ASAP East Africa

A systems approach to air pollution in East Africa (ASAP) Project aims to improve air quality management in three East African cities - Adidis Ababa, Kampala and Nairobi.

Leading UK and East African Countries are using a cross disciplinary approach to provide a framework for improved air quality management.

This timely and responsive programme of activity will enhance local decision-making abilities to improve urban air quality, reduce the effects of air pollution upon human health, and allow for sustainable development to proceed without further deterioration in air quality.

Central to the project’s aims are strengthening research capabilities and technological expertise in East Africa, with local stakeholders and experts involved in the conception, implementation, and uptake of the programme and its outcomes.

Objectives

The overarching objectives of this study include studying urbanisation trends and their impact on air quality:

Study urbanisation trends and their impact on air quality.
Develop robust and cost appropriate approaches to monitoring air pollution.
Generate a holistic evidence base on the causes, consequences and levels of air pollution.
Identify and engage with locations and communities, which are most vulnerable.
Identify social, environmental, policy and management measures to tackle air pollution.
Understand the dynamic political economies of focus cities and how these influence urban governance and air quality management.
Raise awareness of air pollution problems and impact policy uptake.

Research team

Abel Weldetinsae Kidane, Ethiopian Public Health Institute
Ajit Singh, University of Birmingham
Alison Brown, Cardiff University
Andrea Mazzeo, University of Birmingham
Dr Bernhards Ogutu, Strathmore University
Dr Bikila Teklu Wodajo, Addis Ababa Institute of Technology
Dr Eloïse Marais, University of Birmingham
Prof. Francis Pope, University of Birmingham - Principle Investigator
Dr George Ruchathi Mwaniki, African Centre for Technology Studies
Hakeem Bakare, University of Birmingham
Professor John Bryson, University of Birmingham
Dr Lauren Andres, University of Birmingham
Dr Mahabubul Bari, Addis Ababa Institute of Technology
Dr Mark Henry Rubarenzya, Uganda National Roads Authority
Dr Michael Burrow, University of Birmingham
Professor Michael Gatari, University of Nairobi
Professor Neil Thomas, University of Birmingham
Rhiannon Blake, University of Birmingham
Dr William Avis, University of Birmingham
Winnie Khaemba, African Centre for Technology Studies

Publications

Andres, L., Bryson, J., Bakare, H., Melgaco Silva Marques, L., Khaemba, W. & Mwaniki, G., (2019) Planning, Temporary Urbanism and Citizen-led Alternative-Substitute Place-Making in the Global South (Accepted/In press) In : Regional Studies.