A CASE FOR THE USE OF MORINGA OLIFERA AS A NATURAL COAGULANT TO IMPROVE WATER SUPPLY IN RURAL FARMS IN NIGERIA

Reports of potable water supply situation in Nigeria recently showed poor performance, most especially in the rural areas, probably owing to shortage of funds to provide water supply facilities and sometimes negligence. This has led to the consumption of water from various unwholesome sources by the rural dwellers, usually without treatment. This, therefore, suggested the need for an alternative to the conventional water treatment method which is also believed to be costly, with health effects and unfriendly to the environment. Hence, a case was made for the use of an affordable, safe and environmentally friendly natural coagulant, Moringa oleifera, for water treatment in the rural areas since its use has been proved effective by researches. With the use of the plant, it is expected that cost of water treatment will reduce and thus improve potable water supply in the rural areas. This will further enhance healthy living and poverty reduction amongst the farmers, in addition to other economic benefits derivable from the cultivation of the plant. However, since researches are still ongoing on the use of M. oleifera for water treatment, it was recommended that adequate care should be taken on the appropriate procedure and dosage. There was also the need to encourage more researches to ensure timely resolution of all issues surrounding the use of the plant. Creation of awareness amongst the rural farmers on the usefulness of the plant was capable of increasing its cultivation which will have overall economic benefit to the entire country.