Fluoride contamination in the Bongo District of Ghana, West Africa: geogenic contamination and cultural complexities

Abstract

This research investigated the extent of fluoride contamination in the Bongo District of northeast Ghana and the relationships of this fluoride contamination to the underlying geology and precipitation patterns, social and cultural attitudes towards water, and age divisions inherent in water usage patterns and the consequent demands placed on a borehole. The fluoride concentrations measured in the area are higher than reported in earlier literature. High fluoride levels are geographically confined to one geologic formation and appear to be inversely correlated to regional precipitation. Fluoride variation studies, tracking concentrations over 8 months, also reflect this link to local precipitation patterns. This localized analysis of water contamination issues addresses broader gender and policy issues inherent in supplying potable water.

Keywords:

• fluoride
• water quality
• precipitation
• gender
• Ghana

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a US Fulbright Fellowship and a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, both for Katherine Alfredo. Supplies were donated by Myron L. Company. Borehole counts for the Kuyelingo and Namoo area were conducted by Jessica Fricia and Andy Okuneff of the Cooper Union (New York, NY) under the direction of Dr Toby Cumberbatch. A special thanks to the Bongo District Assembly, especially Richard Mba of the Water and Sanitation Team, and all the Bongo guides for helping us locate and test boreholes in the area.