The first phase of a collaborative project aims at testing the acceptance and performance of bone charbasedfluoride removal filters in Ethiopia. The filters were produced by the Catholic Diocese of Nakuru(CDN), Kenya and supplied to 121 households in two project sites in the Great East African Rift Valley.Each unit was regularly monitored, while providing technical support to all applicants. After a studyperiod of one year, more than 80% of the filters in Meki (Weyo Gabriel) and 100% of the filters inShashemene (Chalalaka) are in use. None of the users expressed any objections concerning the use ofcharred animal bones, independent of religious or cultural background. Fluoride removal efficiency ofthe filters was satisfactory, although lifespan is limited due to very high fluoride concentrations in someof the groundwater sources (up to 23 mg/L). Filter design requires modification for improvedperformance in Ethiopian communities.
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