Evaluation of the impacts of trace metals on market gardening consumers: The case of Kimwenza-Gare

Plamedi IYELI LOBOTA — 2026-04-07

Introduction

The reliance of agriculture on mineral fertilizers and pesticides has raised concern for decades. In Kinshasa, market gardening contributes substantially to feeding the local population.

Purpose

This study assesses the impacts of trace metals accumulated in leafy vegetables cultivated in Kimwenza-Gare (Mont-Ngafula Commune), with a particular focus on potential risks to consumer health.

Methods

A survey of market gardeners was conducted to identify the most frequently sold vegetables throughout the year and to document the agricultural inputs used for soil fertilization and pest control. Six vegetable samples and three soil samples were analyzed for ionic composition using an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (ED-XRF). Statistical analyses included Student’s t-test, as well as Spearman and Pearson correlation coefficients, performed using RStudio (version 4.3). Results were compared with World Health Organization (WHO) standards.

Results

Trace elements were detected in all vegetable samples at a 95% confidence interval. Chromium (Cr) concentrations exceeded the WHO guideline value (2.3 mg/kg dry weight) in all Amaranthus viridis samples from the Lukaya sector, reaching a maximum concentration of 9.46 ± 1.26 mg/kg. Lead (Pb) concentrations also exceeded the guideline value (0.30 mg/kg) in this vegetable, with the highest level recorded in the same sector (0.67 ± 0.01 mg/kg). Cadmium (Cd) was detected but remained below the detection limit. Overall, vegetables accumulated heavy metals present in the soil, particularly Amaranthus viridis in the Lukaya sector (ρ = 1).

Conclusion

Although the overall concentrations of trace metals were relatively low, consumers remain exposed to potential risks of chronic poisoning. Preventive measures, including awareness campaigns targeting market gardeners, should be implemented.

The Substandard and falsified medicines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Situational analysis and future perspectives

Michel NTAMBWE NGOYI — 2026-04-07

Introduction

The circulation of counterfeit medicines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and elsewhere is driven by several factors, including regulatory weaknesses, inadequate inspections, and porous borders. This issue is frequently highlighted in case reports and scientific publications, demonstrating the link between regulatory capacity—particularly the maturity level of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA)—and the prevalence of substandard and falsified medicines.

Purpose

To assess the extent of counterfeit medicines in the DRC and propose future perspectives.

Methods

Publications related to counterfeit medicines were collected from databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google, Google Scholar, ACOREP, the World Health Organization (WHO), websites of major organizations, case reports, and alerts. Searches were conducted using the keywords “falsified,” “substandard,” “counterfeit,” and “alert” (in both English and French). References were managed using Zotero software and analyzed through a structured literature review flowchart. Inclusion criteria comprised articles published between 2010 and 2025, including case reports, alerts, and study summaries focusing on the prevention, detection, and response to counterfeit medicines for human use in the DRC or other low- and middle-income countries.

Results

Of the 238 articles and documents identified, 62 met the inclusion criteria. The average prevalence of counterfeit medicines in Africa was estimated at 18.7% (range: 12.9%–24.5%), with 34.6% classified as unregistered. In the DRC, the consolidated average prevalence rates were 22.4% for counterfeit medicines, 22.2% for substandard medicines, and 35% for unregistered medicines.

Conclusion

The Congolese Pharmaceutical Regulatory Authority (ACOREP) has not yet achieved WHO maturity level 3 (ML3) in accordance with good regulatory practices. The Congolese government is therefore encouraged to strengthen its commitment to establishing a robust and deterrent national regulatory system (NRA) to combat the circulation of counterfeit medicines, particularly given the high proportion (approximately 35%) of unregistered products

Orapuh Journal

Evaluation of the impacts of trace metals on market gardening consumers: The case of Kimwenza-Gare

The Substandard and falsified medicines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Situational analysis and future perspectives