Page 2 - Research Report 2025.1

CONTENTS
Overview
Question Segment
Study Objective I
Overall Theme 1:
Rural Context and Local Government Governance
Study Objective II
Overall Theme 2: Resilience and Sustainability of Rural Livelihoods
Study Objective III
Overall Theme 3: Governance Processes and Policy Implementation
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This research would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of various individuals and institutions and their steadfast support. As we reflect on our journey through the complex governance and socio-economic landscape of the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, I extend sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful completion of this study.
I wish to express special gratitude to the leadership of Alfred Nzo District Municipality, whose openness to collaboration and commitment to knowledge creation enabled this research to take place.Their support facilitated access and affirmed the value of evidence-based inquiry in strengthening governance and service delivery.
Foremost, I acknowledge our fieldwork partners whose contextual knowledge, logistical coordination, and unwavering commitment anchored our research in the lived experiences of rural communities. Their insights were critical in interpreting local realities and added depth to our findings.
I am particularly grateful to the dedicated research assistants who collected data in the municipalities under study. Despite numerous challenges, their diligence, precision, and
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commitment to the project’s objectives laid the empirical foundation for this report. The National Research Foundation (NRF) is gratefully acknowledged for its financial support through the Research Chair in Sustainable Rural Livelihoods. Their continued belief in the Chair’s vision enabled this inquiry and affirmed the relevance of the research to rural development and governance in South Africa.
I also thank the University of KwaZulu-Natal for its institutional and administrative support. Beyond hosting the Research Chair, UKZN provided the academic environment and infrastructure essential for coordinating and delivering a multi-site, multi-stakeholder project.
Finally, heartfelt thanks are due to our editor and graphic designers. Their professionalism and creativity transformed our data into a report that is analytically robust, visually engaging, and accessible to diverse audiences.
Research assistants
1. Ms Nosiseko Mtati 2. Mr Michael Khosa
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