Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, Rwanda Among Top Polluted Countries in the World – 2024 Report

The 2024 World Air Quality Report reveals that Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda are among the most polluted countries globally, with alarming PM2.5 levels threatening public health. Chad leads with a concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, while Ghana’s air quality worsens dramatically, ranking 14th. Urgent measures are needed to combat this crisis and protect millions at risk.

The 2024 World Air Quality Report has disclosed alarming levels of pollution in Africa, identifying Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, and Rwanda among the most polluted nations worldwide. These findings underscore a critical air quality crisis that threatens millions of lives across the continent.

Chad leads the global pollution rankings with a staggering PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, dramatically exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Nigeria ranks 11th with 40.1 µg/m³, Rwanda is 9th at 40.8 µg/m³, and Ghana occupies the 14th spot with 35.8 µg/m³. PM2.5 particles are particularly hazardous, capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream, thereby inducing serious health issues.

Research from the University of Chicago indicates that air pollution now reduces life expectancy by 2.7 years in affected regions. WHO estimates that air pollution leads to 28,000 annual deaths in Ghana, while global fatalities reached 8.1 million in 2021, illustrating the urgent need for intervention.

Ghana’s air pollution levels have escalated to seven times higher than WHO’s safety threshold. The capital city, Accra, ranks 16th among polluted capitals globally with a PM2.5 level of 36.3 µg/m³. Notably, Kumasi has emerged as Ghana’s most polluted city with a PM2.5 concentration of 39.5 µg/m³, exceeding Accra’s levels for the first time in the report.

The report reveals that five of the top ten most polluted countries are situated in Africa, with only 24 of the 54 African nations reporting air quality data, mainly due to inadequate monitoring infrastructure. Alarmingly, 34% of African cities exhibit PM2.5 levels three to five times above WHO recommendations.

The public health ramifications of Ghana’s air pollution crisis are dire; with approximately 28,000 deaths per year, this situation constitutes a national health emergency. If unresolved, the number of fatalities may escalate significantly, further stressing the healthcare system and economic landscape, which could incur costs of $137.8 billion by 2040.

In comparison, the 2024 report lists Chad, Bangladesh, and Pakistan among the most polluted nations. However, only seven countries worldwide fulfilled WHO air quality standards, including Australia and New Zealand, highlighting a stark contrast in pollution levels.

Factors contributing to Africa’s air pollution include rapid urban development, population growth, industrial emissions, and unregulated waste burning. Currently, non-governmental organizations provide the majority of air quality data, indicating a pressing need for enhanced government monitoring.

To combat worsening air conditions, experts urge Ghana’s government to implement stricter regulations on vehicle emissions, invest in renewable energy, expand air quality monitoring stations, and enforce strict policies against pollution from industrial and household sources. Immediate action is critical to avert further deterioration of air quality in the country.

In summary, the 2024 World Air Quality Report has underscored a severe air pollution crisis affecting several African countries, particularly Ghana, which has recorded a significant rise in PM2.5 levels. The implications for public health and the economy are profound, necessitating urgent governmental action to implement effective policies and measures. Without immediate intervention, the air quality may deteriorate further, potentially resulting in catastrophic health outcomes.

Original Source: www.myjoyonline.com