Impact of Natural Disasters on Children around Ngorima Clinic, Chimanimani.

Abstract

During disasters most humanitarian organisations focus mainly on food, clothing and shelter provision. This is despite that several issues will be affecting the survivors. This food, clothing and shelter assistance rendered is mostly centred on household levels taking parents and guardians as the most affected at the expense of children and minors. The psychosocial effects of exposure to trauma are significant to all age groups, but evidence concerning the experience of disaster-affected children is limited. The main aim of this paper was to conduct research inclusive of children and minors during such catastrophes. The study sought to assess impact of natural disasters on children around Ngorima clinic, Chimanimani. The research had 100 participants aged between 9 and 19 years, both males and females. The researcher adopted purposive sampling. Collection of data, involved interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document analysis. The data processed was presented into tables, graphs. Descriptive statistics was used to process data. Physical and infrastructural destruction was extensive to all the participants, psychological effect was present although most people did not initially think it was a major concern. There was also mention of emotional impact, educational disturbances and services deficits as well as disturbances of the social fabric and cohesion. Additionally, during disasters, transition stages are permanently disrupted, physiological wellbeing severely impacted and life prospects diminished by natural disasters whose impact can be avoided or mitigated. These findings led to the following conclusions: people from low status don’t value their mental health as much as they do the physical aspect. Participants had psychological and emotional strain but could not fully comprehend that it was indeed an issue for urgent attention. Humanitarian aid was more than 85% aligned to food, shelter and clothing. In light of the above, it is important to have the following recommendations: Governments to establish structures supportive of psycho-social support mechanisms for disaster mitigation, to prioritize mental health for all. In addition, a policy should be in place to have a balanced service provision. Responsible stakeholders should have a quota system in their aid to include mental health as they offer humanitarian service. Lastly, evidence-based mental health interventions should be adopted during disasters.