The Swaziland Times from Eswatini, the landlocked country in Southern Africa formerly known as Swaziland, published an article on the commodification of water:
Water supply remains a pressing issue in Africa, with millions lacking access and many forced to travel long distances for this essential resource. The recent approval by members of Parliament for a 12 per cent water tariff hike by the Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC) not only burdens cash-strapped consumers but also highlights the ongoing commodification of water. The corporation has cited various reasons for the hike, including plans to extend supply to rural areas.
However, this raises critical questions about how water should be valued and treated. Differing perspectives on water as an environmental resource, a basic need, or a human right challenge commodification schemes and pricing models. How should water be priced? What criteria should govern its cost?
