Disaster risk preparedness strategies against fire in urban markets in Zambia : a case study of Chisokene market in Kitwe

Abstract

This study investigated disaster risk preparedness strategies against fire at Chisokone market in Kitwe, Zambia. The aim of the study was to analyse disaster risk preparedness strategies against fire at Chisokone market in Kitwe to ensure safety at the trading place. The objectives were to identify fire risks at Chisokone market in Kitwe. To establish disaster risk preparedness strategies against fire at Chisokone market in Kitwe. To determine the challenges being faced in implementing disaster risk preparedness strategies against fire at Chisokone market in Kitwe. To analyse efforts being made by the local authority and market committees to reduce fire disasters at the market. Qualitative research design was used with a sample size of 120 respondents in which 108 respondents were stratified and randomly selected from marketeers and customers. On the other hand, 12 respondents were purposively selected from Kitwe City Council, Market Associations and Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) respectively. Primary data for the study were collected using administered questionnaires, observations and interviews while Secondary data were obtained from already published journals and other published materials.

Data collected were subjected to appropriate statistical analysis tools such as Microsoft Excel 2007. Results obtained revealed that out of the five preparedness strategies identified, formation of the neighborhood watch was the most important strategy followed by conducting market inspections. Others were encouraging insurance amongst marketeers, conducting awareness meetings and enhancing communication with the fire brigade department. Based on the above findings I recommend that the government speeds up the implementation of re-designing and modernizing the Chisokone market. The shop owners and market managers should invite fire experts to give talks of fire safety and the need for having firefighting equipment in their shops. ZESCO should install pre-paid metres at the market to avoid illegal connection of electricity. Further research needs to be carried out to determine the compliance level on preparedness and mitigation measures adopted by market authorities.