IWRA Proceedings

INTRODUCTION

The rural population in Sudan represents around 67.1% of the total population and 55% lives in areas apart from the Nile system. Considerable percentage of this population depends on surface rainwater harvesting from Hafir (Shallow Water Pond) and earth dam reservoirs for domestic and drinking water supply. These sources are susceptible to contamination according to the surrounding livelihood activities. Certain environmental conditions; like warming and excess nitrogen and phosphorus in water bodies can intensify algae growth, causing algal blooms. When some types of algae blooms are large and produce chemicals, or toxins, the event is called a harmful algal blooms (HABs).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to classify the types of algae and identify the toxins’ producing algae species as well as its relationship with Physico-chemical characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

• The Sudanese are at high risks for contracting waterborne diseases.
• Protection of surface rainwater harvesting facilities from pollution by establishing onsite water treatment units is a must.
• Comprehensive water quality monitoring is necessary to improve natural resource management, maintain sustainable ecosystems, and protect public health.
• Monitoring of Toxins produced by Blue-Green Algae (Cyanotoxins) is very important.
• Collaborative efforts are encouraged at both the international and national levels to be exerted for healthy water sources, healthy people and healthy environment.
• Sustainable water resources management and development through capacity development, community engagement, political wills will accelerate achieving the SDG6 by 2030.

19 January, 11:00 CET