ABSTRACT: This study evaluated harmful elements and associated health risks in Moatize, Mozambique's surface and groundwater, aligning with SDGs 3 (good health) and 6 (clean water). During both wet and dry seasons, 30 water samples were collected. Ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42-, HCO3-, NO3-, F-, and Cl-) were analyzed using Ion Chromatography (IC), while concentrations of PTEs (Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Pb, Sr, V, U, and Zn) were determined in water, coal, and ash samples by ICP-MS. Results indicated that PTE levels in coal and coal ash exceeded global average trace element concentrations. Moatize's water chemistry is mainly influenced by natural geological processes, e
