The Department of Physics and Biochemical Sciences (PBS) under the School of Science and Technology (SoST) at Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) has embarked on air quality monitoring. The initiative seeks to measure and monitor air quality in Malawi, with a particular focus on PM2.5—particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. PM2.5 have the capability of penetrating deep into the lungs leading to various respiratory and cardiovascular issues. The monitors used can also measure CO2, O3 and NOx  among others.

As part of implementation process, the project team has installed two air quality monitors at the MUBAS main campus and around Chichiri area in Blantyre. The instruments which are supplied by Airgradient are outdoor air quality monitors which send data remotely. All one needs is to have a link to be able to see the concentration of PM2.5. The levels of PM2.5 can be viewed through an interactive map found at https://www.airgradient.com/map/?zoom=15&lat=-15.805&long=35.026&org=ag&meas=pm02  and currently there are only three points in Malawi of which two are run by the PBS team. 

According to the project team leader, Dr. Chikumbusko Kaonga, air quality research is low in Malawi.

"We are only the second team in the country to have real-time air quality monitoring equipment. For the first time, selected districts in Malawi will have data on the state of their air quality. This is important because poor air quality is directly linked to diseases, especially those affecting the respiratory system.

"The aim is to influence policy reforms in how air quality issues are addressed in the country,” he added. 

As part of the project requirements, the research team will collaborate with government-linked agencies such as the Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) and Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS), as well as international organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The one-year project is funded by University of Chicago’s Epic Air Quality Fund and will be implemented in Zomba, Salima, Blantyre, Lilongwe and Mzuzu.

Apart from the project team leader, other members of the research team include: Prof. Ishmael Kosamu, Prof. Harold Mapoma, Dr. Estiner Katengeza, Petra Chiipa, Fabiano Thulu, Gladys Banda, Upile Mawenda, Tawina Mlowa, Stella James, King Kabango and Darlington Chimutu.