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Wolossébougou, situated in the Koulikoro Region of Mali, occupies a geographically significant position within the Sahelian zone. Located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Bamako, Mali’s capital and largest city, it functions as a crucial agricultural and market hub for the surrounding rural communities. The city’s coordinates (11.9989, -7.9140) place it on a gently undulating plateau, characterized by reddish-brown lateritic soils typical of the region. The terrain is predominantly savanna, transitioning to more wooded areas further from the urban core. While not directly adjacent to a major river, Wolossébougou benefits from proximity to smaller seasonal streams and groundwater resources, vital for agriculture and domestic use. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of cultivated fields (primarily millet, sorghum, and maize), interspersed with acacia woodlands and grasslands. This agricultural intensity contributes to dust emissions, particularly during the dry season. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city’s influence extends outwards through market networks and agricultural supply chains, but beyond a few kilometers, the landscape reverts to predominantly rural agricultural practices. The proximity to Bamako, a significant industrial and transportation center, means Wolossébougou is indirectly affected by industrial emissions and vehicular traffic, though to a lesser extent than the capital itself. The relatively flat terrain and prevailing wind patterns can lead to the accumulation of pollutants, especially during periods of atmospheric stability. The elevation, averaging around 250 meters above sea level, influences temperature and humidity, impacting the dispersion of airborne particles.

Wolossébougou’s air quality is inextricably linked to its tropical savanna climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season cycle. The dry season, roughly from November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by minimal rainfall and high temperatures, this period is dominated by dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert and the Bodélé Depression, a major dust source region. Strong, persistent winds frequently transport these fine particulate matter (PM) particles over long distances, impacting Wolossébougou’s air. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Agricultural activities, including land clearing and harvesting, contribute to localized dust emissions. The wet season, from June to October, brings relief as rainfall washes away accumulated dust and reduces wind speeds. However, biomass burning associated with agricultural practices can temporarily elevate pollution levels. Fog, though infrequent, can also trap pollutants during the transition months. The months of February and March often experience the highest dust concentrations, making them less favorable for outdoor activities, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. During the wet season, while overall air quality improves, caution should be exercised during periods of controlled burns. Sensitive groups are advised to monitor local conditions and limit exposure during peak dust events or periods of significant biomass burning, prioritizing indoor activities when possible.