Perceptions of Municipal Water Managers of Limpopo and Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Areas on Water Resources, Uses and Restrictions
Khathutshelo A. Tshikolomo, Sue Walker, Azwihangwisi E. Nesamvuni

Abstract
The study was to investigate the perceptions of municipal water managers of Limpopo and Luvuvhu-Letaba Water Management Areas of South Africa on water supply, use and restrictions. Managers in ten municipalities were interviewed to obtain relevant data. Due to lack or resource knowledge, 30% of managers omitted major rivers in their lists while 40% rated some incorrectly based on size. The managers reported non-consumption of water by some basic activities suggesting dearth of knowledge of consumed amounts. Perceived water consumption by major uses was: household>agriculture>industrial>recreation and underestimates agriculture consumption. Managers’ perceptions on household consumptions were: washing> agriculture>drinking>cooking>processing food and drinks for sale. Perceptions on agricultural consumption were: irrigation>livestock drinking>dipping. Consumption by industries was perceived larger for food than drink processing. Rainfall occurrence reportedly minimized water restrictions. The perceptions of municipal water managers suggest that they lacked knowledge on water resources and their uses and were better knowledgeable on water restrictions.

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