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Kourouma, nestled within the Sikasso Region of Mali, occupies a geographically significant position in the Sahelian zone. Located at approximately 11.0503° latitude and -6.0728° longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating plains, typical of the wider region’s transition from savanna to more arid landscapes. The elevation is relatively low, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate under certain meteorological conditions. Kourouma’s proximity to the Bani River, a major tributary of the Niger River, influences local humidity and temperature patterns, though the river’s impact on air quality is generally secondary to other factors. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields dedicated to cotton, sorghum, and maize cultivation. This agricultural activity, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons, introduces particulate matter and volatile organic compounds into the air. The urban–rural gradient around Kourouma is gradual; the town itself is small, with a population of just over 11,000, and blends seamlessly into the surrounding agricultural areas. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Kourouma, but regional trade routes pass through, potentially contributing to vehicle emissions. The prevailing winds, generally from the north during the dry season, can transport dust and pollutants from distant sources, impacting air quality. The soil composition, often sandy and prone to erosion, further exacerbates dust pollution, especially during periods of drought or intense wind events. The relatively flat topography limits dispersion of pollutants, making Kourouma susceptible to localized air quality challenges.

Kourouma’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical savanna climate. The dry season, spanning roughly from November to May, presents the most significant air quality concerns. Characterized by minimal rainfall and consistently high temperatures, this period is often plagued by dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert and the Sahelian plains. These events dramatically increase particulate matter concentrations, impacting respiratory health. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening conditions. The Harmattan wind, a dry and dusty trade wind, frequently blows across the region during this time, carrying fine particles and reducing visibility. Conversely, the wet season (June to October) brings a period of relative air quality improvement. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and higher humidity can help to suppress dust generation. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can introduce significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter, particularly in late August and September. Fog, though infrequent, can also trap pollutants during the transitional months. 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 periods of agricultural burning and potential smoke exposure. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and filtration is advisable year-round.