Who helps when disasters strike—and what are their main challenges?

In this sixth episode, we explore how Tanzanian communities respond to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and earthquakes. While formal systems are often slow to act, ordinary people step in with immediate support. We examine how everyday giving operates alongside—and sometimes in spite of—formal institutions, and what this means for disaster preparedness, equity, and recognition.

To discuss this, our host Alex Maxelon is joined by:

• Dr. Line Engbo Gissel, Associate Professor at Roskilde University (RUC), whose research explores the politics of international law, transnational justice, and how legal institutions interact with African governance systems.
• Dr. Esther Mlingwa, Lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and Researcher at EHTZ. Her research within EHTZ focuses on legal and institutional frameworks related to everyday humanitarianism.

For a deeper dive into the themes of this episode, we recommend:

📄 Mlingwa, E. (2024). The Legal and Institutional Challenges Facing Community-Based Disaster Management in Tanzania. Tanzania Journal of Population Studies and Development, 31(1).

📁 Gissel, L. E., Hambati, H., Majamba, H., & Mlingwa, E. (2024). Everyday Humanitarianism in Disaster Response [Policy Brief]. EHTZ Website.

This podcast is part of the Everyday Humanitarianism in Tanzania (EHTZ) research project—a collaboration between universities in Denmark and Tanzania. Funded by Danida and led by Professor Lisa Ann Richey, the project explores how ordinary people engage in humanitarian action. Learn more at everydayhumanitarianismintanzania.org.

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