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LECTURE BY DR. GLADYS BIWOTT

 Dr. Gladys Chelagat Biwott, a Visiting Research Fellow at the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies, University of Lagos delivered a lecture on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 12 Noon (Nigeria Time).
 
TOPIC: RISING WATERS: AN ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITIES’ VULNERABILITIES TO FLOODING IN LAGOS

The study examines the experiences of residents in Isheri, Lekki and Makoko, highlighting the social, economic and environmental factors contributing to flood vulnerability.

The findings revealed that 71.5 per cent of respondents reported economic losses, including disrupted livelihoods, depleted savings, increased transportation costs and damage to household belongings. Women, older people, mothers of young children and low-income households were identified among the most vulnerable groups.

A key aspect of the research was the role of indigenous knowledge in flood prediction and community resilience. The study highlighted local forecasting practices and traditional communication networks, while noting the need to preserve indigenous knowledge and evaluate traditional remedies for safety and effectiveness.

The research calls for improved drainage and waste management, stronger enforcement of urban planning regulations, more reliable early warning systems and greater community participation in disaster preparedness.
 
Through this study, Dr. Biwott contributes to ongoing discussions on environmental sustainability, disaster risk reduction and urban resilience, emphasising the need for evidence-based and community-centred approaches to addressing flooding in Lagos.