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Mbalmayo, situated in the Centre Region of Cameroon at approximately 3.5167° latitude and 11.5000° longitude, occupies a geographically significant position within the nation’s landscape. The city lies on a gently sloping plateau, part of the larger Betounia Plateau, rising modestly above the coastal plains to the south. This elevation, though not dramatic, influences local air circulation patterns. Mbalmayo is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to cocoa, coffee, and plantain cultivation, interspersed with smaller settlements and dense tropical forest. To the south, the landscape gradually descends towards the Atlantic coastal strip, while to the north, the terrain rises towards the forested hills of the Centre Region. The Mfound River, a tributary of the Ntem River, flows near the city, providing a crucial water source and influencing local humidity. The urban character of Mbalmayo is that of a rapidly growing market town, serving as a regional hub for agricultural produce and trade. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the built environment transitioning quickly to agricultural fields and forest. The proximity to agricultural zones means that seasonal burning practices, common for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can significantly impact air quality. Furthermore, the city’s location within a humid tropical climate, combined with its position on the plateau, can lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of reduced wind activity, exacerbating the effects of local pollution sources.

Mbalmayo experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern typical of equatorial climates, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, generally spanning from November to March, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices; farmers frequently employ controlled burns to clear land for planting and manage crop residues, releasing significant quantities of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to linger. Temperature inversions, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more frequent during the dry season, further hindering vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near ground level. The wet season, from April to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which generally leads to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to flooding, potentially releasing mould spores and other allergens into the air. Fog, common during the transition months, can trap pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wet season, particularly from June to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. The combination of agricultural burning and meteorological conditions creates a dynamic air quality profile throughout the year.