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Ahigbé Koffikro, nestled within the Comoé region of Ivory Coast, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 5.4075° latitude and -3.3802° longitude. The city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating plains, typical of the Guinean woodlands ecoregion, transitioning gradually into the broader savanna landscapes that define much of northern Ivory Coast. Its relatively low elevation, averaging around 150-200 meters above sea level, contributes to a stable atmospheric layer, which can, under certain conditions, exacerbate air quality issues. The Comoé River, though not directly adjacent to the city, influences the regional climate and humidity levels, impacting pollutant dispersion. Surrounding Ahigbé Koffikro is a mosaic of small-scale agricultural plots – primarily cocoa, coffee, and plantain cultivation – interspersed with patches of dense woodland. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from burning agricultural waste and dust from tilling. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is a small, localized settlement, quickly giving way to rural agricultural lands and forested areas. There are no major industrial belts immediately bordering Ahigbé Koffikro, however, the proximity to larger regional hubs like Bondoukou, which may have some light industrial activity, means that pollutants can be transported via prevailing winds. The surrounding landscape’s vegetation plays a role in absorbing some pollutants, but its capacity is limited by the city’s size and the intensity of local emissions.

Ahigbé Koffikro experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from November to May, is often characterized by lower humidity and increased sunshine hours. While this might seem beneficial, the lack of rainfall allows dust and particulate matter from agricultural activities and unpaved roads to accumulate, leading to periods of reduced visibility and potentially impacting respiratory health. The Harmattan winds, prevalent during the dry season, can transport dust and pollutants from the Sahel region, further degrading air quality. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occasionally occur during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by washing away particulate matter. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and the release of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) from vegetation, which can contribute to ground-level ozone formation under sunny conditions. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly in July and August when rainfall is most consistent. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged exposure to outdoor air, especially during periods of high dust or reduced visibility. Agricultural burning, a common practice at the start of the planting season, poses a significant short-term air quality risk.