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Kambove, a city nestled within the Haut-Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, occupies a geographically significant position in the heart of the Central African Copperbelt. Located at approximately -10.8764 latitude and 26.5969 longitude, the city sits on relatively flat terrain, typical of the Katanga plateau, at an elevation of around 1,300 meters. This plateau landscape, characterized by savannah and woodland, influences local wind patterns and contributes to dust dispersion. Kambove’s air quality is inextricably linked to its role as a mining centre, specifically cobalt and copper extraction. The surrounding landscape is heavily impacted by mining activities, creating substantial areas of disturbed land and tailings. The city isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller streams and rivers are present, potentially acting as conduits for pollutant runoff. An urban-rural gradient exists, with agricultural lands surrounding the city, but these are increasingly encroached upon by mining operations. The concentration of industrial activity within and around Kambove, coupled with the prevalent use of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), generates significant particulate matter and heavy metal emissions. The lack of robust environmental regulations and infrastructure exacerbates these issues, impacting air quality for the city’s 36,702 residents.

Kambove experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality deteriorates significantly during the dry season (May to September). Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants from mining activities – primarily dust containing cobalt, copper, and other heavy metals – to accumulate. The dry air also facilitates the suspension of these particles, increasing PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. October and November, marking the transition to the wet season, often see a temporary worsening as disturbed dust is mobilised by initial rains. The wet season (December to April) generally offers improved air quality, as rainfall washes away particulate matter. However, even during the wet season, mining operations continue, and runoff can introduce pollutants into the local environment. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season, particularly in the late afternoon when pollutant concentrations are often highest. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; prevailing winds carry pollutants from mining sites into the city. Avoiding strenuous activity near mining areas is advisable year-round.