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Article 10 - Volume 35/2 - 2025

Paper title:

Perception of the health impacts of the harmattan by the populations of the city of 0dienné (northwest of Côte d’Ivoire)

Author(s):

Sophie Pulchérie TAPE1, Sana SORO1

1 Departement de Géographie, Université Peleforo GON COULIBALY, Côte d’Ivoire

Pages:

144 - 156

Publishing date:

3 November 2025

Abstract:

Located in northern Ivory Coast, the city of Odienné is on the border of Mali and Guinea. Its geographical location near the Sahelian zone exposes it to recurring natural phenomena, notably the hot and dry trade wind commonly known as "Harmattan" in West Africa. This climatic threat has undeniably negative effects on the health of the populations of Odienné. This study aims to analyze the health impact of this hot and dry wind on urban residents. The methodological approach consisted of documentary research, direct observation and field surveys. The sample was determined using the reasoned choice method based on the snowball effect technique. The study shows that the main manifestations of harmattan are the increase in temperature during the day and the drastic drop at night. This harmful situation is causing health problems among the population, especially vulnerable people, including children (75.9%) and (87.35%), and the elderly (80.12%). The most common pathologies are Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI). Resilient responses are being adopted by the population.

Keywords:

Côte d’Ivoire, Odienné, dry winds, health impacts.