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Kébila, nestled within the Sikasso Region of Mali, occupies a geographically significant position in the southwestern portion of the country. Located at approximately 11.28°N, 7.03°W, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating plains, part of the larger Sahelian landscape transitioning towards the more humid Sudan savanna zone. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 250 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate under certain meteorological conditions. Kébila’s proximity to the Niger River basin, though not directly on the river itself, influences regional climate patterns and humidity levels. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive cotton fields and subsistence farming dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, particularly the use of fertilizers and pesticides, can contribute to localized air pollution, especially during planting and harvesting seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Kébila is gradual, with small villages and agricultural plots interspersed within the broader landscape. While Kébila itself is a relatively small town, it serves as a regional market center, attracting people and goods from surrounding areas. The lack of significant heavy industry within Kébila itself means that pollution sources are primarily related to transportation (motorcycles and older vehicles are common), residential cooking (often using wood or charcoal), and agricultural practices. Dust storms, a common feature of the Sahel, also significantly impact air quality, particularly during the dry season, carrying fine particulate matter across the region.

Kébila experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, is characterized by lower humidity, higher temperatures, and frequent dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert and the Sahelian plains. These storms dramatically increase particulate matter concentrations, leading to periods of reduced visibility and respiratory irritation. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. The Harmattan wind, a dry, dusty trade wind, further contributes to the influx of particulate matter. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) brings relief from dust, as rainfall washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can lead to localized spikes in smoke and carbon monoxide during this period, particularly in October and November as farmers prepare for the next planting season. Fog, though infrequent, can also occur during the transition months, trapping pollutants and reducing air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activity during peak dust storm periods. During the wet season, be mindful of agricultural burning and its potential impact on respiratory health. Maintaining good ventilation in homes and avoiding exposure to smoke are crucial preventative measures throughout the year.