“I heard a loud bang (Vroom)…”: Public Perception of Causes and Socio-Environmental Effects of Landslides in Northern Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Landslides in Côte d’Ivoire, are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, causing significant environmental devastation and loss of life in Côte d’Ivoire particularly in Northen Abidjan region. Though Abidjan is often prone to coastal flooding, it is highly susceptible to landslides. This study therefore explored community perceptions of causes and effects of landslides, and the as
sociated responses in the affected region. A mixed-methods approach, incorporating a survey of 384 households, field observations, transect walks, and key informant interviews of key environmental and public safety officials in Côte
d’Ivoire, was employed. Heavy rainfall/ long duration (51%) and steep slopes (23%) were identified as the primary perceived causes of landslides. Qualitative data strongly confirmed these, highlighting heavy precipitation, poor soil structure and unregulated construction in high-risk zones as key contributors. Perceived socio-environmental impacts include building collapses (46%), fatalities (33%), injuries (15%), widespread property destruction, displacement, and disrupted children's schooling, confirmed by field observations. Community narratives revealed inadequate early warning systems and predominantly
reactive institutional responses, often limited to post-disaster assistance. Consequently, residents actively implement local adaptation strategies (e.g., sandbags, tyres) to severe slope erosion. This study offers crucial insights for disaster risk management, aiming to improve public awareness and strengthen institutional capacity to effectively understand and mitigate devastating landslide impacts through informed decision-making, including improved early warning systems, community awareness programs, and preventative land-use planning and policies.