The Impact of Various Land Uses on the Microbial and Physicochemical Quality of Surface Water Bodies in Developing Countries: Prioritisation of Water Resources Management Areas

•We studied the impact of land uses on microbial and physicochemical quality of surface water.•Samples from most sites did not meet the South African standard for drinking water quality.•Informal settlements had the highest negative impact on the overall quality of the water.•Provision of sanitary facilities in informal settlements would prevent pollution of the water.•Industrial effluents need to be monitored to ensure they meet the required standards.