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Gogui, a town in the Kayes Region of Mali, sits at approximately 15.6858°N latitude and 9.3297°W longitude, placing it within the Sahelian zone. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the inland Niger Delta, with a subtle rise towards the east. Gogui’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The town’s location is significantly influenced by its proximity to the Senegal River, a vital water source but also a potential pathway for moisture-laden air impacting local weather patterns. Surrounding Gogui are expanses of savanna grasslands and agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to rain-fed farming of millet, sorghum, and cotton. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of smaller-scale processing facilities for agricultural products, alongside the inevitable dust from land cultivation, contributes to particulate matter in the air. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Gogui serves as a market town for surrounding villages, experiencing increased traffic and activity during market days. This concentrated activity, coupled with the common use of wood and charcoal for cooking and heating, exacerbates localised air pollution. The prevailing winds, often from the northeast during the dry season, can transport dust plumes from further inland, impacting air quality. The town’s geographical setting makes it particularly vulnerable to the effects of desertification and climate change, potentially worsening air quality issues.

Gogui experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly from November to May, is characterised by hot, dry winds and minimal rainfall. This period sees a peak in particulate matter pollution, largely due to windblown dust from the surrounding savanna and agricultural lands, and increased burning of biomass for cooking and heating. January to March are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The harmattan wind, a dry and dusty trade wind, frequently impacts the region during this time, bringing significant respiratory irritants. The transition to the wet season, around June, brings a temporary improvement as rainfall suppresses dust. However, increased humidity can also lead to the formation of mould spores, impacting those with respiratory sensitivities. The wet season, lasting from June to October, generally offers the best air quality, with rainfall effectively cleansing the atmosphere. However, localised flooding can create stagnant water, fostering mosquito breeding and potentially increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. November sees a gradual return to drier conditions and a corresponding decline in air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should take extra precautions during the dry season, limiting outdoor activity and using appropriate respiratory protection.