Fluoride Removal Technologies in Tanzania: Technological Innovation and Adaptation Perspectives for Sustainable Water Treatment Solutions

Abstract

Tanzania faces significant challenges related to fluoride contamination, particularly in the East African Rift Valley (EARV) regions, where nearly 2 million people are at high risk of dental, skeletal, and crippling fluorosis. This review explores technological innovations and adaptive strategies for fluoride removal, focusing on five key approaches. First are octacalcium phosphate (OCP) transformation systems, which reduce fluoride concentrations from 21 mg/L to below 1.5 mg/L within two hours; second is bone char adsorption, with a removal efficiency of 89.65%; third are nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membrane systems, achieving up to 98% fluoride rejection; fourth are rainwater harvesting models, such as the Kilimanjaro concept; and fifth are emerging hybrid technologies.

Through analysis of field implementations at Lemanda village, the Ngurdoto Defluoridation Research Station (NDRS), and the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), we assess technological performance, community acceptance, and sustainability. Results indicate that although significant technological advances meet WHO compliance standards, adoption challenges persist due to behavioral factors, economic constraints (Water.org, 2024), and maintenance requirements. We recommend a technology portfolio approach that combines locally appropriate solutions with advanced innovations, supported by strengthened research-industry partnerships and community-centered implementation strategies.

Keywords: Fluoride removal, Tanzania, water treatment technology, octacalcium phosphate, bone char, nanofiltration, technological innovation, East African Rift Valley

DOI: 10.7176/JEES/16-1-07

Publication date: June 28^th 2026