3) Prof. George Ogendi

Approximately 20% of the global population lack access to potable water whereas over 30% lack access to basic sanitation. The situation is much worse in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) in the developing countries. An assessment of the microbiological water quality and prevalence of waterborne diseases was conducted in Marigat, a sprawling urban area in the ASALs of northern Kenya. We employed a mixed methods research design in this study. Water samples were collected from the drinking water sources and at the household level (Point of Use) during the dry and wet seasons and analyzed for E. coli and TC bacteria. Health records of persons that sought healthcare services at various Marigat health centres were reviewed to determine prevalence of waterborne diseases. The E. coli levels in household water samples ranged from 200cfu/100ml to 2500cfu/100ml, whereas the range was 25cfu/100ml to 4575cfu/100ml for Total Coliforms. The reported microbial levels for E. coli and Total Coliforms were above the World Health Organization guidelines for drinking water. The study findings indicated that there was a significant association between level of education and covering of water storage container (P< 0.05). Nearly half of the respondents indicated that diarrhea and typhoid were the most prevalent waterborne diseases in children under the age of 5 years. We conclude that the water sources in this ASALs are contaminated and unsuitable for human consumption. Relevant public health agencies at both county and national levels need to prioritize and invest in water and sanitation infrastructures.