City deploys first-ever municipal air quality sensor network under C40’s African Cities for Clean Air Initiative, in collaboration with Breathe Cities.
Freetown, 19th May 2026- Freetown City Council today convened a multi-stakeholder workshop to officially launch the Unlocking Air Quality Improvements in Freetown project, marking a major step toward building the city’s first comprehensive, city-owned air quality evidence base to tackle air pollution and strengthen public health.
Supported through the C40’s African Cities for Clean Air Initiative, and in collaboration with Breathe Cities, the work will strengthen Freetown’s capacity to monitor air pollution, identify major pollution sources, and advance evidence-based policies that improve health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable communities disproportionately impacted by poor air quality.
The project aims to deliver two key outcomes: the establishment of a high-quality air quality data repository to support evidence-based policymaking, and the development of an inclusive clean air communications strategy to improve public awareness and community engagement around air pollution and the related health risks.
Despite rapid urbanisation and growing environmental pressures, Freetown has historically lacked a consistent air quality monitoring network capable of identifying pollution hotspots and informing targeted interventions.
Air pollution and climate change are deeply linked challenges in rapidly growing cities like Freetown. Key pollution sources such as open waste burning, transport emissions, and biomass fuel use also contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
Tackling air pollution therefore offers multiple benefits including improved public health, reduced climate risks, and stronger urban resilience. Data generated through the city’s air quality sensor network will help inform urban planning, transport management, waste management reforms, and climate adaptation strategies, while also supporting national environmental monitoring efforts.
Through this project, the city will deploy 12 low cost air quality sensors, establishing Freetown’s first city-owned sensor network to generate real-time data critical for future clean air planning and climate action. Sensors will be strategically installed in high-risk areas, including low-income communities and locations near schools and health facilities, to help identify pollution hotspots and address environmental inequities. Additional project activities include the development of the city’s first comprehensive baseline assessment of air pollution levels through advanced modelling, alongside analysis of the health and economic impacts associated with air pollution exposure.
Declaring the workshop officially open, the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, said, Freetown is committed to improving the lives of residents through ambitious climate, environmental and public health action.
This project represents a critical step in strengthening our ability to develop data-driven air quality policies and interventions. By generating city-owned data and engaging directly with vulnerable communities, Freetown is laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient and sustainable Freetown.
The project aligns with Freetown’s Climate Action Plan and broader efforts to address climate vulnerability, environmental justice, and public health challenges facing rapidly growing urban communities.
By targeting major contributors to air pollution including transport emissions, open waste burning, and reliance on wood and charcoal for cooking Freetown is positioning itself among a growing network of cities taking bold action to deliver cleaner air and healthier urban environments.
The stakeholder workshop brought together representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local councils, civil society organisations, technical experts, market women, and community representatives. The launch will be followed by technical training sessions from 20–21 May 2026 and the phased deployment of air quality sensors across the city.
