Patching Domestic Water Practices in Old Havana : A Minor Field Study

Sammanfattning: Many citizens living in Old Havana, Cuba, do not have regular access to potable water in their homes. As a result, this thesis explores how the water infrastructure in Old Havana shapes the everyday lives of local residents. The empirical material in this study was collected during two months of minor field studies in Havana mainly through the qualitative research methods of interviews and diaries but also through observations. The results were analyzed through four main theoretical concepts: the social practice approach in technology, hydraulic citizenship, social practice theory and feminist theory. Results revealed that the local water infrastructure produces and reproduces social inequalities and domestic do-it-yourself practices. It was also revealed that women carry out most of the domestic water activities, largely due to prevailing machismo ideals and traditional gender norms. Consequently, women in Old Havana are generally more affected by water supply irregularities and malfunctioning infrastructure than men.