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Tioribougou, situated in the Koulikoro region of Mali, lies approximately 60 kilometers northeast of the capital, Bamako. The city occupies a relatively flat terrain within the Sahelian savanna belt, characterized by sparse vegetation and a gradual transition from the arid north to the more humid south. Its coordinates, 13.3808° N, -7.9872° E, place it within a landscape dominated by lateritic soils and occasional rocky outcrops. The Niger River, a vital waterway and source of irrigation, flows nearby, influencing local microclimates and agricultural practices. Tioribougou’s urban character is largely defined by its role as a regional market center and agricultural hub, serving surrounding rural communities. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced, with agricultural lands – primarily millet, sorghum, and cotton – immediately bordering the city limits. While not heavily industrialized, small-scale processing of agricultural products contributes to localized emissions. Dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads is a significant factor. The surrounding landscape offers limited natural air filtration, and the prevailing Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, can transport substantial quantities of dust and sand, impacting air quality. The elevation is relatively low, around 300m, which doesn’t promote significant atmospheric dispersion of pollutants.

Tioribougou experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to May, is characterized by the Harmattan winds, bringing Saharan dust and significantly reducing visibility. This period sees a peak in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations, exacerbating respiratory issues. January and February are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The transition to the wet season, June to July, brings a temporary improvement as rainfall washes away dust, but increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. The wet season, August to October, generally offers the best air quality due to the cleansing effect of rainfall and reduced dust transport. However, increased agricultural activity during this period, including burning of crop residue, can lead to localized spikes in smoke and pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the Harmattan season and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the northeast indicate increased dust levels.