Assessment of the State of Knowledge, Risk Prevention and Natural Disaster Management in the Agrosylvopastoral Areas of Urban Perimeter of Ngozi (2012–2024)

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Ngozi, Burundi, has increased vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and landslides. Steep terrain, fragile soils, high population density, and lack of effective urban planning exacerbate the risks associated with extreme weather events intensified by climate change. This study assesses knowledge, risk prevention, and natural disaster management in the agrosylvopastoral areas of the urban perimeter of Ngozi for the period 2012–2024. A representative sample of 206 participants was surveyed, including 175 community members (168 agropastoralists out of a total population of 16,807 and 7 neighborhood leaders out of 7), 7 administrative officials at the communal, provincial, and regional levels out of 7, and 24 representatives of private organizations out of 24. Data were collected through focus groups, interviews, field observations, photographs, and map analyses, and were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The results reveal significant knowledge gaps: only 28.6% of neighborhood leaders and 21.4% of agropastoralists are aware of the roles of local civil protection teams, compared to 85.7% of administrative officials and 75% of private organization representatives. Moreover, 100% of neighborhood leaders and agropastoralists are unaware of the existence of the Risk Prevention Plan, compared with only 14.3% of administrative officials and 29.2% of private organization representatives. These gaps are mainly explained by the limited dissemination of information. Participants proposed solutions such as a rational urban land use master plan, masonry drainage channels, and agroforestry practices. However, implementation remains limited, and waste management systems are lacking. This study highlights the insufficient culture of risk prevention in Ngozi and emphasizes the importance of strengthening awareness, education, and stakeholder coordination.