Evaluation of the quality of water, hygiene and sanitation in public elementary schools in the 7th Arrondissement of Ndjamena city Chad

An evaluative study of the current state of water, hygiene and sanitation, coupled with physicochemical and bacteriological analysis of water from manual boreholes, was carried out in 9 public elementary schools in the 7th Arrondissement of the city of Ndjaména. A field survey carried out in the schools enabled socio-demographic data to be collected. 9 water samples were taken and analyzed at the CECOQDA laboratory. 6 physicochemical and 5 bacteriological parameters were identified. The socio-demographic data obtained showed that 55.46% of schools had been fenced, compared with 44.44% that had not; 811 pupils for 2 latrines in Abena to 1.140 pupils for the single latrine in Gassi; and 752 pupils for two water points in Kilwilti to 1,394 pupils per water point in Adénéo. The physicochemical parameters recorded ranged from 117.333±1.785 µs/cm to 573.333±3.214 µs/cm (electrical conductivity), from 0.103±0.005 NTU to 230.666±0.577 NTU (turbidity), from 0.050±0.000 mg/L to 6.796±0.025 mg/L (total iron). Bacteriological parameters ranged from 4 CFU/100 mL to 210 CFU/100 mL (total coliforms), from 0 CFU/100mL to 301 CFU/100mL (E. coli); 7 CFU/100mL to 3001 CFU/100mL and from 60 CFU/100mL to 5300 CFU/100mL (revivable microorganisms) at 37°C and 22°C respectively. In view of these results, it would be advisable to increase the number of latrines and water points in order to meet the pupils' basic needs. The physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters are not so good either, given the results of certain parameters. In view of the above, consuming water from manual boreholes in these public elementary schools without adequate prior treatment would expose pupils to health risks.