Language: English

Original: English

PROJECT: WATER INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FOR

RESILIENCE IN SOMALILAND PROGRAM

COUNTRY: SOMALILAND

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

SUMMARY
Date: March 2016

Team Leader John Sifuma, Senior Water and Sanitation Officer EARC/OWAS
Team members Christopher Mutasa, Principal Financial Analyst EARC/OWAS
Parveen Kumar Gupta, Principal Procurement Officer, EARC/ORPF
Appraisal Team
David Mutuku, Principal Financial Mgt Specialist EARC/ORPF

Dana Elhassan, Senior Social Development Specialist SEOG

Olufunso Somorin, Senior Policy Analyst EARC/ORTS
Elizabeth Ndinya, Principal Environmentalist ONEC.3/SARC
Regional Director Mr. Gabriel Negatu EARC
Sector Director Mr. Sibry TAPSOBA, Director ORTS

Sector Director Mr. El Azizi Mohamed, Director OWAS

Sector Manager Mr. Osward Chanda, Division Manager OWAS.2

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 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK (ESMF)
SUMMARY

Project Name : Water Infrastructure Development for Resilience in Somaliland

Program
Country : SOMALILAND
Project Code : P-SO-E00-001

1. INTRODUCTION

Somaliland is located in the Horn of Africa, with an area of 137,600 km2 with a population of
about 3.85 million according to the Ministry of National Planning and Development (Somaliland
in Figures, 2011). Somaliland is a majorly water scarce country with no perennial river flow
making groundwater is the main source of water for the majority of the people in Somaliland.

In Somaliland estimates say that 55% of Somaliland communities live in rural areas but less than
20% have access to improved water supplies and nearly 88% lack access to universal sanitation.
This must be addressed and this is complicated significantly by: (i) Continued conflict, (ii) The
low rainfall and very complex hydrogeology of the country, (iii) The centrality of pastoralist
livelihoods to the economy, (iv) Weak or absent local government institutions.

The program involves rehabilitation of existing earth dams and construction of boreholes and
additional dams in unserved areas. According to the Bank’s ESAP, the project is classified as
Category 2 mainly because most impacts are site specific and have no significant and irreversible
detrimental effect. According to the Bank’s Climate Safeguards System, the program is classified
as Category II, requiring the implementation of adaptation measures to increase the resilience of
communities and the water infrastructure to be rehabilitated and constructed to withstand the
impacts of climate change. The program details are at preliminary stage and the detailed designs
shall be developed during project implementation. For these reasons, the type of Environmental
Assessment tool for at this stage is the development of the Environmental and Social
Management Framework (ESMF).

2. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAMME OPERATIONS

The proposed Water Infrastructure Development for Resilience program to be financed by the
Bank has three main components;
i. Support for construction and rehabilitation of Water and Sanitation infrastructure for
resilience and stability,
ii. Capacity Building Component for the Ministry of Water Resources in Somaliland,
iii. Project Management.

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To date, in Somaliland, the exact locations of the project sites are not known (only Regions
identified) (Awdal, Maroodi Jeex, Togdheer and Sool (see Figure. 1)

Gulf of Aden

Figure 0-1: Map of Somaliland and Sub-Project Locations

The overall objective of the program is to build a resilient and sustainable water and sanitation
sector that meets the needs of all beneficiaries in the country as well as to provide water supply
and sanitation infrastructure in targeted areas with a view to improving livelihoods and building
resilience against climate variability and fragility.

The specific Program Development Objectives (PDOs) are to: (i) Contribute to water security,
improved livelihoods and health by improving availability and access to water in a sustainable
way in Somaliland; (ii) To Improve access to water and sanitation services for the rural (pastoral,
agro-pastoral communities) and peri urban communities in Somaliland; (iii) To improve capacity
of government, local and international organizations in water and sanitation sector with MOWR
supporting communities in Operation and Maintenance (O&M).

Component 1: Support for construction and rehabilitation of Water and Sanitation

infrastructure for Resilience:

The following are the outputs expected in this component

 Construction of 9 new earth dams (Haffirs) with draw off and sanitation facilities;
 Rehabilitation of 6 existing earth dams and incorporate sanitation and draw off facilities;
 Augmenting Hargeisa water system to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS);

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  Rehabilitation of 4 strategic boreholes by incorporating sanitation facilities, upgrading to
solar power
 Construction of 20 solar powered mini water systems with draw off and sanitation
facilities including micro-irrigation
 Sanitation facilities for Schools/ markets and institution toilets
 Environmental mitigation measures
 Design and Supervision
 Procurement of drilling rig with all accessories and Procurement of Bulldozer D9 with all
accessories

Component 2: Capacity Development:

The following are the outputs expected in this component

 Support to the Hargeisa water technology institute
 Support to the water quality laboratory at Hargeisa and mobile water kits and equipment
at the Districts
 Equipment and Logistical support to the MoWR
 Mobilisation/Capacity building for communities
 Publicity and Sanitation and Hygiene promotion

Component 3: Project Management:

This relates to the day to day implementation of the program. It will entail the management cost
of the envisaged third party implementing agency, as well as logistics and routine program
operating expenses. The cost of program supervision and M&E will be part of this component. A
Project Management Team (PMT) will be constituted at the MoWR and staffed with adequately
skilled personnel capable of delivering on the program objectives. Implementation of
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), and annual program audits are also
covered under this component.
The following are the outputs expected in this component
• TA support to MoWR (4 Technical Officers)
• TA support by UNICEF
• Project Management
• Monitoring of the Implementation of ESMP
• Program Audit
• Steering Committees

3. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

The key legal instrument for environment management in Somaliland is the Constitution. The
Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland enshrines matters that relate to the environment and
natural resource management thus, providing the keystone to the National Policy on
Environment. Article 18 of the Constitution affirms that: The state shall give a special priority to
the protection and safeguarding of the environment, which is essential for the well-being of the

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society, and to the care of the natural resources. In this regard, development projects have to
comply with the Constitutional provision which obliges developers to ensure a clean and healthy
environment.

The overall vision of the National Policy on Environment, 2011 is to provide a framework
management guide for the management of Somaliland’s environment and natural resources so as
to ensure that they are managed on sustainable basis and retain their integrity to support the
needs of the current and future generations. Preparing ESIAs is therefore to ensure that, the
project complies with Somaliland National Environment Policy requirements. The Constitution,
the Policy on Environment and related sectoral legislation and regulations are consistent with the
Bank’s Operational Safeguards (OS) 1 on Environmental Assessment. OS1 was triggered and an
ESMF prepared to guide the implementation of the Project and the proposed sub-projects.

The Bank’s Operational Safeguards 2 on Involuntary Resettlement is not triggered since the
project involves largely construction of new earth dams, rehabilitation of existing earth dams and
rehabilitation of strategic boreholes in largely arid and semi-arid areas of Somaliland. Hence no
resettlement is anticipated. In the event that there is a property or asset to be affected by the
project, the Bank’s Operational Safeguard 2 shall be triggered during implementation and
compensation shall be paid to the Project Affected Person.

Operational Safeguards 3 on Biodiversity is not triggered since the project is being implemented
in semi-arid zones with no sensitive ecosystems. In 1998, the Ministry of Pastoral Development
& Environment promulgated the Environment Conservation Act into law to ensure the safeguard
of the environment. The Act provides for the management and protection of trees and general
management forest reserves.

Consultations with the Ministry of Environment and Rural Development (MoERD) which is a
lead sector on matters of environment management in Somaliland (in absence of a dedicated
agency) during this study revealed that, a draft comprehensive Environment Act for Somaliland,
including guidelines for environmental impact assessment, are being finalized and will be
submitted to Parliament for approval shortly. It is also clear that, environmental and natural
resources management in Somaliland is still scattered in sectors and sector laws and policies in
absence of an umbrella law and institution mandated with environmental management in the
country. Matters related to Operational Safeguards 4 on Pollution Prevention and Hazardous
Waste Management are likely to be addressed by the new law. However, in the construction and
rehabilitation of earth dams and strategic boreholes Operational Safeguards 4 is unlikely to be
triggered.

The Bank’s OS 5 on Labour Conditions, Occupational Health and Safety is triggered since the
construction works will require the recruitment of a labour force to dig the dams and undertake
the required construction and rehabilitation works. As with all civil works which involves
excavations, there are likely to be risks to employees that require that due care is taken in the
provision of personal protective equipment and safety procedures for construction workers. The
occupational safety risk will be mitigated through the selection and effective use of mechanical
equipment and personal protective equipment. Work procedures, training, and immunizations of
employees will also be implemented.

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In view of the environment and social baseline and the nature of the program activities, the
program triggered Operational Safeguard 1 (Environmental and Social Assessment), Operational
Safeguards 4 (Pollution Prevention and Waste Management) and Operational Safeguards 5 on
Labour and Occupational Health and Safety. Operational Safeguards 2 (Involuntary
Resettlement, land acquisition population displacement and compensation) and Operational
Safeguard 3 (biodiversity, renewable resources and ecosystem services) are not triggered. In line
with the requirements of the above policies, this ESMF was formulated to cover the
Environmental Assessment.

Operational Safeguards Triggered

OS1 Environmental Assessment Yes
OS2 Involuntary Resettlement No
OS3 Natural Habitats / Biodiversity & Ecosystem Services No
OS4 Pollution Prevention & Hazardous Materials Yes
OS5 Labour Conditions & Occupational Health and Safety Yes

According to the Climate Safeguards Screening, the proposed project was categorized as II on
climate risk with a climate screening scorecard value of 47/100. This is interpreted to mean that
the projects may be vulnerable to climate risk and requires a review of climate change risks and
adaptation measures. Practical risk management and adaption measures should be integrated in
the sub-project designs and implementation plans. During the preparation of ESMP for each sub-
project, an assessment of the climate change impacts shall be evaluated using the Bank’s
Adaptation Review and Evaluation Procedures (AREP) under the Bank’s Climate Safeguards
System (CSS). This will help identify an appropriate adaptation action including relevant
activities for each sub-project as well as capacity building needs for the Executing Agency.

4. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE INFORMATION

Somaliland is located in the Horn of Africa, with an area of 137,600 km2 and a biophysical
environment consisting of a variety of ecosystems, limited biodiversity and water resources. The
altitude ranges from 2,100 meters above sea level at the highest peak, to sea level. A large
portion of the country consists of high plateaus and mountains but has no rivers or lakes.

Climate: The Somali climate is hot, arid to semi-arid. There are two wet seasons (Gu April to
June, and Deyr October to November) with approximately 500 mm rainfall annually in the
northern highlands, 50-150mm along coast, and 300-500 mm in the southwest. With the impact
of climate change extreme weather patterns such as droughts and floods (see also natural
disasters) are likely to increase in frequency and magnitude

The Gu' (Spring) rainy season – late March to end of May followed by warm and relatively dry
summer and rainy autumn that ends though the end of September in far West but ending through
November in the East and dry season, which starts in December and ends in mid-March with
hardly any rains.

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 Temperature: The mean air temperatures are generally high, in the range of about 25oC to more
than 35oC in the northern coastal regions (e.g. Berbera and Boosaaso) while it is cooler in the
north-western mountain region (e.g. Shiekh) where it varies from about 15oC to about 23oC. In
the inland areas of the Darror and Nugal basins, it varies between 22oC and about 33oC. The
mean temperature is highest from June to August in the Gulf of Aden basin areas whereas the
peak temperature occurs from May to September in the inland areas.

Potential Evapotranspiration: The annual Potential Evapotranspiration (PET) exceeds 2,000

mm in the Somaliland and Puntland, and is even as high as 3,000 mm in the Gulf of Aden. In
most locations, PET exceeds rainfall in all months of the year. Except in a few locations in the
extreme northwest regions, even 0.5 PET exceeds rainfall in all months, giving zero values for
the longest vegetation growing period in most of the areas. This is why most areas in the
northern basins are not suitable for agriculture (Basnyat, 2007).

Source: FAO-SWALIM, 2012: Hydrogeological Survey and Assessment of Selected Areas in

Somaliland and Puntland
Figure 0-2: Operational monitoring network and rainfall distribution map of the study area

Water Resources: Water resources are generally scarce in Somaliland and there is no river with
perennial flows in Somaliland. Groundwater is the main source of water for the majority of the
people in Somaliland to meet their water needs, groundwater from dug wells, bore holes and
springs are the primary sources of water for the population in the most of the country.
Groundwater is harnessed by the rural and urban population to meet domestic and livestock
water needs as well as for small scale irrigation.

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According to FAO-SWALIM, 2012 a total of 1,037 water sources are found in Somaliland (see
figure below). More than half of the water sources are shallow wells. Dams are restricted
basically to the region west and south of Hargeisa, while springs are found in the mountainous
regions, particularly in Awdal, between Hargeisa and Berbera and around Erigavo.

Table 0-1: Water resources in Somaliland

Region Dams Boreholes Dug wells Springs Others Total
Awdal 14 25 104 37 180
Sanaag 2 32 107 30 1 172
Sool 2 18 86 3 109
Togdheer 19 40 86 20 31 196
Woqooyi Galbeed 87 43 212 34 4 380
Grand Total 124 158 595 124 36 1037

Source: SWALIM (2012): Somalia Water and Land Information Management

Figure 0-3: Water resources in Somaliland

Flora: The vegetation in Somaliland is predominantly dry deciduous bushland and thicket
dominated by species of Acacia thorn trees, commiphora, aloes, baobab, and candelabra trees
are native to the semiarid regions, with semi-desert grasslands and deciduous shrub land in the
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western parts neighboring Ethiopia. Trees that provide frankincense and myrrh are native to the
region as well. Mangrove trees are found in the western part of Somaliland namely from Zeila
to Lowyacada along the Red Sea coast. Kapok, and papaya grow along the rivers. Coconut, dune
palm, pine, juniper, cactus, and flowering trees such as the flamboyant were imported and
have become widespread in populated areas.

Fauna: Along with its large livestock herd, Somalia has one of the most abundant and varied
stocks of wildlife in Africa. Animal life includes elephants, lions, wildcats, giraffes, zebras,
hyenas, hippopotamus, waterbucks, gazelles and other mammals, although many of them are
on the verge of extinction or are already extinct. A large variety of birds inhabits the different
geographical zones, among these several species endemic to the Somali Region, e.g. Somali
Pigeon (Columba oliviae), Somali Thrush (Turdus ludoviciae) and Warsangli Linnet (Carduelis
johannis). For whole Somalia a total of 171 species of mammals, 655 species of birds, and over
3,000 species of plants have been reported.

Environmental Degradation: According to Ibrahim, M.O. (2010), fauna and flora in

Somaliland is affected by environmental degradation due to several factors such as: (i) clearing
of vegetation and deforestation (average deforestation rate of 0.97% per annum); (ii) illegal
charcoal production, trade and export; (iii) over-fishing and illegal fishing by foreign companies
in coastal waters; (iv) indiscriminate shooting and hunting of wildlife; (v) uncontrolled over-
grazing by livestock; (vi) Erosion and desertification. No official natural reserve or national park
has been established in Somaliland so far.

Geomorphology: Somaliland can be divided into three major physiographic provinces: (i) The
coastal belt and sloping plain; (ii) The mountainous zone incised by numerous toggas (rivers);
(iii) The plateaus and valleys which include the large undulated Hawd and Sool plateaus and the
Nugal and Darror valleys. The highest elevations occur in the Golis Mountains near the Gulf of
Aden. Coastal belt and plateaus have mainly an undulating topography.

Geology: The following major geological units can be distinguished in Somaliland: (i)
Precambrian / early Cambrian basement complex: Volcanic and metamorphic rocks; (ii) Jurassic:
Limestone, shale and sandstone; (iii) Cretaceous: Nubian sandstones (sandstones and
limestones); (iv) Tertiary (Eocene): Limestone, evaporitic rocks (Auradu Fm., Taleex Fm.,
Karkar Fm.); (v) Tertiary (Oligocene to Miocene): Thick series of sedimentary rocks; (vi)
Pleistocene to Recent: Basaltic rocks.

An isolated uplifted Neoproterozoic and early Cambrian complex occurs in western Somaliland
paralleling the Gulf of Aden. The outcropping volcanic and metamorphic rocks are part of an
early Paleozoic fold belt. Clastic and marine Jurassic sediments overlie the Basement complex.
Cretaceous to Tertiary sediments with clastic sequences, limestones, evaporites and marine
successions cover large parts of Somaliland. Small areas with young basaltic to liparitic
volcanics are exposed close to Djibouti and in the Gulf of Aden area.

Land Use: The main land use in Somaliland is extensive grazing (pastoralism). Other land uses
include rainfed agriculture practiced in the higher lying areas (plateau) of maroodi Jeex, Gabiley
and Awdal regions in combination with pastoralism and wood collection Most of the cultivated

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crops are rainfed. Minimal irrigated agriculture especially for orchards along alluvial plains is
also practiced mainly fruit trees such as citrus, guava, papaya, mango and vegetables. Water for
supplemental irrigating of the crops is often obtained from wells, dams, and rivers. The eastern
part of the country (Togdheer, Sool, Sanaag) is almost exclusively relying on livestock
raising.

Source: ESIA 11/14 (MoWR / UNICEF, 2014, ESIA- Improving Water Services Delivery
in Somaliland

Figure 0-4: Land use map in Somaliland

Socio-Economic Environment: The population of Somaliland in 2009 was estimated at 3.85

million according to the Ministry of National Planning and Development (Somaliland in Figures,
2011). About 55% of the people are nomadic pastoralists and 45% are urban and rural dwellers.
Somaliland is predominantly a nomadic pastoral community and traditionally the major
livelihood is livestock husbandry, which is the main source of food and income for 70% of the
population including rural pastoral and urban communities. Crop production ranks second to
livestock.

There are three main sources of revenue in Somaliland today: livestock, agriculture and
remittance from the diaspora. Livestock is the backbone of the Somaliland region's economy.
Sheep, camel and cattle are shipped from the Berbera port and sent to Gulf Arab countries, such
as Saudi Arabia. Less than 10% of land area is estimated to be is suitable for permanent
agriculture. It is mainly found in the northwest regions, where high rainfall and fertile soils are
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both common. The major crops include maize, sugarcane, sorghum millet, and cotton. Wood
collection for charcoal production is also very frequent and occurs almost in all Somaliland.
Charcoal production is for both local household consumption and income generation through
sales in the local markets and for export outside Somaliland.

Lack of access as a result of poor infrastructure, particularly roads, is inhibiting socio-economic

development in the region. Access to health and education in Somaliland is generally limited.
Somaliland is facing rapid urbanization, which is creating another vulnerable group – the urban
poor. This group includes destitute pastoralists, economic migrants and people who are unable to
make ends meet through lack of livelihood opportunities. Private sector business remains
relatively limited so there are few employment opportunities.

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and returnees occupy the major towns. It is estimated that up
to 100,000 IDPs are languishing in IDP settlements in the major towns of Somaliland with
contaminated water and no sanitation facilities, lack of access to basic social services, rampant
disease and regular outbreaks of fire/arson. However, there is an active inter-agency IDP
working group consisting of UN agencies, NGOs and local partners who are providing assistance
to the Somaliland authorities on the provision of humanitarian assistance to IDPs, as well
looking at the implementation of longer term responses which focus on IDP reintegration.

5. PROCEDURES TO ASSESS POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL

IMPACTS AND DEVELOPING ESMPS

The proposed program has been rated Category 2 under the African Development Bank
Operational Policy on Environmental Assessment (OS 1). The detailed designs and some
locations for the sub-projects (dams and boreholes) will be determined during detailed design
and program implementation. Therefore, the appropriate environmental and social management
framework at this stage of project preparation is an Environmental and Social Management
Framework (ESMF). An ESMF is prepared for Bank operations that finance multiple, small-
scale sub-projects whose location, scope and designs are not precisely known at the time the
Bank appraises and approves the operation. Consequently, environmental and social assessment
and other safeguard measures can be confirmed during project implementation phase. The ESMF
is expected to cover the unknowns, to help in the screening, and to recommend mitigation
measures. The screening and review process will determine whether a particular subproject will
trigger a safeguard policy, and what mitigation measures will need to be put in place. The
screening and review process will also ensure that subprojects that may have potentially
significant impacts will require more detailed study and the need for subproject specific
environmental assessment or ESMP. The screening process is as follows;

Step 1: Screening of Project Activities and Sites: The Executing agency safeguard staff will carry
out the initial screening in the field, by completing the Environmental and Social Screening
Form. The screening form formalizes a rapid field investigation to screen on-site whether any
environmental and social issues may require specific attention and supplemental environmental
assessment work. The screening in the field will be done by completing the Environmental and
Social Screening Form and the Bank’s Adaptation Review and Evaluation Procedures (AREP).

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Step 2: Assigning the Appropriate Environmental Categories: The environmental and social
screening form, when completed, will provide information on the assignment of the appropriate
environmental category to a particular subproject project.

The project’s safeguards officer will be responsible for assigning the appropriate environmental
category to the subprojects in accordance with the requirements of OS 1 Environmental and
Social Assessment.

Step 3: Carrying out Environmental and Social Impact Assessment: Somaliland's guidelines for
the ESIA/EIA process include; (i) application, (ii) pre-screening, (iii) screening, (iv) scoping, (v)
EIA report, and (vi) Review and decision by the MoWR.

The ESIA studies of the projects will focus on issues requiring the implementation of specific
mitigation in cases where specific environmental and social issues are identified and where a
change in the design or sitting of the sub-project is not possible including among others: (i)
Potential conflicts between neighbor users, (ii) Impacts on a bio-physical ecosystem, (iii)
Impacts on land without physical displacement or significant impacts on livelihoods, (iv)
Potential for heavy traffic at construction phase through inhabited areas, (v) Construction in
water bodies (pipeline gulley crossings, water works in river beds-intakes).

The MoWR Staff supported by concerned parties will determine whether; (a) The application of
simple mitigation measures outlined in the Environmental and Social Checklist will address the
potential impacts in an ESMP, (b) No additional Environmental Assessment will be required, (c)
A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will need to be carried out, using the
national EIA guidelines.

The EIA process will identify and assess the potential environmental and social impacts of the
proposed construction activities, evaluate alternatives, as well as design and implement
appropriate mitigation, management and monitoring measures. These measures will be captured
in the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) which will be prepared as part of the
EIA process for each subproject.

Step 4: Review and Approval of the Screening Activities: The results and recommendations
presented in the Environmental and Social Screening forms and the proposed mitigation
measures presented in subproject or site-specific ESIAs, ESMPs as deemed appropriate, will be
reviewed by concerned parties and endorsed by MoWR.

In compliance with Bank’s guidelines and in the national EIA policies, the applicable documents
(ESIA, ESMP) must be made available for public review at a place accessible to local people and
in a form, manner, and language they can understand.

Step 5: Public Consultation: This will involve notification (to publicize the matter to be
consulted on) a two-way flow of information/opinion exchange as well as participation involving
interest groups. Public consultation will include the following steps: (i) Identification of
interested parties (beneficiary neighboring communities, communities potentially affected by the

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sub-program, local authorities, regional authorities); (ii) Initial consultation, before further
environmental assessment work is undertaken: one initial meeting with each of the identified
parties, presenting the sub-program and seeking input on the scope of work for further
environmental assessment work; (iii) Second round of consultation, after further environmental
assessment work is complete: presentation of the results of the environmental assessment,
including presentation of identified impacts and proposed mitigations, seeking input on these
proposed environmental management measures; this second step will include dissemination to
identified interested parties of a brief summary of the environmental assessment in local
language.

Step 6: Integration of environmental and social provisions in tendering documents: The Program
Coordination Unit (PCU) must ensure that the recommendations and other environmental and
social management measures and adaptation measures from subproject/site-specific safeguard
instruments are integrated in bidding documents and works to be performed by contractors.

Step 7: Environmental Monitoring and Indicators: This describes the processes and activities that
need to take place to characterize and monitor the quality of the environment in the sub-project
sites. The PIT at MoWR will have the overall responsibility for monitoring during the program
implementation. The Bank will closely follow up the implementation of the program, through
regular supervision mission during the implementation, and ex-post evaluations. The MoWR will
compile and submit to the PSC and the Bank quarterly progress report and annual progress
reports. The mid-term review will provide an opportunity to re-examine the implementation
progress and further strengthen/ fine tune the program. Upon completion of the program, MoWR
will prepare and submit to the Bank the PCR. The Bank through EARC will also directly
undertake routine project supervision missions which will be conducted at least twice in a year.

The table below highlights the roles and responsibilities of Program stakeholders with regards to
the environmental and social screening and review process.

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Table 5-2: Environmental Management Process - Implementation Responsibilities
Level Responsibilities
Implementing  Contract consultants for ESIAs of subprojects based on ToRs prepared for each subproject and reviewed
Institutions by the relevant institutions.
 Designate focal staff (at least 2 in each region and in the two city administrations) that will take
responsibility for environmental screening and generally for environmental management and get trained
accordingly- this staff will ultimately prepare Environmental and Social Screening Forms and supervise
the implementation by contractors of the Environmental Guidelines for Construction Contractors
 Designate technical supervisor of works, who, in the absence of the environmental focal staff mentioned
above, will supervise the implementation by contractors of the Environmental Guidelines for Construction
Contractors,
 Prepare (see above) environmental screening forms for all sub-programs and submit them to the Ministry
of Water Resources and to the African Development Bank,
 Supervise the implementation of environmental mitigation measures at construction and operation phases,
including those related to land occupation and compensation
 Supervise the implementation of monitoring measures
 Provide an annual environmental monitoring report to the review of the Ministry of Water Resources
Construction  Implement Environmental Guidelines for Construction Contractors
contractors
ESIA  Develop ESIAs where required (sub-programs)
Consultants
Ministry, and all  Participate in the provisions of training for regional community experts
stakeholders  Participate in the finalization of the screening forms based on the framework proposed in this ESMF
 Review and clear screening forms submitted by implementing agencies or consultants
 Supervise the development by consultants of ESIAs where required, review Terms of Reference, review
draft ESIAs, participate in public consultations
 Supervise the monitoring of environmental mitigations implemented by construction contractors
 Supervise the implementation of this ESMF in the entire regions

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6. POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

6.1 Brief Description of the project’s key environmental, social and climate change
components.
The Support for Water and Sanitation Infrastructure for Resilience and Stability will involve
interventions on the bio-physical environment. Activities to be considered include: Construction of
strategic water facilities i.e earth dams/pans, boreholes, shallow wells and spring protection. Rain
water harvesting facilities in public institutions. Construction of gender sensitive latrines in schools,
health centers and markets (with some latrines to be designated for disabled people); Water
infrastructure will serve both human and livestock and minor irrigation will be established with
demonstration plots at local primary schools and health facilities. The activities to be undertaken
include assessment and investigation of rehabilitation needs; detailed design and preparation of
tender documents; procurement of contractors to undertake the works; and implementation of
priority works.

Climate Change Considerations: According to the World Bank Climate Portal models of western
Somalia, the averages for the different model results (A2, A1, B1) indicate the following for the
period 2030-2039: (i) Runoff: slight increase (<10%); (ii) Groundwater baseflow: increase (up to
40%); (iii) Precipitation: slight increase (±10%); (iv) Temperature: increase (1.0-1.5 °C in average).
These, in principle, are positive news for Somaliland. The effects of an increased evapotranspiration,
mainly provoked by higher temperatures, are balanced by an average higher precipitation. There is a
general consensus that one of the main effects of climate change is that the climate is less
predictable. Higher variability in precipitation is very likely to occur along with more frequent
extreme events, like storms, floods and droughts. Provision of improved access to water and
sanitation as intended by this program in the drought prone Somaliland is expected to enhance the
resilience of the Somaliland population to adapt to impacts of climate change. The project will
ensure climate resilience in Somaliland by developing Climate Change & Climate Variability
adaptation plans for the Ministry of Water Resources.

6.2 Main environmental, social and climate change impacts anticipated

6.2.1 Positive Impacts:
The construction or improvement of water supply systems has a lot of beneficial aspects which
includes.
a) Access to safe drinking water and improved standard of living, e.g. through:
 Better domestic hygiene and reduction in water-borne diseases such as dysentery,
diarrhoea, etc.;
 Time savings, especially for women and girls;
 Financial benefits, especially for those (poor) people that presently buy their water in
small quantities and at high prices from ambulant water vendors;
 Capacity building and training in the community, and resulting enhancement of
organizational, financial and technical capacities of community;
b) Employment and Improved Service Delivery:
Increased employment opportunities, improved service delivery to enterprises and the
population across the water sector in general remains one of the positive benefits that
will arise from the proposed projects. This project will therefore provide substantive
employment opportunities to local populations. It is anticipated that the project will

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 provide direct employment during the construction phase and another operational
stage.
c) Reduced conflicts
Increased availability of water thus reducing conflicts between pastoralists and
farmers especially along and in vicinities of the migratory routes. Availability of
water from sustainable water sources will reduce mobility of pastoralists thus
reducing potential inter-state conflicts, encourage community stability and voluntary
settlement of pastoralists;
d) Improved sanitation at schools and markets
e) Increased sanitation and water hygiene awareness
f) Improvement of water resources database thus enabling better planning and management of
water resources and facilities in Somaliland
g) Capacity building of water institutions in Hargeysa in training, monitoring and analysis of
hydrological data and water resources data.

6.2.2 Climate Impacts:

There is little doubt that the higher annual variability of precipitation has already led to
consequences in Somaliland. The former more or less regular rainfalls during rainy season
have become less predictable, which results in more frequent drought years and in severe
consequence for the population, especially those relying on surface water sources (e.g.
nomads) and even if the average precipitation has not changed. In many cases once reliable
surface water resources are no longer reliable.

For groundwater the situation is different, since it is less directly and more slowly impacted
by climate change, as compared to surface waters. Rivers get replenished on a short time
scale, and drought and floods are quickly reflected in river water levels. Groundwater is
affected much slower; only after prolonged droughts groundwater levels will show declining
trends. Increased groundwater pumping might - for a limited time span – even serve as
contingency supply in order to mitigate water shortages during droughts when water courses
have run dry.

In arid and semi-arid areas, increased variability in rainfall may even increase groundwater
recharge, because only high-intensity rainfalls are known to be able to infiltrate fast enough
before evaporating, and many alluvial aquifers are recharged mainly by inundations during
floods. Contrary to humid areas, where a decrease of groundwater recharge is expected due
to the fact that more frequent heavy rain will result in the infiltration capacity of the soil
being exceeded, thereby increasing surface runoff.

Since the climate in Somaliland is arid to semi-arid, the predicted increase of average
precipitation by 10% might, on the long term, have positive effects on groundwater levels
and availability. The observed declining groundwater levels in some wells in Somaliland are
most likely related with groundwater pumping exceeding groundwater recharge rate, and not
to a climate-related decrease in groundwater recharge.

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6.3 Mitigation/ enhancement, monitoring and institutional measures anticipated at this stage.
Table 6-3: Proposed mitigation and enhancement measures
OUTLINE OF PROPOSED MITIGATION AND ENHANCEMENT MEASURES
Potential negative impacts Mitigation Measures
Loss of flora and fauna due to land clearance  Minimization of cleared area
during construction and establishment of camps  Careful site selection avoiding sensitive and/or breeding areas
Land requirement for camps and storage  Proper site selection , with minimum area and not intercepting water courses and
animals migratory routes
Generated wastes (Solid and liquid)  Proper plan for management and rid of solid wastes
 Avoid use of hazardous waste
 Avoid dumping and burial of wastes in permeable soils, grazing areas and/or water
courses and near water supply sources
Noise, dust and vibration from construction and  Use of modern, well maintained equipment fitted with noise enclosures
maintenance equipment  Strict controls of timing of activities (e.g. prohibition on night working)
 Observance of seasonal sensitivity (breeding and animal migration seasons )
Inefficient waste management during Preparation of waste management plan for each waste stream and implementation of the
construction , operation & maintenance leading to waste hierarchy.
waste generation hence polluting soils, surface &
shallow groundwater, especially during the rainy
season
Improper fencing not separating between human Ensure proper fencing separating between human and animal users inside the water
and animals at the water yard compound , may yard
lead to poor water hygiene during the operation Health and water hygiene awareness pointing out the hazard of animals and human
phase sharing the same water sources at the same time
Install enough taps to stop people taking water from animal watering troughs
Failure to establish an effective community based Establish and train a gender community-based water management committee
management system may reduce reliability and Conduct frequent monitoring to assess performance of the management committee
sustainability of water yards. Give refreshment trainings
Potential for permanent human settlement of  Involve community leaders and management committees to develop zonal
pastoralists or others may lead to social conflicts settlement plans in the village
between traditional users of the area and settlers  Link water production with land use and its carrying capacity

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  Facilitate discussions between new comers and host communities

Water will have to be paid for, which may not be  Conduct affordability to pay assessment by the management committee
affordable to the poorest in the community  Poor and vulnerable groups should be exempted or/and subsidized
Dominance of livestock users may lead to fast  Provide enough water troughs compatible with number and types of animals
deterioration of the water yard. attending the water yard.
 Water yard’s deign and fencing should be site specific catering for the number and
types of livestock
Distribution to topsoil created by earthmoving  Avoid use of heavy truck and earthmoving machineries
works and heavy vehicles (pipe loaded trucks) at  Approved contractors’ plans for restoration of land/soil and backfilling.
the construction phase
Possible obstruction of livestock route(s) during  Avoid as much as possible obstruction and disturbance of livestock and animals
the construction phase migratory routes
 Clear demarcation and warning signs along the pipeline routes
 Avoid working during time and seasonal migration of the livestock and animal (and
wildlife ;if any)
Attraction and influxes of people and animals  Accommodate demand of the surrounding villages in the design and involve them in
during the operation phase more than design the management committees
capacity of the pipelines; thus creating land  Encourage dialogue and consultation between the new comers and the host
degradation and possible conflicts with the host communities
communities.
Potential leakage and/or lack of proper drainage  Design proper drainage to carry out spill and leakage.
in the immediate surroundings of the stand pipes  Harvest the spill and waste water for establishment and irrigation of nurseries
and taps during the operation phase may cause  Minimize leakage and water loss through better management
health risks
Poor management of occupational health and  Conform to International standards regulations.
safety could lead to accidents, injuries and illness,  Rest and recreational facilities and time should be provided
especially among causal labours hired from the  Adherences to comprehensive health and safety and risk management plans and
community in the area. reporting system
 Availability of First Aid Kits at the working sites and camps (including temporary
camps)

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Construction of hafirs employing earth moving  Minimize clearance/cutting of indigenous and rare tree species
machineries  Restrict clearance to Hafir’s site and area
loss of flora and fauna
Potential for increased animal concentration, and  Proper site selection based on land and natural resources carrying capacities
human settlements in the surroundings of the  Put in place proper and effective community – based management system to ensure
hafir, will cause overgrazing and natural sustainable water use and equitable access among users, including pastoralists
resources degradation and social conflicts
Without proper management and protection  Put in place a proper and effective community – based management system to
measures in place , hafir’s water is prone to ensure sustainable water use and equitable access among users, including
pollution and contamination and source of water pastoralists
borne diseases (e.g malaria)  Conduct awareness campaigns
 Avoid human and animal settlements and residing near the hafir and/or on the hafir
catchment areas
Construction of Water and Sanitation facilities at Proper siting of latrines standing well aboveground water table
basic schools, markets and health centres which
Latrines may cause contamination and pollution
to shallow and localized groundwater bodies (
perched aquifers)
Health hazards associated with inappropriate  Construct ventilated Improved latrines (VIPs)
siting of latrines.  Select latrine appropriate sites with due consideration to climatic factors
without improvement of water facilities at the  Ensure improvement and availability of water supply facilities at the same time with
health centres and markets, benefits from latrines construction of latrines in the schools and
and health facilities will be jeopardized

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7. ESMF AND ESMP IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING PROGRAM

7.1 Purpose
ESMP sets out action plans to ensure implementation of the ESMF at the sub-projects’ level.
It includes the necessary management measures to achieve its purpose in a timely manner as
well as monitoring, supervision and reporting requirements, implementation arrangements,
institutional responsibilities, time schedule and associated consultations. ESMP can be
prepared and stand alone or to be a part of ESMF; setting the required measures and plans for
effective management of the program subprojects by the PIUs. It starts with categorization of
the subprojects and identifying the environmental and social assessments required during the
project development phases.

7.2 Aspects of Sub-projects’ ESMP

The following aspects should be addressed within ESMPs:
 Summary of anticipated impacts;
 Description of mitigation measures;
 Description of monitoring program and arrangements;
 Legal requirements.
 Institutional arrangements;
 Implementation schedule;
 Reporting; and,
 Cost estimates

It is important that the ESMP identifies and confirms linkages to environmental legislation
and regulations pertinent to the project and describes the proposed mitigation measures to
accommodate the views of the public derived from public consultation. Equally, to ensure
that mitigation measures are implemented effectively according to laws, decrees, and
regulations in force related to environmental protection.

7.3 Procedures to developing ESIA and ESMPs

The development of ESIA and ESMPS for the subprojects will follow the criteria developed
in this ESMF, considering the categorization of the particular sub-project and incorporating
the following aspects of Risk Assessment and Management.

7.3.1 Subprojects’ Risk Assessment and Management

Environmental risk assessment is considered as a tool to inform decision-makers and is an
essential component of the ESIA and ESMP process. It defines the nature of environmental
risks and its impacts on human health, climate, habitat loss, pollution as well as potential
impacts on the project. Environmental risk assessment incorporates risks associated with
tradition, culture, and political processes. Risks are differently perceived by different people
because of their respective interests, backgrounds, and cultures. However, it is possible to say
that risk arises from the uncertainty of active exposure to the possibility of damage or

19
physical injury. It is the likelihood that something will happen and the consequences if it
happens. Hence risk involves the consideration of a time frame over which it may occur and
the probability of occurrence and the consequences of such an occurrence. In this aspect,
risks are different from hazards which refer to the sources of potential harm, while risks
consider frequency and severity of damage from hazards.
Based on these definitions, environmental risk assessment has the following general features:
 It is anticipatory because it estimates the likelihood of occurrence and possible
effects. In this matter, it allows decision-makers to take the necessary precautions and
hence it helps in determining unacceptable environmental performance.
 Risk assessment helps decision-makers to identify the important factors that influence
an event and set contingency plans based on worst-case scenarios.
 Risk assessment helps the institution to save considerable costs through creating the
capacity to prevent damage from occurring.
In addition to the risk concerns identified above, other elements of concern include the
perception of risk and its evaluation by institutions in order to determine the nature of risk
management strategies. Hence, PIU as the decision maker, based on the identification of risk
concerns and consequences, must devise strategies which are cost effective and flexible
(adaptive) and build capacity to respond to sudden events.

7.3.2 Risk Management:

Risk management is the process of formulating and implementing a strategy based on priority
setting, policy options, and timely information. The range of risk concerns is too broad:
involving natural, economic, social, and political issues. To deal with these concerns there is
a need to build capacity at the institutional and human levels. Effective institutional capacity
in early warning, monitoring and information dissemination to vulnerable units is an
important component of risk management. All these are to be linked to preparedness,
response, and mitigation capacities. Considering the lack and/or low capacity of the
institutions in Somaliland, it is clear that capacity building for risk management must be
undertaken as a major activity. The application of a risk based decision-making process,
requires capacity in three areas: policy, institutional, and human resources.

7.4 Monitoring
Monitoring is essential to understanding the effects of subprojects and to evaluating the
degree of success or failure of mitigation measures. The monitoring has two main
components:
 Monitoring of the compliance and effectiveness of the ESIA and application of the
recommended standards and mitigation measures;
 Impact monitoring: measuring the biophysical and socio – economic impacts of
the subprojects and effectiveness of mitigation measures in avoiding or
minimizing adverse impacts and the nature and extent of any such impacts
The following elements are necessary for adequate monitoring and must be developed as
early as possible in the sub project cycles:
 Identification of monitoring areas and time frame for data gathering;
 Type of data to be collected;
 Establishment of baseline conditions (baseline survey);
 Identify valued ecosystems;
 Selection of indicators;

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  Analyse trends and recommend changes to the responsible authority.

7.4.1 Monitoring indicators:

The table below presents a sample of monitoring indicators that will guide the evaluators in
the sub-projects. However this is just a guide and the evaluating agency will be free to
include other monitoring aspects to ensure completeness.

Table 0-4: Sample Monitoring indicators

Main monitoring Main indicators
indicators of the
subproject Sub-project
Hafirs –new and existing  Frequency of Wadi flow
 Rate of siltation and reduction in hafir’s capacity
 Number of people and animals attending the hafirs
 Change Water quality
 Clearance of vegetation around the hairs
 Prevalence of water related diseases
 Level of erosion and land degradation
 Social indicators (per capita consumption, expenditure on water and
time spent on water fetching)
Augmentation of Hargeisa  Detection of leaks and frequency of breakdowns
Water supply system for  Quantity of water supplied
IDPS  Number of IDPS benefiting from the system
 Facilities in place for draining spill/waste water and cleaning of mud
around the water points
 Social indicators (per capita consumption, expenditure on water and
time spent on water fetching)
 Prevalence of water borne diseases among IDPS
 Community-based institution in place managing water system
 Number of women in the committee and taking effective role in
management of the water system
boreholes  Borehole yield ( Q m3/day) and yield depletion rate
 Borehole hydraulic parameters (Transmissivity (T) and Hydraulic
Conductivity (K)
 Power bills saving after upgrading to solar power
 Status of sanitation facilities near borehole sites
Latrines and sanitary  Number of sanitation remain operational in schools, market areas and
facilities health facilities
 Number of gender sensitive latrines built
20 solar powered mini water  Power generated by the solar systems
systems  Efficiency and effectiveness of installed solar power system
 Frequency of repaired needed
 Number of beneficiaries for the solar powered water systems
 The agricultural yield from the installed micro irrigation systems

Capacity building and  Level of Support given to Hargeisa water technology institute
development  Effectiveness of water quality laboratories at Hargeisa

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  Number and efficacy of mobile water kits and equipment at the
Districts
 Number and the utility of equipment availed to the MoWR
 Level of public awareness on Sanitation and Hygiene issues
 Capacity building for MoWR staff

7.5 Institutional arrangements

The monitoring and evaluation of project activities will be the responsibility of the
MoWR as a regular management and reporting function. The project costs include an
allocation for the financial/technical annual audits. The audits will be conducted in
accordance with the Bank's audit procedures using the Bank's terms of reference (ToR)
by an independent Audit.

Table 0-5: Roles and responsibilities of institutions in project monitoring

Institution Responsibilities
 Supervision and monitoring of the overall implementation of ESMP
Ministry of Water  Review /preparation of TORs for ESIA and/or Screening studies
Resources  Providing assistance during environmental and social screening and monitoring
(MoWR) processes
 Facilitate and provide training for state staffs
Ministry of  Issuing of regulations, acts, polices and guidelines and safeguards on
Environment and  Environment
Rural Development  Review /Approval of TORs for ESIA and/or Screening studies
 Overall supervision and coordination with relevant institutions in the regions
Ministry
 Resolve disputes on land issues
Of interior
 Issuing of local acts
Ministry of Water  supervise implementation of ESMP at state level
Resources (MoWR-  seconding of the required technical staff
Regional coordinator  protection of water resources
 Direct responsibility for Implementation of ESMP at subproject sites
PIC
 Monitoring of subproject activities and indicators
Water and sanitation  Facilitate participatory planning and ensuring that implementation of
Committees  Mitigation measures are adequately carried out.
 Approval of ESMF and monitor the overall implementation of ESMF
 & associated ESMP’s and annual environmental reports provided by PIC
AfDB (Ministry of Water Resources)
 Conducting regular supervisor missions for the entire project during and after
implementation

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 7.6 AfDB Supervision and Implementation Schedule
The project will be implemented over a period of 36 months starting in June 2016. The Bank
will monitor the implementation of the project through regular supervision missions
undertaken at least twice (but initially 3 times and synchronized with Project Steering
Committee meetings) a year.

8. REPORTING ARRANGEMENTS, TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING

8.1 Environmental screening report /form.

The main objective of the environmental screening and social assessment report is to predict
the potential nature and magnitude of positive and adverse impacts and evaluate their
significance and determine mitigation measures as part of the production of an Environmental
Management Plan (EMP). Environmental Screening Form(s) can be used to formalize a rapid
field investigation to screen on-site whether any environmental and social issues may require
specific attention and supplemental Environmental Assessment work. All sub-projects will
and should undergo the screening process in order to avoid any miss in screening potential
environmental issues. However, given the current lack of capacity at National level to carry
out these assessments, screening process can or will be undertaken by consultant (s).

8.2 ESIA/ ESMP (scoping document) report

Preparation of a separate ESIA/ESMP report will be needed to get better understanding of the
potential environmental and social issues that have been identified in the screening processes
and if development of a specific Environmental and Social Management plan is required. It
should involve identifying and narrowing down potential environmental impacts of the
subprojects (including alternatives). The ESIA/ESMP report should encompass, but should
not be limited to the following:

Description of the subproject/subprogram: Indicate specific activities to be undertaken during

construction, implementation and maintenance of proposed projects, including alternatives,
e.g., land clearance, drainage modification.
i. Location : Indicate the area of influence and linkage with other development activities
ii. Description of Environmental impacts (including alternatives and mitigation measures
)
iii. Critical Environmental /Social Issues: Specific technical challenges to be addressed
(if need be).
iv. Legal issues to be addressed if applicable
v. Institutional responsibilities and capacity building
vi. Requirements for Public Consultations
vii. Conclusion
viii. Annexes

8.3 Annual monitoring Reports.

The PIU (social and environmental specialists) will and should develop a brief annual
environmental monitoring report to review of Program Steering Committee, (the Ministry of
Water Resources) meetings. The report contents will and should be the following:

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  A summary of Environmental and Social Screening reports, with a table summarizing
which subprojects have been assigned each of the screening categories,
 A summary of ESIAs developed during the year;
 A summary of environmental monitoring carried out on systems at both construction
and operation phases.

8.4 Training and Capacity Building

The successful implementation of the ESMF depends, among other things, on presence and
functional appropriate institutional arrangements and the capacity within the institutions at
the national level. Though institutions such Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of
Environment and Rural Development and others concerned are functional at the national
level, no such institution set ups are noticeably present in Regions.

And despite the stipulated mandates, capacity need to strengthen with regard to
environmental and social management practices, monitoring and enforcement of policies and
regulations at local levels. The water sector, especially Ministry of Water Resources though
aware demand of ESIA and development of ESMF, normally do not engage consultants to
undertake such requirements. MoWR has no sections to deal with the issues of environment.

8.5 Training

To ensure effective implementation of ESMF, the composition of the program

implementation units (PIUs) at the national level, must include environment specialist(s) and
social mobilizer(s).

The two must work closely together, with the PIU team and the communities to ensure
effective implementation of ESMF. However the PIU team particularly the environment
specialist and the social mobilizer, must be trained to strengthen their capacities.

Institutions that need environmental training to ensure effective implementation of the ESMF
must include the following:
 MoWR and MoERD staff members PIU Team
 Selected technical persons from Project Implementation institutions
 Local NGOs and Contractors
 Project beneficiaries, local community and community based organizations (CBOs)

To assist in this capacity building, develop training needs, and provide subsequent guidance
and review of the ESMF, the PIU needs to contract a consultant specialized in environmental
and social safeguards and in delivery of training in these aspects.

8.6 Topics to be addressed during training:

1. Review of the national environmental policies, laws, regulatory and administrative
frameworks,
2. Review of the AfDB’s safeguard policies, and assignment of environmental
categories
3. ESMP and environmental guidelines applicable to construction contractors,
4. Environmental and social screening process (with one practical exercise on a real
site),
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5. Carrying out of the environmental work as discussed in the ESMF,
6. Review and clearance of the screening results and separate ESIA reports,
7. Preparation of terms of reference for carrying out ESIA/ESMPs
8. How to monitor safeguard implementation
9. Waste management issues (safe disposal of domestic wastes, construction wastes etc.)
10. Impacts and monitoring of groundwater and surface water and principles of IWRM,
ecosystem and water quality management
11. Water borne diseases measures with support from the Ministry of Health
12. Physical, biological and Social impacts (practical exercise on a real site)
13. Land and Resettlement issues (compensation for minor income/property loses),
14. The benefits of public consultation, participation and process in view of the ESMF
requirements and during different sub-project cycles
15. Case studies based on categorization of common cases (water supply systems, , water
harvesting/hafir, and rehabilitation works),
16. Discussion and amendments to, the environmental screening form/report.
17. Monitoring , evaluation and supervision processes

9. CONCLUSION

This ESMF is meant to ensure that the implementation of the program will be carried out in
an environmentally and socially sustainable manner. It provides the project implementers
with an environmental and social screening process that will enable them to identify, assess
and mitigate potential environmental and social impacts of the activities, including the
preparation of site-specific.

This proposed program has the potential to bring considerable benefits to concerned
communities and within the sub-project areas as well as adjoining settlements. Anticipated
benefits include increased access to safe water supply, improvement in public health status
and sanitation conditions, time and energy savings particularly for women and children,
among others.

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Environmental and Social Management Plans
(ESMP) where applicable are to be, in accordance with Somaliland’s proclamations and
policies, as well as AfDB safeguard policies particularly Environmental Assessment.

The ESMF recognizes existing gaps and weaknesses for implementing the ESMF under this
project and realizes the importance of strengthening the capacity of key implementing
institutions. The capacity development will provide an enabling environment to address
environmental and social issues by MoWR and its Regional institutions to implement the
ESMF.

The ESMF requires this project to ensure that procedures are followed in relation to
environmental and social screening, review and approval prior to implementation of sub-
projects to be financed under the AfDB. Furthermore, appropriate roles and responsibilities,
for managing and monitoring environmental and social concerns related to sub-projects
should also be followed.

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