A review of the social and local dynamics in South Africa's water-energy-food nexus

Socioeconomic and environmental factors significantly shape the availability, accessibility, and affordability of water, energy, and food (WEF) resources in households and communities. In this review, we identify a significant gap in understanding how these factors intersect in the South African context, where inequalities in resource distribution persist. We critically examine the conditions influencing resource availability and explore the conceptual value of the WEF Nexus in guiding decision-making at local levels. Our findings highlight key barriers, including socio-economic disparities and systemic inefficiencies within governance, infrastructure, and resource management systems, which hinder the effective application of the WEF Nexus to improve livelihoods. We argue that integrating the WEF Nexus into decision-making requires a holistic, context-sensitive approach that prioritizes equity and sustainability. This review contributes to the discourse on resource management by offering actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to address water, energy, and food challenges in marginalized communities.