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Mahikeng, the capital of North West Province in South Africa, occupies a distinctive geographic position on the Highveld plateau at approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, which significantly influences its air quality dynamics. Situated near the Botswana border, approximately 260 kilometers west of Johannesburg, the city lies within a transitional zone between the more arid Kalahari Basin to the west and the humid eastern regions of South Africa. The terrain is predominantly flat to gently rolling, characterized by grasslands and scattered acacia woodlands, with the Molopo River flowing intermittently to the south—though it is often dry, offering little moderating effect on local climate or pollution dispersion. Mahikeng functions as an administrative and service hub for the surrounding agricultural hinterland, where maize and livestock farming are prevalent, contributing to seasonal particulate matter from dust and agricultural burning. The urban area itself exhibits a moderate density, with peri-urban and rural fringes blending into the landscape, creating an urban–rural gradient that can trap pollutants under specific meteorological conditions. Proximity to major industrial centers is limited, with the nearest significant industrial belt around Rustenburg and Johannesburg, but long-range transport of pollutants can occur, particularly during the dry season. The city's elevation on the Highveld promotes cooler temperatures and reduced atmospheric pressure, which can enhance pollutant dispersion under windy conditions but also foster temperature inversions in winter, leading to localized accumulation of emissions from vehicles, residential heating, and occasional biomass burning. The lack of major water bodies nearby means there is minimal maritime influence to cleanse the air, making Mahikeng reliant on natural ventilation from prevailing winds, which vary seasonally.

In Mahikeng, air quality follows a clear seasonal pattern shaped by the subtropical highland climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons influencing pollution levels. During summer (December to February), increased rainfall and convective activity help cleanse the atmosphere, dispersing pollutants and resulting in generally better air quality, making this period favourable for outdoor activities; however, occasional dust storms from agricultural fields or construction sites can cause short-term spikes in particulate matter. Autumn (March to May) sees a gradual decline in rainfall and rising atmospheric stability, leading to moderate pollution levels as temperatures cool and wind patterns shift, with sensitive groups advised to monitor local conditions for any increases in allergens or dust. Winter (June to August) brings the peak pollution months, characterized by cold, dry conditions and frequent temperature inversions that trap emissions from wood and coal burning for heating, vehicle exhaust, and agricultural residue burning, creating hazy conditions that can persist for days; this season requires caution, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, who should limit outdoor exertion on calm, cold mornings. Spring (September to November) marks a transition, with warming temperatures and increasing winds that help disperse accumulated pollutants, though pre-rainy season dust and occasional veld fires can cause temporary deteriorations; overall, air quality improves towards the end of spring, offering more reliable conditions for outdoor pursuits. Throughout the year, wind direction—often from the east or southeast—plays a crucial role in either importing pollutants from distant sources or providing ventilation, with fog rare but possible in winter, exacerbating visibility and pollution retention.