Policy implementation in a multi-organisational context : a case study of the Free Basic Water Policy of Msunduzi Municipality.

Abstract

Policy implementation is a critical stage in the policymaking process. It is about putting public policy into action. It becomes more challenging to implement policies in a multi-organisational context. This research aims to uncover the different aspects of policy implementation in a multi-organisational context. The Free Basic Water Policy is analysed in particular the financial implication of providing free basic water as a basic service in municipalities. In establishing the distribution of basic services it is important that the understanding of local governance in post-apartheid South Africa is elaborated upon. Hence this study is one of local governance and the financial implications of providing free basic water to local citizens in general and to indigents in particular. The municipality chosen as a case study is Msunduzi municipality. This municipality has undergone some challenges in terms of their fiscal management. This in turn impacts their ability to deliver basic services. This study argues that policy implementation in a multi-organisational context should look into understanding the structure of an organisation and the processes therein to help explain the challenges that occur in policy implementation. The main findings of this research were that the structure of organisations depends greatly on the features of the organisational context. It is the organisational environment such as the structures in place, political life and processes that direct organisations. Coordination and cooperation proved to be vital for policy implementation in the context of Msunduzi Municipality, given that there is sharing of resources and information.