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Korsimoro, a municipality within Burkina Faso’s Centre-Nord region, occupies a relatively flat terrain at an elevation of approximately 280 meters. Its coordinates, 12.8250° N, -1.0672° W, place it within the broader Sahelian zone, a transitional ecosystem between the Sahara Desert to the north and the Sudanian Savanna to the south. The surrounding landscape is predominantly characterized by grasslands and sparse vegetation, typical of the Sahel. The city isn’t situated near any major bodies of water; however, seasonal streams and small ponds form during the rainy season. Korsimoro’s urban character is defined by a rapidly growing population of around 18,875, transitioning from a primarily agricultural settlement to a small urban centre. The region is heavily reliant on agriculture, with millet, sorghum, and maize being key crops. This agricultural activity, alongside the increasing use of motorcycles and small-scale industries like grain milling, contributes to localised air pollution. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the city limits. Dust from agricultural practices and unpaved roads is a significant factor influencing air quality, particularly during the dry season. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Korsimoro itself means pollution sources are largely dispersed and related to daily life and agricultural processes.

Korsimoro experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, is characterised by consistently high temperatures and minimal rainfall. This period sees a significant increase in particulate matter pollution, driven by dust resuspension from unpaved roads, agricultural activities, and wind erosion. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, exacerbate this issue, carrying large quantities of dust southward. February and March are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The wet season, from June to October, brings relief from dust, as rainfall effectively suppresses airborne particles. However, increased humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew, potentially impacting respiratory health. While overall particulate matter decreases, localised pollution from biomass burning for cooking and agricultural residue disposal can become more noticeable. September and October, towards the end of the rainy season, can experience stagnant air conditions, trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly February-March. During the wet season, maintaining good ventilation indoors is crucial to mitigate mold growth.