Assessing the Harare city councils’ disaster preparedness plan in combating the cholera outbreak. A case study of High-field (ward 24), Harare. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Kanaveti, Elizabeth

Title

Assessing the Harare city councils’ disaster preparedness plan in combating the cholera outbreak. A case study of High-field (ward 24), Harare.

Abstract

This research was conducted to assess the efficacy of the Harare City Council’s Disaster Preparedness Plan in addressing cholera outbreaks, particularly in Highfield, Ward 14. A mixed-methods approach was employed within a case study framework to deliver a thorough examination of the subject matter. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 25 individuals, which included officials from the Harare City Council, healthcare practitioners, community health workers, local inhabitants, and representatives from NGOs such as the Red Cross and World Vision. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to council officials and key personnel, while qualitative data were gathered via semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The findings indicated that although the Disaster Preparedness Plan encompasses essential elements such as risk communication, rapid response mechanisms, disease surveillance, and water and sanitation strategies, its effectiveness is considerably hampered by insufficient financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, and poor coordination among stakeholders. Additionally, community engagement was found to be inconsistent and lacking, with residents indicating a deficiency in their participation in planning and implementation activities. Socio-economic issues such as poverty, overcrowding, and limited access to clean water were also recognized as significant factors contributing to the ongoing outbreaks. The study concluded that while the Harare City Council has shown a formal commitment to cholera preparedness and response, there remains a substantial gap in implementation that diminishes the effectiveness of these measures. To improve the efficacy of the disaster preparedness plan, the research suggests increased investment in public health infrastructure, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, regular community awareness programs, and a systematic review and updating of the preparedness strategy based on real-time feedback and emerging challenges. This study provides crucial insights into managing disaster risks in African urban areas, highlighting the need for policies to be implemented in ways that are both practical and inclusive for local communities.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

cholera outbreaks

Disaster Preparedness

Supervisor

Dr E Siziba