Neftaly: Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction in Informal Settlements

Introduction

Informal settlements across South Africa and beyond are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, intense storms, flooding, and droughts threaten the livelihoods, health, and safety of millions living in these densely populated, underserved areas.

Neftaly (South African Youth Project) recognises the urgency of building climate resilience in these communities. Through education, community mobilisation, and advocacy, Neftaly works to integrate climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction (DRR) into the everyday lives of people in informal settlements.

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Understanding the Risks

1. Vulnerability of Informal Settlements

Informal settlements are disproportionately exposed to climate hazards due to:

• Poor housing structures and overcrowding
• Lack of formal infrastructure (drainage, roads, sewage systems)
• Location on floodplains, hillsides, or reclaimed land
• Limited access to services and government support

2. Climate-Related Hazards

• Floods from heavy rains and blocked stormwater drains
• Heatwaves impacting health and energy needs
• Water shortages and drought leading to food insecurity
• Fires exacerbated by dry conditions and flammable materials
• Disease outbreaks due to poor sanitation and contaminated water

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Neftaly’s Approach to Climate Change Adaptation and DRR

Neftaly takes a grassroots, participatory approach to empower communities and strengthen resilience through five key pillars:

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1. Community Education and Awareness

Neftaly provides training and awareness campaigns tailored to local needs, focusing on:

• Understanding climate change and its local impacts
• Practical steps to prepare for and reduce risks
• Promoting environmental stewardship (e.g., waste management, tree planting)

Workshops are delivered through local leaders, schools, and youth hubs to maximise reach and engagement.

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2. Risk Mapping and Local Planning

Neftaly facilitates participatory risk assessments with residents, allowing communities to:

• Identify high-risk zones (e.g., flood-prone areas)
• Map local resources and evacuation routes
• Co-develop community action plans for emergencies

This helps create locally-owned strategies that are more likely to be implemented and maintained.

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3. Community-Based Early Warning Systems

Neftaly supports informal settlements in establishing simple, effective early warning systems such as:

• SMS alert networks
• Whistle and horn systems for fire or flood warnings
• Trained volunteers to monitor weather conditions and report dangers

These systems ensure that residents can respond quickly in the face of an imminent hazard.

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4. Youth and Women Empowerment

Youth and women are often the most affected by climate change, yet they hold untapped potential for leadership.

Neftaly:

• Trains youth as climate ambassadors and DRR advocates
• Encourages women-led climate initiatives, including food gardens and water-saving techniques
• Supports local innovation in building safer homes and community infrastructure

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5. Advocacy and Partnerships

Neftaly actively engages local government, NGOs, and private partners to:

• Advocate for inclusive urban planning and funding for informal areas
• Promote the integration of informal settlements into national climate adaptation strategies
• Share success stories and scale up effective community models

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Case Example: Flood Resilience Project in Khayelitsha

In 2024, Neftaly piloted a flood resilience project in parts of Khayelitsha township. Through community training, construction of simple stormwater channels, and installation of raised footpaths, the project reduced flood impacts in over 200 households. Youth leaders were trained to monitor rain patterns and share warnings via WhatsApp groups.

This success story highlights the power of community-based adaptation.

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Key Recommendations

To strengthen climate resilience and disaster risk reduction in informal settlements, Neftaly calls for:

1. Recognition and inclusion of informal settlements in municipal climate planning
2. Investment in community-led infrastructure (e.g., drainage, firebreaks, green spaces)
3. Expansion of climate education for schools and households
4. Collaboration with civil society and the private sector for sustainable solutions
5. Ongoing support for youth innovation in climate action

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Conclusion

Informal settlements are on the frontline of climate change — but they are also hubs of innovation, resilience, and untapped potential. Neftaly believes that with the right tools, training, and partnerships, these communities can adapt to a changing climate while building safer, healthier futures.

Neftaly continues to stand with the residents of informal settlements, empowering them to lead in both climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.