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Nanga Eboko, situated in the Centre Region of Cameroon at coordinates 4.6708°N, 12.3731°E, occupies a crucial position within the country’s transport network, lying along the major highway connecting Yaoundé to Douala. The city’s terrain is characterised by undulating hills and valleys typical of the Central African Plateau, with an elevation ranging between 700-800 meters. This altitude influences temperature and atmospheric circulation. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rainforest, transitioning into agricultural zones focused on cocoa, coffee, and plantain cultivation as one moves away from the urban core. The Sanaga River flows relatively close, impacting local humidity and potentially contributing to localised fog formation. While Nanga Eboko isn’t a major industrial hub, the presence of smaller-scale processing facilities for agricultural products, alongside vehicle traffic from the highway, contributes to localised emissions. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the periphery quickly gives way to agricultural land. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces potential for seasonal burning and associated particulate matter. The city’s location within a valley can also exacerbate pollution by trapping emissions, particularly during periods of calm weather. Understanding these geographical factors is vital for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges.

Nanga Eboko experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The long dry season, typically from November to March, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. This is due to increased dust from unpaved roads, agricultural burning to prepare fields for planting, and reduced rainfall to cleanse the atmosphere. Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, can also transport dust and sand, further degrading air quality during these months. February and March are generally the least favourable for outdoor activity, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The onset of the wet season in April brings a significant improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, potentially triggering allergies. The peak of the wet season, from September to November, sees the lowest pollution levels, though localised flooding can disrupt transport and potentially release contaminants. Throughout the year, temperature inversions, common in valleys, can trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor their health closely.