AirGradient’s Engagement at the Kigali Meeting
Last week, I had the privilege of representing AirGradient in the “Enhancing Air Quality Data Access in Africa” meeting in Kigali, Rwanda. The event brought together policy-makers, scientists, and innovators to discuss strategies for tackling air pollution in Africa. The organiser was Radiant Earth, a non-profit organisation dedicated to expanding global collaboration through improved data sharing and access.
The meeting focused on how air pollution in Africa, particularly in Rwanda, can be effectively addressed. Discussions covered a range of approaches, including the promotion of e-buses in public transport and the adoption of electric motorcycles. These initiatives are already underway and were further elaborated upon during the sessions.
During the meeting, I enjoyed connecting with engaged scientists and decision-makers who share AirGradient’s mission of driving cleaner air initiatives forward. A particular highlight was reconnecting with sensors.AFRICA, a non-profit organisation committed to (among others) generating valuable air quality data across the continent. We first met sensors.AFRICA at the Air Quality Hackathon last year and, during the meeting in Kigali, we forged a strong bond due to our shared commitment to open-source values and the development of open-hardware air quality monitors.
Empowering Communities with Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors
My contribution to the meeting was a workshop titled “Empowering Communities with Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors: Hands-On Assembly and Data Management.” I showcased the immense potential of low-cost technologies in bridging the air quality data gap in Africa and emphasised the benefits of open-source and open-hardware approaches, which not only reduce costs but also foster collaboration and innovation (find the slides here).
Participants had the opportunity to assemble their own Open Air monitors, providing them with a practical introduction to low-cost air monitoring technologies. The hands-on experience was well-received and my workshop was perceived as one of the highlights of the meeting.
AirGradient donated the 27 monitors which were assembled during the workshop to the University of Rwanda. These monitors will be used by future students and researchers in their upcoming projects to monitor and tackle air pollution. We are excited to stay in contact with the university to support their research and promote the development of innovative solutions for air quality monitoring.
A big THANK YOU goes to the organisers from Radiant Earth and participants for making this meeting a success. The commitment and dedication of everyone involved highlighted the critical role of collaboration in improving air quality. I look forward to continuing our work with these dedicated individuals and organisations, advancing the mission of cleaner air for all.
