Communities tipped on disaster risk management

Salima district disaster risk management superviser John Saizi has advised communities in the district to construct drainage systems and resilient houses ahead of the rainy season.

The advice is part of the ongoing sensitisation in the country for communities living in flood-prone areas to construct resilient houses, relocate to upland areas and make use of flood warning systems to prevent loss of lives and property.

Speaking on Tuesday in Traditional Authority Salima, Saizi said the absence of proper drainage system result in flooding.

“Therefore, construct good drainage systems or clear clogged drains to prevent flooding. People should also build strong houses that can survive heavy rains and strong winds,” he said.

Saizi urged people to plant trees to protect houses from strong winds.

Earlier this year, Department of Disaster Management Affairs commissioner Charles Kalemba advised communities in the district against settling in flood-prone areas.

He said the department will not give humanitarian aid to people who willingly settle in flood-prone areas.

T/A Salima Area Civil Protection Committee chairperson Misi Anderson commended the district council for advising people in the area how they can prevent disasters.

“We will ensure that people embrace methods of preventing disasters,” he said.

Kalemba’s warning followed reports that some people in flood-prone areas in the district were refusing to relocate to upland areas.

Dodma has so far engaged district council on the need to engage people on disaster risk management ahead of the rainy season.

Esmie Ndeula, a community member, said they will construct resilient houses.

“We agree with the council that it is best to prepare for disasters instead of responding to them when they occur,” she said.

Sailima is one of the districts in the country which faces natural disasters such as rainstorms, floods and strong winds.