A review of the social and local dynamics in South Africa's water-energy-food nexus
Lucy Khofi, Lenore Manderson, Memory Reid, Eileen Moyer
Abstract
Socioeconomic and environmental factors significantly shape the availability, accessibility, and affordability of water, energy, and food (WEF) resources in households and communities. In this review, we identify a significant gap in understanding how these factors intersect in the South African context, where inequalities in resource distribution persist. We critically examine the conditions influencing resource availability and explore the conceptual value of the WEF Nexus in guiding decision-making at local levels. Our findings highlight key barriers, including socio-economic disparities and systemic inefficiencies within governance, infrastructure, and resource management systems, which hinder the effective application of the WEF Nexus to improve livelihoods. We argue that integrating the WEF Nexus into decision-making requires a holistic, context-sensitive approach that prioritizes equity and sustainability. This review contributes to the discourse on resource management by offering actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to address water, energy, and food challenges in marginalized communities. • Examines socio-economic and environmental factors affecting water, energy, and food in South Africa. • Highlights the relevance of the WEF Nexus to local livelihoods and decision-making. • Identifies barriers to the effective application of the WEF Nexus at household and community levels. • Advocates for a holistic, context-sensitive approach to resource distribution. • Provides insights for integrated and sustainable resource management strategies.