Assessing the Role of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Digital Technologies in Optimising Water Infrastructure Systems: Evidence from Gauteng Province, South Africa

Rapid urbanisation, ageing infrastructure, water scarcity, and governance inefficiencies increasingly constrain water infrastructure systems in developing African countries, with Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) digital technologies offering an opportunity to reconfigure these systems into intelligent, adaptive, and resilient networks. This study quantitatively assessed the role of 4IR digital technologies in optimising water infrastructure systems in Gauteng Province, South Africa. A descriptive survey design was employed, using purposive sampling to administer a structured questionnaire to professionals involved in water infrastructure management; of the 640 questionnaires issued, 201 valid responses were returned, representing a 31% response rate. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), which identified two key constructs underlying technology adoption and application: digital technology types and technology application areas, each showing satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.775 and 0.849, respectively). The findings reveal that the Internet of Things (IoT), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), unmanned aerial vehicles (drones/UAVs), and Building Information Modelling (BIM) play a significant role in optimising water infrastructure systems, with IoT emerging as the most prominent technology in terms of adoption and perceived impact. Digital technologies were predominantly applied to data storage and management, and to automation and digitalisation processes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making. By providing empirical evidence on the adoption and application of 4IR technologies in the South African water sector, the study offers practical insights for policymakers, infrastructure managers, and other stakeholders seeking to leverage digital innovation to improve infrastructure performance, sustainability, and resilience in developing-country contexts.