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Ouénou, nestled within the Borgou State of Benin, occupies a geographically significant position in the northwest of the country. Located at approximately 9.7870° latitude and 2.6375° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating plains, typical of the Sahelian transition zone. This area marks a gradual shift from the more humid southern regions of Benin towards the drier, more arid landscapes further north. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields dedicated to cotton cultivation and subsistence farming, a crucial element of the regional economy. While Ouénou itself is a relatively small settlement with a population of around 12,245, it sits within a broader rural-urban gradient, acting as a local market and service hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. The Niger River, though not directly adjacent, influences the regional climate and soil composition, contributing to the area’s agricultural productivity. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 200-250 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate air stagnation under certain meteorological conditions. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Ouénou; however, the agricultural practices, particularly the use of machinery and potential burning of crop residues post-harvest, contribute to localized air pollution. The city’s location within a transitional zone means it experiences a complex interplay of climatic factors, impacting both the regional and local air quality dynamics. The urban character is distinctly rural, with limited paved roads and a predominantly agrarian lifestyle.

Ouénou’s tropical savanna climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, promoting dust suspension and hindering pollutant dispersion. The Harmattan wind, a dry, dusty trade wind blowing from the Sahara, frequently impacts the region during this period, carrying fine particulate matter and significantly degrading air quality. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, further intensifying the problem. Agricultural burning, often practiced after the harvest to clear fields for the next planting season, releases substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter, exacerbating the situation. The wet season, from April to October, brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity helps to bind particulate matter. However, heavy downpours can also lead to soil erosion and the suspension of dust, albeit generally less impactful than the dry season. Months like February and March often experience the poorest air quality due to the combined effects of Harmattan winds and agricultural burning. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak dust events and avoiding areas with smoke. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air filtration can also be beneficial.