A Review on water and sedimentary Lead concentrations in Kenya’s surface water bodies

Abstract

Proper management, monitory and pollution controls measure should be maintained, for limited water resources, so as to reduce human health risks. Lead pollution can negatively affect human health. This study reviewed concentrations of lead in water and sediments of water bodies in Kenya, from samples or publications conducted between 1990 and 2021. Information on quantitative concentration values, locality, allowable standards, general methodology and possible pollutant sources for lead pollution in water and sediment were gathered. Based on the review, 71 concentration values (23.94%) for water, where above or similar to the Republic of Kenya (2006), maximum allowable value, with higher pollution levels in Kenya's major urban areas. The 43 sedimentary concentrations, were in the range of 198.7 mg/kg to 5.9 mg/kg. Lead concentration varied with weather patterns, in some reviews. Lead and heavy metals pollution was mainly attributed to human, industrial or agricultural activities and poor waste management. There was variation in method used by different studies. More experimental researches and modeling techniques, should be considered, for accurate methodologies, within Kenya's context. There should be proper treatment and monitoring of effluent, also human and industrial activities should be avoided near water body's banks through enforcement of riparian areas protection.