Physicochemical and Bacteriological Qualities of Groundwater from Some Localities in the Adamawa Region of Cameroon

The present research was carried out to assess the chemical and microbiological safety of groundwater from eight sampling points in the Adamawa region of Cameroon. Some physicochemical parameters (turbidity, conductivity, alkalinity, total dissolved solids and pH) were determined using standard methods. Minerals and heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer while pathogens and waterborne bacteria were screened according to reference methods. Results showed that most physicochemical parameters (pH, salinity, calcium, magnesium, chloride, sulfate and phosphate) were acceptable with regard to existing norms. However, some samples exhibited values above these norms. Turbidity and suspended matter were higher than recommended for drinking water in most samples. Fortunately, no heavy metal was detected in water from the eight localities. With regard to bacteriological safety, only one sample (Mbe) was not contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms. Those collected in Belel appeared to be contaminated by such pathogens as clostridia, Fecal coliforms, Fecal streptococci, salmonella and shigella and Staphylococcus aureus. Neither pseudomonas, nor vibrio was detected. At the whole, the study revealed that groundwater from covered wells, generally considered as safe and potable, needs to be treated prior consumption and use.