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Kléla, situated in the Sikasso region of Mali, occupies a position within the Sudanese savanna belt, a landscape characterised by grassy plains dotted with sparse trees. Located at coordinates 11.6886, -5.6622, the city’s terrain is generally flat, typical of the inland plateaus of southern Mali, with an elevation around 300-400 meters above sea level. This relatively low elevation contributes to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Kléla isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though seasonal streams and smaller tributaries are present, influencing local humidity. The surrounding region is predominantly agricultural, with significant cultivation of cotton, maize, and millet. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from land preparation, harvesting, and potential burning of crop residue. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Kléla represents a concentrated settlement within a largely rural expanse. Dust from unpaved roads and open fields is a significant contributor to baseline particulate levels. The city’s growth, while moderate with a population of 31,334, is leading to increased vehicle traffic and localised emissions. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Kléla itself means that the primary pollution sources are diffuse and linked to agricultural practices and domestic fuel use.

Kléla experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, is characterised by consistently high temperatures and low humidity. This period sees a peak in particulate matter pollution, driven by dust resuspension from agricultural activities, unpaved roads, and wind erosion. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, exacerbate these conditions, carrying significant amounts of dust southward. January to March are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The transition to the wet season, beginning in June, brings a gradual improvement. Rainfall suppresses dust and washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mould spores, potentially impacting respiratory health. July and August, the peak of the rainy season, generally offer the cleanest air. As the wet season wanes in September and October, agricultural burning increases in preparation for the next planting cycle, leading to a temporary spike in smoke and particulate pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction during Harmattan events is crucial for personal protection.