Physicochemical and Heavy Metal Characterization of River Kapingazi in Embu County, Kenya
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Date
2025-07-04
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
UoEm
Abstract
Surface water provides crucial support to the aquatic ecosystem and humans in numerous ways. However, its
quality is paramount in determining its impact on the health of the aquatic ecosystem and humans. Currently, the
malady of pollution arising from anthropogenic activities poses a significant threat to the quality of most rivers. The
quality of water in the Kapingazi river in Embu County has received limited attention which is a concern that needs
to be addressed. This study therefore, sought to investigate the status of water quality in river Kapingazi. The study
analyzed 96 samples from four locations in a span of eight months which combined the dry and wet seasons of the year.
Parameters measured in-situ included turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO)
and electrical conductivity (EC) while ex-situ parameters were phosphates, nitrates and concentrations of heavy metals:
iron and manganese. Results showed that Water Quality Index (WQI) during the drought period was74.05, suggesting
that the water quality is only recommended for agricultural and industrial applications. During wet season, the water
quality index was 89.67, reflecting a poor status, as more contaminants were likely introduced through surface runoff.
Overall, the WQI averaged to 88.02. This study concludes that water in River Kapingazi is not suitable for human
consumption; therefore, appropriate treatment is essential prior to its use. Similarly, the findings indicate that both
rainy and drought periods significantly affect water quality, presenting challenges for its use for various purposes. It
is recommended that the allocation of resources towards water treatment facilities and regulation of pollution sources
should be enforced to ensure the safety of river water for diverse applications
Description
Article
Keywords
Water Quality, Heavy Metals, River Kapingazi, Pollution, Physical, Chemical Parameters
Citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.30564/re.v7i3.9873