Drinking water quality and health implications in Garba Town, West Guji Zone, Ethiopia: an integrated analysis of physico-chemical, microbial, and social dimensions

Abstract Drinking water pollution and resulting waterborne diseases pose significant public health risks in low-income countries like Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the quality of drinking water in Garba Town, Bule Hora Woreda, West Guji Zone, focusing on physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters while also examining the community’s knowledge and attitudes towards water quality. A cross-sectional study design was employed, incorporating household surveys and water sampling from both improved and unimproved sources. Physico-chemical parameters such as pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids, and nitrate levels were analysed, while bacteriological analysis focused on the presence of total and faecal coliforms. Pearson correlation analysis, Chi-square tests, and Water Quality Index (WQI) were used to analyse relationships and assess water quality. Physico-chemical analysis showed concerning conditions across several parameters: pH (6.5–8.2), turbidity (3.2–9.7 NTU), total dissolved solids (213–728 mg l −1 ), and nitrate levels (2.1–29.8 mg l −1 ), all of which adversely affected water quality. Significant relationships were found between nitrate and turbidity (r = 0.78, p < 0.01). Bacteriological analysis revealed widespread contamination, with 87.5% of samples testing positive for coliforms. WQI results classified several water sources as polluted, including the Catholic Church reservoir (WQI = 91.4), household storage (WQI = 92), and Garba Town reservoir (WQI = 109.29), the latter of which was deemed unsuitable for drinking. Additionally, 42.9% of respondents reported experiencing water-related health issues, including diarrhoea (54.7%) and skin rashes (22.3%). The study highlights the urgent need for improved water treatment, enhanced public education, and community-based solutions to mitigate waterborne diseases and improve public health in Garba Town. Education and gender differences were also found to influence waterborne disease awareness and preventive practices, indicating the potential for targeted interventions based on demographic factors.