Paper details
| Paper authors | Decide Mabumbo, Nombulelo Kitsepile Ngulube |
| In panel on | Getting Ahead of Disasters by Connecting Early Warning and Anticipatory Action That Works for All |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
Tropical cyclones pose escalating risks to Southern Africa, yet disaster risk management (DRM) systems often face challenges in translating policy frameworks into effective local action. This study investigates Zimbabwe’s DRM capacity through the lens of Tropical Storm Ana, which struck Nyanga District in January 2022, inflicting significant damage on infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. Employing qualitative methods—including focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and field observations across three affected wards—the research examines community experiences across the DRM phases of preparedness, early warning, response, and recovery.
Findings reveal a persistent policy-to-practice gap undermining DRM effectiveness. Despite progressive national policies promoting community-based approaches, 76% of residents reported no awareness of local emergency plans, and 64% indicated no participation in DRM planning processes. Early warning systems demonstrated weaknesses in last-mile delivery; 30% of residents received no advance warning, and the use of technical meteorological terminology limited the utility of alerts for those who did. Response efforts were impeded by coordination challenges, resource constraints, and delayed assessments, although community-led initiatives played a crucial role in immediate relief efforts.
The study identifies significant untapped potential in community agency and indigenous knowledge systems, which remain underutilized within formal DRM structures. Key recommendations include developing people-centered early warning systems, establishing pre-arranged financing mechanisms, strengthening participatory governance, and integrating community capacities into formal DRM frameworks. These insights contribute to enhancing climate-related disaster governance in resource-constrained contexts and inform pathways toward more anticipatory, inclusive, and effective DRM in cyclone-prone regions.
