Sanitary Inspections as Risk Assessment Tool in Predicting Faecal Contamination of Rural Drinking Dug-Water Source Water in Central Highland of Ethiop

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water is a basic human right that is critical to health, yet millions of people around the world still do not have access to clean water sources. This issue is particularly prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa, where over one third of the population lacks access to safe drinking water. A longitudinal study was conducted in Meti Ethiopia from September 2023 to February 2024 aimed to investigate the water quality from water sources in dry and wet seasons. A total of 23(kororo, Ento, Tabala, Hora, Chancho(1^2), Mile, chafe, Tiro, Dukana’a, Dabis(1^2), Burka debis, Amane, Bukisa (1^2) stream, Bukisa(1^2) spring, Meti deki, Burka met, meti(1^2) and Burka zegeye) water samples were collected from protected and unprotected springs, as well as water source as water streams. The study examined water samples for E.coli and Entrococci, and various physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, and nutrient levels(phosphate and Nitrate). By inspection checklist adopted from the World Health Organization, the risk of dif erent water sources in Meti districts was assessed. The results revealed that a significant number of drinking water samples were contaminated with Escherichia coli, a bacteria known to cause illness in humans. Additionally, 17.3% were deemed to be of intermediate risk, while only 21.7% were considered safe for consumption. In contrast, during the dry season, the percentage of high-risk water sources decreased to 39.1%, suggesting a slight improvement in water quality in spring water. However, a concerning 43.5% were still classified as intermediate risk, leaving a significant portion of the population vulnerable to waterborne illnesses. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and improving water quality standards to ensure the safety and water source-being of all individuals who rely on these vital resources for their daily needs