The meteorological department has begun collecting data on air pollution across Nairobi and other regions in Kenya.
Poor air quality, a major contributor to respiratory diseases, is the leading cause of death in Kenya according to the Economic Survey 2023. The new data collection aims to enhance understanding of climate change impacts driven by air pollution and assist residents in choosing locations based on air quality.
Last week, the first of ten air quality sensors was installed in Nairobi, with nine more planned for other areas in and around the city. David Gikungu, the Met director, stated that the new sensors will augment the meteorological observation network and improve data on air quality, crucial for climate change research and monitoring air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution causes approximately 19,000 deaths annually in Kenya, with UNEP reporting that Nairobi’s pollution levels are at 70 percent. This new monitoring system was launched in a ceremony featuring Gikungu, Philip Osano from the Stockholm Environment Institute Africa Centre, and UNEP’s Charles Sebukeera.
The initiative follows the “Integrated Assessment of Air Pollution and Climate Change for Sustainable Development in Africa” report, developed by African scientists in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, and UNEP. This report proposes 37 measures for reducing emissions from key economic sectors to mitigate climate change and improve air quality.
Philip Osano highlighted that a major challenge in addressing air pollution in Africa is the lack of data. The sensors’ data will be shared among the Met, SEI, and UNEP to support research on short-lived climate pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. This collaboration aims to enhance data analysis and inform effective environmental policies.
According to WHO, nearly 90 percent of people are exposed to air pollution levels that exceed global health standards. Air pollution causes seven million deaths worldwide annually and contributes to chronic diseases such as asthma.
In March, Nairobi was ranked 45th globally for air quality, based on measurements by Swiss company IQAir, which uses air monitors to assess particulate matter (PM2.5). The company’s annual report provides a comprehensive overview of global air quality, with the cleanest air found in French Polynesia, Mauritius, Iceland, Grenada, and Bermuda, while the dirtiest air is in Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan, Burkina Faso, and Iraq.
Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir, emphasized that accurate air quality data is essential for effective action to improve public health and environmental conditions.
