Potential Health Risks Associated with Consumption of Shallow Well Waters in Informal Settlements in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This paper explores the risks associated with the usage of private water supply from shallow wells in informal settlements in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. Studies on spatial location of water sources used by water vendors in relation to potential sources of contaminants in Tanzania are scant in literature and therefore little is documented on the potential health risks posed by such water sources. Data were collected through documents, household survey and interview with officials and local leaders at Nyambwera and Tamla Sub-wards in Dar es Salaam. It was observed that the distance between the wells and pit latrines for most of the households was less than 10 meters which is far below the acceptable standards of 30 m (p<0.001). Given the fact that most plots in the study areas have sizes ranging from 120 m2 to 300 m2 and plot coverage is beyond 90%, space for proper construction of sanitary facilities and shallow wells was extremely limited. The study recommends for close cooperation between sub ward leaders, ward officers and health officials to prevent drilling of wells in close proximity to pit latrines.