Water of doubtful quality in Cameroonian market

The Cameroon National Agency for Norms and Standards (ANOR) has decried the bad quality of water put in the market by importers and producers of bottled water in the country.

This was during a consultation meeting between experts and dealers in potable water sector that took place on Wednesday, August 27, 2014.


According to Jean Mbollo, expert in charge of elaboration of Norms at ANOR, the origin and quality of water being sold is doubtful consequently dangerous to the health of the population, especially little children.


Another expert at ANOR, Jean Baptiste Tchoffo, stated that most of the importers and producers of mineral water neither master the texts nor have certifications.


To him, they fail to conform to the two principal standards of water; the chemical and physical qualities which make water fit for human consumption.

The General Manager of ANOR, Charles Booto a Ngon, cautioned against the purchase of water sold in sachets and promised repressive measures against those who shall be found guilty of breaking the law.


In response, actors in the domain complained about the cumbersome administrative procedures needed to comply with the required standards.


During the meeting, experts and dealers also questioned the quality of water provided by the water utility corporation, CAMWATER, which sometimes has odour, colour and taste.


With the existence of so many suppliers, there is a need for the regulation if only to fight against infections like cholera.