INTEGRATING RURAL COMMUNITY AND EXPERT KNOWLEDGE THROUGH APPLIED PARTICIPATORY RURAL APPRAISAL IN THE KAT RIVER VALLEY, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Applied rural development research requires new and innovative research methodologies which can yield results of benefit to both the researcher and the community in question. Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) is advocated as a method which has the potential to help address socio-economic conditions in rural Africa. This paper details an applied PRA exercise which led to the improvement in the quality of water supply in a South African rural community. The case-study integrated expert and community knowledge in order to assist the community to identify potential opportunities and threats in relation to their domestic water supply. This has enabled the community to better manage their resource. The paper provides an insight into the potential of PRA to facilitate locally appropriate, pro-active development and, in so-doing, to help contribute to community well-being.