Nature-Based Approaches Key to Mitigating Flood Risks in Western Kenya
Busia and surrounding western counties in Kenya continue to face growing flood risks, exacerbated by climate change and evolving land-use patterns. A recent study by Betty Nasambu Opilo and Dr. Edward Mugalavai of Masinde Muliro University evaluated strategies to mitigate these risks using affordable, nature-based solutions. The research highlights that while Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies are effective in lowering hazard-related threats, their adoption remains low, leaving communities vulnerable to the increasingly frequent and intense floods.
The study, which surveyed 384 households from a population of over 63,000, combined both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies. Findings indicate that extension services—educational outreach and advisory programs—are the most impactful, benefiting 92% of participants. Additionally, structured project meetings were cited by 80% of respondents as crucial for coordinating flood mitigation activities. The research points to gaps between policy frameworks and practical implementation, particularly in the adoption of Sustainable Land Management Technologies (SLMT) that could help reduce flood impacts in flood-prone areas.
Researchers recommend a holistic approach to flood management, integrating SLMT policies with expanded training and community engagement. By strengthening extension services and coordinating efforts between county and national governments, the study argues that local populations can be better equipped to manage flood risks. The findings are expected to guide policymakers in promoting environmental equity, sustainable land management, and resilient infrastructure planning, thereby reducing the social, economic, and environmental losses caused by flooding in western Kenya.