TITLE:
Hydrological Systems in the Greater Virunga Landscape: Water Quality around Mikeno Sector
AUTHORS:
Katcho Karume, Mashimango Bagalwa, Mapendano Yalire, Katya Kazi, Espoir Mukengere Bagula, Robert Bitariho, Deogratias Nahayo, Aventino Kasangaki, James Byamukama
KEYWORDS:
Water Quality, Quantity, Greater Virunga Landscape, Macroinvertebrates Indicators, D.R. Congo
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Water Resource and Protection,
Vol.8 No.3,
March
30,
2016
ABSTRACT: Monitoring
of environmental parameters is one of the highest priorities in the evaluation of
environmental status of water resources and in environmental protection policy.
The main objectives are to understand and evaluate the water quantity and quality
in order to provide water of appropriate quality to various water users. The water
quantity was assessed by the measurement of runoff or discharge at specific river
cross sections using floating method for surface water and bucket and stopwatch
method for springs and boreholes. The quality of river water and spring was identified
in terms of its physical, chemical, and biological parameters. The analyzed data
were compared with standard values recommended by WHO. Macroinvertebrates were collected
in the rivers using a plankton nets and 10 minutes of sampling. Identification was
made at the laboratory of Malacology. Results revealed that the quality of water
obtained from sampling points is generally good to use for different domestic purposes
except the Idanta River and Rwembwe borehole, which need an appropriate treatment
before use. All sampling points are located far from houses and latrines, which
can contribute to fecal contamination. On the different sampling points, bathing
and washing clothes were observed and could constitute the source of pollution of
drinking water. In Idanta and Kamira Rivers animals used water for drinking while
also people use this water for domestic and drinking. In the two sampling points
high values of Escherichia coli were found.
No pollutant-taxa tolerant were found in the two monitored rivers for macroinvertebrates.
Since water quality and quantity remain a major challenge in rural areas, the government
should provide safe water to the population around Mikeno sector after treatment
using suitable techniques.