ABSTRACT
The building of hydro-dams as an adaptation strategy for climate change is highly contested due to the environmental, social and economic impacts on the most vulnerable populations. Hydro-dams are highly politicized as they are significantly tied to foreign investment and the hydraulic mission as a path to promote economic growth. Climate change threatens the safety of dams, reducing hydropower and water ‘security’ with potential to contradict the intended outcomes. This chapter examines the nexus of dams, water security, climate change and vector-borne diseases in Ethiopia and sheds light on the prevalence of malaria due to hydroelectric dams on women’s health. It argues that in the renaissance of big-dam building, local people are left with the pursuit of small-scale, ‘triage’-oriented practices in pursuit of their own water, food, health and livelihood security.
