Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems into disaster preparedness: a case study of Ward 15, Bikita District in Masvingo of Zimbabwe.

Abstract

This study examines critically the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into disaster preparedness in Ward 15, Bikita District, and Masvingo, Zimbabwe. The study aimed to produce a disaster preparedness plan that is feasible and socio-economically and ecologically sustainable. The study employed mixed-methods research design for data collection. In this study, questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were used to gather and document data from the respondents. Field data was collected through a survey of 145 respondents. Complementing the survey were Interviews and Focus group discussions. The analysis and interpretation of data was done through various statistical packages such as Chi Square and ANOVA. These were used to interpret the findings and draw conclusions on the set assumptions. The findings from this study show the different way communities use and interpret traditional knowledge to mitigate and respond to disasters. The findings provide a basis on how this knowledge can inform modern disaster management strategies. In the study, data obtained from questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions from the Ward 15 of Bikita District demonstrate the importance of incorporating IKS into disaster preparedness plans. It further revealed how IKS enhances community resilience and adaptive capacity. Based on the findings from questionnaires and interviews reveal there is need for a a move beyond simple and basic scientific approach to integration of IKS in disaster management and preparedness. In addition, they reveal that integrating IKS with scientific conventional methods improve early warning systems and ultimately reduce vulnerability to disasters. With the increasing intensity of natural hazards, the marginalization of IKS in addressing the underlying causes and impacts of disasters reveals that more needs to be done. The studies further reveal that while current disaster management techniques are commendable, they fail to address the sustainability of disaster preparedness. The research findings suggest ways to improve disaster preparedness. The study recommends a national disaster management plan that is Ward 15 specific and comprehensive enough. There is need to establish strong institutions such as Civil Protection Unit CPU or Teams responsible for disaster management that comprises IKS holders. The starting point would be to establish District Disaster Management Teams (DDMT) that should comprise of 10-15 project implementers. Their mandate would be crafting a Disaster Risk Reduction Framework that integrates IKS and maintaining disaster response mechanisms. These teams can be employed on a fulltime basis. The study proposes a model for collaborative disaster preparedness plan called the Disaster Risk Reduction Sustainability Pillars Framework Matrix (DRRSPF). This study contributes to the growing discourse on the value of indigenous knowledge in disaster risk reduction.