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Doukouya, nestled within the Gôh-Djiboua Region of Ivory Coast, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 6.4262° latitude and -5.5592° longitude. The town’s setting is characterized by a gently undulating terrain, typical of the Guinean Shield, transitioning from forested highlands to lower-lying savanna landscapes. Its elevation, while modest, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. Doukouya is situated relatively far from major rivers, though seasonal streams and smaller water bodies punctuate the surrounding countryside, impacting humidity levels and potentially affecting pollutant dispersion. The region’s dominant land use is a mosaic of small-scale agriculture, primarily cocoa and coffee cultivation, interspersed with patches of dense tropical forest. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can be a source of particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Doukouya is gradual; the town itself is a relatively small settlement, and the transition to agricultural land is seamless. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Doukouya, reducing the likelihood of heavy industrial pollution. However, the proximity to larger regional hubs like Yamoussoukro necessitates consideration of transported pollutants. The surrounding landscape, a mix of forest and cultivated land, influences the local climate and the potential for biomass burning, a significant factor in air quality fluctuations. The prevailing winds, generally from the southwest during the wet season, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants within the Doukouya area.

Doukouya’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to biomass burning associated with agricultural practices – land clearing for cultivation and the burning of crop residues. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist longer. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. The wet season, from April to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased fungal spore counts, impacting respiratory health. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during the transition periods between seasons, further reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly from June to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, minimizing prolonged exposure to outdoor air, especially during periods of intense biomass burning. Agricultural workers are particularly vulnerable and should utilize appropriate respiratory protection. Monitoring local weather patterns and agricultural practices can provide valuable insights into potential air quality risks, allowing for proactive health measures.