The Philosophical Foundations of Corporate Social Responsibility in the Water Sector in Benin

Abstract

The presence of private operators in the water sector may seem paradoxical. On the one hand, they have their profit margin to preserve, and on the other, the social aspect to keep in mind. This is a real challenge. The private operator in the water sector must be able to embrace the culture and ethics of water in the environment. This study is conducted in Benin in the Ayizo cultural era in the rural commune of Ze in the arrondissement of Hekanme. In summoning up the culture, one realizes that water is the fruit of another person’s sacrifice, and this implies doing everything possible to ensure that no one lacks it. The rationale for business in the water sector is that private companies in the global context of their emergence can play a constructive role in providing resources or expertise in situations where governments and states are increasingly weak and unable to adequately fulfil their role in the water supply. Corporate social responsibility in the water sector is reflected in the social dimension of pricing. The vast majority of people interviewed in the study area believe that users pay for water. In general, the price of water paid by the population is often lower than the real cost of the service. In addition, there is solidarity between large and small consumers. The vital nature of water requires integrated and sustainable water governance systems. Local citizens, communities and companies must be actively involved in its management.