Statistical Analysis of Spatial Distribution of Ambient Air Pollution in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ambient air pollution has recently emerged as a major global public health issue, causing a variety of negative health impacts even at the lowest measurable concentrations. This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of ambient air pollution in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study was based on cross-sectional data collected from 21 selected sites within the period of October 13, 2019 to January 26, 2020, and July 5 to October 29, 2021. The spatial distribution of ambient air pollution was analyzed using spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I and Geary’s C), and the hotspot areas of ambient air pollution were identified using the Ord and Getis statistics after visualizing via the Moran Scatter Plot. The average concentration of ambient air pollution was modeled against the covariates using a spatial lag model. Moran’s I, and Geary’s C, showed that the spatial distribution of ambient air pollution was globally clustered in the study area. Results revealed that Petros, Tekle Haimanot, and Bob Marley Squares, Legehar, Jamo Mikael, Sholla, Megenagna, African Union traffic signal, Stadium, North and East sampling sites of Akaki Kality's metal welding shade were identified as the hotspot sites of both ambient air pollutants. The results showed that temperature, average wind speed, wind direction, road characteristics, and land use characteristics were statistically significantly associated with the ambient air pollution concentrations. Paying attention to reducing ambient air pollution in pollution hotspot areas is recommended by the government and all concerned bodies.