## 4 Discussion  
Both methods presented in this article significantly reduce turbidity and various contaminants. The sedimentation and biofilm-based slow sand filtration systems developed in this study show substantial potential for enhancing water quality in resource-limited environments. Our findings provide proof of concept that these low-cost and sustainable methods effectively reduce turbidity and remove contaminants from water sources, making them suitable for implementation in the community with which the delegation worked, as well as in similar contexts globally. Furthermore, the results of this study suggest that using locally available materials such as chalk and limestone for sedimentation, followed by a biofilm-based slow sand filtration, could significantly enhance water quality. The substantial reductions in turbidity--from levels as high as 12,000 NTU to within WHO standards (5 NTU)--demonstrate the potential effectiveness of these methods when used separately. Based on these promising results, we propose a combined approach. This dual-method system, which has yet to be tested together, may offer even greater success by addressing the immediate need for water clarification through sedimentation and providing long-term filtration benefits through the biofilm layer in slow sand filters. The performance of the SSF systems aligns with findings from other studies. The biofilm-based filtration system functioned as expected, with biofilm development playing a key role in filtration efficiency, consistent with the previous research [6, 7, 10, 11, 12]. The superior performance of System 3, attributed to the optimized sand-to-gravel ratio, also matches the findings of [PERSON] et al., which emphasized the importance of filter media composition in enhancing filtration [7]. Overall, the results of this study are in line with the literature on the effectiveness of SSFs in rural and resource-limited settings. One of the critical advantages of the methods developed in this study is their practicality and sustainability. The use of locally sourced materials for sedimentation ensures that the approach is cost-effective and accessible for the Maasai communities. Additionally, the simple construction and maintenance of slow sand filters make them feasible for local implementation without the need for advanced technical knowledge or significant financial  
Figure 12: Water parameters after filtration with limestone (relative to Red Dam). investment. This is particularly important in rural and resource-limited settings where access to clean water is a persistent challenge. Improving water quality in the community with which the delegation worked, as well as in other communities with similar characteristics globally, has the potential to significantly enhance public health. These filtration systems can mitigate the health risks associated with waterborne diseases by significantly reducing turbidity and removing contaminants such as lead. Access to clean water is crucial for preventing illnesses, improving overall health outcomes, and enhancing the quality of life for community members. The successful implementation of these systems can lead to a considerable decrease in water-related health issues, promoting better living conditions and community well-being. The reusability of the filtration system is a critical consideration for its long-term application in water treatment. During the experiments, it was observed that when the system became clogged, it could no longer be effectively reused. This issue arose primarily from the accumulation of particles within the filter medium, which hindered water flow and filtration efficiency. To enhance the reusability of the slow sand filtration (SSF) system, implementing a preliminary filtration step is recommended. For example, sedimentation using locally available materials, such as chalk or limestone, can significantly reduce the particulate load entering the SSF system.