The Impact of Pit Latrines on the Pollution of Groundwater in the District of Rwamagana, Rwanda

Abstract

The composition and condition of a water body change over time and across different locations due to internal and external factors. In many rural and peri- urban communities in Rwamagana, the lack of treated water has increased reliance on groundwater for various household and community needs. Groundwater sources are essential for meeting the water demand in these regions. An investigation was carried out in the Rwamagana district of the eastern province of Rwanda to evaluate the influence of pit latrines on groundwater quality. The research examined the water quality of four boreholes with hand pumps and 18 improved springs located near pit latrines. The evaluation specifically looked at total coliforms (TC), electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, and pH. The proximity of the pit latrines to the boreholes or springs was considered in order to determine the presence of fecal coliforms in the groundwater, with the goal of establishing a minimum safe distance between the pit latrines and water sources. The physicochemical indicators of the water samples met the drinking water quality criteria set by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, the levels of biological contaminants exceeded the WHO's drinking water quality standards. The highest coliform counts detected in the study were 99cfu/100ml of water. The research findings suggest a clear relationship between fecal microbes from pit latrines and their impact on groundwater quality, with the contamination effect extending up to 322.4m for improved springs and 266.2m for boreholes with hand pumps.