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Kignan, nestled within the Sikasso Region of Mali (coordinates 11.8553° N, -6.0164° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Sahelian zone. The city’s terrain is predominantly undulating, characterized by gently sloping plains intersected by shallow valleys, a typical feature of the wider region’s transition from savanna to more arid landscapes. Situated approximately 330 kilometers southeast of Bamako, Mali’s capital, Kignan serves as a crucial regional market town, its economy largely driven by agriculture and trade. The surrounding landscape is dominated by extensive millet and sorghum fields, interspersed with acacia woodlands and baobab trees, reflecting the region’s semi-arid climate. While Kignan itself lacks immediate proximity to major rivers, it benefits from seasonal watercourses that contribute to localized agricultural productivity. The urban–rural gradient around Kignan is relatively sharp; the city’s influence extends outwards through a ring of cultivated land, gradually giving way to more sparsely populated savanna. This agricultural intensity, coupled with traditional cooking methods reliant on wood and charcoal, contributes to localized air quality challenges. The elevation of Kignan, at around 250 meters above sea level, influences atmospheric mixing and dispersion patterns, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The regional position, acting as a crossroads for trade routes, also introduces vehicular emissions, further impacting the local air quality profile. The surrounding flat terrain limits natural ventilation, exacerbating the effects of local pollution sources.

Kignan’s air quality is inextricably linked to its tropical savanna climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season cycle. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, presents the most significant air quality concerns. During these months, reduced rainfall and lower humidity lead to increased dust concentrations, originating from agricultural fields and the surrounding Sahelian landscape. The lack of rainfall also means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing particulate matter to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants close to the ground, intensifying localized air pollution. The burning of agricultural residues after harvest, a traditional practice, further contributes to elevated levels of smoke and particulate matter. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away dust and pollutants. Increased humidity also helps to suppress dust generation. However, periods of intense rainfall can lead to flooding, which can temporarily release pollutants from stagnant water sources. The Harmattan winds, prevalent during the dry season, can transport dust and pollutants from distant regions, impacting Kignan’s air quality. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wet season, particularly in June, July, and August. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. The prevalence of wood-fired cooking contributes to indoor air pollution, posing a particular health risk to women and children.