As the rainy season begins, authorities are called upon to act to prevent flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Flooding is a recurring problem in Mali, particularly in Bamako, where several neighborhoods are regularly submerged during the winter. Neighborhoods such as Niamakoro, Lafiabougou, Para Djicorono, Baco Djicoroni, Kalabancoro and Kalabancoura, Missira, Banconi, Talko are particularly exposed due to their topography and insufficient drainage infrastructure.
Faced with this situation, citizens and environmental experts are sounding the alarm about the increased risks of intense precipitation and flash floods which threaten these neighborhoods even though a gutter cleaning operation is underway in several sectors of Bamako.
Diamnatou Diawara, a resident of Lafiabougou Talko expresses her concerns “Every year, we live in fear of floods. Our homes are flooded, and we often lose our belongings. We hope that this time the government will take effective measures.”
Disaster management experts and local NGOs are urging the government to implement proactive strategies to minimize the impacts of flooding. They recommend immediate actions such as cleaning and maintaining drainage channels, educating communities on flood prevention.
A specialist in climate risk management emphasizes: “The government must act to strengthen existing infrastructure and create new ones. Effective stormwater management is crucial to protect people and their property.”
Being in its area of intervention, what has the Ministry of the Environment developed as an action plan for this rainy season? Its work must include, among other things, clearing clogged gutters and waterways, as well as setting up early warning systems to inform residents of imminent flood risks.
In addition to government efforts, the participation of local communities is essential to prevent flooding. Citizens are encouraged not to throw waste into the gutters and to participate in cleaning campaigns organized by municipalities.
It is imperative that government and citizens work together to put in place effective flood prevention measures. Concerted and proactive action can not only save lives and property, but also strengthen the resilience of communities to climate hazards.
Bintou Diarra
