Interconnections Between Water, Energy, Food Security, and Health in South Africa: A Comprehensive Review
By
Eli Dearden
Kei Otsuki
Willem J. J. Assendelft
Joost Hopman
Floor van der Hilst
July 16, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Interconnections Between Water, Energy, Food Security, and Health in South Africa: A Comprehensive Review
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus and Health Outcomes Key Mechanisms Interconnected resource systems affecting health through environmental, socioeconomic, and infrastructural pathways. Target Population Residents of South Africa experiencing WEF insecurities. Care Setting Integrated, cross-sectoral approaches to health and sustainable development.
Key Highlights
Approximately 2.11 million people in South Africa lack access to safe water. 14 million people experience food insecurity in South Africa. WEF insecurities are linked to a quadruple burden of disease. Research often focuses on single WEF components with limited health outcome exploration. A conceptual framework was developed to map associations between WEF insecurities and health outcomes. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Identify WEF insecurities impacting health outcomes. Management
Implement integrated interventions addressing WEF insecurities. Monitoring & Follow-up
Track health outcomes related to WEF insecurities. Risks
Assess the compound health effects of interacting WEF insecurities. Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals affected by water, energy, and food insecurities in South Africa.
Addressing WEF insecurities may improve health outcomes.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize a framework to connect resource systems and human well-being. Conduct systematic mapping of WEF insecurities and health interactions. Engage in cross-sectoral collaboration for health interventions. Related Resources & Content
