Effects of river flooding on human population: A case study of Kyarumba Sub-county along River Nyamuhasana in Kasese District

Abstract

A natural occurrence that can have catastrophic effects on human populations is river flooding. This study looked at how the flooding of the Nyamuhasana River affected the livelihoods of those who lived close to the river in Kyarumba sub-county. The primary aim of the research was to evaluate the effects of alterations in land use in the catchment areas of the Nyamuhasana River in Kyarumba sub-county, Kasese district. The study also aimed to determine the degree of awareness among the community regarding their impact on the rising frequency of flooding in the Nyamuhasana River. The study also assessed the effectiveness of flood mitigation strategies being implemented by Kyarumba sub-county residents near the Nyamuhasana River. The study used both primary and secondary data and the methods used for data collection were; interviewing, observation, use of questionnaire, focus group discussion, and use of geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing. The study’s conclusions showed that changes in land use within the river Nyamuhasana catchment zones have greatly raised the frequency and severity of flooding incidents. The community’s lack of awareness of its impact on the rising frequency of Nyamuhasana flooding was another finding of the study. The study also discovered that the flood mitigation strategies used by the people living in the Kyarumba sub-county, which is next to the Nyamuhasana River, are mainly ineffective. The study suggests that to lessen the negative effects of river Nyamuhasana flooding on the way of life for people living in the Kyarumba sub-county, a thorough flood control plan should be created and put into action. Reducing land use changes within river catchment zones, increasing community understanding of flooding causes, and putting in place practical flood mitigation strategies should all be part of the strategy.