Page 3 - Research Report 2025.1

Cite this report
Mubangizi, BC. 2025. Institutional resilience and recovery from disasters and pandemics in selected districts of rural
South Africa - exploring the implications for governance and public policy implementation. Research Report 2025.1
OVERVIEW OF THE STUDY
This study aims to explore how institutions in rural South Africa and Uganda have exhibited resilience and recovery from disasters and pandemics, with a focus on governance and public policy implementation. It investigates the implications of these dynamics for local governments and rural livelihoods, particularly in terms of sustainability, resilience and policy effectiveness.
The Resilience and Recovery Project seeks to provide a holistic picture of rural local government by comprehensively analysing the structures, functions, and dynamics in Uganda and South Africa. It explores the resilience and sustainability of rural livelihoods, assessing how communities withstand and adapt to the impacts of disasters and pandemics. By exploring socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors, the study identifies what contributes to resilience or vulnerability within these communities.
Further, the research examines governance processes and policy implementation systems that affect rural livelihoods. It focuses on how policies are formulated and executed locally, especially those related to disaster management and recovery. The effectiveness of these governance processes in supporting rural livelihoods during and after crises is critically evaluated.
This research is particularly interesting because of its comparative approach and focus on institutional resilience. By studying rural local governments in Uganda and South Africa, the Chair aims to uncover shared challenges and unique solutions that can inform global governance and policy implementation. This study enriches academic understanding and holds practical implications for policymakers, practitioners, and rural communities. It aspires to generate insights that lead to more effective, inclusive, and resilient governance models, ultimately improving the well-being of rural populations facing the adverse effects of disasters and pandemics.
Note: The results presented in this report focus solely on the South African context and do not include findings from the Ugandan context. Study objectives
1. Objective 1
Provide a holistic picture of rural local government in the countries targeted by this project.
2. Objective II
Analyse the resilience and sustainability of rural livelihoods and institutions in South Africa.
3. Objective III
Provide an analysis of governance processes and policy implementation systems for rural livelihoods in South Africa.
RESEARCH REPORT 2025 | 1