How clean are Namibia's waters? This research presents an ecotoxicological evaluation of surface waters in northern Namibia, focusing on the Kunene and Kavango Rivers, and the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin, which provide water for over 1 million people. The study combines bioassays on algae, daphnia, and zebrafish embryos with in vitro assays analyzing mutagenicity, dioxin-like potential, and estrogenicity. Results show acute toxicity to fish embryos and daphnia at all sites. The systems differ significantly, with sites in the Iishana system showing the highest acute toxicity. The findings highlight the need for water resource management as the observed effects can adversely impact aquatic ecosystems and organisms. The identification of mutagenic effects and estrogenic potential at sites in the Iishana system raises concerns about potential long-term ecological and health consequences.
Published in Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, this study aligns with the journal's focus on assessing environmental quality and the impact of pollutants. The ecotoxicological evaluation of surface waters in Namibia contributes to the journal's broader scope of providing data and analyses for environmental protection and management.