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Bétérou, nestled within the Borgou Department of Benin, occupies a position in the country’s central-northern region, at coordinates 9.2000° N, 2.2667° E. The terrain surrounding Bétérou is generally undulating savanna, characteristic of the Benin plateau, with elevations ranging between 200-400 meters. This relatively high elevation, compared to coastal Benin, influences local weather patterns and drainage. The city isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller streams and seasonal waterways dissect the landscape, crucial for local agriculture. Bétérou functions as a regional market town, serving a predominantly agricultural hinterland. Surrounding the urban core are extensive areas dedicated to subsistence farming – maize, yams, and cotton are prevalent – and increasingly, small-scale livestock rearing. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre is densely populated, transitioning rapidly to scattered rural settlements and farmland. This agricultural activity, coupled with the use of biomass for cooking and the increasing presence of motorcycles (a common mode of transport), contributes significantly to localised air pollution. Dust from unpaved roads is also a major factor, particularly during the dry season. The lack of substantial industrial development within Bétérou itself means pollution sources are largely dispersed and related to daily life.

Bétérou experiences a distinct tropical climate with a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the patterns of air quality. The dry season, typically from November to March, sees the highest levels of particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and increased dust resuspension from agricultural activities and unpaved roads. Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, can transport significant quantities of dust southward, exacerbating the problem. Temperatures are highest during this period, potentially contributing to ground-level ozone formation, though this is less pronounced than in more industrialised areas. The transition months of April and May see increasing rainfall, offering some relief. The wet season, from June to October, generally brings improved air quality due to rainfall washing away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. September and October, towards the end of the wet season, can experience localised flooding, potentially releasing contaminants from agricultural runoff. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activity during peak dust periods. Monitoring local weather forecasts and avoiding strenuous activity on dusty days is advisable.