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Aketi, nestled within the Bas-Uélé Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, occupies a geographically significant position in the northeastern part of the country. Located at approximately 2.7333° latitude and 23.7500° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating grasslands and gently sloping hills, typical of the Sudano-Guinean savanna biome. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, a mosaic of small-scale agriculture – primarily manioc, maize, and millet cultivation – interspersed with extensive grasslands and scattered woodlands. This agricultural activity, while vital for local livelihoods, contributes to localized particulate matter emissions, particularly during harvesting and burning seasons. Aketi’s elevation, though relatively modest, influences local air circulation patterns; the slight rise can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The city sits far from major rivers, though seasonal streams and smaller watercourses are present, impacting humidity levels and potentially affecting the dispersion of airborne contaminants. There are no significant industrial belts immediately adjacent to Aketi; however, the region experiences some logging activity further afield, which can contribute to sporadic increases in wood smoke. The urban–rural gradient is sharp, with the city transitioning quickly into the surrounding agricultural and pastoral lands. The limited urban sprawl means that air quality is largely dictated by regional weather patterns and local agricultural practices rather than extensive industrial pollution, though population growth could alter this dynamic in the future. The prevailing winds generally flow from the east, carrying potential pollutants from surrounding areas.

Aketi’s tropical savanna climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, is characterized by lower humidity and increased sunshine hours. Unfortunately, this period often witnesses a rise in particulate matter pollution. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, releases significant quantities of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. The lack of rainfall during this time allows these pollutants to linger, particularly when temperature inversions occur – a phenomenon where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near the ground. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the air and reducing particulate concentrations. However, heavy downpours can also stir up dust and soil, temporarily increasing particulate levels. Fog, a relatively infrequent occurrence, can also trap pollutants during the transitional months. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wet season, particularly from June to September, when rainfall is most consistent. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, minimizing prolonged exposure to outdoor air, especially on days with visible smoke. The intensity of agricultural burning varies year to year, influenced by rainfall patterns and farming practices, making it difficult to predict precise pollution levels. Local authorities are encouraged to implement controlled burning strategies to mitigate the impact on air quality.