ABSTRACT
Most cities in the Global South faced segregative developments during separatist and colonial periods, making it difficult for democratic governments to bridge disparities. This is evident in South African townships like Tembisa, where longstanding socioeconomic inequalities are worsened by inadequate infrastructure. Water infrastructure requires modernisation to ensure fair access and sustainable service provision. Despite efforts to improve water supply since democratisation, minimal research has assessed the impact of these interventions. This paper examines the role of digitalisation in strengthening Tembisa's water infrastructure resilience. Using a qualitative case study approach, it explores digital tools like smart metering and real-time monitoring to address water management challenges. In-depth interviews with municipal officials and community representatives reveal that while digital solutions improve efficiency and accountability, challenges like affordability, digital literacy, and governance persist. The study concludes by recommending upgrades to aging water systems, including pipelines and treatment facilities, to improve efficiency.
