Climate change reality check as Dar faces the consequences

Witnessing the aftermath of the relentless rain that poured over Dar es Salaam on the night of January 20, 2024, is a stark reminder of the undeniable impact of climate change. It serves as a wake-up call for all of us as the images and footage reveal not only the immediate devastation but also the long-term implications for the city's residents. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is at our doorstep, demanding urgent attention.

Unprecedented damage

The footage reveals the profound damage inflicted upon the lives of our fellow citizens. Beyond the immediate physical destruction, the socio-economic fabric of the city has been torn apart. Businesses face disruptions, homes are destroyed, and public health is jeopardized. This serves as a stark reminder that unless we collectively take deliberate action against climate change, no one is safe—be it individuals, businesses, or the overall economy.

Recurring nightmare

Dar es Salaam has been grappling with annual flooding, and it's disheartening to see this becoming a recurring theme. As the global effects of climate change intensify, we can expect these severe consequences to persist each year unless we implement timely and appropriate measures. The city's vulnerability to climate-induced disasters underscores the need for proactive and sustainable solutions.

The city currently lacks an integrated drainage system capable of safely transporting surface water. Many roads are constructed with normal drains that cannot handle water volumes during heavy rainfall. These drains are poorly designed and maintained, with even the newly constructed infrastructure of Rapid Transportation Buses proving inadequate in managing surface water during this rainfall season.

Call to action

I urge a national debate on how to combat this challenge. It's time for the government and policymakers to come together, employing strategic thinking and decisive actions to address this issue. We cannot accept a reality where unmanaged rainwater claims lives, destroys properties, hampers the economy, and jeopardizes public health.

Proposed intervention

One viable solution is to comprehensively map all-natural water drainage systems and construct wide, deep water ditches around the city. This intervention could draw inspiration from successful initiatives in countries facing similar challenges. For instance, Egypt's experience with the Toshka Canal, a massive project aimed at redirecting floodwaters from the Nile, showcases the potential of strategic water management in mitigating flood risks.

The construction of wide and deep ditches around the city following the mapping must be done without concern for whose house is in the channel of the natural drainage system.

This must be a special project where the government sets aside special funds to compensate all households affected by this construction. Compensation should be handled similarly to other government projects.

Moreover, the intervention should not only focus on physical infrastructure but also include community involvement and awareness programs.

Educating residents on sustainable land use practices and the importance of waste disposal can contribute significantly to preventing clogged drainage systems and reducing the overall impact of floods. The intervention must also include the establishment of proper waste management, including recycling and reusing solid waste, which significantly contributes to the breakdown of the sewage system during rainy seasons.

Additionally, considering the socio-economic dynamics of the region, a comprehensive relocation plan for residents currently inhabiting vulnerable areas is crucial. This should involve not only providing alternative housing but also ensuring access to basic amenities and livelihood opportunities in safer locations.

Let's transform this wake-up call into a catalyst for change. Together, we can create a resilient and sustainable future for Dar es Salaam and beyond. By embracing innovative, context-specific interventions and fostering a sense of shared responsibility, we can build a future where the city thrives despite the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Frank Abel is senior programme accountant at Amref Health Africa Tanzania and one of stakeholders of sustainable development focusing more on effect of climate change. The views explained herein are those of author and do not necessary represent the view of Amref. He can be reached via +255 753 73 23 55.