Evaluating Heavy Metal Contamination in Burundi’s Water Sources and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Background: Water quality is essential for safe consumption and overall public health. However, contamination by heavy metals can pose significant risks, particularly in countries with limited resources. This study aimed to quantify heavy metals, including chromium, cadmium, copper, and lead, among others, in various water sources in Burundi, and to assess their implications for human and environmental health.
Method: A total of 43 water samples were collected from seven provinces in Burundi, including tap water, river water, Lake Tanganyika surface water, bottled water, and dialysis water. Each sample was analysed for four parameters (chromium, cadmium, copper, and lead), resulting in a total of 172 analyses. The sampling occurred between January and February 2021. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
Results: Across all samples analyzed for heavy metals, chromium concentrations were critically elevated, exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 0.05 mg/L. Most of the other heavy metals were below the limit of detection in all sample types; however, one surface water sample collected from Lake Tanganyika showed a lead concentration above the recommended safety threshold. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences in heavy metal concentrations across the various water types.
Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings indicate widespread chromium contamination across all analyzed water samples, with concentrations consistently exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended guideline value, highlighting potential public health and environmental concerns. Although most other heavy metals remained below detectable levels, the findings highlight a serious issue with heavy metals in Burundi’s water sources, particularly chromium. Prolonged exposure to these contaminants poses significant health risks to the population.
Immediate monitoring and follow-up efforts are essential to address heavy metal contamination. Public health initiatives should focus on raising awareness and implementing water treatment solutions to ensure safe drinking water. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term health impacts of heavy metal exposure in Burundi.