Browsing by Author "Segut, Janeth Chelangat"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Geospatial Distribution and Quality of Drinking Water in Shallow Wells in Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment in Bomet County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2025-07) Segut, Janeth Chelangat
    Surface runoff from agricultural land has crucial consequential challenge to the quality of water in shallow wells, introducing pollutants such as fecal contaminants, herbicidal and pesticidal residues, and chemical fertilizers. This research focal point is to examine the condition and potability of drinking water sourced from shallow wells in the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment. The specific objectives included: mapping the spatial arrangement of shallow wells the region, assessing key physical, chemical, and biological water quality indicators, and determining the fitness of these water sources for human utilization. The spatial mapping of wells with depths below 15 meters was conducted using handheld GPS devices, and their coordinates were plotted using ArcGIS software version 10.8. A total of 31 shallow wells were sampled during both the wet season (April) and the dry season (January) to analyze selected parameters. Laboratory analyses were conducted following standard procedures, and the outcomes were benchmarked against water quality guidelines provided by NEMA, USEPA, and WHO. The WQI was computed to evaluate the potability of the sampled water. Findings from the study indicate the existence of roughly 321 shallow wells within the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment, with 150 (47%) serving as sources of drinking water—96 wells (64%) located in the upper catchment and 54 (36%) in the lower zone. Widespread contamination was noted, with more than 60% of samples exceeding acceptable thresholds for nitrates (61.29%), turbidity (70.97%), and faecal coliforms (80.66%), as outlined by the referenced environmental and health authorities. A student’s t-test performed at a 95% confidence level showed a statistically meaningful difference (p ≤ 0.05) in E. coli concentrations between the dry and rainy seasons. Elevated extends of faecal coliforms during the rainy season pointed to human and livestock waste as principal sources of contamination during periods of heavy rainfall. According to the WQI assessment, over 60% of the sampled wells produced water that met the criteria for potable use, whereas 32.2% were classified as having substandard quality. The analysis highlights extensive contamination, particularly from nitrates, turbidity, and faecal indicators. The assessment recommends that water quality in the Kipsonoi Sub-Catchment is substantially compromised by agricultural runoff, which contributes to the increased concentration of pollutants in shallow groundwater. To mitigate these risks, government entities for instance the Ministry of Water, Water Resources Authority, and Geological Survey should initiate geophysical assessments to identify potential aquifers for deeper well development, even in areas constrained by clay layers. It is imperative that wells are properly sealed to prevent infiltration from surface contaminants. Moreover, water from shallow sources should undergo appropriate treatment before consumption to reduce excessive levels of turbidity, nitrates, and microbial pathogens, thereby aligning with national and international water safety standards.