FUNDING FREE BASIC SERVICES THROUGH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT EQUITABLE SHARE

Developed in 2001, the Free Basic Services (FBS) policy aims to promote poverty alleviation for indigent households (IH). Millions of South Africans still lack access to basic services such as water, sanitation, and other essentials despite the government’s efforts. National FBS norms, which have remained unchanged since the programme’s inception prescribe that a minimum of 6 kl of potable water and 50 kWh of electricity to each IH, with sanitation and refuse removal services varying from municipality to municipality.