dc.description.abstract |
Numerous deleterious impacts of anthropogenic activities on water quality are typically observed in areas bursting with
mineral exploitation, agricultural activities, and industrial processes. Therefore, this contribution details the water quality
and water origin in selected hand-dug wells of one the most prominent mining areas in Kenya (Kakamega County). The
toxicological impacts of drinking water from a mining site may include cancer and genetic aberrations largely because of
the toxic effects of waterborne metals including Hg and As. Accordingly, this study focuses primarily on the investiga-
tion of heavy metals, essential elements such as Na and K. Heavy metals and essential elements were determined using
spectroscopic and titrimetric techniques. The study revealed that mercury (Hg) concentration ranged between 0.00256 and
0.0611 ± 0.00005 mg/L while arsenic (As) concentration ranged from 0.0103 to 0.0119 ± 0.00005 mg/L. The concentration
of potassium ranged from 2.53 to 4.08 ± 0.15 mg/L while that of sodium varied from 6.74 to 9.260 ± 0.2 mg/L. Although the
concentration of cadmium was lower than that recommended by W.H.O, the concentrations of Hg, Pb, and As in Kakamega
waters were higher than the internationally accepted levels. The generally high level of heavy metals in Kakamega bore-hole
waters is, therefore, a public health concern that needs immediate intervention. |
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