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
