Inundation spread through several neighborhoods, causing significant property damage and forcing the evacuation of residents from their waterlogged homes.
The crisis was compounded by a lack of clear direction for citizens. While police intermittently cautioned residents via local radio to avoid certain roads and remain indoors, no coordinated response was evident. Traffic signals failed to operate, and with no police officers stationed to manage intersections, long traffic jams ensued—trapping parents on their way to retrieve stranded children from schools.
Both motorists and passengers using public transport arrived at their homes after four to seven hours within a radius of 15 kilometres of Greater Gaborone from the city centre.
Critics note that Gaborone, which has never before experienced such a disaster in its 60-year history, is now under scrutiny for its poor urban planning. The incident has highlighted deficiencies including the absence of proper access roads and a non-functional storm water drainage system—issues that city authorities have been warned about for years.
Moreover, the absence of visible disaster management teams and a unified leadership response has raised serious concerns about local government preparedness. Questions are also being raised about the early warning systems managed by the Department of Meteorological Services, as residents were caught unawares by the downpour.
Recommended actions during a disaster in a city like Gaborone
When a disaster such as this strikes, effective disaster management relies on a coordinated, multi-pronged approach:
Early Warning and Public Communication
Timely Alerts: Meteorological services must monitor weather patterns closely and issue early warnings using diverse channels—SMS, radio, social media, and community networks—to ensure that all residents receive the message.
Clear Guidance: Authorities should provide straightforward instructions on evacuation routes, safe zones, and emergency contact points.
Activation of a Comprehensive Disaster Management Plan
Predefined Roles: A well-documented disaster management plan should outline the roles of government agencies, emergency services, and community leaders. This plan must be regularly updated and practiced through drills.
Coordination Centers: Establish emergency operations centers to centralize communications and decision-making during the crisis.
Immediate Mobilisation of Emergency Responders
Deployment of First Responders: Police, fire, and ambulance services should be rapidly deployed to rescue stranded citizens, control traffic, and provide medical assistance.
Traffic Management: Temporary traffic controllers and operational emergency signals can help manage road congestion and clear pathways for emergency vehicles.
Infrastructure Preparedness and Resilience
Maintenance and Upgrades: Continuous investment in and maintenance of critical infrastructure—particularly storm water drainage systems and access roads—is essential to mitigate the impact of severe weather.
Regular Assessments: Conduct periodic infrastructure audits to identify vulnerabilities and address them before disasters occur.
Community Support and Relief Services
Evacuation and Shelters: Designate safe evacuation routes and temporary shelters equipped with necessary supplies such as food, water, and medical aid.
Public Assistance: Set up information desks and helplines to support residents and guide them through emergency procedures.
Post-Disaster Recovery and Review
Damage Assessment: After the immediate crisis, conduct a detailed assessment to gauge the extent of damage and identify areas for immediate repair.
Learning and Improvement: Use post-disaster evaluations to refine disaster management plans and invest in long-term infrastructure improvements, ensuring better preparedness for future events.
Implementing these measures can not only reduce the immediate impact of disasters but also build a resilient framework for long-term urban management in Gaborone.
Such preparedness is essential to safeguard lives, minimize property damage, and ensure that the city can quickly recover from future natural calamities.
