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Bozoum, situated in the Ouham-Pendé region of the Central African Republic at coordinates 6.3172°N, 16.3783°E, occupies a crucial position within the country’s agricultural heartland. The city’s terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the broader Sahelian zone, with a subtle undulation reflecting the underlying geological formations. Bozoum lies approximately 250 meters above sea level, influencing local atmospheric circulation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by savanna grasslands and scattered woodland, transitioning into more densely forested areas further south. The proximity to the Ouham River, while providing a vital water source, also contributes to localised humidity and potential for stagnant air masses. Bozoum isn’t characterised by heavy industry; its economic activity is overwhelmingly agricultural, primarily subsistence farming and livestock rearing. This means the primary sources of particulate matter are not industrial emissions, but rather dust from land cultivation, seasonal burning of vegetation for agricultural purposes, and unpaved road traffic. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a rapid transition from the small urban centre to surrounding rural villages and farmland. This lack of significant urban infrastructure and green spaces exacerbates the impact of dust and smoke on local air quality, as there are fewer natural filters.

Bozoum experiences a distinct wet and dry season, dictating the annual air quality narrative. The dry season, roughly from November to May, is when air quality deteriorates most significantly. This is due to increased dust resuspension from agricultural activities – preparing fields for planting and harvesting – and the widespread practice of burning vegetation to clear land. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, further contribute to particulate matter concentrations during this period, carrying dust plumes across the region. January to March are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The wet season, from June to October, brings a temporary reprieve. Rainfall suppresses dust, and increased humidity causes particulate matter to settle. However, even during the wet season, localised burning continues, and stagnant air can trap pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, exacerbate pollution by preventing vertical mixing of the air. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in January and February. Wearing masks can offer some protection. Monitoring local conditions and avoiding areas with visible smoke is crucial.