The 2024 World Air Quality Report identifies Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda as among the world’s most polluted countries, with concerning PM2.5 levels. Chad recorded the highest concentration at 91.8 µg/m³, whereas Ghana’s pollution levels reached 35.8 µg/m³. The report emphasizes the severe health risks posed by air pollution and urges immediate action to address this crisis.
The 2024 World Air Quality Report has revealed that Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda rank among the most polluted countries globally, raising significant health concerns. Chad had the highest PM2.5 concentration at 91.8 µg/m³, nearly 18 times over the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended level of 5 µg/m³, while Nigeria, Rwanda, and Ghana also reported alarming figures of 40.1 µg/m³, 40.8 µg/m³, and 35.8 µg/m³, respectively.
Particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, poses severe health risks as it can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. These minute particles are significantly smaller than dust and hair, making them particularly dangerous. A study by the University of Chicago indicates that air pollution reduces life expectancy by an average of 2.7 years in highly affected areas. In Ghana alone, the WHO estimates around 28,000 deaths annually due to air pollution, highlighting the urgent need for action as one child is reported to die every minute from pollution-related causes.
Ghana’s air quality has reached seven times the WHO’s safe limit, with Accra ranked as the 16th most polluted capital globally, but Kumasi has emerged as the most polluted city in the nation, exceeding Accra’s levels. The country’s pollution levels have significantly increased over the years, as reflected by its rise in the rankings from 27th in 2022 to 14th in 2024.
The pollution crisis in Africa is alarming, with five out of the ten most polluted countries located on the continent. The report also mentions that many countries lack adequate monitoring infrastructure, with only 24 out of 54 reporting relevant air quality data. Urgent measures are necessary, as 34% of African urban areas report PM2.5 levels significantly above WHO guidelines.
Air pollution constitutes not just an environmental issue but also a public health crisis in Ghana, projected to result in 2,333 deaths each month if left unaddressed. Additionally, the economic toll of pollution could reach $137.8 billion by 2040 if improvements are not made. The study notes that only 17% of global cities currently meet WHO air quality standards, indicating a profound disparity in air quality management.
The primary contributors to Africa’s deteriorating air quality include rapid urbanization, industrial emissions, and improper waste disposal practices. Key recommendations emphasize the need for enhanced vehicle emission regulations, increased renewable energy investment, and better air quality monitoring systems. Without immediate interventions, the air quality crisis in Ghana and across Africa could escalate further, posing grave risks to public health.
In summary, Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda are highlighted as some of the most polluted nations according to the 2024 World Air Quality Report. The alarming PM2.5 levels, particularly in Ghana, necessitate immediate governmental intervention to mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution on public health and the economy. Urgent actions, including robust environmental regulations and enhanced monitoring capabilities, are essential to reverse the rising tide of air pollution in these countries.
Original Source: www.myjoyonline.com
