Thesis Abstract

This research project aims to investigate the hazard response capabilities of a small community. The study focuses on understanding how small communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from various hazards such as natural disasters, technological accidents, and other emergencies. The research will analyze the existing resources, strategies, and coordination mechanisms in place to manage and mitigate the impact of hazards on the community. The research methodology involves a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions will be conducted with key stakeholders in the community, including local government officials, emergency responders, community leaders, and residents. The quantitative data collected will be analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and gaps in the community's hazard response capabilities. The qualitative data will provide insights into the perceptions, experiences, and challenges faced by the community in dealing with hazards. The study will assess the community's hazard awareness and preparedness levels, including the effectiveness of early warning systems, evacuation plans, communication networks, and emergency response protocols. It will also examine the availability and accessibility of resources such as emergency supplies, medical facilities, shelters, and transportation services during a crisis. The research will explore the coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders involved in hazard response, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, and volunteers. By analyzing the hazard response capabilities of a small community, this research aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current system and recommend strategies for improvement. The findings of the study will contribute to the existing literature on community resilience, emergency management, and disaster preparedness. The research outcomes will be valuable for policymakers, emergency planners, and community members seeking to enhance their capacity to respond to hazards effectively. Overall, this research project will provide insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by small communities in managing hazards and building resilience. By understanding the unique characteristics and dynamics of small communities, the study will offer practical recommendations to strengthen their hazard response capabilities and promote sustainable development in the face of increasing risks and uncertainties.

Thesis Overview

Shiroro dam is one of the three major hydroelectric dams built on River Kaduna in Niger State located in the northwestern part of Nigeria. The river flood plain downstream the dam has rich alluvial soils with great agricultural potentials and this has been the major pull factor for several local communities that settled in the area and engaged in farming as a means of livelihood. However, the downstream communities are exposed to flooding and other hazards related to their livelihood activities and living pattern. A study on rural hazards identification and vulnerability assessment was conducted in Gusoro and Gurmana villages of Shiroro Local Government Area at the downstream sector of Shiroro dam in February, 2012.

The study relied on direct field survey using the instruments of oral interview, questionnaire survey and field measurements for data collection. The results form data analysis indicated, among others, that the communities were exposed to floods, erosion and health hazards as well as the risk of building collapse and environmental degradation.Hazard Response

The local coping strategies of building concentration on higher grounds, construction of elevated footpaths and embankments were found to be primitive and unsustainable. The problems of high level of illiteracy, poverty and dependent population (about50%) as well as low or complete lack of access to safe drinking water, health facilities, basic infrastructure and credit facilities (18.1%) make the people highly vulnerable. Hazard Response The level of preparedness was low as there were no disaster management committees, local disaster management institutions and local disaster plan.

All these reduced community resilience and increased the vulnerability of the people. Hazard Response The study suggested the provision of basic facilities, vigorous awareness education and the institution of integrated community based disaster risk reduction programmes as practical measures for reducing the risk of disasters in the area.Hazard Response