Spatial Analysis of Natural Hazard and Climate Change Risks in Peri-Urban Expansion Areas of Dakar, Senegal

Thursday, March 12, 2009
12:30 - 2:00 pm

Spatial and Local Development Unit and Urban Week Learning Event

Spatial Analysis of Natural Hazard and Climate Change Risks in Peri-Urban Expansion Areas of Dakar, Senegal:
An Innovative Pilot Study to Ramp up Local Disaster Management Practices

Presenters:
Hyoung Gun Wang, Economist, Spatial and Local Development Team
Presentation (pdf)

Christian Hoffman, Managing Director, GeoVille Information Systems GmbH
Presentation (pdf)

Chair:
Christian Diou, Sr. Municipal Engineer, AFTU2

The BBL presented main findings from a newly developed spatial analysis methodology, as well as eye-catching natural hazards and climate change vulnerability maps and spatial profiles for the Dakar region. The spatial analysis results were then reviewed from a different perspective: assessment of institutional capacity at the local level. We discuss findings from a local field survey, which identifies the inter-relationship between governance structure, urban-rural characteristics, disaster risks and climate change preparedness. This is an on-going pilot project in order to propose policy options that the local and regional authorities could use readily when they conduct consultations with city and regional stakeholders on options for better risk management in peri-urban expansion. As this is a novel approach, we are eager to listen to your thoughts and comments.

Recent satellite imagery reveals contiguous expansion of urban built-up areas, with a large proportion of the urban growth is occurring in the peri-urban areas (outer suburbs) of Dakar, the Senegal capital city since the French West Africa (AOF). As the Dakar region experiences rapid peri-urban expansion, it faces increased vulnerability to natural hazards and climate change risks. Flooding is one of the most severe hazards in Dakar, and Senegal is one of the countries that suffer most from coastal erosion.

The Spatial and Local Development Team (FEU) and GFDRR in collaboration with colleagues from the Senegal Country Office, have launched an innovative pilot study in order to (i) develop state-of-the-art spatial analysis tools to spatially evaluate natural hazard and climate change risks, and (ii) address the critical knowledge and capacity gaps of local governments in dealing with rapid peri-urban expansion into areas that may face vulnerability to natural hazards, including those risks associated with climate variability.