Community participation and disaster management: a case study of droughts & floods in Bardhere District-Somalia

Abstract

This study, titled "community participation and disaster management: A case study of Droughts & Floods in Bardhere District-Somalia," aims to explore the critical role of community engagement in managing climate-induced disasters, particularly droughts and floods. Guided by four specific objectives, the research investigates the community's perceptions regarding their involvement in disaster management efforts, examines the state's capacity to respond to these disasters in the face of climate change, assesses the role of other actors such as NGOs, and evaluates the coping mechanisms adopted by the local population in response to these challenges. The study employs Disaster Theory and Emergency Management Theory to frame the analysis, offering insights into how communities, governments, and other stakeholders interact in the context of disaster preparedness and response. Primary data was gathered through interviews with key informants, including community members, government officials, and NGO representatives, to capture a comprehensive understanding of the disaster management landscape in Bardhere District. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the key themes emerging from the study. Findings reveal a complex interplay between community participation and institutional capacity, with limited state resources and a lack of comprehensive planning posing significant challenges to effective disaster management. NGOs and other non-state actors were found to play a crucial role in filling gaps left by the state, while the community's coping mechanisms, although innovative, remain strained under the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters. The study underscores the need for enhanced collaboration between communities, governments, and NGOs to develop more resilient disaster management strategies in the region.