The value of developing inclusive innovations for disaster risk communication and management in developing countries

Abstract

Human interaction with nature, technology and other living entities results in disasters (Ashwini Roy 2018, p. 265). Disasters are unpredictable and sudden and can either be slow or lingering. The various types of disasters affect the way people live on a daily basis. The innovations by human beings have brought about new ways in which to curb the effects of disasters. Past and current years have seen most governments' actions during disaster events being reactive in nature. In most cases, communities being aware of the risks that they face would wait in anticipation of a disaster to happen and then activate plans and procedures. Disasters impede human development. Development gains are inextricably linked to the level of exposure to disaster risk within any given community. Every year, countries in African countries suffer disaster losses, which set back development and leave vulnerable communities living in an unending state of risk. The chapter introduces the field of disaster risk reduction (DRR) communication. The first part of the chapter focuses on the rationale for taking an inclusive approach. It firmly establishes the links between disasters, disaster risk communication and the need for action on innovation and inclusion. It introduces the terminology and frameworks that support later practical advice in section two. The different elements of disaster risk management enjoy attention and how the different elements contribute to our understanding of disaster risk communication risk.