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Dédougou, situated in the Boucle du Mouhoun region of Burkina Faso at approximately 12.47°N, 3.47°W, is a significant commercial and administrative centre. The city occupies a relatively flat terrain typical of the broader Sudanese savanna belt, with an elevation around 280-300 meters. This low-lying landscape influences air quality, limiting natural dispersion of pollutants. Dédougou is not directly adjacent to a major body of water, though the Mouhoun River flows nearby, impacting local humidity and potentially contributing to localised fog formation during cooler months. The surrounding region is predominantly agricultural, characterised by subsistence farming and increasingly, cotton cultivation. This agricultural activity is a key factor in air quality, with seasonal burning of crop residue being a major source of particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Dédougou represents a concentrated area of activity within a largely rural landscape. Dust from unpaved roads and construction, coupled with emissions from vehicle traffic and small-scale industries (primarily food processing and artisanal workshops), contribute to the city’s air pollution profile. The city’s position within a broader Sahelian zone makes it vulnerable to dust storms originating from further north, exacerbating particulate matter concentrations, particularly during the dry season. The lack of substantial industrial belts within the city itself concentrates pollution sources within the urban core.

Dédougou experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, is characterised by consistently high temperatures and low humidity. This period sees the highest pollution levels due to increased dust resuspension from unpaved roads and agricultural fields, coupled with the common practice of burning agricultural waste after harvest. Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, further exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. February and March are typically the worst months for respiratory health. The transition to the wet season (May-June) brings a temporary improvement as rainfall suppresses dust and washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also lead to localised mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. The wet season (July-October) generally offers the best air quality, with frequent rainfall effectively cleansing the air. However, stagnant air masses can occasionally trap pollutants, particularly in low-lying areas. November sees a gradual deterioration as the dry season approaches. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season and consider using masks when dust levels are high. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for anticipating pollution spikes.