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Aklanpa, nestled within Benin’s Collines department at coordinates 8.1684, 2.2320, is a town deeply embedded in the country’s undulating terrain. The landscape surrounding Aklanpa is characterised by low hills and plateaus, typical of the Atakora mountain range’s foothills, influencing local wind patterns and creating microclimates. The town’s elevation, while not extreme, contributes to temperature variations and potential for temperature inversions. Aklanpa isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller streams and rivers dissect the region, providing vital water resources but also potentially contributing to localised humidity and dust suspension during drier periods. The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural, with subsistence farming of crops like maize, yams, and cassava being the dominant economic activity. This agricultural practice, while essential for livelihoods, introduces particulate matter from tilling and potential burning of vegetation. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Aklanpa itself is a relatively small urban centre, quickly transitioning to rural farmland and forested areas. This proximity to agricultural land means that prevailing winds can carry pollutants from farming activities directly into the town, impacting air quality. The lack of heavy industry within Aklanpa itself shifts the focus of pollution sources to agricultural practices and domestic fuel use.

Aklanpa experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from November to March, sees a significant increase in particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural activities like land preparation and controlled burns for farming contribute substantially to airborne dust and smoke. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can also transport dust plumes, further degrading air quality during these months. February and March are generally the months with the poorest air quality. The transition to the wet season, from April to July, brings relief. Rainfall washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the initial rains can temporarily worsen conditions by stirring up settled dust. August to October represents the peak of the wet season, offering the cleanest air, though increased humidity can foster mould growth indoors. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exertion during the dry season, particularly February and March. During the wet season, while air quality improves, maintaining good indoor ventilation is crucial to prevent mould-related issues. Monitoring local weather patterns and adjusting activity levels accordingly is key to protecting health.