Bamako - Post Report Question and Answers
What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
The dust and pollution especially in the Nov-Feb months, are VERY noticeable and have impacted the respiratory health of several people at post. While it's not fantastic the rest of the year I found it less bothersome/noticeable. - Apr 2017
I have heard people complain about the dust during the winter months (this is when the wind comes down off the Sahara Desert, bringing with it sand/dust) but honestly, I didn't notice much of a difference from the rest of the year. Overall I think the air quality is fine and have not noticed much of a difference from the US. Some Malians do burn their trash though so try to avoid those areas if you're sensitive. - Aug 2014
Good and bad. During the Harmattan (Dec-Jan) fine particles of sand blow through the air constantly, which brings with it alot of respiratory problems. From Feb-June it doesn't rain at all and so the dust becomes a problem. But the pollution is really environmental -- dust, etc., vs. man-made (cars, factories, etc). If you can't handle a tough natural environment, Mali is not for you. Mali has a harsh environment that cannot be ignored or avoided. - Jul 2011
Moderate. There're times of the year that are better than others. The harmattan (sand storm coming from the Sahara desert) from December to February lives the air heavier. - Jul 2011
Very unhealthy. It's dusty throughout the year, and the air pollution from vehicles doesn't help. It clears up a little bit during the rainy season. - Oct 2010
Horrible air quality. One of the worst I've ever seen. I'm rarely outside longer than an ho ur. - May 2010
