"The main conclusions drawn from the analysis of online opinions during natural disasters in Africa are highlighted below:
Climate change is one of the main concerns of the African population in recent years. This climate problem is considered to be causing more and greater natural disasters on the continent. Therefore, it is observed how this issue occupies most of the topics of analysis, from education, the health system or employment and economy.
Most online conversations during natural disasters (75%) share information about the natural hazard and make emergency calls for action.
In relation to employment and economy, one of the most persistent narratives is about how natural disasters affect the countryfs agriculture, one of the most emerging sectors in the continent.
Citizen concerns after a natural disaster intensify when they coincide with other health problems, as has happened in the past with Ebola, Malaria or COVID-19.
The population is particularly concerned about how natural disasters affect the most vulnerable people, such as women, children, the poorest population or minority communities such as the Ogiek in Kenya.
Between 2% and 6% of the comments generated online when a natural event occurs are questions. The topics with the highest concentration of questions are the economy and employment, education and action to help vulnerable populations.
By analyzing the online conversations during some past natural disasters, it has been possible to understand how these conversations are configured when an event occurs. By monitoring certain topics such as health or education, the order of concerns of the population can be understood at all times and how this evolves over time. At the same time, identifying specific questions around the different topics and countries, it helps to understand the main concerns or needs from the citizens when a natural hazard occurs. In addition, using the top keywords, you can identify what the population is talking about to a greater extent. This, together with the identification of qualitative insights, can gain a better understanding of citizen concerns and identify possible areas for action." (Conclusions)