitate the implementation of the “free basic services” policy and how to cost the services.