, PUB3720
EXAM PORTFOLIO 2026
DUE 20 OCTOBER 2026
INTRODUCTION
The formulation and implementation of public policy in South Africa occur within a dynamic and
contested environment shaped by the country's history of colonialism, apartheid, and democratic
transition. Understanding this environment requires an appreciation of the distinct political,
socioeconomic, and institutional factors that influence how policies are designed, implemented,
and evaluated. This assignment examines the African perspective on the policy environment,
evaluates the Mawela Rural Water Programme as a case study in policy evaluation, and analyses
the contribution and importance of different role players in the South African policymaking process.
The discussion draws on academic literature, government publications, and reports from civil
society organisations to provide a critical assessment of the challenges and opportunities that
characterise policymaking in contemporary South Africa. The assignment argues that while the
constitutional framework provides a robust foundation for participatory and accountable
governance, the gap between constitutional promise and political practice remains a significant
obstacle to effective policymaking. Addressing this gap requires sustained commitment to
institutional strengthening, ethical leadership, and meaningful public participation.
QUESTION 1: THE AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE ON THE POLICY ENVIRONMENT
1.1 Understanding the African Policy Environment
EXAM PORTFOLIO 2026
DUE 20 OCTOBER 2026
INTRODUCTION
The formulation and implementation of public policy in South Africa occur within a dynamic and
contested environment shaped by the country's history of colonialism, apartheid, and democratic
transition. Understanding this environment requires an appreciation of the distinct political,
socioeconomic, and institutional factors that influence how policies are designed, implemented,
and evaluated. This assignment examines the African perspective on the policy environment,
evaluates the Mawela Rural Water Programme as a case study in policy evaluation, and analyses
the contribution and importance of different role players in the South African policymaking process.
The discussion draws on academic literature, government publications, and reports from civil
society organisations to provide a critical assessment of the challenges and opportunities that
characterise policymaking in contemporary South Africa. The assignment argues that while the
constitutional framework provides a robust foundation for participatory and accountable
governance, the gap between constitutional promise and political practice remains a significant
obstacle to effective policymaking. Addressing this gap requires sustained commitment to
institutional strengthening, ethical leadership, and meaningful public participation.
QUESTION 1: THE AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE ON THE POLICY ENVIRONMENT
1.1 Understanding the African Policy Environment
