Child-Led Risk Assessments for Disaster Resilience and Protection in Epworth, Harare’s Informal Settlements

Hope Jaricha

Lecturer, Department of Social Work, Julius Nyerere School of Social Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

This study explores child-led participatory risk assessment to generate evidence-based recommendations for local disaster risk reduction planning and policy in Zimbabwe’s informal settlements. The research employs a qualitative research approach targeting children aged between 10 and 17 years, community leaders, civil society organisations and others. Findings reveal that assessments identify localized risks that are often sidelined or overlooked by an adult-focused approach, leading to context-specific mitigation measures that enhance protective environments in informal settlements. The involvement of children improves community awareness, fosters collective responsibility and strengthens overall resilience. The study concludes by highlighting that child-led participatory risk assessment is an effective tool for fostering resilient and protective communities in urban informal settings. The research demonstrates that child-focused methods contribute both theoretical insights and practical guidelines for disaster risk reduction policy, ultimately shaping safer environments and empowering children as active and key stakeholders.    

Keywords: Child-led participatory risk assessment, Community resilience, Disaster risk reduction, Child protection, Informal settlements, Urban vulnerability.

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