Exploring the Microbial Ecology of Water in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Potential of Bacteriophages in Water Quality Monitoring and Treatment to Improve Its Safety

Abstract

Access to safe water and food is a critical issue in sub-Saharan Africa, where microbial contamination poses significant health risks. Conventional water treatment and food preservation methods have limitations in addressing water safety, particularly for antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms. This review explores the potential application of bacteriophages as an innovative solution for water treatment and food safety in the region. Bacteriophages specifically infect bacteria and offer a targeted approach to reducing bacterial load, including multidrug-resistant strains, without the drawbacks of chemical disinfectants. This review also highlights the advantages of phage bioremediation, including its specificity, adaptability, and minimal environmental impact. It also discusses various case studies demonstrating its efficacy in different water systems. Additionally, we underscore the need for further research and the development of region-specific phage applications to improve water quality and public health outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. By integrating bacteriophage strategies into water treatment and food production, the region can address critical microbial threats, mitigate the spread of antimicrobial resistance, and advance global efforts toward ensuring safe water for all.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance; bacteriophages; food preservation; food safety; sub-Saharan Africa; water quality; water treatment.

Figure 1

The interaction between water sources, applications, and contamination pathways. Reservoirs supply water to households, farms, and industries, with wastewater from agriculture and industrial activities introducing microbial and chemical contaminants. This figure was created using Biorender.com (accessed on 20 November 2024).

Figure 2

A schematic representation of the water treatment process. Water from reservoirs undergoes screening, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection. This figure was created using Biorender.com (accessed on 28 November 2024).

Figure 3

Bacteriophage applications across the water cycle, targeting microbial contaminants in natural water, treatment devices, distribution systems, and wastewater to ensure water quality and safety.