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Dosso, Niger, occupies a strategic position within the Sahelian region, a transitional zone between the Sahara Desert and the Sudanian Savanna. Located at approximately 13.05°N, 3.21°E, the city’s geography is dominated by gently undulating plains, characteristic of the wider Dosso Region. The terrain is largely flat, with minimal elevation changes, which can exacerbate air pollution issues as there is limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural, consisting of millet, sorghum, and cowpea fields, interspersed with acacia woodlands and sparse vegetation. This agricultural activity, particularly during harvesting and land clearing, contributes to particulate matter in the air. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions into more arid desert conditions, while eastward, it blends into the savanna ecosystem. The city’s urban footprint is relatively small, exhibiting a clear urban–rural gradient; the immediate periphery is characterized by traditional mud-brick housing, gradually giving way to more modern construction closer to the city center. There are no significant bodies of water directly adjacent to Dosso, limiting the potential for evaporative cooling and precipitation to cleanse the atmosphere. While industrial activity is limited, the presence of small-scale workshops and markets, often utilizing biomass fuels for cooking and heating, contributes to localized air pollution hotspots. The regional position, acting as a trade hub, also means increased vehicular traffic, further impacting air quality.

Dosso’s air quality is profoundly shaped by its semi-arid climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season pattern. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by minimal rainfall and consistently high temperatures, this period is often plagued by dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert and the Bodélé Depression, a major source of transboundary dust. 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, dusty trade wind blowing from the northeast, frequently exacerbates dust pollution during January and February. Conversely, the wet season (June to October) brings a degree of respite. Rainfall helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity can suppress dust lifting. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for land preparation, can introduce significant smoke and particulate matter during the transition periods between seasons. The months of March and April, coinciding with the end of the dry season and the start of agricultural activities, are particularly concerning. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exposure during dust storm events and periods of agricultural burning. Staying indoors with windows closed and using air purifiers can offer some protection.