Assessment of the nexus of Cholera and flooding disasters and impacts on informal settlements: case study Epworth, ward 5. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Katumba, Janet

Title

Assessment of the nexus of Cholera and flooding disasters and impacts on informal settlements: case study Epworth, ward 5.

Abstract

In Epworth, Ward 5, Zimbabwe, flooding and cholera outbreaks are frequent calamities, especially in informal areas. This study evaluates the relationship between these calamities and the vulnerable groups they affect. Three informal communities were the subjects of a mixed-methods approach that combined surveys, interviews, and observations to gather information from 300 households. The findings demonstrate a strong relationship between cholera epidemics and floods, with the latter frequently happening after the former. The repercussions of these calamities are made worse by the inadequate infrastructure, poor sanitation, and restricted access to healthcare in the informal settlements. According to the study, these communities' vulnerability is mostly caused by poverty, illiteracy, and political unrest. The results emphasize the necessity of comprehensive approaches to catastrophe risk reduction and management that take into account the socioeconomic, and political factors that influence susceptibility. Upgrading infrastructure, enhancing healthcare and sanitation facilities, and supporting neighbourhood -based disaster planning and response programs are among the suggestions. The susceptibility of informal settlements to flooding disasters is another crucial factor to take into account. In informal settlements, poverty, susceptibility, and flood disasters are directly related, according to a study by Mfingwana (2020). These tragedies cause fatalities, collapsing homes, property loss, and loss of belongings. In summary, a multimodal strategy that incorporates public health treatments, disaster preparedness, and community resilience-building techniques is needed to address the relationship between cholera epidemics and flooding catastrophes in informal settlements. Policymakers and other interested parties can strive toward more efficient preventative and response strategies by having a better grasp of these interrelated issues.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

flooding and diseases, cholera, hygenie practice

Supervisor

Dr Chanza