SOCIAL VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT IN FLOOD PRONE AREAS: A CASE STUDY OF CHIKUSE VILLAGES T/A MAKHWIRA IN CHIKWAWA DISTRICT, SOUTHEN

This paper analyses the impact of floods on social vulnerability and coping capacity of people in T/A Makhwira in Chikwawa district, Southern Malawi. It seeks to find the linkage between floods, social vulnerability and coping capacity at all disaster risk management stages of the cycle. In order to meet the objectives, observations (physical structures) were made on the recovery status and a survey was conducted in order to assess the impacts (positive/negative) of floods on social vulnerability and enhancing community resilience. In addition to that interviews were conducted to find out the coping capacities which existed in the area and their progress including extra measures they adopt knowing that the area is prone to flooding. This study showed the linkage (direct or indirect) between floods and social vulnerability. It also showed the knowledge people have on their level of vulnerability and their coping capacities. In addition to that it showed the existing gaps and suggestions on how people can improve their coping capacity to floods in the area.
This paper profiles the leading drivers of social vulnerability to floods. The results show that vulnerability to flood in T/A Makhuwira in Chikwawa district is determined by the dwelling type, employment, education and amount of rainfall in a season. The study recommends that public awareness campaigns, early warning systems and improved disaster management strategies must take into consideration differentiated levels of vulnerability and community coping mechanisms and preferences. Chikuse Wilson and Chikuse Gutusu are the main areas prone to flood, social, risk, highlighting the need for a cohesive management approach at all levels to recognize local capacities and increase communication, awareness, and preparedness to mitigate the undesirable effects of such events.