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Ramotswa, nestled in the South East District of Botswana, occupies a relatively flat terrain at an elevation of approximately 980 meters. This location, at coordinates -24.8667, 25.8167, places it within the broader Highveld landscape, characterised by grassy plains and scattered acacia woodlands. The city’s position is strategically important, lying along the main transport route connecting Gaborone, the capital, with South Africa. This connectivity fosters economic activity but also contributes to vehicular emissions. Surrounding Ramotswa are predominantly agricultural lands, primarily cattle ranching and subsistence farming, which, while generally low-impact, can contribute to particulate matter through land disturbance and seasonal burning of vegetation. The Notwane River flows nearby, but its influence on local air quality is limited due to its intermittent flow and relatively small size. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; transitioning quickly from the concentrated built environment of Ramotswa to the open rangelands. The lack of significant industrial belts within the immediate vicinity means that the primary air quality concerns are linked to transport, domestic fuel burning (wood and charcoal), and dust from unpaved roads, exacerbated by the dry climate. The prevailing winds, generally from the south-east, can transport pollutants from surrounding areas into the city, and topographical features offer little in the way of natural dispersion.

Ramotswa experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, spanning roughly May to October, is characterised by consistently low humidity and increased dust levels. This period sees a peak in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) as agricultural activities intensify, and the lack of rainfall prevents the natural settling of dust. November to April brings the wet season, offering a temporary reprieve from dust pollution. However, increased humidity can also lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants closer to the ground, particularly in the mornings. January and February, the wettest months, often see a reduction in dust but can experience localised smoke from domestic fires used for cooking and heating. Sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during the dry months, limiting strenuous outdoor activity. The cooler temperatures of the dry season can also exacerbate the effects of wood smoke. During the transition periods – October/November and April/May – air quality can be unpredictable, fluctuating between dry and wet season patterns. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants can be carried from regional sources. Avoiding peak traffic hours can also minimise exposure to vehicle emissions.