Complexity and effectiveness in disaster risk management within local municipalities

Abstract

Background: The article provides a framework for the exposition of the effects of disaster management within King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality. Disasters pose a recurring threat and cause profound losses in numerous countries, particularly affecting those residing in impoverished rural areas. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR), 2015–2030 emphasises the need for a comprehensive understanding of disaster risk in all dimensions of exposure, vulnerability and hazard characteristics to improve the effectiveness of disaster risk management. Regrettably, local municipalities in South Africa continue to grapple with recurring disasters. The flooding catastrophe that happened in King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality in April 2022 highlights local municipalities’ vulnerability and limited ability to manage such disasters effectively.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of disaster risk management (DRM) strategies utilised by local municipalities to strengthen and implement mechanisms that help affected communities cope with the disaster situation.

Methods: The study adopted a case study approach focused on the KSD Municipality and employed a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews with eight senior municipal managers involved in DRM.

Results: The study reveals that the KSD prioritises monitoring internal processes but neglects to evaluate the impact of external forces that relate to disasters and the plight of communities.

Conclusion: The KSD lacks disaster management support from provincial authorities, particularly in receiving adequate resources, technical guidance, and coordinated oversight, and experiences the adverse effects of poor stakeholder communication on coordination for effective disaster management.

Contribution: This study offers a valuable contribution by providing decision-makers with practical tools of analyses and insights for prioritising developments for effective DRM.