Is Freetown Tap Water Safe To Drink?

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

Tap water in Freetown, Sierra Leone, is generally not considered safe to drink without treatment. Contamination risks include bacteria and pollutants.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Residents commonly use boiling, filtration, or bottled water for drinking to avoid waterborne diseases. Infrastructure challenges affect consistent water quality.

For health, rely on treated or bottled water. Authorities and NGOs work on improving water safety, but caution remains necessary for untreated tap water.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Sierra Leone is ranked as number 170 globally with a score of 17.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Freetown, Sierra Leone

Freetown's main tap water sources include surface water from the Guma Reservoir and other local rivers and streams.

Groundwater from wells and boreholes supplements water supply in some areas. These sources vary in quality and availability.

The Guma Dam, constructed in the 1960s, is the primary water supply infrastructure providing treated water to Freetown residents.

Freetown Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Freetown are generally not considered safe without prior water quality verification. Contamination risks persist due to infrastructure issues.

Maintenance and sanitation of public fountains vary widely, affecting water safety. Use caution and consider alternative water sources for drinking.

For health safety, drinking treated or bottled water is advised. Avoid using public fountains without confirmation of water quality testing and treatment.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Freetown. 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 Freetown 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.