Assessment of Disaster Risks Preparedness in Public Markets in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

The increase in self-employment opportunities through small business in major public markets has led to overcrowding, which in turn increases exposure to disaster risks. Although a variety of initiatives have been implemented, little is known about the level of disaster preparedness and response in Tanzania’s public markets. This study aimed to assess disaster risk preparedness and response in public market settings. A descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design was adopted. A stratified random sampling technique was applied across the four markets, with proportional allocation of respondents. The study used a sample of 205 market users. Data were collected using questionnaires, physical observations, interviews, and document review. Findings revealed that public markets are exposed to electrical, psychosocial, biological, and environmental hazards, resulting in emergencies such as robbery, disease outbreaks, fire incidents, and environmental pollution. Environmental hazards were the most prevalent, followed by biological hazards, while electrical and psychosocial hazards were less frequent but still significant. Preparedness levels were generally moderate for environmental and fire risks but low for disease outbreaks and robbery. The study recommends strengthening disaster risk awareness and training, improving security systems, enhancing sanitation and waste management, and implementing regularly tested disaster preparedness and response plans.