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Research Article
Assessment of Physico-chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Water from Source to Household Level
Tesfaye Soressa Kiltu*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
1-18
Received:
12 December 2024
Accepted:
31 December 2024
Published:
21 January 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajasr.20251101.12
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Abstract: This research was carried out in Mendi town to evaluate the quality of drinking water from the source to household containers. The physico-chemical parameters were analyzed using HACH HQ440d multi meter and portable digital spectrophotometer (DR/2400). Bacteriological parameters were analyzed using membrane filtration technique. The temperature measurements of the water samples were found to be between 21.8°C and 23.7°C which was higher than the WHO standard limit and the PH records were between 7.23 and 7.84 and were compliant with WHO and National standard limit. The maximum turbidity record of the water samples was 3.40 NTU all the turbidity records were in conformity with WHO and National standards. Total dissolved solids (TDS) and electrical conductivity (EC) measurements of the samples were between 122 mg/l and 133 mg/l respectively. All the TDS records were compliant with WHO and National standards. Iron concentration was found to be above the WHO and national standard limit for the samples from boreholes (0.45 to 0.53 mg/l) whereas 94.4% of the samples from reservoirs, household taps and household containers had iron concentrations compliant with the WHO and national standard limits. Manganese, nitrate, fluoride and total hardness records were 0.00-0.14 mg/l, 0.00-1.70 mg/l, 0.00-0.04 mg/l and 96.67-108 mg/l respectively and were found to be compliant with WHO and National standards. Samples from boreholes and reservoirs had Total coliforms (TC) counts of 1 CFU/100 ml to 2 CFU/100 ml with no faecal coliforms (FC) detected whereas samples from tap waters had TC counts ranging from 1 CFU/100 ml to 18 CFU/100 ml with no FC detected. Samples from household containers had FC counts ranging from 5 CFU/100 ml to 32 CFU/100 ml and FC counts ranging from 3 CFU/100 ml to 11 CFU/100 ml. All the water samples tested were positive for TC ranging from 1.00 to 32.00 CFU/100 ml. Regarding FC records, the samples from boreholes, water reservoirs and household taps were negative for FC counts whereas 25% of the samples from household containers had FC counts ranging from 3 to 11 CFU/100 ml. All the samples tested did not satisfy the World Health Organization (WHO) and National standard limits of 0 CFU/100 ml for TC counts but all the samples from boreholes, water reservoirs and household taps and 75% of the samples from household containers satisfy the WHO and National standards of 0 CFU/100 ml based on faecal Coliform (FC) counts. The detection of TC in all water samples and FC in some of the household containers samples can be attributable to lack of adequate disinfection of the water, lack of regular supervision of the system, absence of proper water management and lack of safe water storage and handling practices.
Abstract: This research was carried out in Mendi town to evaluate the quality of drinking water from the source to household containers. The physico-chemical parameters were analyzed using HACH HQ440d multi meter and portable digital spectrophotometer (DR/2400). Bacteriological parameters were analyzed using membrane filtration technique. The temperature mea...
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Research Article
Demonstration of Pre-Determined ECONAT Organic Liquid Fertilizers on Tef Production in Bora District of East Shewa Zone of Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Tilahun Chibsa Birru*,
Abdurahman Husien,
Getachew Haile
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
19-26
Received:
20 November 2024
Accepted:
2 December 2024
Published:
22 January 2025
Abstract: The use of organic fertilizers aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, promoting soil health and reducing dependency on chemical inputs, which can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. The study conducted a pre-extension demonstration and evaluation of pre-determined ECONAT organic liquid fertilizers compared to combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha over sole recommended in various locations. The trail was implemented in Bora district. On-farmers field, the overall mean yield 1129 kg ha-1 and 1124 kg ha-1 were obtained from recommended NP and combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha; respectively. Moreover, sole recommended econat and controls gave the lowest yield. The mean yields of the four applied treatments were summarized as follows. Which showed that, combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha is stable and showed good performance across locations in the study area. Mini farmers' field days further engaged stakeholders, with participants expressing appreciation for the demonstrated recommendations' positive impact on multiple yield-related traits. Based on the comprehensive evaluation and positive feedback from farmers and stakeholders, it is recommended to promote and adopt combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha over sole recommended econat. The demonstrated and evaluation consistently delivered with the observation of higher yields and exhibited desirable traits crucial for successful crop cultivation. Further extension programs and awareness campaigns could enhance the adoption of this technology among farmers, contributing to increased agricultural productivity and overall farm sustainability. In conclusion, combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha demonstrated superior performance in terms of yield. To capitalize on this success, incorporating targeted awareness programs, training sessions, and collaboration with agricultural experts. This approach aims to facilitate a widespread shift towards adopting combination of recommendation NP and econat at 3.2 lit/ha among farmers, thereby optimizing crop outcomes and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the study area.
Abstract: The use of organic fertilizers aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, promoting soil health and reducing dependency on chemical inputs, which can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. The study conducted a pre-extension demonstration and evaluation of pre-determined ECONAT organic liquid fertilizers compared to combinat...
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Research Article
The Practices of an Integrated Infrastructure Planning in Ethiopian Metropolitan Cities, the Case of Addis Ababa and Sheger Cities
Geremew Worku*,
Dagnachew Adugna
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
27-47
Received:
20 December 2024
Accepted:
7 January 2025
Published:
7 February 2025
Abstract: Integrated infrastructure planning between cities is a strategic approach that aligns critical systems such as transportation networks, waste management, water supply, and digital connectivity across municipal boundaries. This study examines the coordinated efforts of Addis Ababa and Sheger to create synergy between their infrastructure systems, focusing on three core areas: transport and road networks, sewerage and drainage systems, and solid waste management. Effective inter-city collaboration fosters economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity by improving connectivity, resource sharing, and resilience. Conversely, fragmented planning often results in urban sprawl, traffic congestion, poor public service delivery, environmental degradation, and systemic inefficiencies. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study employed convenience sampling to collect data through questionnaires, surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. It processed and interpreted the data using analytical tools such as Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS, and SPSS. The findings highlight opportunities to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of shared infrastructure systems while addressing pressing challenges, such as institutional silos, limited financial resources, and inadequate stakeholder engagement. The study underscored the importance of aligning infrastructure planning with regional development goals, emphasizing coordinated strategies that reduce redundancies and foster sustainable urban environments. Key recommendations include establishing joint planning bodies, enhancing data-sharing mechanisms, and fostering public-private partnerships to optimize resource use. By addressing these challenges, Addis Ababa and Sheger can achieve interconnected, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure systems that serve the broader metropolitan region effectively. This study contributes to the discourse on regional infrastructure planning by providing actionable insights into how cities can collaboratively address shared challenges while supporting sustainable development objectives. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders committed to advancing cohesive urban environments that benefit communities across metropolitan regions.
Abstract: Integrated infrastructure planning between cities is a strategic approach that aligns critical systems such as transportation networks, waste management, water supply, and digital connectivity across municipal boundaries. This study examines the coordinated efforts of Addis Ababa and Sheger to create synergy between their infrastructure systems, fo...
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Research Article
Climate Change Adaptation Practices for Sustainable Sorghum Production in Drylands of Ethiopia
Olika Dessalegn*,
Eshetu Zewdu
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
48-57
Received:
19 December 2024
Accepted:
9 January 2025
Published:
22 February 2025
Abstract: Climate variability and extreme events are major threats of food production that exacerbates the existing food security challenges in developing countries where agriculture is climate sensitive while adaptive capacity is low to remain productive under undoubtedly changing climate. On the other hand, the dynamically increasing human population increase the demands for more food than ever in the past while the worst climate change scenarios indicate as it would get even harder in fifty to hundred years in the future. Understanding the climate, crop and cropping system have significant importance in effective management of climate risks and designing suitable adaptation strategies for sustainable food production. Therefore, the main objecive of the study was to evaluate and identify climate change adaptation practices for sorghum production over Kobo, Melkassa and Miesso as representative growing agroecologies of Ethiopia. The study was conducted using DSSAT-CSM approach depending on EMI’s historical climate data and climate change data from Global Climate Models (GCMs) for mid (2040-2069) and end-term (2070-2099) periods using delta method downscaling while soil profile data was used from secondary sources. Three planting windows (16th June to 30th June, 1st July to 15th July and 16th July to 30th July) were used to evaluate planting date response of ESH-1, ESH-2 and Melkam Sorghum varieties to be tested in early, normal (intermidate) and late planting, respectively. The result indicated that the rainfall is expected to be increased by 3.1% at Melkassa, 4.5% at Kobo and to 7.9% at Miesso by 2050s whrereas 9.2%, 12.5% and 20.4% increment change is expected by 2080s, respectivley. The projected temperature indicated an increament of close to 2.3°C to 3.8°C. The sorghum yield response of future climate over Kobo and Miesso in both mid-term and end-term is riskier as compared to Melkassa, the one in intermediate agroecology. In the case of end-term, the yield reduction ranges from 38 percent for Melkam Varity over Kobo to 25 percent over Melkassa. On the other hand, combination of early planting and increasing the fertilizer rate by 50% would increase sorghum productivity in all cases. In general, the results indicated that climate change would aggravate the ongoing food production challenges unless appropriate adaptation plans be designed and implemented. Indeed, the findings of this study would have a potential impact for policy makers, researchers, and agricultural experts by looking for appropriate adaptation options that enable sustainable production under future climate changes scenarios.
Abstract: Climate variability and extreme events are major threats of food production that exacerbates the existing food security challenges in developing countries where agriculture is climate sensitive while adaptive capacity is low to remain productive under undoubtedly changing climate. On the other hand, the dynamically increasing human population incre...
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Research Article
The Challenges of Integrated Infrastructure Planning Between the Metropolitan Cities of Ethiopia, the Case of Addis Ababa and Sheger
Geremew Worku*,
Dagnachew Adugna
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
58-80
Received:
13 January 2025
Accepted:
3 February 2025
Published:
26 February 2025
Abstract: Rapid urbanization in developing countries necessitates enhanced infrastructure provision, management, and integration but often faces challenges like inadequate provision, inefficient governance, poor maintenance, and lack of integrated planning. As a result, the aim of this study is to identify and analyze the key challenges that are associated with the effective planning and implementation of integrated infrastructure planning in the study area. The study used a mixed-methods approach and descriptive and explanatory research designs, convenient sampling and empirical data collection from questionnaires, surveys, interviews, and FGDs are analyzed using Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS, and SPSS. The finding of the study highlights critical challenges in urban infrastructure development, including poor stakeholder coordination, resource constraints, and inadequate governance. Rapid urbanization, outdated infrastructure, and weak planning exacerbate key issues such as insufficient urban drainage, sewerage, solid waste management, and transportation systems. Global comparisons underline the need for integrated planning, advanced technology, and strong institutional frameworks to enhance efficiency and sustainability in addressing these problems. Therefore, the study recommends that to solve problems with urban infrastructure, it is important to encourage stakeholders to work together and use comprehensive planning strategies to improve resource allocation, capacity-building programs, and meaningful community engagement.
Abstract: Rapid urbanization in developing countries necessitates enhanced infrastructure provision, management, and integration but often faces challenges like inadequate provision, inefficient governance, poor maintenance, and lack of integrated planning. As a result, the aim of this study is to identify and analyze the key challenges that are associated w...
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