Evaluating communication methods for disaster management strategies in Kenya

Abstract

The study examined communication methods used for disaster management in Kenya. This was done with a view to establish appropriate and effective communication methods for disaster management in Kenya. The study was based on the premise that communication comes in handy at every phase of disaster management including disaster risk reduction, planning, preparedness, response and mitigation. Both traditional and modem communication methods are used for disaster communication. To achieve the aim of the study, common types of disasters in Kenya were investigated. Government and non-governmental structures and strategies for disaster management were established; the measures that private businesses and organizations have put in place were also assessed; appreciation of the role of communication for disaster management by different stakeholders was evaluated; coordination of communication and interaction of various stakeholders to avoid haphazard communication was checked; and the 5W and H components of the communication process were also checked. The results from these investigations enabled evaluation of communication methods used for disaster management in Kenya so as to establish their appropriateness and effectiveness. The population sample for the st~dy was drawn from Nairobi city and three major clusters of the Kenyan population. were' est.a.blished namely management (KRCS managers, NCCF engineers and SPDMU directors); rescuers (KRCS volunteers, NCCF personnel and SPDMU personnel); and the public (Nairobi city businessmen, employees and citizens). The sample allowed a holistic investigation of the subject of communication for disaster management in Kenya. The major data collection methods were use of questionnaires, interviewing, observation and documentary review. The study findings revealed that communication methods used by Kenyans for disaster management were deficient and needed remedies. In conclusion, the study proposed to remedy the situation through vanous recommendations. These included establishment of disaster communication hotlines, frequent and accurate updates of disaster information, establishment of information desks at disaster scenes, public education, incorporation of disaster management in the school curriculum, coordination of various disaster management stakeholders, decentralization of disaster response operations and enactment of the National Policy for Disaster management in Kenya.