Water Quality at the Brikama Water Treatment Plant, Gambia

Aim: A staggering 43% of the over 2 million population of The Gambia depends on contaminated water sources for domestic purposes, including pipe-borne water supplied by the National Water and Electricity Corporation (NAWEC), the nation's sole provider of pipe-borne water. The main objective of this study was to assess the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality parameters of the water sourced from the Brikama Public Water Treatment plant, specifically post-aeration and chlorination, as well as during its provisional storage at the plant prior to distribution to consumers. Method: Physico-chemical and bacteriological data were acquired from the management authorities of the plant through a meticulous review of their operational water quality monitoring records of 2022. A key informant guide regarding the plant's operations was used to elicit information from the management via interviews with the on-site personnel. Results: The averages of the Electrical Conductivity (EC=30 μS/cm), Residual Chlorine (RCl<sub>2</sub>= 0.3 mg/l), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS= 20 mg/l) of the water fell within the limits established by the WHO guidelines. Conversely, the averages of the Temperature (30°C), Total Coliform (TC=2 cfu/100 ml), and Hydrogen Potential (pH=6.1) of the water were deemed unacceptable according to the same guidelines. Conclusions and Recommendations: This paper investigates critical water quality issues and infrastructural and operational deficiencies at the Brikama public water treatment plant in The Gambia. While some parameters meet WHO guidelines, others like Temperature, Total Coliform, and pH remain subpar, increasing contamination risks. Recommendations include further water treatment at the household level, infrastructural improvements, and the implementation of a comprehensive Water Quality Data Information System. Enhanced public education and system maintenance are pivotal to improving water safety standards and protecting community health.