Water Quality and Distribution of Pathogenic Microorganisms along Kabianga River in Kericho County, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Safe and clean water is of major concern to mankind because it is directly linked with the health and their wellbeing. The disposal of different kinds of pollutants and nutrients through sewage, agricultural runoff and industrial effluents into rivers and water bodies effect a sequence of changes in its physicochemical characteristics. Kabianga River is known for provision of clean drinking water, a habitat for many aquatic plants and living organisms and irrigation water to farmlands. Excessive industrialization and consequent urbanization has led to several problems of water quality management of the river. Aim: This research was aimed at assessing the quality of Kabianga river by ascertaining the levels of microorganisms and if it meets the local and international microbiological standards. Study Design: The study used experimental design. Methodology: The water samples were collected during rainy and dry seasons. Standard bacteriological techniques was used to describe bacteria content from water samples.  Results: The results indicates that water is highly contaminated with human pathogenic bacteria. The most dominant bacteria in both seasons were Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Proteus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusion: From the findings it can be concluded that the water from this river is not fit for human consumption or for domestic uses. Therefore regular monitoring of the water microbiological quality and public health education should be carried out to sensitize the residence on the dangers of using the polluted water.