Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda Listed Among World’s Most Polluted Countries

The 2024 World Air Quality Report identifies alarming pollution levels in Africa, with Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda among the most polluted nations. Chad ranks highest globally with a PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, while Ghana’s air pollution is significantly higher than WHO guidelines. The situation poses severe health risks, requiring urgent government action for improved air quality and public health protection.

The 2024 World Air Quality Report highlights alarming pollution levels in Africa, pinpointing Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda as some of the most affected countries. Chad leads the worldwide ranking with a staggering PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe guideline of 5 µg/m³. Nigeria, Rwanda, and Ghana follow closely with PM2.5 levels of 40.1 µg/m³, 40.8 µg/m³ and 35.8 µg/m³, respectively, putting millions at risk due to declining air quality.

PM2.5 particles are particularly harmful, penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing severe health issues such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. These particles are smaller than common dust, making them nearly invisible, yet they pose significant health threats. According to data from the University of Chicago, pollution has reduced life expectancy by an average of 2.7 years in severely polluted areas. In Ghana alone, 28,000 deaths occurred annually due to air pollution, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Ghana has witnessed a worsening air quality crisis, with current pollution levels seven times higher than WHO guidelines. Accra, the capital, ranks as the 16th most polluted city worldwide with 36.3 µg/m³, while Kumasi has surpassed it for the first time with levels at 39.5 µg/m³. Comparing recent years, Ghana’s position on the pollution scale has significantly worsened: from 27th in 2022 to 14th in 2024, marking an alarming increase in PM2.5 levels.

Across Africa, severe pollution remains a public health crisis. Key findings in the report reveal that five of the world’s ten most polluted countries are in Africa. Additionally, only 24 out of 54 African nations reported air quality data due to inadequate monitoring. A considerable percentage of African cities exhibited PM2.5 levels considerably above the WHO guideline, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to air quality.

The staggering statistics surrounding air pollution in Ghana depict a dire public health emergency—one child dies every minute due to polluted air, and if unaddressed, the death toll could escalate to 2,333 monthly. Moreover, the economic ramifications of poor air quality are projected to reach $137.8 billion by 2040 if prompt action is not taken. The increase in PM2.5 emissions has been associated with various health conditions, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Despite the challenges, some regions maintain relatively clean air, with only 17% of global cities meeting WHO standards. The report emphasizes that rapid urbanization, industrial emissions, and unregulated waste burning are significant contributors to the deteriorating air quality across Africa. An increase in data provision from NGOs demonstrates a rising awareness, yet government initiatives remain crucial for effective monitoring.

As pollution levels in Ghana escalate, there is an imperative for government action to enhance environmental legislation. Recommendations include stricter vehicle emission regulations, investment in renewable energy, expanded air quality monitoring systems, and robust anti-burning policies. As one of the top 15 polluted nations, it is crucial for Ghana to enact immediate measures to improve air quality before the crisis worsens further.

The 2024 World Air Quality Report reveals a critical air pollution crisis in Africa, highlighting Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda as some of the most polluted countries globally. With staggering PM2.5 levels that far exceed WHO safety guidelines, urgent action is needed to address the severe health impacts and economic costs associated with poor air quality. Enhanced government policies, increased monitoring, and public awareness are essential to combat this escalating crisis and protect millions of lives.

Original Source: www.myjoyonline.com