Author(s) :

Dally Nguala Mabanza, Pascal Maziana Disa-Disa, Gracien Bakambo Ekoko, Crispin Kyela Mulaji.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Drinking water quality is a major public health issue, particularly in regions where treatment infrastructure remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological quality of water distributed by REGIDESO in the towns of Kisantu, Mbanza-Ngungu, and Kimpese. A total of 90 samples were collected, comprising 15 samples within the production plants (amounting to five samples per station) and 75 samples from subscribers, at a rate of five samples per subscriber, spanning the period from March 2025 to July 2025. Analyzed parameters included pH, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, chloride and bicarbonate ions, and the presence of microbiological indicators of fecal contamination (E. coli, fecal coliforms, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and enterococci). Data were processed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the calculation of means and standard deviations, comparison tests (ANOVA), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Spearman correlations. Physicochemical analysis results complied with potability standards, except for pH levels at the Kimpese station (pH > 8.5). Regarding microbiological parameters, analyses revealed the presence of fecal coliforms (5 CFU/mL), Escherichia coli (3 CFU/mL), and Salmonella (6 CFU/mL) in the treated water from the Kisantu and Mbanza-Ngungu stations. The presence of these bacteria indicates fecal contamination, rendering the water unfit for human consumption. However, it can be made potable through adequate disinfection. To this end, REGIDESO must apply an appropriate amount of chlorine to ensure a free residual level of 0.5 mg/L at the consumer's tap, in accordance with WHO recommendations.

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