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Nkoteng, a small city nestled within Cameroon’s Centre Region, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 4.5167°N latitude and 12.0333°E longitude. The city’s terrain is characterised by undulating hills and plateaus, typical of the region’s transition zone between the southern rainforest and the northern savanna. Situated inland, Nkoteng doesn’t benefit from coastal breezes to disperse pollutants. Its elevation, around 700-800 meters above sea level, contributes to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during calmer periods. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with small-scale farming of cocoa, coffee, and plantains dominating the rural areas immediately bordering the urban centre. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from land preparation, harvesting, and the burning of agricultural residue. A gradual urban-rural gradient exists, with increasing population density and commercial activity concentrated around the city centre. Limited industrial activity exists within Nkoteng itself, but proximity to larger regional trade routes and potential informal industrial zones in surrounding areas can contribute to background pollution levels. The lack of significant water bodies nearby limits natural pollutant washout, exacerbating air quality challenges.

Nkoteng experiences a tropical climate defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly influencing its air quality. The long dry season, typically from November to March, sees a significant increase in particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and increased dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities accumulates. Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, can transport substantial amounts of dust, further degrading air quality. This period is generally the least favourable for outdoor activity, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The transition months of April and October often experience hazy conditions as the seasons shift. The wet season, spanning roughly April to November, brings relief through frequent rainfall, effectively washing pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mould and allergens, impacting sensitive individuals. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier nights, can trap pollutants even during the wet season. August and September, with consistently high rainfall, are generally the best months for outdoor activities. Individuals with asthma or allergies should monitor conditions closely during seasonal transitions and take preventative measures.