Lessons learned: comparing the importance and performance of flood adaptation strategies in resource-limited regions: an analysis of Malawi

In recent years, the world has witnessed an increased frequency of natural hazards, including floods. Despite advancements in flood prediction, managing such hazards requires a renewed focus on Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM), which emphasizes participatory approaches that leverage local insights. This study, conducted in Malawi's Karonga and Nkhotakota districts, employed Factor Analysis, Cluster Analysis, and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) to evaluate flood CBDM strategies and stakeholder dynamics in adaptive capacity initiatives. (i) It assesses and categorizes various stakeholders based on their perceptions and attitudes toward adaptive capacity programs. (ii) Investigates stakeholders' views regarding diverse adaptive strategies implemented within the CBDM framework in the context of flood responses. (iii) Explores critical factors that can promote sustained engagement in flash flood disaster management efforts. The findings indicate significant weaknesses in essential strategies, such as providing construction loans and promoting dyke building, alongside ineffective information-sharing mechanisms. Disturbingly, the use of early warning systems and disaster education has shown negative trends, highlighting issues in their deployment. In contrast, communities with historically low engagement in flood CBDM—along with participants who are open to resource sharing, influenced by policies, and actively engaged in risk awareness, environmental mitigation, and Nature-Based Solutions—demonstrated significantly higher levels of positive engagement. Additionally, partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations proved vital for enhancing stakeholder involvement and improving outcomes. The study recommends a framework tailored to local contexts to strengthen adaptive capacity in developing regions facing resource challenges.