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Nonkon, situated in the Koulikoro Region of Mali, lies at coordinates 13.2214°N, -7.8539°W, a location deeply embedded within the Sahelian zone. The city’s terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the interior Niger River delta, with a subtle slope towards the Niger River which flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potential for dust suspension. With a population of approximately 15,253, Nonkon represents a relatively small urban centre within a predominantly rural landscape. The surrounding area is largely savannah grassland, transitioning to more arid conditions further north. Agriculture dominates the regional economy, with millet, sorghum, and cotton being key crops. This agricultural activity, alongside potential seasonal burning of vegetation for land preparation, contributes to particulate matter in the air. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Nonkon is not part of a large conurbation, meaning pollution sources are more localised. However, its position along transport routes connecting larger regional centres means it experiences some through-traffic. The lack of significant industrial belts within Nonkon itself concentrates pollution from domestic sources – wood and charcoal burning for cooking and heating – and re-suspended dust from unpaved roads. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Harmattan from the Sahara, can transport significant quantities of dust, impacting air quality, particularly during the dry season.

Nonkon experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, roughly November to May, is characterised by consistently high temperatures and the influence of the Harmattan wind, bringing substantial amounts of Saharan dust. This period sees the poorest air quality, with visibility often reduced and respiratory issues exacerbated. January to March are particularly challenging months. The wet season, from June to October, offers a temporary reprieve. Rainfall suppresses dust and washes particulate matter from the atmosphere, leading to cleaner air. However, increased humidity can also promote the growth of mould and allergens, impacting sensitive individuals. August and September, the peak of the rainy season, generally offer the best air quality. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening conditions. The reliance on wood and charcoal for cooking remains constant throughout the year, contributing a baseline level of particulate pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and consider using masks when dust levels are high. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for anticipating pollution spikes.