Dar’s Keko strengthens flood preparedness plan

DAR ES SALAAM: KEKO Ward in Dar es Salaam has adopted a two-year flood preparedness and response plan mapping highrisk areas, evacuation routes and emergency responsibilities as authorities step up preparations for the expected El Niño rains.

Prepared by the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government -PMO-RALG) in collaboration with OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ), the plan is designed to strengthen the ward’s capacity to prevent and respond to floods and other emergencies.

It assigns responsibilities to ward and street leaders, government institutions, community organisations, religious institutions, the private sector, the media and residents, while outlining procedures to be followed before, during and after flooding.

The plan comes as authorities warn that floods and strong winds continue to threaten lives, property, infrastructure and economic activities, with risks increasing due to climate change, rapid population growth, unplanned urbanisation and environmental degradation.

It also notes that more frequent episodes of intense rainfall over short periods have worsened flooding in low-lying areas where drainage systems remain inadequate.

OMDTZ Project Officer, Ms Asha Mustafa said the initiative was intended to equip both residents and local leaders with practical knowledge to reduce disaster risks.

“Residents will be educated on how to prepare for floods, identify safe and high-risk areas and determine which routes are safe to use when flooding occurs,” she said.

Ms Mustafa said the plan also includes emergency contact systems and warning mechanisms, while drone technology will be used to identify affected areas and support rescue operations when necessary.

Disaster Management Consultant, Dr Christopher Mnzava said the plan identifies key factors driving flood risks, including blocked drainage channels, indiscriminate waste disposal, construction along waterways and insufficient drainage capacity in rapidly growing neighbourhoods.

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He said infrastructure projects requiring substantial funding, particularly the construction and improve ment of drainage systems, should be incorporated into ward development plans and budgets rather than being addressed only after disasters occur.

“Disaster risk management must become part of development planning so that infrastructure projects consider areas that experience recurrent flooding and the specific needs of those communities,” he said.

Keko Ward Councillor, Mr Ismail Amanzi said the ward had already designated open spaces where residents could seek refuge during emergencies and would intensify public awareness campaigns ahead of the rains.

Dar es Salaam Regional Coordinator for the Tanzania Red Cross Society, Mr Levison Ladis, said greater emphasis should be placed on preventing disasters before they occur instead of relying primarily on rescue operations after flooding.

Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) weather specialist and analyst, Mr Ramadhani Omary urged residents to rely on official weather forecasts when making decisions about their activities and safety.

He said TMA’s forecasts have an accuracy rate of more than 88 per cent, making them an important tool for communities preparing for the coming rainy season.

Keko resident, Ms Happiness Luambano welcomed the initiative, saying the education had helped residents better understand the risks and the steps needed to protect themselves before the rains begin.