Reference Monitoring Peer Exchange

Hybrid networks have the potential to close the data gaps in Africa, but access to reference monitors against which sensors can be calibrated remains a major barrier, and there are limited coordination mechanisms for existing reference stations.

We are working with AfriCAN partners to establish public colocation facilities that provide open access to reference data across the continent. Through this initiative, partners can co-locate sensors against existing reference monitors while having access to technical support.

Public colocation centres already exist in a number of cities: Kampala (Uganda), Nairobi (Kenya), Yaounde (Cameroon), and Lagos (Nigeria), and there are ongoing efforts to establish similar facilities in Sierra Leone. Additionally, the AfriSET West Africa sensor evaluation facility is a critical infrastructure for strengthening data flow from sensor networks.

DONATE/REQUEST SENSORS

"Innovation for clean air thrives on collaboration. At AirGradient, we champion this with open-source technology. We're excited to give five outdoor air quality monitors to the Nairobi poster competition winners, providing tools for local capacity building and enabling more air quality data in the region."

Achim Haug, CEO and founder of AirGradient

"Local data creates urgency with local governments to act in addition to ensuring targeted interventions meet the community needs."

Dorothy Lsoto, PhD Candidate, University of Wisconsin-Madison

"Kisumu has installed 15 air quality monitors in partnership with AirQo. We are using this data to inform urban planning, such as where to place green buffers, and enforce industrial compliance. It has also empowered us to start meaningful public education campaigns, targeting schools, transport operators, and local businesses."

H.E Dr Mathew Ochieng Owili, Deputy Governor, Kisumu City County, Kenya