Hydrogeochemical Assessment and Groundwater Quality in Zebediela Sub-Region, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Groundwater remains a critical resource for rural communities in South Africa, yet its quality is questionable due to geogenic processes and anthropogenic activities. This research evaluated groundwater quality through hydrochemical and microbial analysis of 20 borehole samples used domestically in the rural area of Zebediela subregion, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Parameters analysed included major ions, trace metals and faecal indicator bacteria, with data interpreted using multivariate analyses including co-occurrence matrices, Pearson correlation heatmaps and Principal Component Analysis. Nitrate, sulphate, phosphate, chloride and fluoride were within permissible limits, but COD and BOD were slightly above recommended levels, indicating moderate ion concentrations. Microbial contamination was detected in 80% of the samples (including Heterotrophic, Escherichia coli, coliform, Salmonella species, Enterobacteriaceae, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococci), with Heterotrophic bacteria present in most samples, indicating emerging contamination. PCA identified mineral dissolution, evaporative concentration, organic pollution and redox-mediated metal mobilization as the dominant processes shaping groundwater chemistry in Zebediela subregion. Therefore, regular monitoring, improved sanitation infrastructure and protection of borehole surroundings are recommended to manage water security in the Zebediela sub-region.