Analyzing the impact of community-based approaches on disaster preparedness to the risk of tropical cyclone induced flooding in Chimanimani District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The rate of recurrence and intensity of hydro-meteorological disasters affecting Zimbabwe is increasing, leading to severe butterfly impacts on socio-economic development. This paper aims at reporting the findings of the case study on the impact of Community-based approaches to disaster preparedness to the risk of tropical cyclone induced flooding in Chimanimani district, Zimbabwe. The findings might help bridge gaps in community preparedness and future response to the risk of tropical cyclone flooding, thus reducing vulnerability and exposure. Primary data for research was obtained through online semi-structured interviews. Seventy-eight (78) research participants were engaged for a deeper understanding of the impact of CBA on disaster preparedness. Secondary data was gathered through document analysis by perusing, evaluating and reading summaries and conclusions from previous research work, books and journals. The Delphi model was used to measure the impact of community based approaches to disaster preparedness. The major study finding was that community-oriented training has a significantly high impact on individual level of disaster preparedness. The study recommended policy makers to propagate the implementation of community oriented disaster management training programs as the most prudent strategy to reduce the impacts of tropical cyclone induced floods in Chimanimani district, in Zimbabwe.