Analysis of water quality from boreholes within Africa University, Mutasa district, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Groundwater, which is mainly extracted through boreholes, is considered the most reliable source of drinking water in many developing countries. This study evaluated borehole drinking water quality. The assessment was based on the laboratory analysis of sampled boreholes and comparing the findings to the recommended values for drinking water quality established by the World Health Organization (WHO). The laboratory analysis was based on the physicochemical and bacteriological water quality of five boreholes water. The water quality parameters measured were: the potential of hydrogen (pH), turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), and total coliforms. The results showed that the analyzed total coliform, for B1, B2, B3, B4, and B5 were above the WHO’s recommendation for potable water of 0.00 count per 100 ml, which is an indication of fecal contamination in the water sampled. However, physicochemical and heavy metals quality analysis of all selected parameters were within the WHO's recommendation for potable water, except for iron in borehole two (B2), and mercury for all water samples. The study recommends a sanitary survey around boreholes to determine the sources of contamination. The results underscore the importance of implementing comprehensive water quality monitoring programs to identify and address the different types of contaminants in drinking water.