Digitalization in Disaster Risk Reduction: The Use of Smartphones to Enhance the Safety of Informal Settlements in Iringa, Tanzania

Abstract Housing in informal settlements often lacks construction techniques that adopt criteria of resilience to natural hazards. Smartphones are rapidly diffusing economically developing countries. The aim this study was assess the current use smartphones by masons Iringa, Tanzania, and identify pathways for improving their practices. Data were collected through a mixed method approach includes in-depth interviews, surveys, focus group with masons. results reveal only few received formal training, most them have never interacted qualified engineer nor consulted trained professionals when needed. Most own smartphone they extensively it gather technical information from web, transfer money mobile payments, share images details, promote work on social media. broad shows potential enhancing quality. This article presents unique analysis which could be extended other Based findings, new strategies proposed engage local stakeholders foster exchange knowledge safer via smartphones.