Suitability analysis to determine optimal locations of local community radio transmitters using GIS and remote sensing: a case study of Chipinge district, Zimbabwe

In response to the increasing frequency of natural disasters worldwide, effective disaster risk reduction strategies, including robust early warning systems, are crucial. Zimbabwe, facing hazards such as cyclones, floods, and -droughts, requires strengthened preparedness and response mechanisms. This study implements a combined early warning system and communication tool, focusing on the strategic siting of community radio transmitters to disseminate vital information for pre and post-disaster reduction and recovery. Utilising a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach, incorporating the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing, the research identifies suitable locations based on criteria such as settlements, elevation, power lines, roads, and rivers. Spatial decision-making models were employed that is the weighted linear combination (WLC), and AHP to determine criteria weights. The analysis, conducted using spatial tools within ArcGIS, resulted in a site suitability map, indicating that approximately 40% of the study area is most suitable, 25% highly suitable, 20% suitable, 5% moderately suitable, and 10% unsuitable for siting the community radio station transmitters. This strategic placement aims to directly benefit local communities by improving access to critical information before, during, and after disasters, while also assisting disaster management agencies and government officials in developing communication infrastructure and more effective early warning systems, thus contributing to enhanced community resilience.