Is Addis Ababa Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Addis Ababa is treated and generally meets national safety standards. However, occasional contamination issues have been reported.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Many residents prefer boiling or filtering tap water before drinking to reduce health risks. Bottled water is widely used as an alternative.

Water quality can vary by location and infrastructure. For the most accurate and current information, consult local water authorities or health agencies.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Ethiopia is ranked as number 165 globally with a score of 18.5% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa’s main tap water sources include surface water from the Gefersa, Legedadi, and Dire Dams. These provide the majority of supply.

Groundwater also supplements the city’s water, accessed through wells and boreholes. Its use is growing due to increasing demand and supply challenges.

The water is treated at central plants before distribution, ensuring it meets safety standards for consumption across the city.

Addis Ababa Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Addis Ababa may vary in safety due to maintenance and water source quality. Users should exercise caution.

Some fountains use treated municipal water, but contamination risks exist from poor upkeep or environmental exposure. Boiling or filtering is advised.

For reliable hydration, bottled or properly treated water remains the safest option. Public fountain water quality is not consistently guaranteed.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Addis Ababa. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Addis Ababa is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.