Physicochemical quality and metal contamination of boiled water consumed in the panda neighborhood of Likasi (Haut-Katanga), DRC

Abstract

Introduction: In mining regions, chemical contamination of water resources poses a significant public health issue. This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical quality and metal contamination of boiled water consumed in the Panda neighborhood of Likasi, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted on 40 boiled water samples, distributed equally among four supply sources: three wells and the REGIDESO municipal network. Physicochemical parameters and concentrations of Cu, Co, Fe, Mn, Cd, Zn, Ni, and Pb were determined. Distributions were assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Differences between sources were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, supplemented where necessary by Dunn’s post hoc test with Bonferroni correction.

Results: The mean pH was 7.48 ± 0.43. Significant differences between sources were observed for Co (p = 0.013), Fe (p < 0.001), Mn (p = 0.030), Ca (p = 0.031), Mg (p = 0.004), Zn (p = 0.010), SO₄²⁻ (p = 0.027), and Cl⁻ (p = 0.001). Mean concentrations for Pb and Cd were 0.014 ± 0.007 mg/L and 0.014 ± 0.018 mg/L, respectively. Guideline values ​​were exceeded in 57.5% of samples for Pb and 90.0% for Cd.

Conclusion: Despite generally satisfactory quality regarding several parameters, the high frequency of guideline exceedances for Pb and Cd is a major cause for concern. Enhanced monitoring and investigations into contamination sources are required.

Keywords: Boiled water; Boiling; Physicochemical quality, Heavy metals; Lead; Cadmium; Drinking water; Likasi; Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Received Date: August 17, 2026

Accepted Date: September 09, 2026

Published Date: October 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/972