By Maryam Diallo
Derick Ayelo Samson, a young geographer working alongside a team of scientists at African Climate Reporters, recently visited Kigo Road, one of Kaduna’s flood-prone areas, to assess how residents living close to the river are coping with the recurring threat of flooding.
Kigo Road has become one of the most vulnerable areas to flooding in Kaduna, particularly during the rainy season. During the field visit, Samson interacted with residents who shared their experiences of living with floods over the years and explained the various ways they have adapted to the situation.
As a young geographer, Samson assessed the community and observed the impact of flooding on both residents and farmland. His fieldwork revealed the significant risks faced by people living along the riverbank, including the potential loss of lives, homes, farmland and other valuable property.
Based on his observations and interactions with residents, Samson emphasized the need for people living along the riverbank to consider relocating to safer areas, particularly during the rainy season, in order to reduce the risk of loss of lives and property.
He also called for increased public awareness campaigns targeting communities located close to rivers and other flood-prone areas. According to him, greater awareness and timely action can encourage residents to move to safer locations before flooding becomes severe.
The field assessment highlights the importance of combining scientific research, community experiences and public awareness in addressing the growing challenges posed by flooding in vulnerable communities across Kaduna.
