Exploring the Microbial Ecology of Water in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Potential of Bacteriophages in Water Quality Monitoring and Treatment to Improve Its Safety

Abstract

Access to safe water and food is a critical issue in sub-Saharan Africa, where microbial contamination poses significant health risks. Conventional water treatment and food preservation methods have limitations in addressing water safety, particularly for antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms. This review explores the potential application of bacteriophages as an innovative solution for water treatment and food preservation in the region. Bacteriophages specifically infect bacteria and offer a targeted approach to reducing bacterial load, including multidrug-resistant strains, without the drawbacks of chemical disinfectants. This review highlights the advantages of phage bioremediation, including its specificity, adaptability, and minimal environmental impact. It also discusses various case studies demonstrating its efficacy in different water systems. Additionally, we underscore the need for further research and the development of region-specific phage applications to improve water quality and public health outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. By integrating bacteriophage-based strategies, water treatment processes, food production, and preservation can be enhanced to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance and contribute to the global effort to secure safe water for all.