Is Ouagadougou Tap Water Safe To Drink?

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

Tap water in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, is generally not safe to drink without treatment due to contamination risks. Waterborne diseases are common.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Local authorities recommend boiling or using water purification methods before consumption. Bottled or treated water is preferred for drinking and cooking.

Infrastructure challenges affect water quality. Regular testing and treatment are essential to ensure safety. Travelers should avoid drinking untreated tap water.

Last checked: 2025-09-16

Source of Water in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Tap water in Ouagadougou primarily comes from surface water sources, including the Nakambé River and reservoirs supplying the city.

Groundwater from boreholes and wells supplements the water supply but is limited due to urban demand and quality concerns.

Water treatment plants process these sources before distribution, but challenges in infrastructure and contamination impact overall water quality and availability.

Ouagadougou Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Ouagadougou often pose contamination risks and are generally not considered safe without proper treatment.

Users should avoid direct consumption and prefer using water from treated or bottled sources to reduce health risks.

If necessary, water from fountains should be boiled or purified before drinking to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Drinking Water Map

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