Characterization of greywater from urban and peri-urban areas of Nakuru municipality, Kenya

Abstract

Kenya faces serious challenges regarding water and sanitation services. Despite many years of government investment, existing facilities continue to deteriorate and have also failed to meet the demand of increasing population. These challenges are particularly severe in rapidly growing settlements of urban poor. One such settlement is Nakuru municipality which has an average annual population growth of about 8%. The municipality’s sewerage connection is inadequate (11% coverage) and only serves middle and high income areas. This study used a semi-structured questionnaire aiming at characterizing and determining the composition of greywater, besides identifying existing water supply and lifestyle characteristics. The total suspended solids range in greywater was 200-3500 mg/l and faecal coliform (FC) count 105 -106 100mL-1. High values of FC concentration in greywater can be associated with life style characteristics and the settlement patterns. These results were used to develop site specific greywater treatment systems ideal for peri-urban areas.