Africa faces a big challenge of wastewater management. Annual deaths associated with wastewater and unimproved sanitation in the continent are among the highest in the world, ranging from 286 per 100,000 children under 5 years to 1,473 for some countries (UNDP, 2014). Wastewater is reported to contain hazardous elements, such as Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As), Copper (Cu), and Lead (Pb) (Barakat, 2011). These metals are known to cause serious health problems including reduced growth and development, cancer, organ and nervous system damage and in extreme cases, death. This policy brief reveals a unique African bio-resource (Chrysopogon nigritanus) that could transform wastewater management in the continent, making it safe for discharge into water bodies, and for re-use in agriculture.

4 p.