FLOOD RISK AND SPATIAL INEQUITY: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES’ SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION AND SUSCEPTIBILITY TO FLOODING IN BLANTYRE, MALAWI

Abstract

Malawi, an independent nation since 1964, has experienced a significant wave of

urbanization influenced by its historical and socio-political context. This urbanization has profoundly impacted the vulnerability of its citizens to climate change. The southern region, home to the commercial hub of Blantyre, is particularly at risk from climate hazards such as flash floods and landslides, exacerbated by intense rainfall from events like Tropical Cyclone Freddy in 2023. Previous climate impact studies in Malawi have primarily focused on agriculture, overlooking urban vulnerabilities, especially among marginalized communities. Constrained by historical and ongoing socio-economic processes, these communities often reside in flood-prone areas due to limited land access, thereby highlighting the environmental injustices deeply rooted in colonial-era planning practices. In my study, I explore the spatial legacies of colonial urban planning in Blantyre, how these arrangements heighten flood vulnerability, and the effectiveness of current flood management policies in addressing these vulnerabilities. Utilizing a mixed- methods approach, including historical analysis, surveys, and GIS technology, I uncover the complex interplay between historical legacies, urban planning, and vulnerability in informal settlements. My findings reveal that vulnerable communities in Traditional Housing Areas (THAs) and informal settlements are unequally exposed to climate-induced disasters like floods in Blantyre, Malawi. I emphasize that colonial-era planning laws, perpetuated post-independence, continue to shape urban vulnerabilities. The study also highlights critical gaps in disaster governance, suggesting that current policies, including the 2023 Disaster Risk Management Bill, must address to better address the needs of marginalized communities. By mapping flood-prone areas and examining policy effectiveness, my study provides insights for developing inclusive flood management strategies that enhance resilience and reduce risks for Blantyre's vulnerable populations.