Disability and disaster risk reduction as an incongruent matrix: Lessons from rural Zimbabwe

Area of Science:

• Disaster science
• Social science research
• Climate change adaptation

Background:

• Disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies often overlook individuals with disabilities.
• Climate change intensifies weather-related hazards, highlighting policy gaps.
• There's a growing imperative to mainstream disability into DRR initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the inclusion of people with disabilities in DRR planning and emergency response.
• To analyze experiences from DRR projects in southern Zimbabwe (2006-2014).
• To identify challenges and propose solutions for disability-inclusive DRR in Zimbabwe.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research methodology.
• Data collection through in-depth interviews, observations, and focus group discussions.
• Inclusion of both able-bodied individuals and people with disabilities (PWDs) in the study.

Main Results:

• People with disabilities were excluded from the formulation of DRR measures.
• Varied perceptions of disability exist, with some viewing it as having a purpose.
• Misunderstanding of disasters is prevalent, with disability sometimes equated to disaster.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to re-evaluate and center PWDs in civil protection decision-making and policy formulation in Zimbabwe.
• Inclusive DRR policies are essential to address the specific vulnerabilities of PWDs.
• Effective DRR requires understanding and incorporating diverse perspectives on disability and disaster.