Geospatial analysis of factors influencing waterborne disease outbreaks in Harare, Zimbabwe

ABSTRACT Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, has been experiencing recurrent waterborne diseases, which have threatened public health. Yet, there is a knowledge gap about the socio-economic, climatic and environmental factors, which significantly influence the occurrence of waterborne diseases. This study was conducted to understand the factors influencing waterborne diseases in Harare. The global weighted regression and multi-scale geographical weighted regression methods were used to identify factors significantly influencing waterborne diseases. The study result showed that Escherichia coli, rainfall, temperature and population density were significantly influencing waterborne diseases. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that targeted interventions be implemented in areas with high E. coli, population density and poor water and sanitation infrastructure to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases. Reducing E. coli levels by adopting low-cost community-level disinfection systems, such as filtration, rehabilitation of sewer and wastewater infrastructure and improving waste management should be prioritised. Public health education should be strengthened to raise awareness on the adoption of safe WASH standards.