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VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Groundwater contamination by trace elements and associated health risks in N’Djamena, Chad
Authors
Jean-Paul Vicat, Jean-Claude Doumnang Mbaigané, Edith Kadjangaba
Abstract
A large proportion of the population of
N’Djamena relies on groundwater from a shallow aquifer that is highly
vulnerable to contamination due to inadequate urban sanitation. This study
provides the first comprehensive assessment of groundwater quality in the urban
area of N’Djamena, based on trace-element concentrations (Li, B, Al, V, Cr, Mn,
Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Mo, Cd, Ba, Pb, and U), the calculation of
pollution indices (Single-Factor Pollution Index, Heavy Metal Contamination
Index, Heavy Metal Quality Index, Contamination Index, and Nemerow Pollution
Index), and the evaluation of non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks
for children and adults through drinking-water ingestion. The results reveal
localised contamination, notably by V, Mn, and U, with pollution hotspots
mainly associated with the Chari River and the southern section of the Grand Canal.
Health risk assessment indicates higher non-carcinogenic risks for children,
while carcinogenic risks—primarily driven by arsenic, with minor contributions
from nickel—frequently exceed acceptable thresholds, particularly for adults.
Although based on groundwater data collected between 2003 and 2005, this study
identifies significant patterns of contamination and associated risks, and
underscores the need for updated monitoring.
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Pages:74-86
How to cite this article:
Jean-Paul Vicat, Jean-Claude Doumnang Mbaigané, Edith Kadjangaba "Groundwater contamination by trace elements and associated health risks in N’Djamena, Chad". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 74-86
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