An expansive interpretation of the water rights of black dispossessed communities in South Africa

Abstract

The study provides an expansive interpretation of the right to water for black dispossessed communities in post-apartheid South Africa, arguing that the current interpretation of the right to water is insufficient as it does not acknowledge the vital role of water for black dispossessed communities. Drawing on the experiences of the Vhavenda people in the Vhembe district, the study examines water as a focal point of exclusion in traditional water governance, as well as a source of violence through the construction of dams, and as a tool for dispossession and displacement. In this context, water is seen not only as a physical resource but also as a social and symbolic one, with multifaceted associations and implications. The dissertation seeks to advocate for the right to access water and the preservation of the cultural practices of black dispossessed communities in post-apartheid South Africa. It recognises that water is a scarce resource, yet an integral part of people’s identities, culture, and religious beliefs. Therefore, it argues for a broad definition that acknowledges the anthropocentric elements and esoteric dimensions of water in relation to black dispossessed communities.