Browsing by Author "Nkrumah, Salma"

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Combatting toxic chemical elements pollution for Sub-Saharan Africa's ecological health
(Elsevier, 2025-02-08) Ripanda, Asha; Hossein, Miraji; Rwiza, Mwemezi; Nyanza, Elias; Selemani, Juma; Nkrumah, Salma; Bakari, Ramadhani; Alfred, Mateso; Machunda, Revocatus; Vuai, Said
With its booming mining, processing industries, agriculture, and increasing urbanization, sub-Saharan Africa experiences an alarming rise in accumulation of toxic chemical elements in all environmental matrices threatening entire ecology. Most toxic chemical elements are mercury, lead, cadmium, chromium, and arsenic. These toxic chemical elements are known human carcinogens, systemic toxicants and can induce multiple organ damage. The occurrences of toxic chemical elements in Sub-Saharan Africa are amplified by anthropogenic activities such as mining, industrial discharges, and agricultural practices. This study examined the extent of exposure to toxic chemical elements in surface and underground waters, sediments, soils, effluents, food crops, vegetables, aquatic organisms, industrial products, humans, and other animals in Sub-Saharan Africa. Results indicate occurrences of toxic chemical elements in surface and underground waters, sediments, soils, effluents, food crops, vegetables, aquatic organisms, industrial products, humans, and other animals above the recommended threshold. These findings highlight the persistent pollution of water, soil, sediments, food crops, aquatic organisms, and even industrial products, emphasizing the potential for bioaccumulation and exposure through the food chain. This requires interdisciplinary approaches, including updating and enforcing stricter regulations tailored to regional industrial and agricultural practices. Advanced remediation technologies, such as phytoremediation, and bioremediation, should be prioritized to remove toxic chemical elements from affected environments. Additionally, promoting sustainable practices, such as waste recycling programs, can help reduce anthropogenic contributions, strengthen environmental monitoring systems, nurture community awareness, and essentially encourage regional and international collaboration to protect ecosystems and safeguard human health in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Ecological consequences of microplastic pollution in sub-Saharan Africa aquatic ecosystems: An implication to environmental health
(Elsevier Inc., 2023-12-01) Moto, Edward; Hossein, Miraji; Bakari, Ramadhani; Mateso, Alfred; Selemani, Juma; Nkrumah, Salma; Ripanda, Asha; Rwiza, Mwemezi; Nyanza, Elias; Machunda, Revocatus
Microplastic pollution (MPs) emerged as a significant environmental concern due to its persistent nature. These MPs particles endure in waters, soils, and even the atmosphere, posing potential threats to the entire ecosystem. Aquatic organisms are at risk of ingesting MPs, leading to accumulation in tissues, ultimately affecting entire food chain. This study aims to provide an overview of sources of MPs, distribution, and potential environmental impacts. MPs have been documented in various substances such as bottled water, salts, seafood, and even the air. However, the full extent of the health consequences on human exposure remains uncertain. Therefore, it is imperative that we draw public attention to the presence of these pollutants in the environment. To mitigate adverse effects of MPs, reducing plastic consumption, implementing improved waste management practices, and advocating sustainable behaviors are essential for well-being of natural ecosystems and the health human populations.
Fluoride contamination a silent global water crisis: A Case of Africa
(Elsevier, 2024-11-20) Hossein, Miraji; Rwiza, Mwemezi; Nyanza, Elias; Bakari, Ramadhani; Ripanda, Asha; Nkrumah, Salma; Selemani, Juma; Machunda, Revocatus
Fluoride contamination in drinking water poses a global health risk, affecting millions worldwide, with Africa bearing a disproportionate burden due to unique geological factors like the East African Rift Valley. High fluoride levels in groundwater in these regions contribute to widespread health problems, notably dental and skeletal fluorosis, which impair quality of life and economic productivity. This study aims to evaluate the scope of fluoride contamination across continents, examining how Africa compares to regions like Asia, North America, and Europe. While some countries have mitigated contamination through advanced water treatment and regulatory measures, Africa still faces significant challenges due to limited infrastructure and resources. Findings highlight that addressing fluoride contamination in Africa requires a targeted approach, involving affordable treatment solutions, regulatory reforms, and community awareness programs. By outlining these strategies and emphasizing international cooperation, this study underscores the urgency of safeguarding health and well-being across affected African communities.