Reliable potable water is essential for sustaining livelihoods and promoting human well-being, yet many rural communities in South Africa have disrupted and inadequate access. This has been exacerbated by the energy crisis that led to frequent load-shedding. As a water-scarce country, the South African government considers sustainable management of resources as critical to sustaining lives and livelihoods. The lengthy load-shedding schedules prompted the need to investigate how they disrupt scheduled water delivery services using the case of Mohlaba-Cross Village in Limpopo Province. This study investigated the challenges load-shedding poses for water access in already water-deprived communities. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and review of documents. Results indicate that load-shedding significantly disrupts scheduled water delivery services, hence daily household chores, livelihoods, local businesses, and economic activities. Some community members resorted to buying water from private vendors, which is unsustainable, especially for low-income households and small businesses. Despite understanding the limitations caused by load-shedding, proactive measures were hindered by a lack of communication and collaboration among key stakeholders. Low pumping capacity and a lack of adaptability in water management posed additional limitations. The study underscores the importance of supply-side interventions by water authorities, such as investing in alternative energy sources and improving pumping capacity to address the interconnected energy and water security challenges. Managing the demand side through promoting water conservation and embracing adaptive management strategies requires effective collaboration by all stakeholders. However, this requires the water authorities to initiate the process. Our study contributes to understanding the energy-water nexus in rural communities and the need for stakeholder engagement to address emerging challenges. It provides insights for policymakers, water managers, businesses, and communities to foster sustainable water management practices and improve the well-being of all.

The study on Digital Twins (DT) in South Africa emphasizes DT's role in enhancing the efficiency of management and governance within the Water-Energy-Food nexus. By integrating data across energy, agriculture, and water sectors, DT provides a more cohesive and informed approach to decision-making where various stakeholders with multiple interests are involved. This integration enables streamlined governance processes and optimal resource utilization. Currently, governance in South Africa's water, energy, and food sectors is characterized by a mix of state and private involvement. The energy sector is overseen by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and includes state-owned entities, alongside private independent power producers and regulatory bodies. In agriculture, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development plays a key role, with additional input from various agricultural bodies and NGOs. Water rights are state-owned, managed by the Department of Water and Sanitation, and regulated through licenses, with local management by water boards and municipalities. The land is a mix of private and state ownership, with a focus on agricultural development and reform. By understanding the priorities and influences of different groups, anticipating conflicts, and fostering cooperation, through DTs, we can ensure that initiatives for environmental conservation are more widely successful.