Assessing Water Quality in Malawi: Contamination Sources, Public Health Impacts, and Sustainable Management Strategies

This review investigates water quality issues in Malawi, revealing critical contamination sources such as industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, household waste, mining operations, and inadequate wastewater management. A systematic search was conducted across several databases, focusing on literature published from 2018 to 2024, encompassing peer-reviewed articles, reports, and government publications. Findings underscore significant public health risks associated with poor water quality, including waterborne diseases and long-term health effects. The study advocates for the implementation of a continuous water quality-monitoring framework, enhanced regulatory measures for wastewater discharge, and effective community education initiatives on sustainable water practices. The recommendations presented herein aim to inform policymakers, researchers, and local communities, guiding future research directions and practical solutions to mitigate water contamination and improve public health outcomes in Malawi.