The Role of Kenya’s Private Sector in Disaster Preparedness and Management: a Case Study of Ufundi Sacco

Abstract

Disaster preparedness and management is always a vital role in private sectors across the world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the role of Kenya‟s private sector in disaster preparedness and management with Ufundi Sacco being the case study. The objectives of the study were divided into four sections that dealt with disaster management facilities available at Ufundi Sacco, the level of disaster management training, the level of compliance with the disaster management policies and lastly the disaster response mechanism put in place at the Sacco. The study sample was the staff of Ufundi Sacco that comprised of 350 employees and 12 members of the board. We used stratified random sampling and a survey for both employees and board members. Data collection was done using questionnaires, which was analyzed and findings presented in tabular form. The validity of the instruments was measured through Content validity, which ensured that all respondents understand the items on the questionnaire similarly to avoid misunderstanding. Response options were provided for most of the questions to ensure that the answers given are in line with the research questions they are meant to measure. The study findings established that equipment of alarm systems (fire alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems) determined the level of disaster preparedness at the Sacco. There were also informative forums on disaster management at the Sacco as means of educating employees on disaster management processes and preparedness. Disaster preparedness is not limited to basic firefighting equipment and the knowledge of how to use them. Rather, a holistic knowledge of what constitutes a disaster can go a long way in creating an enabling environment for those involved have a broader spectrum of expectations. Importantly, roles and responsibilities should be clear to all. Similarly, the recovery from a disaster with little or no disruption to the business arising from a disaster cycle is the biggest testimony of disaster preparedness and management. However, there is need for disaster responders to be conscious and sensitive to changes required in modern day disaster management protocols. The study recommended that the Kenyan government should incorporate these measures in the constitution so that the relevant agencies will always be prepared in case of a disaster occurrence.