Mekelle University and KU Leuven Launch Joint Initiative to Tackle Fluoride Contamination in Drinking Water

The Department of Chemistry at Mekelle University’s College of Natural and Computational Sciences (CNCS), in partnership with KU Leuven, Belgium, has inaugurated a new research project aimed at providing safe drinking water through the development of low-cost defluoridation methods. The initiative officially began with a kick-off workshop held on January 3, 2026.

The project, titled “Filtration Technologies to Provide Safe Drinking Water: Development of Low-Cost Defluoridation Methods,” seeks to develop affordable, effective filtration technologies specifically for communities affected by high fluoride concentrations in groundwater.

The workshop convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, academics, policymakers, and development partners, to introduce the project's objectives, discuss the challenges of fluoride contamination, and foster collaboration.

In his opening address, Dr. Eyasu Yazew, Vice President for Research and Community Engagement at Mekelle University, reiterated the institution's commitment to research that provides practical, sustainable solutions to pressing societal challenges.

Professor Abreha G/kidan, Dean of CNCS and Project Coordinator, emphasized the workshop's goal of sharing knowledge, developing sustainable implementation plans at household and community levels, and strengthening collaboration between academia, government, NGOs, and local communities. He stressed that these partnerships are vital for ensuring the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of defluoridation efforts.