Research Articles (Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1936

A collection containing some of the full text peer-reviewed/ refereed articles published by researchers from the Department of Geography

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Heat in the transport sector: measured heat exposure and interventions to address heat-related health impacts in the minibus taxi industry in South Africa
Wright, Caradee Yael; Kapwata, Thandi; Kunene, Siyathemba; Kwatala, Ngwako; Mahlangeni, Nomfundo; Laban, Tracey; Webster, Candice (Springer, 2025-10)
High temperatures, heat and heatwaves are being experienced more frequently and with greater intensity in many parts of the world, including South Africa, and record-breaking maximum temperatures are becoming more common. Exposure to heat has adverse impacts on human health and wellbeing. The transport sector and its users are vulnerable to heat both inside vehicles as well as in places where people wait for public transport. We sought to assess the temperatures experienced in minibus taxis, a common mode of transport in South Africa and in minibus taxi ranks as well as the heat-related perceptions of minibus taxi drivers working in the Chesterville Taxi Association in Durban. We also observed heat-related elements in minibus taxi ranks. Data from temperature loggers showed that temperatures inside minibus taxis reached up to 39 °C and were between 3-4 °C warmer than outdoors. For around 11 h every day, temperatures inside minibus taxis were warmer than 27 °C - the temperature that is linked to heat-health symptoms. Taxi drivers (N = 16) all agreed they feel hot in the minibus taxi and more than 90% said they drink water to try to cool down. Taxi ranks were lacking in supply of drinking water and shade for minibus taxis and seating. With the projected increase in temperatures caused by climate change, it is imperative to co-develop mitigation and adaptation strategies to minimise heat-related human health impacts in minibus taxis and taxi ranks especially in low- and middle-income countries.
The under-representation of the global South on editorial boards in criminology
Breetzke, Gregory Dennis (International Journal of Crime Justice and Social Democracy, 2025-12)
Less than 5% of editorial board members across all 69 journals listed under the Criminology and Penology category of Clarivate’s Web of Science database have affiliations with institutions in the Global South. Moreover, editorial board members from the Global South are significantly more likely to sit on lower “quality” journals than their Global North counterparts. The extreme skewness in regional representation of editorial board membership is symptomatic of a broader marginalization of the Global South in academia in general, and criminology specifically. The study’s findings should be of importance (and concern) to all criminologists who believe that a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive representation of scholars across all phases of the academic publishing process is key to better understanding the context of crime: a global problem. A number of recommendations are outlined that can be used to increase the regional representativeness of editorial boards.
The impact of rising ambient temperatures on the mental and physical health of children
Wright, Caradee Yael; Norval, Mary; Naidoo, Natasha; Bulani, Muthise; Coovadia, Ashraf; Theron, Linda C. (Elsevier, 2025-09)
Globally, mean ambient temperatures have increased by 1.6 °C between preindustrial level and 2024, alongside a rise in extreme weather events such as heatwaves and droughts. This rapid review synthesizes the existing literature on the risks to children’s physical and mental health due to heat exposure. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. This review highlights the increased risks to children’s physical and mental health from extreme temperatures in several populations. Major health concerns include heat-related illnesses, dehydration, increasing incidence of infectious diseases, reduced cognitive performance, depression and anxiety and the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. Potential strategies to mitigate these negative health outcomes are proposed, including improved access to cooling solutions, public health interventions, and educational campaigns to improve thermal comfort. HIGHLIGHTS • Children are vulnerable to a range of physical and mental health impacts from excessive ambient temperatures. • The physical effects of heat extend beyond the typical heat illness symptoms such as heat stroke. • Kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, asthma and respiratory conditions are among the most common effects of heat on children. • The negative mental health effects of heat are associated with cognitive, behavioural and major psychological effects. • Healthcare providers must be trained to recognize and treat heat-related illnesses, while strategies like improving access to cool spaces and conducting further research are crucial for fostering resilience and mitigating future health risks.
Determination of South African carbon dioxide emission factors for selected solid fuels
Kornelius, Gerrit; Forbes, Patricia B.C.; Garland, Rebecca M. (Academy of Science of South Africa, 2026-03-26)
South Africa’s National Climate Change Response Policy requires accurate reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To achieve this, the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment initiated a process to develop country-specific emission factors (referred to as Tier 2 factors by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)) for fuels produced or used locally, which are more accurate than those currently used (Tier 1). In this work, we report on the development of such county-specific emission factors for the solid fuels most commonly produced and used in South Africa, based on the analysis of 107 samples. The samples received were classified into types based on the IPCC fuel classification method, which has some differences from that used in South Africa. The CO2 emission factor for sub-bituminous coal, mainly used for power generation and in the liquid fuels/chemical sectors of South Africa, was found to be 97 807 kg CO2/TJ. For ‘other bituminous coal’, the CO2 emission factor was found to be 101 171 kg CO2/TJ. These emission factors are higher than the IPCC default (also referred to as Tier 1) factors, which have been in use in South Africa to date. As solid fossil fuel use is a major contributor to South Africa’s GHG emissions, this implies higher than previously estimated CO2 emissions from this sector as well as a higher contribution to global emissions. SIGNIFICANCE: • South African Tier 2 carbon dioxide emission factors for solid fuel use are reported for the first time, as required by South Africa’s commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Climate Agreement. • The Tier 2 carbon dioxide emission factors were derived from the analysis of over 100 South African solid fuel samples. • Emission factors for the fuels used in the largest amounts are higher than the default Tier 1 factors previously used, leading to an increase in reported emissions for a similar fuel use. • The main user of coal in South Africa, the power generation sector, uses sub-bituminous coal based on the IPCC classification system, which includes volatile matter as a classification criterion. • Using the same IPCC criteria, the majority of samples from other South African industrial and commercial users are classified as ‘other bituminous coal’.
Linking the ultraviolet index to the shadow rule for sun protection : a theoretical model applied with a southern hemisphere example
Wright, Caradee Yael; Downs, Nathan J.; Kapwata, Thandi; Du Preez, David Jean; Tod, Bianca (Wiley, 2026-01)
Personal solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure has positive and negative impacts on human health. Excess solar UVR exposure can be avoided through safe sun practices such as using sun protection and avoiding unprotected outdoor exposure when solar UVR levels are high. The shadow rule indirectly determines the sun's altitude by observing the length of a person's shadow during the course of the day. When the shadow cast by the sun on a horizontal surface is shorter than the height of the person casting the shadow, the solar UVR intensity is high and is deemed to have more risk. The magnitude of this risk depends on factors such a skin type, sun protection used etc. The UV Index is a standardized measure to describe the intensity of solar UVR with respect to the human action spectrum for sunburn. It is frequently reported in weather forecasts aimed at the public. Here, we demonstrate the potential utility of the shadow rule and how it may be understood in relation to the UV Index in a subtropical southern hemisphere setting. Its use as a simple awareness tool for sun protection in locations where the UV Index is not made public has value in promoting sun exposure awareness and reducing personal exposure risk.
Adoption of sustainable pest management practices by horticultural farmers in Eritrea
Haile, Bereket Tsehaye; Dougill, Andrew J.; Ramoelo, Abel (Taylor and Francis, 2026)
Pesticide misuse poses considerable health and environmental risks, particularly in regions with weak regulatory enforcement and limited institutional capacity. This study examines the adoption of sustainable pest management practices among 170 horticultural farmers in the moist highlands and arid lowlands of Eritrea, with a focus on the prevalence and type of synthetic pesticide use, adoption of safe handling and application practices, and non-chemical pest control measures. Most farmers reported using WHO Class II pesticides to control pests like aphids, caterpillars, mites, and others. Notable regional differences were found in the adoption of safe pesticide use practices, with low adopters of safe practices being more prevalent in Gala Nefhi than in Dighe. Extension services and training on pesticide safety emerged as the most consistent predictors of adoption levels. Non-chemical alternatives such as biopesticides (5.3%) and biological control (4.1%) were reported to be underutilized. Evidence-based strategies aimed at improving adoption of safe pesticide use practices, enhancing institutional outreach, and promoting low-risk pest control methods are necessary in support of Eritrea’s agricultural sustainability goals.
A risk assessment framework for communicable diseases in informal settlements : a case study of COVID-19 in Melusi, City of Tshwane, South Africa
Sempe, Nhlanhla Pheletso Suzan; Davis, Nerhene; Rautenbach, Victoria; Coetzee, Serena Martha (Routledge, 2026)
Approximately one billion people live in slums or other conditions of informality that are particularly vulnerable to the outbreak of communicable diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns over the ability to manage such outbreaks in informal settlements. To plan and implement appropriate public health responses, risks must first be assessed. However, current risk assessment frameworks for communicable diseases either do not assess risk at the informal settlement scale or they consider only a small number of influencing factors. In this research, a risk assessment framework for informal settlements was developed, informed by a review of assessment frameworks and factors that facilitate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Subsequently, the framework was implemented and evaluated for Melusi, an informal settlement in the city of Tshwane, South Africa. Results reveal that, in the context of COVID-19, the greatest exacerbators of vulnerability for the Melusi community were the dwelling structures; access to water and handwashing facilities and the dirty state of communal toilets. The community’s preparedness was strengthened by access to masks, a stable diet, healthcare and comorbidity management, despite the pandemic. Resilience was mainly due to households relying on multiple energy sources. The framework proved to have replication value but can be refined by collecting qualitative data from a wider group of participants and exploring novel ways for collecting quantitative data.
Visualising population distribution with choropleth maps : which classification methods are suitable for South African population data?
Snyman, Lourens Fourie; Coetzee, Serena Martha (Taylor and Francis, 2026)
ABSTRACT : Choropleth maps are among the oldest and still one of the most frequently used techniques for visualising quantitative data, such as population density. Today, each geographic information system (GIS) has a plethora of options for categorising data into classes for choropleth maps. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on the data and the use case. This paper presents the results of a user study to assess the suitability of different data classification methods for effectively visualising population distribution with choropleth maps in South African metropolitan areas. The research focused on geographic accessibility as a use case: population density is visualised on choropleth maps, allowing decision makers to identify over- or underserved areas for the provisioning of facilities. Results show that respondents were more likely to provide correct answers when presented with maps visualising data classified according to quantiles and natural breaks (Jenks), suggesting that these are easier to interpret for assessing and understanding population distribution in South Africa. RÉSUMÉ : Les cartes choroplèthes sont parmi les cartes les plus anciennes et sont encore parmi les cartes les plus fréquemment utilisées pour visualiser des données quantitatives telles que des données de densité de population. Aujourd'hui tous les systèmes d'information géographique ont de nombreuses options pour catégoriser les données en classes pour faire des cartes choroplèthes. Chaque option a des avantages et inconvénients, selon les cas d'étude et les utilisations. Cet article présente les résultats d'une étude utilisateur visant à évaluer l'adéquation de différentes méthodes de classification de données pour la visualisation efficace des distributions de population dans les régions métropolitaines d'Afrique du Sud. Cette recherche est centrée sur l'accessibilité géographique comme cas d'utilisation : la densité de population est visualisée sous la forme de cartes choroplèthes, permettant aux décideurs d'identifier les zones sur- ou sous-desservies en services. Les résultats montrent que les participants ont plus de chance de donner les bonnes réponses avec des cartes classées en fonction des quantiles et des ruptures naturelles (Jenks), ce qui suggère que ces cartes sont plus faciles à interpréter pour évaluer et comprendre la distribution de la population en Afrique du Sud.
Predicting smallholder maize yield using sentinel-2-derived phenological metrics
Masiza, Wonga; Nkuna, Basani Lammy; Ratshiedana, Phathutshedzo Eugene; Madasa, Akhona; Nduku, Lwandile; Shwatja, Tumelo; Chirima, Johannes George; Nyamugama, Adolph; Abutaleb, Khaled; Khoboko, Pitso Walter; Hamandawana, Hamisai (Elsevier, 2026-03)
Please read abstract in the article. HIGHLIGHTS • Phenological metrics derived from multiple spectral indices are used to predict maize yields. • Regularized linear models were trained with limited data to predict maize yields. • Pre-peak and cumulative integrals of red-edge indices best predicted maize yield. • Parsimonious models trained with key features showed no measurable loss of accuracy.
Foodification and neighbourhood change in Hazelwood, Pretoria
Barnes, Emily Sarah; Gregory, James Jenkins (Routledge, 2026)
This paper examines the phenomenon of foodification as a catalyst for consumption-driven urban transformation in Hazelwood, a suburban neighbourhood in Pretoria, South Africa. Hazelwood has undergone a visible shift from a quiet residential area to a vibrant culinary hub, reflecting broader global trends in urban change driven by food and consumption. This study explores how the proliferation of upscale restaurants and cafes has redefined Hazelwood’s spatial identity, creating a walkable, European-inspired enclave within a city dominated by shopping malls and chain eateries. The paper situates Hazelwood’s transformation within the context of post-apartheid urban dynamics, where neoliberal economic policies intersect with efforts to redress spatial injustices, resulting in complex patterns of social and economic change. Methodologically, this study employs content analysis, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and participant observation to capture the nuances of Hazelwood’s transformation. The findings highlight the cyclical relationship between consumption and the production of space, demonstrating how these processes drive rapid urban change and contribute to the commodification of urban neighbourhoods. Hazelwood’s evolution serves as a lens through which to explore the broader implications of consumption-driven urban change on social dynamics and spatial identity in South African cities.
Air quality in Africa from the telecoupled perspective : exploring interdisciplinary and transboundary scientific collaboration between Africa and the Global North
Dekker, Marleen; Kazimierczuk, Agnieszka H.; Garland, Rebecca M.; Stein-Zweers, Deborah; Levelt, Pieternel F. (Cambridge University Press, 2025-08)
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY : This article explores air pollution as a globally connected issue using the telecoupling lens, which links distant regions through environmental and human systems. It shows how pollution connects Africa and the Global North, demonstrating that actions in one place affect people and air quality elsewhere. Drawing on 90 research sources, it looks at how satellite data helps monitor air quality and finds that most studies focus on natural sciences, with limited input from social sciences and less frequently from African researchers. The authors highlight the need to close data gaps and call for more inclusive, cross-disciplinary, and international cooperation in air quality research. Overall, the study pushes for fairer, more connected approaches to understanding and tackling air pollution worldwide. TECHNICAL SUMMARY : Air quality (AQ) is a transboundary phenomenon resulting from globalized interactions between coupled human and natural systems. Drawing on the telecoupling framework, this article argues that pollution flows, socioeconomic systems, and policy responses interconnect Africa with the Global North and identifies important data gaps for better understanding these interconnections. Through a meta-synthesis of 90 academic and gray literature sources, we analyze the use of satellite data for air quality monitoring, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and African scientific participation. Our findings highlight a strong reliance on natural science approaches, limited integration of social science perspectives, and ongoing marginalization of African voices in shaping research agendas. We argue for a transformative research agenda rooted in interdisciplinary integration, inter-regional collaboration, and data justice. By adopting a telecoupled lens and prioritizing inclusive development, this study provides new pathways to understand, measure, and address air pollution as a global issue with deeply local consequences. SOCIAL MEDIA SUMMARY : Air pollution links Africa & the Global North–study urges data justice & inclusive, global cooperation.
Sun protection advice for the South African population for the prevention and management of skin diseases
Isaacs, Thuraya; Jacobs, Tarryn; Whitaker, Dagmar; Visser, Willem; Wiid, Kim; Dlova, Ncoza C.; Wright, Caradee Yael; Tod, Bianca (Wiley, 2026-01)
Sun protection is critical for the prevention and management of skin cancer and other photosensitive dermatoses in South Africa's diverse population. This review expands on previously published sun protection advice for skin cancer prevention by providing tailored advice for individuals with specific dermatological conditions. Recent advances in sunscreen technology, including enhanced protection for long-wave UVA1, visible light, and infrared radiation; inorganic sunscreens with more cosmetic acceptability; and the addition of other active ingredients unrelated to sun protection, are discussed in the context of specific dermatoses. Visible light protection, particularly tinted sunscreens, is particularly relevant for dark to medium skin tones prone to pigmentary disorders, such as melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Practical advice is provided for optimizing sun protection in inflammatory conditions, such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, where formulation and tolerability are important for compliance. Photoprotection for photo-dermatoses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated dermatoses is also discussed. Recognizing the economic barriers to sunscreen access, the paper emphasizes the critical role of sun avoidance behaviors, such as sun-protective clothing and seeking shade, in resource-limited settings.
Evaluation of global remotely sensed evapotranspiration products in arid irrigated agricultural environments using ground measurements
Ratshiedana, Phathutshedzo Eugene; Abd Elbasit, Mohamed A. M.; Adam, Elhadi; Chirima, Johannes George (Taylor and Francis, 2025-12)
Accurate quantification of crop water requirement is essential for efficient irrigation practices. However, direct measurement of crop water use is localised and impractical over large areas. Remotely sensed evapotranspiration (ET) provides a solution by estimating spatial explicit ET. Nevertheless, the accuracy of ET products in South African irrigated agriculture remains uncertain. This study evaluated the accuracy of MODerate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MOD16), Noah Land Surface Model Evapotranspiration Product (NOAH) and Water Productivity Open-access Portal (WaPOR) products retrieved using Google Earth Engine (GEE). A stepwise validation approach was applied integrating lysimeter-derived actual evapotranspiration (ETa) with reference evapotranspiration (ETo) to extrapolate ETa across the Vaalharts irrigation scheme. Results demonstrated WaPOR as a promising product with correlations of 0.69 to 0.88, and lower errors with RMSE from 0.87 to 3.22 mm d−1, while MOD16 and NOAH estimates are poor. These findings demonstrate WaPOR as a potential tool for improving irrigation water management.
A fully satellite-driven workflow for hydrodynamic modeling in data-scarce coastal systems : integrating ICESat-2, Sentinel-2, SWOT and reanalysis model
Payandeh, Ali Reza; Simard, Marc; Jensen, Daniel; Campbell, Anthony Daniel; Van Deventer, Heidi; Christensen, Alexandra (Frontiers Media, 2026-03-11)
Hydrodynamic models in coastal and estuarine systems are typically constrained by sparse bathymetry, boundary, and validation data, especially in regions where field campaigns are costly or impractical. Here we develop and test a fully satellite-driven framework for hydrodynamic modeling in South Africa’s Langebaan Lagoon without using any local in situ measurements. Bathymetry is derived by training multispectral Sentinel-2 reflectance against ICESat-2 ATL24 photon-derived depths using an XGBoost model optimized with Bayesian search. The final satellite derived bathymetry reproduces independent ATL24 points with RMSE = 0.45 m and R2 = 0.97. This bathymetry was used in a depth-averaged Delft3D Flexible Mesh model driven at the open boundary by TPXO tidal harmonics and by ERA5 winds. We validate modeled water surface elevation against 16 SWOT low-rate (250 m, unsmoothed) passes in 2023. SWOT–model comparisons yield an overall RMSE of 0.11 m and R2 = 0.61, with typical point differences <0.10 m (∼5% of the 2 m tidal range), and showed consistent spatial gradients in water level from the offshore boundary, through Saldanha Bay, and into the lagoon. At the offshore boundary, TPXO and SWOT sea surface heights agree closely (R2 = 0.86). A ∼26 min phase lag, determined using a lag-correlation analysis, reduces the TPXO–SWOT RMSE from 0.18 m to 0.11 m, indicating that phase differences explain some of the mismatch, with remaining differences likely linked to non-tidal signals. Our results demonstrate that combining passive optical, photon-counting LiDAR, radar interferometry, and global tidal/atmospheric models enables robust, transferrable hydrodynamic modeling in data-scarce coastal systems, offering a cost-effective pathway for monitoring.
A warming climate may influence forecast performance : analysing the skill of maximum temperature seasonal climate forecasts over southern Africa
Ntele, Moahloli Phillip; Landman, Willem Adolf; Archer, Emma Rosa Mary (Wiley, 2026)
Understanding seasonal variability and development of skilful seasonal climate forecasts (SCFs) is key in mitigating climate-related risks, including helping to support adaptation to climate change and variability. The purpose of this study is to consider possible factors influencing the predictability of maximum temperature SCFs in southern Africa. To address this question, two hypotheses are tested: namely (1) There is skill in making maximum temperature forecasts in the Southern African Development Community (SADC); and (2) The skill is contributed by two main attributes—ENSO-related climate variability and anthropogenic climate change—as a result, temperature forecasts are worth taking into account in pre-season decision-making. A state-of-the-art global climate model's atmospheric thickness fields are statistically downscaled to maximum temperatures for the austral spring to autumn period. Forecast performance over a 24-year period is evaluated for both original and for linearly detrended temperature data. The verification results indicate that predictive skill for maximum temperatures reflects the combined influence of ENSO-related variability and long-term anthropogenic warming trends. The majority of the skill is not, however, a consequence of warming trends, since the climate model is able to predict the seasonal-to-interannual maximum temperatures variation skilfully, without assistance from temperature trends. Detrending data improves probabilistic skill, suggesting that removing trends helps isolate the seasonal signal, enhancing the models' reliability and discrimination of probabilistic maximum temperature SCFs. However, deterministic skill declines, revealing long-term climate trends' influence on the apparent accuracy of deterministic forecasts. The trend thus influences understanding of forecast performance and needs to be considered when conveying how good a forecasting system is.
Assessing farm-level sustainability : a comparative analysis of horticultural production systems in Eritrea
Haile, Bereket Tsehaye; Dougill, Andrew J.; Ramoelo, Abel; Kidane, Tesfai T. (Frontiers Media, 2025-07-02)
INTRODUCTION : Measuring the sustainability of agricultural practices at the farm level is a prerequisite for devising effective policies and strategies. This study offers an in-depth farm-level sustainability assessment of Eritrea’s horticultural sector. It aims to assess the sustainability of horticultural crop production using 12 customized indicators co-developed with local stakeholders, identify the principal factors influencing sustainability performance, and compare the sustainability performances across two regions of Eritrea with different agroecological and socioeconomic settings. METHODS : Primary data from 170 horticultural farmers were collected using a field survey focusing on activities conducted from 2020 to 2022. The assessment uses a traffic light approach to classify farms into three categories: unsustainable (red), acceptable (yellow), and sustainable (green). Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) is applied to explain the main factors contributing to the sustainability score of farms across the studied regions. RESULTS : The study shows disparities in sustainability performance between the two study regions as measured by the indicators. The MLR model shows that farming experience, extension services, and cooperative membership significantly influence most sustainability outcomes (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION : This study highlights the necessity for a context-specific approach to assess farm-level sustainability. By mapping the sustainability landscape of the horticultural sector and identifying key levers for improvement, the study paves the way for informed, impactful strategies to advance agricultural sustainability at the farm level.
Knowledge translation of climate change research into public health action
Mulopo , Chanelle; Onkoba, Nyamongo; Abimbola, Samuel; Baltaci, Ezgi; Wright, Caradee Yael; Schmidt, Bey-Marrie (Frontiers Media, 2025-10-27)
BACKGROUND : There are gaps in translating climate change research into public health action at the global level. Knowledge translation refers to the methods used to bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Given the significant impacts of climate change on health, it is essential to integrate climate research into health decision-making processes. This integration ensures that evidence effectively informs policies and practices at all levels, leading to more timely, equitable, and impactful public health responses. OBJECTIVE : This scoping review examines key approaches and identifies gaps in knowledge translation methods for integrating climate change research into public health decision-making. METHODS : A systematic search of the literature was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus using a predefined search string to identify studies on climate change and health published between January 1, 2003, and March 1, 2024, with no geographic restrictions. Retrieved articles were screened and data extracted using Covidence software. Thematic analysis was performed in ATLAS.TI employing Braun and Clark’s six-step method. The identified knowledge translation approaches were categorized according to the Cochrane Knowledge Translation Framework. FINDINGS : Our findings highlight five primary knowledge translation approaches: (1) monitoring the coverage of climate change and health across media, scientific literature, and government responses; (2) engaging citizens of all ages in participatory activities to address local climate challenges and co-develop policy solutions; (3) integrating knowledge generation, synthesis, and dissemination for effective communication; (4) emphasizing advocacy and education to foster collaborations and gain support from decision-makers; and (5) leveraging health impact assessment tools to guide decision-making related to climate change and health. Nonetheless, we did not find any primary studies on climate change research and knowledge translation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). CONCLUSION : There is a need for primary studies on the knowledge translation of climate change research, especially in relation to adaptation, into meaningful public health actions that can inform decision-making and contribute to building climate-resilient health systems in LMICs.
Temperature-related health impacts : a scoping review and benchmarking exercise to inform a heat action plan
Wright, Caradee Yael; Bulani, Muthise; Kapwata, Thandi; Dikoko, Viwe; Naidoo, Natasha (Ubiquity Press, 2026-01)
BACKGROUND : Global heating is associated with adverse health impacts necessitating the implementation of Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to protect communities. Gauteng in South Africa is the most populated province, housing three cities (i.e., Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Pretoria) and 25% of the national population. OBJECTIVE : Given rising temperatures and projected increases in heatwaves and hot days, we gathered literature and case studies to inform the development of a Gauteng HAP. METHODS : We conducted a scoping review to inform baseline data on heat‑related health impacts for Gauteng and South Africa too, followed by a benchmarking exercise that aimed to identify international best practices that may inform Gauteng’s plan. Benchmarking was done using Maharashtra (India), Victoria (Australia), and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan). FINDINGS : Thirty‑six studies were included in the review, with 13 including Gauteng data and all showing impacts of heat on human health. Most studies applied epidemiological time series linking meteorological exposure (temperature/heat indices) and/or air pollutants (e.g., PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3) with health outcomes; applied remote‑sensing, reanalysis, or station data for exposure assessment; and used regression or distributed lag models. The benchmarking exercise identified exemplars’ distinctive strengths: Victoria’s district thresholds keep activation simple and local—ideal for Gauteng’s heterogeneous microclimates across metros and townships. Maharashtra’s graded activation and clear departmental roles reduce ambiguity during multi‑day heatwaves and thereby would help to align Gauteng Health, Infrastructure, Social Development departments. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s cooling‑camp model shows practical, low‑cost interventions of a low‑ and middle‑income country that can be replicated at taxi ranks/clinics/malls during temperature peaks. CONCLUSIONS : Insights from the literature and international exemplars provide a strong evidence base and adaptable models to guide a context‑specific, multi‑sectoral HAP for Gauteng that enhances preparedness, coordination, and community protection in a warming South Africa.
Spectral indices and principal component analysis for lithological mapping in the Erongo region, Namibia
Benade, Ryan Theodore; Ajayi, Oluibukun Gbenga (MDPI, 2025-12-18)
The mineral deposits in Namibia’s Erongo region are renowned and frequently associated with complex geological environments, including calcrete-hosted paleochannels and hydrothermal alteration zones. Mineral extraction is hindered by high operational costs, restricted accessibility and stringent environmental regulations. To address these challenges, this study proposes an integrated approach that combines satellite remote sensing and machine learning to map and identify mineralisation-indicative zones. Sentinel 2 Multispectral Instrument (MSI) and Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) multispectral data were employed due to their global coverage, spectral fidelity and suitability for geological investigations. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) masking was applied to minimise vegetation interference. Spectral indices—the Clay Index, Carbonate Index, Iron Oxide Index and Ferrous Iron Index—were developed and enhanced using false-colour composites. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to reduce redundancy and extract significant spectral patterns. Supervised classification was performed using Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF) and Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC), with validation through confusion matrices and metrics such as Overall Accuracy, User’s Accuracy, Producer’s Accuracy and the Kappa coefficient. The results showed that RF achieved the highest accuracy on Landsat 8 and MLC outperformed others on Sentinel 2, while SVM showed balanced performance. Sentinel 2’s higher spatial resolution enabled improved delineation of alteration zones. This approach supports efficient and low-impact mineral prospecting in remote environments.
Moisture and dust in motion : the dual role of integrated vapour transport over West Africa
Awoleye, Peace O.; Adebiyi, Adeyemi A.; Abiodun, Babatunde J.; Balogun, Ifeoluwa A.; Akinbobola, Ademola; Oluleye, Ayodeji; Ajayi, Vincent O. (Springer, 2025-11)
Integrated vapour transports (IVTs) are important drivers of tropical moisture transport; however, their structure, seasonality, and meteorological impacts over West Africa remain poorly characterised. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of detected IVTs using a transport threshold of ≥ 250 kg m− 1 s− 1 during the 2024 West African monsoon season, combining reanalysis and gridded in situ datasets. Results show a strong seasonal signal, with IVT frequency and intensity peaking between June and September, particularly over the Guinean and southern Sudano-Sahelian zones. Case studies of three extreme IVT (≥ 750 kg m− 1 s− 1) events (June 18, August 16, and September 25) revealed distinct structures, strong zonal wind cores at 700 hpa, and vertically coupled moisture fluxes that enhanced organised convection and upward motion. Moderate IVTs (250–500 kg m− 1 s− 1) contributed significantly to daily rainfall in coastal regions, while extreme transport (≥ 750 kg m− 1 s− 1) delivered intense, spatially focused precipitation in the Sahel. Also, the IVT played a critical role in the dynamics of atmospheric dust, where periods of extreme IVTs were associated with strong negative correlations with aerosol optical depth and dust concentrations, along with increased dust wet deposition. However, dust scavenging efficiency peaked beyond an IVT threshold of ~ 300 kg m− 1 s− 1, suggesting that rainfall variability, rather than moisture flux alone, contributes immensely to aerosol removal. These findings position IVTs as key synoptic-scale systems that shape West African rainfall patterns and aerosol dynamics, with implications for seasonal weather variability, air quality, and convective organisation across the monsoon belt. Within the West African Monsoon (WAM), IVTs preferentially align with the southern flank of the AEJ where horizontal moisture flux and shear-induced convergence maximise, while jet-level (150–200 hPa) wind maxima suggest TEJ-entrance ascent that deepens the moist column. The Saharan heat low’s seasonal migration sharpens meridional pressure gradients that precondition strong southwesterlies, favouring IVT initiation and inland penetration.

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