Physicochemical and microbiological assessment of groundwater quality for drinking purposes in Ebolowa, Cameroon

• Groundwater quality was assessed in Ebolowa City (Cameroon) using various physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. • 67% of samples were classified as unfit for drinking based on the Water Quality Index (WQI). • High levels of fecal contamination were detected in several wells and springs. • The study underscores the need for improved water management strategies and water purification practices in the region. Groundwater quality is crucial for human health, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, where many populations rely on it as a primary source of drinking water. This study investigates groundwater in the Ebolowa City Council area, Cameroon, by assessing physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. Fifteen (15) samples were collected from wells, boreholes, and springs across the city in April 2024. The analysis focused on key indicators such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), nitrate (NO₃⁻), ammonium (NH₄⁺), and microbial contamination (fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci, and total coliforms). To evaluate overall water quality, the Water Quality Index (WQI) was applied, and spatial variations were analyzed using Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation. The results revealed that while some sources meet acceptable limits for drinking, others are heavily contaminated, posing significant public health risks. The water quality index (WQI) shows that 67% of the samples are unsuitable for consumption, 20% are very poor, 6.7% are poor, and only 6.7% are good. This study highlights the urgent need for policies promoting systematic monitoring, investments in water supply infrastructure, and household-level treatment solutions to safeguard public health in the region.