ESWATINI WATER SERVICES CORPORATION GENERIC ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT- SANITATION COMPONENT Proponent Prepared by Eswatini Water Services Corporation MTK Sustainable Technologies Emtfonjeni Building, Cultural Village Road Plot 753, Southern Distributor Road MR103 Road, Ezulwini, Eswatini Extension 7 Manzini P.O. Box 20 P.O Box 4019 Mbabane, H100 Manzini, M200 Tel: +268 2416 9000 Tel: +268 2505 8875 Fax: +268 2416 3616 Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 6 ACRONYMS ..................................................................................................................................... 13 1. INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 14 Project Objectives ............................................................................................................... 15 Project Component ............................................................................................................. 15 Generic ESMP For Component 2 ....................................................................................... 17 Project Institutional and Implementation Arrangements ...................................................... 18 Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy .............................................................. 18 Eswatini Water Services Corporation-Project Implementation Unit ...................... 18 Environmental Health Department ........................................................................... 18 Eswatini Environmental Authority............................................................................ 18 Project Implementation Arrangements .................................................................... 19 2. STUDY METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................................... 20 Literature Review ................................................................................................................ 20 Project Area Reconnaissance ....................................................................................................... 20 Consultations ...................................................................................................................... 20 Preparation of ESMP .......................................................................................................... 20 3. LEGAL, REGULATORY AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK .............................................. 21 Legal Framework ................................................................................................................ 21 Institutional Framework....................................................................................................... 23 Eswatini Environmental Authority............................................................................ 23 4. World Bank Environmental and Social Standards ................................................................ 24 Relevant Applicable ESSs .................................................................................................. 24 Environmental and Social Risk Classification ..................................................................... 26 Component II Risk Classification-Moderate Risk .................................................... 26 Requirements for Public Disclosure .................................................................................... 26 5. BASELINE DATA...................................................................................................................... 27 Location of the Project Area................................................................................................ 27 Land Use ............................................................................................................................ 27 Surrounding Land use ................................................................................................. 28 Geology and Soils .............................................................................................................. 28 Climate ............................................................................................................................... 29 Average Monthly Rainfall of Nhlangano .................................................................. 30 Average Annual Rainfall of Nhlangano .................................................................... 30 Topography ........................................................................................................................ 32 Biodiversity ......................................................................................................................... 33 Flora ........................................................................................................................... 33 Fauna .......................................................................................................................... 34 Water Resources ................................................................................................................ 35 Hydrology................................................................................................................... 35 Social Environment ............................................................................................................. 35 Socio Economic Baseline ......................................................................................... 35 Population .................................................................................................................. 36 Vulnerabilities .............................................................................................................. 37 6. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ......................................................... 39 Beneficial Impacts .............................................................................................................. 39 Reduced Spread of Public Health Diseases ................................................................ 39 Infant mortality ............................................................................................................. 39 Improved Hygiene For Girl Child .................................................................................. 39 Employment Creation .................................................................................................. 39 Reduced Contamination of Water Resources .............................................................. 39 Adverse Impacts ................................................................................................................. 39 Site Related Spills ....................................................................................................... 39 Air Quality .................................................................................................................... 40 Noise Pollution ............................................................................................................ 40 Impacts on Flora and Fauna ........................................................................................ 41 Public Health and Safety ............................................................................................. 41 Labour Influx................................................................................................................ 42 HIV & AIDS Impacts .................................................................................................... 42 Gender Equity, Sexual Harassment ............................................................................. 43 Impacts During Operation and Maintenance ....................................................................... 43 Oduor .......................................................................................................................... 43 Water Contamination ................................................................................................... 43 Disease Spread ........................................................................................................... 44 Hazards ....................................................................................................................... 44 Pest outbreak .............................................................................................................. 44 Environmental and Social Management Process ................................................................ 45 Mitigation and Monitoring Plan ............................................................................................ 45 Monitoring of Environmental and Social Indicators................................................ 45 Monitoring Roles and Responsibilities ................................................................................ 51 Eswatini Environment Health Department ............................................................... 51 Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) .................................................................... 51 World Bank Monitoring and Implementation Support ............................................ 51 7. REVIEW, COORDINATION & IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS ................................... 53 Preparation of Project Brief ................................................................................................. 53 Preparation of ESMP .......................................................................................................... 53 Sample ESMP Contents .............................................................................................. 53 Environmental Assessments Process in Eswatini ............................................................... 54 Project Screening and Scoping ................................................................................ 54 World Bank Approval of ESMPs ......................................................................................... 55 ESMP Disclosure ................................................................................................................ 55 Overall Project Compliance and Reporting ......................................................................... 55 8. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE ....................................................................... 56 Public Consultation Process ............................................................................................... 56 9. CAPACITY BUILDING, TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ..................................... 66 Institutional Capacity for ESMP Implementation ................................................................. 66 Eswatini Water Services Corporation ...................................................................... 66 Environmental Health Department ........................................................................... 66 Local Communities/Beneficiaries............................................................................. 67 Contractors and supervision consultants ............................................................... 67 10. ANNEX .................................................................................................................................. 69 Annex A. Stakeholders Consulted ................................................................................... 69 Annex B. Legal Framework ............................................................................................. 79 The Environmental Management Act No 5 of 2002 ......................................................... 79 Annex C. Guidelines for Construction of Pit Latrines ....................................................... 94 Annex D. Typical Layout/Plan of Septic Tanks .............................................................. 111 List of Tables Table 0-1. Adverse Impacts ................................................................................................. 8 Table 1-1.Proposed Project Details................................................................................... 16 Table 1-2. Typology of Pit Latrines to be constructed .................................................... 17 Table 3-1. Legal and regulatory Framework ..................................................................... 21 Table 4-1.Applicable Environmental and Social Standards ............................................ 24 Table 5-1.List of Flora in the Project Area. ....................................................................... 33 Table 5-2.Fauna Species in the Project Area ................................................................... 34 Table 5-3.Distribution of Population in Shiselweni .......................................................... 36 Table 5-4.Improved Sources of Drinking Water by Region ............................................. 37 Table 5-5.Improved Sanitation by Region......................................................................... 37 Table 6-1. Environmental and Social Mitigation Plan ...................................................... 46 Table 6-2. Monitoring Parameters ..................................................................................... 48 Table 8-1: Public consultation meetings ................................. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 8-2. Issues and Response from Public consultations.. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 8-3. Issues Raised by Women focus group .................. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 8-4. Issues raised by Rural Health Motivators .............. Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 8-5: Issues raised by Traditional Authorities ................ Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 9-1. Awareness raising and training for civil work contractors and supervision consultants ......................................................................................................................... 67 Table 10-1: WB ESSs Objectives and Applicability ......................................................... 85 List of Figures Figure 1-1.Project Implementation Arrangements ................... Error! Bookmark not defined. Figure 5-1.shows Eswatini with its neighboring states .......................................................... 27 Figure 5-2. Market Stalls and banana plantations at Mhlosheni........................................ 28 Figure 5-4.Average Monthly Rainfall Measured Between 2015 and 2018 (Sourced from the Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018)............................................................................. 30 Figure 5-5.Annual Rainfall Measured 2015-2018 (Sourced from the Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018). Temperature ........................................................................... 31 Figure 5-6.Average Monthly Minimum and Maximum Temperatures between 2015 and 2018....................................................................................................................................................... 31 Figure 5-7.Average Annual Minimum and Maximum Temperatures ................................... 32 Figure 5-8.Topography of Eswatini .............................................................................................. 33 Figure 5-9.River Basins in Eswatini ............................................................................................. 35 Figure 7-1.Illustration of the Environmental Process in Eswatini ....................................... 55 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Shiselweni region has the lowest percentage access to improved sources of drinking water. Only 56 percent of the population in this region have access to an improved source of drinking water and 19.7 percent have access to improved sanitation1. Approximately 35 percent of this target group use piped water, 13 percent use tube well/borehole, 10 percent use an unprotected well (an unimproved source) and most of the remainder use surface water (24 percent). Most of the population (68 percent) does not have access to drinking water on their premises and a total of 31 percent must travel more than 30 minutes to collect water (both improved or unimproved source). A total of 12 percent of the population openly defecate and 17 percent of households were observed as having a place for handwashing. Project Development Objectives The Project Development Objective is to increase access to improved water supply and sanitation services in targeted areas of Eswatini. The project will include 4 components, as follows: (1) Water Supply Extension, (2) Improved Sanitation Access, (3) Project Management and Institutional Strengthening, and (4) Contingency Emergency Response. The project will include 4 components, as follows: (1) Resilient Water Access and Management, (2) Improved Sanitation Access, (3) Project Management, and (4) Contingency Emergency Response. • Component 1: Resilient Water Access and Management. This component will provide financing to increase potable water supply coverage in the Shiselweni region, improve long-term management of water resources, investment planning and sustainability of water supply service provision, and build resilience to climate and disaster risks, with a focus on droughts. • Component 2: Improve Sanitation Access. This component will build on the ongoing work that has been done by the Environmental and Health Department on appropriate technology/sanitation service delivery for rural domestic sanitation to arrive at an open defecation-free corridor in the three tinkhundla (Zombodze, Hosea and Shiselweni I) that will benefit from improved access to water services. • Component 3: Project Management. This component will provide project management support including operating costs, the preparation of progress reports, independent audits, as well as support on project financial, procurement, environmental and social management, as needed. • Component 4: Contingency Emergency Response (Zero Budget). This component will support potential disaster recovery needs by providing immediate response to an eligible crisis or emergency, as needed. This may consist of immediate support in assessing the emergency’s impact and developing a recovery strategy or the restructuring of existing, or provision of new, Investment Project Financing, and may also include operating costs, supply of critical parts and equipment, minor civil works rehabilitation, supply of fuel, rent of generators, as well as rapid transportation of chemicals and critical parts by express mechanisms. Project Beneficiaries The beneficiaries of the sanitation component will be the total population of the three target Tinkhundla (Zombodze (14,231), Hosea (14,733) and Shiselweni I (9,269)) with a maximum 1 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Central Statistics Office, 2014 reachable population of 38,233 people (2017), estimated to increase to 47,463 by 2047. Improved sanitation services will be provided to 4 health clinics and 32 schools in the three target Tinkhundla reaching an estimated 2,000 people and 5,600 people, respectively. The Baby WASH interventions will target all households with children under 1000 days old living in the household (assuming approximately 8 percent of households2). Environmental and Social Standards In order to reduce, minimise and mitigate adverse impacts and undue harm of its development projects to the environment, all bank-financed projects are guided by environmental and social standards. The Bank is committed to supporting GoKE/EWSC in the development and implementation of projects that are environmentally and socially sustainable, and to enhancing the capacity of implementing agency/PIU’s environmental and social frameworks to assess and manage the environmental and social risks and impacts of projects. To this end, the Bank has defined specific Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs), which are designed to avoid, minimize, reduce or mitigate the adverse environmental and social risks and impacts of projects. The Bank will assist EWSC in their application of the ESSs to component 2 of the project. Environmental and Social Management Plan The Environmental and social management plan (ESMP) is one of the which the Bank requires the ESWC to prepare in order to determine and effectively manage the environmental and social risks and impacts of a project throughout the project life cycle. This instrument that details (a) the measures to be taken during the implementation and operation of a project to eliminate or offset adverse environmental and social impacts, or to reduce them to acceptable levels; and (b) the actions needed to implement these measures. Environmental and Social Risk Classification The Bank will classify all projects (including projects involving Financial Intermediaries (FIs)) into one of four classifications: High Risk, Substantial Risk, Moderate Risk or Low Risk. In determining the appropriate risk classification, the Bank will take into account relevant issues, such as the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the project; the nature and magnitude of the potential environmental and social risks and impacts; and the capacity and commitment of the EWSC (including any other entity responsible for the implementation of the project) to manage the environmental and social risks and impacts in a manner consistent with the ESSs. Other areas of risk may also be relevant to the delivery of environmental and social mitigation measures and outcomes, depending on the specific project and the context in which it is being developed. Risk Classification-Moderate The component II of this project (sanitation) is classified as Moderate Risk. Specifically, due to the fact that: (i) the potential adverse risks and impacts on human populations and/or the environment are not likely to be significant. This is because the project is not complex and/or large, does not involve activities that have a high potential for harming people or the environment, and is located away from environmentally or socially sensitive areas. As such, the potential risks and impacts and issues are likely to have the following characteristics: • predictable and expected to be temporary and/or reversible • low in magnitude • site-specific, without likelihood of impacts beyond the actual footprint of the project 2 Based on Eswatini MICS survey results 2014 • low probability of serious adverse effects to human health and/or the environment (e.g. do not involve use or disposal of toxic materials, routine safety precautions are expected to be sufficient to prevent accidents, etc.) (ii) risks and impacts can be easily mitigated in a predictable manner Environmental and Social Impacts Beneficial Impacts a) Reduced Spread of Public Health Diseases The construction of pit latrines in households will lead to reduction in Open Defecation and achieve Community Total Led Sanitation (CLTS) which will in effect lead to reduction in public health diseases spread by poor sanitation including open defecation. b) Infant mortality The project will lead to reduction in infant, child and maternal mortality and morbidity due to improved health and sanitation services in the health units and household level. c) Improved Hygiene For Girl Child The construction of septic tanks and toilet facilities in schools will lead to generally improved hygiene in these facilities. There is lack of adequate sanitation facilities in schools equipped for menstruation management. The onset of menstruation coincides with higher dropout rates among female students. Lack of information about menstruation, and the absence of adequate sanitation facilities exacerbates the challenges faced by girls and young women. Poor menstrual hygiene, caused by inadequate sanitary conditions, places adolescent girls at risk of urinary tract infections.3 The project will promote design standards that take into account menstrual hygiene management needs and good practice (separate cabins for boys and girls, safe locks, lighting, presence of disposal bins, and handwashing stations). These activities will be supplemented with a hygiene promotion campaign in schools, with information on menstruation (designed for students and teachers). d) Employment Creation The construction of the septic tanks and pit latrines will lead to the creation of employment (skilled and un-skilled) due to the fact that workers will be required for construction purposes. e) Reduced Contamination of Water Resources Better and properly sited sanitation facilities at the household level will reduce the risk of contamination of surface and groundwater resources. Table 0-1. Adverse Impacts Project Phase Environmental / Mitigation Measure Social Impact Construction Site Related Oil Spills • Employee awareness on company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks. • Containment of leaks. • Provision of absorbent material • Maintenance of contractor’s equipment • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Construction Soil Related Impacts • Stock piling of soil for reuse • Restoration of the ground by sowing adequate grass cover and planting of trees. • Planning emergency response measures in case of accidental oil spills. 3 Humanitarian Needs Overview, The Kingdom of Eswatini, 2016 Project Phase Environmental / Mitigation Measure Social Impact • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Construction Impact on Water • Provide a waste management plan Resources • Proper solid and liquid wastes disposal mainly from the construction sites. • Ensuring proper measures are in place for collection and disposal of spilled oils and lubricants. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Pre-construction Socio-Economic • Prepare a labour influx plan to manage labour influx Impacts • Prepare GBV/SEA Action plan Construction • Hiring unskilled construction and skilled (if available) labour from the local population as far as possible. • Use of manual labour during excavation and construction works where possible. • Sensitizing workers and the surrounding community on awareness, prevention and management of HIV / AIDS. • Provide an on-site clinic to provide VCT services. • Enforcing and maintaining a code of conduct for his employees Construction Air Quality • Use of protective clothing like dust masks on construction crew. • Operated and maintenance of contractor’s plant in compliance with relevant vehicle emission standards and manufacturer’s specification to minimize air pollution. Construction Noise Pollution • Avoiding night time construction when noise is loudest near residential areas. • No discretionary use of noisy machinery within 50 m of residential areas and near institutions or use of manual labour in these sections. • Good maintenance and proper operation of construction machinery. • Where possible, ensure non-mechanized construction to reduce the use of machinery Construction Impact on flora and • Re-planting the indigenous vegetation as much as possible fauna once work is completed. • Sparing the vegetation that must not necessarily be removed. • Provide a waste management plan • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. • Promoting non-mechanized methods of construction. • Ensuring protection of the flora and fauna by proper handling of cement during civil works. • Ensure that the employees on site are aware of the company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks • Provision of dustbin and sanitation facilities. Construction Public Health and • Ensuring proper maintenance and operation of Contractor’s Safety plant. • Providing workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Provide workers with adequate drinking water and breaks. • Provide workers training on safety procedures and emergency response. Project Phase Environmental / Mitigation Measure Social Impact • Provide a waste management plan. • Cordon off working areas with a reflective tape to ensure safety of pedestrians and provide crossing areas for access to cut off businesses and structures. • Providing clean toilets for workers. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Construction HIV & AIDS Impacts • Sensitizing workers and the surrounding communities on awareness, prevention and management of HIV/AIDS. • Provide an on-site clinic to provide VCT services to construction crew Construction Child Labour and • Provide and implement a child protection strategy Protection • Ensuring no children are employed on site in accordance with national labour laws • Ensuring that any child sexual relations offenses among contractors' workers are promptly reported to the police Construction Gender Equity, Sexual • Provide and implement a gender-based violence strategy, Harassment which will include: o Gender mainstreaming in employment at the worksite with opportunities provided for females to work, in consonance with local laws and customs o Grievance redress mechanisms including non- retaliation. o Provide and implement an employee code of conduct o The works contractor should be required, under its contract, to prepare and enforce a No Sexual Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy, in accordance with national law where applicable. Operation Odour/Foul smell • Ensure proper siting of the pit latrine • Provide training to communities on proper use of latrines and hygiene • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Water • Ensure proper siting of the pit latrine and septic tanks pollution/contamination • Provide training to communities on proper use of pit latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Exposure to pathogens • Ensure pit latrines are frequently cleaned • Provide training to communities on proper use of pit latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Disease Spread • Ensure pit latrines are frequently cleaned • Provide training to communities on proper use of latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Decommissioning Decommissioning of • Ensure that pit latrines are covered when decommissioned old pit latrines/septic to avoid pathogen exposure tanks Public Consultations This being a framework, the level of stakeholder consultation has been focused to only the already known partners and specifically those that could be identified at this early stage. Section 9 and Annex A shows the institutions and stakeholders consulted thus far and the issues and responses from the consultation process. During consultation exercises the following issues were raised by participants: i) the need to ensure that the water kiosks are centrally placed and reasonably distributed to allow for ease of access, ii) highlighted unemployment issues and the need for fair consideration by the contractor of women in the jobs to be available, iii) possible impacts such as interaction of communities with construction workers and, iv) project scope review to cover nearby areas that were also not covered by the EU project. Capacity Building and Training Capacity development and strengthening remains a crucial component in this ESMP and will be integrated all through the project implementation phase. Capacity building will be in the form of training seminars/ workshops for EWSC and PIU staff to be able to successfully implement environmental and social aspects of the project. The proposed training modules will cover among others: a) World Bank ESSs b) Monitoring c) Training on proper construction of pit latrines (for households) as per EHD/MOH guidelines d) Proper siting of pit latrines (for households) as per EHD/MOH guidelines e) Proper siting of septic tanks f) Proper use of pit latrines (for households) as per EHD/MOH guidelines g) Cleaning and maintaining pit latrines (hygiene) h) Cleaning/removal of sludge from pit latrines and septic tanks i) Training on handwashing in schools, households and health facilities j) Communication for a change in hygiene behaviour; The estimated cost of capacity building and other support to implement the ESMP is US $, 500,000 which excludes the cost of preparing component 2 specific ESMPs when required by EAA. Project Implementation Eswatini Water Services Corporation-Project Implementation Unit The EWSC will have overall responsibility for project implementation and coordination of activities. EWSC has established a project implementation unit (PIU), which includes a manager/coordinator and key specialists in the areas of engineering, environmental, social, procurement and financial management. In addition to these specialists, the PIU will also include sub-coordinators from Environmental Health Department (EHD) of the Ministry of Health (MoH). The PIU will be responsible for preparation of consolidated workplan, procurement, financial, technical, environmental and social related documentation required for the project, as well as for the overall project monitoring and evaluation and preparation of progress and financial reports for the Project. A Project Operations Manual (POM) describing all processes, procedures, roles, and responsibilities related to project management and implementation will be prepared by the PIU within 3 months after project effectiveness. Environmental Health Department The rural water supply unit closely coordinates at the operational level with the Environmental Health Department (EHD) of the Ministry of Health (MoH), who is responsible for the coordination of the overall sanitation and hygiene sector in rural and peri-urban areas, around the construction of latrines in the same communities, as well as hygiene awareness programs. The EHD also cooperates with the Ministry of Education and Training to provide improved sanitation and hygiene services at school level. EHD activities comprise the support for construction of pit latrines in the rural areas where it provides technical support for construction of facilities and material provision. Behavior change and education promotion on proper use of drinking water and sanitation facilities are also done through this department. The EHD will identify households, education and health facilities to benefit from the sanitation infrastructure. Further, the EHD will prepare project briefs for submission to EAA to determine category of the investment and will conduct training and capacity building targeting households on construction of pit latrines including sanitation hygiene and use of the facilities. Eswatini Environmental Authority The Government of Eswatini places the responsibility of environmental protection on EEA as the coordinating agency. EEA is charged with the overall role of providing oversight in regard to monitoring for all project activities that have potential impacts on the environment in Eswatini. EAA will provide Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for proposed sanitation projects and specifically the septic tanks to be constructed in schools and health facilities which are falling under category 1 hence only requiring ESMP. Household pit latrines may not require any further environmental analysis but will comply with the EHD’s guidelines for construction of pit latrines (see annex). Without EEA’s approval implementation of the investment project will not move forward. ACRONYMS AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome CMAC Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration Commission CMP Comprehensive Mitigation Plan dB decibels DWA Department for Water Affairs ECC Environmental Compliance Certificate ECC Environmental Compliance Certificate EEA Eswatini Environment Authority EHD Environmental Health Department EHD Environmental Health Department EIA Environmental Impact Assessments EMCA Environmental Management and Coordination Act EMP Environmental Management Plan ENPF Eswatini National Provident Fund ENTC Eswatini National Trust Commission ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESMF Environmental and social management framework ESMPs Environmental Social Management Plan ESSs Environmental and Social Standards EWSC Eswatini Water Services Corporation FIs Financial Intermediaries HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus IEE Initial Environmental Evaluation KoE Kingdom of Eswatini MEPD Ministry of Economic Planning and Development MNRE Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy MOAC Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives MOH Ministry of Health MOPDO Members of Parliament and Designated Office Bearers Pension Fund NDMA National disaster Management Agency NGOs Non-Governmental Organizations NRB Natural Resources Board PAD Project Appraisal Document PAPs Project Affected Persons PIU Project Implementation Unit POM Project Operations Manual PPE personal protective equipment PRSAP poverty reduction strategy and action plan PSPF Public Service Pension Fund SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment STIs Sexually Transmitted Infections VCT Voluntary Counseling and Testing WB World Bank 1. INTRODUCTION The water sector is one of Eswatini’s most valuable assets, central to the country’s long-term development goals and critical for mitigating against these increasing climate risks. Eswatini’s surface water resources are estimated at 4.5 km3/year with 42 percent originating from South Africa. In addition to relying on transboundary rivers and groundwater for its water supply, high water demand makes Eswatini a “high water stress� country; meaning that the ratio of total annual water withdrawals to total available annual renewable supply averages between 40-80 percent.4 Universal access to safe water and sanitation is part of Eswatini’s National Development Strategy, but the country remains behind its established goal of achieving 100 percent coverage by 2022. Whilst access to water supply and sanitation services is relatively high in urban areas the situation is much worse in rural areas. The country’s Central Statistics Office indicated in 2014 that improved sources of drinking water are used by 96 percent of the urban population.6 Accessibility is high with 95 percent of the urban population having water access to piped water on premises. Improved sanitation is accessed by 94 percent of the urban population. Sources of water vary in rural areas, with piped water on premises making up 44 percent of rural supply, groundwater 31.5 percent and surface water up to 21 percent.5 Improved sources of drinking water are used by 63 percent of the population in rural areas.6 Countrywide, for 62 percent of households, an adult female usually collects drinking water when the source is not on premises, usually the case in about 50 percent of the rural households in eSwatini. 6 An adult male is tasked with collecting water in 21 percent of households. Of the 78 percent of the rural population with access to improved sanitation, two percent are connected to sewerage systems, four percent use septic tanks and 72 percent use latrines and other improved types of facilities, of which 29 percent are shared. 12 The remaining 22 percent of the rural population has either access to unimproved facilities (eight percent) or practice open defecation (14 percent).12 In addition, only 25 percent of the population in rural areas have handwashing facilities.12 Poverty prevalence and access to water supply, sanitation and hygiene are strongly correlated, with the lowest quintiles having the least access.12 The Shiselweni region has the lowest percentage access to improved sources of drinking water. Only 56 percent of the population in this region have access to an improved source of drinking water and 19.7 percent have access to improved sanitation7. Approximately 35 percent of this target group use piped water, 13 percent use tube well/borehole, 10 percent use an unprotected well (an unimproved source) and most of the remainder use surface water (24 percent). Most of the population (68 percent) does not have access to drinking water on their premises and a total of 31 percent must travel more than 30 minutes to collect water (both improved or unimproved source). A total of 12 percent of the population openly defecate and 17 percent of households were observed as having a place for handwashing. According to the latest Eswatini household income and expenditure survey (Central Statistics Office, 2016), 41.75% of the population has access to clean water, while 53.68% of the population have access to proper sanitation. The Shiselweni region has the lowest access to 4 World Resources Institute; https://wriorg.s3.amazonaws.com/s3fs- public/aqueduct_coutnry_rankings_010914.pdf?_ga=2.79169556.1660194554.1553017757-1662036744.1552070501. 5 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Central Statistics Office, 2014 6 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Central Statistics Office, 2014 7 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Central Statistics Office, 2014 improved sources to drinking water and lowest access to proper sanitation. The Nhlangano Siphambanweni project will contribute positively on this indicator. The Environmental Health Growth and Development pillars of the poverty reduction strategy and action plan PRSAP (2006-2022) have realized that there is a need to improve the quality of life access to potable water and sanitation services in some areas of Eswatini. Project Objectives The Project Development Objective is to increase access to improved water supply and sanitation services in targeted areas of Eswatini. Project Component The project will include 4 components, as follows: (1) Water Supply Extension, (2) Improved Sanitation Access, (3) Project Management and Institutional Strengthening, and (4) Contingency Emergency Response. The project will include 4 components, as follows: (1) Resilient Water Access and Management, (2) Improved Sanitation Access, (3) Project Management, and (4) Contingency Emergency Response. • Component 1: Resilient Water Access and Management. This component will provide financing to increase potable water supply coverage in the Shiselweni region, improve long-term management of water resources, investment planning and sustainability of water supply service provision, and build resilience to climate and disaster risks, with a focus on droughts. o Sub-component 1.1: Improved Water Access. This sub-component will provide financing to ESWC for the expansion of the water supply transmission and distribution systems that will increase potable water access to an additional 18,478 people in rural areas and small towns from Nhlangano to Siphambanweni and interconnect the Nhlangano and Lavumisa water supply systems, including a transmission pipeline, reservoirs, pumping station and distribution network, as well as the detailed engineering designs and construction supervision activities. This sub-component will also support the EWSC on efficiency improvements, including areas such as energy efficiency, strategic asset management and non- revenue water reduction. o Sub-component 1.2: Resilient Water Management. This sub-component will focus on improved long-term management of water resources, investment planning and sustainability of water supply service provision, particularly in rural areas, which will contribute towards increasing these areas’ resilience to droughts. DWA will lead the implementation of this component. o Sub-component 1.3: Improving Eswatini’s Drought Prepa redness and Resilience. This sub-component will concentrate on building resilience to climate and disaster risks, with a focus on droughts frequency and intensity. Activities financed under this component include the development and implementation of a drought monitoring and early warning system, as well as the development of a framework that will allow for a comprehensive country-wide assessment of potential climate and disaster risks. NDMA will lead the implementation of this component. • Component 2: Improve Sanitation Access. This component will build on the ongoing work that has been done by the Environmental and Health Department on appropriate technology/sanitation service delivery for rural domestic sanitation to arrive at an open defecation-free corridor in the three tinkhundla (Zombodze, Hosea and Shiselweni I) that will benefit from improved access to water services. This component will finance a range of sanitation interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of water-related diseases and improving the quality of life of the beneficiaries in the project area, including: (i) expand access to domestic sanitation services in the project area; (ii) assess and pilot the use of appropriate technologies for on-site sanitation in informal settlements, health centers and schools; (iii) pilot Baby-WASH (Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene) interventions in households with children under 1000 days old; (iv) undertake complementary sanitation communication and behavior campaigns (including menstrual hygiene management), supply chain enhancement and consistent behavior change programs to create sustained behavior change and buy-in to the project outputs; (v) support the establishment of a rural water supply and sanitation information system that will assess the functionality of water supply and sanitation services over time in order to better inform policy formulation, planning and resource allocation for the provision of better quality and more sustainable water supply and sanitation services. This component will also provide support to strengthen institutions, policies, data collection and planning, and long-term sustainability of sanitation services. In addition, the implementation of this component will also contribute to the reduction in the volume of untreated fecal sludge ending up in water bodies, helping reduce water stress by avoiding the pollution of water resources, therefore augmenting the availability of water supply that can be used in situations of water stress. This component will also enhance directly human capital through improved sanitation and hygiene infrastructure and related-behaviors, targeting women and children, the most vulnerable people in society. • Component 3: Project Management. This component will provide project management support including operating costs, the preparation of progress reports, independent audits, as well as support on project financial, procurement, environmental and social management, as needed. • Component 4: Contingency Emergency Response (Zero Budget). This component will support potential disaster recovery needs by providing immediate response to an eligible crisis or emergency, as needed. This may consist of immediate support in assessing the emergency’s impact and developing a recovery strategy or the restructuring of existing, or provision of new, Investment Project Financing, and may also include operating costs, supply of critical parts and equipment, minor civil works rehabilitation, supply of fuel, rent of generators, as well as rapid transportation of chemicals and critical parts by express mechanisms. Table 1-1.Proposed Project Details SN Component Details 1 • Construction of an 21km 400mm Ductile Iron gravity, 3km 400mm Ductile pumping and 41km 250mm ductile iron gravity mains with isolation, air, scour valves and are supply tee junctions • Construction of 3 x 3.2Ml Reservoirs at key strategic places Water Supply • Construction of pump house and 1Ml sump at strategic place • Construction of 244km Lateral networks • Construction of additional distribution networks • Construction of 24 water kiosks in peri-urban and adjacent rural areas. • Construction of MW solar generation plant and control systems 2 • Construction of septic tanks for all schools, clinics in the area • The component also includes demonstration latrines where Sanitation the poor live i.e. in the rural and peri-urban areas, conduct public awareness campaigns and carryout health and hygiene education for the communities and schools, including preparing training materials for teachers, and hygiene promotion to about 20,000 people, of which more than 11,000 are women. 3 • Support in training and capacity building within EWSC for WB Institutional Capacity funded projects comprising engineering services for design Development and supervision • Training for Kiosk operators Generic ESMP For Component 2 Under this project, component 2, as described above entails construction of sanitation facilities in educational and health facilities and within individual households within the Shiselweni Region. Facilities will include septic tanks (targeted to health and educational facilities) and VIP toilets in households. The locations of the educational and health facilities, design of septic tanks are unknown at this point in time. Similarly, the type of toilets and the households to benefit from the individual sanitation facilities are not known and it is against this background that this ESMP is prepared for component 2. Table 1-2. Typology of Pit Latrines to be constructed Sanitation Description Advantages Disadvantages System VIP Toilets • Pit toilet with an • Local material can be • Homestead should have external used for construction considerably large vacant ventilation pipe • Low construction cost area to allow for re-location • Easy to maintain of toilet • Unlined pit may collapse • Excreta is visible to user • System cannot be installed inside a house Reusable VIP • VIP latrine • It can be moved to a • Sourced outside the country Toilet superstructure new site once the pit Superstructures made of precast is full concrete • Easily assembled • Made of light panels and can be replaced • Supplied with a seat and hand washing facility Urine Diversion • Urine is diverted • Can be used in • There are slightly more Toilets at source by a specially areas where there are operational requirements of this designed pedestal and unfavorable geotechnical toilets, but are minimal may simply be led to a or hydrological conditions • Negative attitudes for shallow soak pit. Faeces • Can be handling and using excreta are deposited in a favourable for high • Cannot stand abuse shallow vault and density settlements covered with a sprinkling • May be installed of ash or dry soil inside the house • Urine can be collected into a container and re-used as fertilizer • Absence of odours or flies Septic Tanks The solid portion of the • System is • High operation and excreta is retained on site hygienic and free of flies maintenance requirements in septic tank while the • Toilet may be • High O&M costs liquid portion of the waste placed indoors is drained from the site in • System can be a small diameter sewer used in high density areas Project Institutional and Implementation Arrangements Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy Responsibility for management of the WSS sector lies with several entities. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy (MNRE) is responsible for sustainable water management as well as sustainable provision of water services in the Kingdom of Eswatini (KoE). The Department for Water Affairs (DWA) is an agency of the MNRE tasked with management and oversight of water resources and rural water services provision in Eswatini, including regulation. The DWA has three units: Water Resources; Rural Water Supply; Hydrogeology and Drilling. Eswatini Water Services Corporation-Project Implementation Unit The Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC) is a Public Enterprise wholly owned by Government operating under MNRE with the mandate to provide water supply as well as sewage treatment and disposal services in the country’s largest urban centers. EWSC also controls the abstraction of raw water from boreholes in those areas for which it is responsible. For operational purposes, EWSC has divided its areas of supply into four regions: Central, Northwest, Southwest and East. The EWSC will have overall responsibility for project implementation and coordination of activities. EWSC has established a project implementation unit (PIU), which includes a manager/coordinator and key specialists in the areas of engineering, environmental, social, procurement and financial management. In addition to these specialists, the PIU will also include sub-coordinators from DWA, EHD-MOH, and NDMA. The PIU will be responsible for preparation of consolidated workplan, procurement, financial, technical, environmental and social related documentation required for the project, as well as for the overall project monitoring and evaluation and preparation of progress and financial reports for the Project. Specifically, the PIU will prepare site specific ESMPs for the construction of septic tanks in the educational and health facilities in accordance with ESS1. The PIU will also oversee the implementation and monitoring of the ESMP. A Project Operations Manual (POM) describing all processes, procedures, roles, and responsibilities related to project management and implementation will be prepared by the PIU within 3 months after project effectiveness. Environmental Health Department The rural water supply unit closely coordinates at the operational level with the Environmental Health Department (EHD) of the Ministry of Health (MoH), who is responsible for the coordination of the overall sanitation and hygiene sector in rural and peri-urban areas, around the construction of latrines in the same communities, as well as hygiene awareness programs. The EHD also cooperates with the Ministry of Education and Training to provide improved sanitation and hygiene services at school level. EHD activities comprise the support for construction of pit latrines in the rural areas where it provides technical support for construction of facilities and material provision. Behavior change and education promotion on proper use of drinking water and sanitation facilities are also done through this department. The EHD will identify households, education and health facilities to benefit from the sanitation infrastructure. Further, the EHD will prepare project briefs for submission to the PIU/EAA to determine category of the investment and will conduct training and capacity building targeting households on construction of pit latrines including sanitation hygiene and use of the facilities. Eswatini Environmental Authority The Government of Eswatini places the responsibility of environmental protection on EEA as the coordinating agency. EEA is charged with the overall role of providing oversight in regard to monitoring for all project activities that have potential impacts on the environment in Eswatini. EAA will provide Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for proposed sanitation projects and specifically the septic tanks to be constructed in schools and health facilities which are falling under category 1 hence only requiring ESMP. Household pit latrines may not require any further environmental analysis but will comply with the EHD’s guidelines for construction of pit latrines (see annex B). Without EEA’s approval implementation of the investment project will not move forward. Project Implementation Arrangements Figure 1-1.Project Implementation Arrangements 2. STUDY METHODOLOGY Literature Review Review on the existing baseline information and literature material was undertaken and helped in gaining a further and deeper understanding of the proposed project. A desk review of the Kenyan legal framework and policies was also conducted in order to the relevant legislations and policy documents that should be considered during project implementation. Among the documents that were reviewed in order to familiarize and further understand the project included: Eswatini’s Legislative Documents ▪ Constitution ▪ Environmental Management Act ▪ The Environmental Audit, Assessment and Review Regulations, 2000 ▪ Water Act ▪ Land Act ▪ Public Health Act ▪ Occupational Health and Safety Act ▪ Other relevant baseline documents World Bank Related Documents ▪ World Bank Draft Project Appraisal Document (PAD) ▪ World Bank’s Applicable Environmental and Social Standards Project Area Reconnaissance During the preparation of the ESMP, site visits were undertaken in the region and specifically in the 3 areas with the objective of understanding the general bio-physical and socio-economic environment where the sanitation facilities may be installed. Consultations Stakeholder consultation formed part of the methodology in preparing this ESMP where the project interested and affected stakeholders who could be identified at this early stage were consulted. Public consultation and meetings have been made; one in each of the three areas (Tinkhundla) affected with the purpose of allowing members of the public to raise their concerns and likewise inform the preparation of the ESMP. More information is available in Annex A and chapter 9. The issues raised and concerns expressed including possible mechanisms of addressing these issues and concerns are discussed in chapter 9. The stakeholder consultation was significant to the preparation of this ESMP and formed the basis for the determination of potential project impacts and design of viable mitigation measures. Preparation of ESMP Preparation of the ESMP for component 2 shall included the following stages: ▪ Collation of baseline data on the environmental conditions of the project area ; ▪ Identification of positive and negative environmental and social impacts of sub projects under component 2; ▪ Identification of environmental and social mitigation measures and management plan; ▪ Preparation of screening procedures for sub project proposals; ▪ Formulation of environmental and social indicators and monitoring plans. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 3. LEGAL, REGULATORY AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK This chapter identifies the applicable lender requirements and national standards. Legal Framework Table 3.1 below provides a summary of the legal and regulatory statutes in Eswatini which are relevant to this project and which the project will need to comply with and has informed the preparation of the ESMP. The annex B contains a detailed description of the statutes and regulations. Table 3-1. Legal and regulatory Framework Statute Relevance Constitution of Kingdom of Eswatini Obliges the Kingdom to in the interest of the present and future generations, to protect and make rational use of its land, mineral and water resources as well as its fauna and flora, and shall take appropriate measures to conserve and improve the environment. Environmental Management Act No. The stated purpose of the Environment 5 2002 Management Act, 5 of 2002 (s4) is to provide for and promote the enhancement, protection and conservation of the environment and where appropriate, the sustainable management of natural resources. In section 9 the Eswatini Environment Authority is established and its functions. Environmental Audit, Assessment These regulations issued under the and Review Regulations, 2000. Eswatini Environmental Authority Act, 1992 and Environmental Management Act, 2002; underline processes that must be taken for any proposed project in order to predict and evaluate likely environmental impacts under studies such as the ESIA. Public Health Act The Act defines the Authority for prescribing and enforcing preventative and remedial measures for the protection of public health in Eswatini. Flora Protection Act of 1958 This Act promotes the conservation and protection of certain plants, through the use of a Schedule, trees, shrubs and vegetation and any living or dead portion of plants from destruction. Human Settlements Authority Act of The act established the Human Settlements 1988 Authority and its objects and functions. It 21 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT provides policy support to Government and the orderly development of human settlements by allowing for and outlining procedures for the establishment of Human Settlements. Factories, Machinery and The act deals with the regulation of Construction Works Act of 1972 working conditions and the use of machinery at factories and construction sites. Workmen’s Compensation Act of The Act provides for the compensation 1983 and medical treatment of workmen who suffer injury or contract work-related diseases in the course of their employment. Occupational Safety and Health Act of The Occupational Safety and Health Act 200 provides for the safety and health of persons at work and at the workplace, and for the protection of persons other than those at the workplace against hazards to safety and health arising from work activities. Building Operations Regulations of The regulations control building activities 1969 and the safety of buildings. Factories, Machinery and The regulations control health and safety Construction Works Regulations of working conditions and the use of 1974 machinery at factories and construction works. Standard Building Regulations of These regulations provide for the control 1969 of building activities and the safety of buildings. Relevant to this project is Regulation 70 which stipulates that no lavatory or pit latrine shall be constructed within 30.5 m of any water source. Eswatini Building (Grade II) These regulations provide for the control Regulations of 1966 of building activities and the safety of buildings. Of relevance to this project is Regulation 11 which stipulates that no person shall dump or dispose of any debris or rubbish except at such places and in such a manner as may be appointed by the local authority. Waste Regulations of 2000 The Waste Regulations control the collection, transport, sorting, recovery, treatment, storage and disposal of waste collection and disposal of waste. Water Pollution Control Regulations The regulations control the discharge of of 2010 effluents exceeding acceptable effluent 22 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT standards for the preservation of water quality. Institutional Framework Eswatini Environmental Authority The key institution involved in the management of environmental impact assessments (EIA) are the Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) and the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development (MEPD). The EEA, created by an Act of Parliament in 1992, is directed by a management board that sets policy priorities. The format, protocols and procedures of the authority are set out in detail in the First Schedule of the Act. The authority has initiated a process by means of which it would become an autonomous body operating outside of government, but would still largely depend on government funding. This process has been finalised with the enactment of the Environmental Management Act No. 5 of 2002 which establishes EEA as a body corporate with perpetual succession to be successor to the Eswatini Environment Authority established under the Eswatini Environment Authority Act No. 15 of 1992. The main functions of the EEA are to: - • Establish standards and guidelines relating to the pollution of water, land and air as well as those relating to noise and other forms of environmental pollution. • Develop, in cooperation with other government authorities, economic measures to encourage environmentally sound and sustainable activities. • Promote training and education programmes in the field of the environment to create national awareness of environmental issues. • Ensure the observance of proper environmental and social standards in the planning and execution of all development projects, including those already in existence, that are likely to interfere with the quality of the environment. • Initiate measures for the coordination and enforcement of environmental protection legislation. The septic tanks are falling under category 1 within the EAA’s Environmental Audit, Assessment and Review Regulations, 2000 and will therefore require preparation of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) which will be reviewed by EAA and issued with Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) prior to construction. The ESWC/PIU will procure the services of a competent consultant to prepare these ESMPs once their locations are identified. 23 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 4. World Bank Environmental and Social Standards Eswatini Water and Services Corporation (EWSC) seeks to partner with the World Bank in the development and implementation of this project. The proposed sub projects in component 2 will therefore have to comply with WB Environmental and Social Standards. Projects supported by the Bank through Investment Project Financing are required to meet the following Environmental and Social Standards. Relevant Applicable ESSs The Project will apply relevant World Bank Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs) to protect against adverse impacts on the bio-physical and social environments. The following ESSs are relevant to the project. Table 4-1.Applicable Environmental and Social Standards ESS Description Applicable ESS Assessment and Management of Environmental Applicable because the 1. and Social Risks and Impacts. construction of septic tanks, pit This establishes the importance of integrated latrines etc could lead to social and assessment to identify the social and environmental environmental impacts, risks, and impacts, risks, and opportunities in the project's area opportunities in the project's area of influence. This standard requires that social and of influence which need to be environmental assessment and management systems identified and managed throughout are in place for managing social and environmental the project life cycle. performance throughout the project life cycle. Its main elements include: (i) social and environmental assessment; (ii) management program; (iii) organizational capacity; (iv)training; (v) community engagement; (vi) monitoring; and (vii) reporting. ESS Labour and Working Conditions. Applicable because labour is 2. It requires that the worker-management relationship is required for the construction of the established and maintained, compliance with national sanitation facilities specifically the labour and employment laws and safe and healthy septic tanks where contractors will working conditions are ensured for the workers. be sourced. ESS Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Applicable when consideration is 3. Management. made to the extent that This gives an approach to pollution prevention and construction equipment could be abatement in line with Internationally accepted sources of air emissions. technologies and practices with objectives to a) avoid or minimize adverse impacts on human health and the environment by avoiding or minimizing pollution from activities; and b) promote the reduction of emissions that contribute to climate change. Under this standard, a project is required to avoid, minimize, or reduce adverse impacts on human health and the environment by avoiding or minimizing pollution from project activities. ESS Community Health and Safety. Applicable when considering that 4. It outlines the responsibility to be undertaken by the construction of sanitation client to avoid or minimize the risks and impacts to the infrastructure could lead to community's health, safety and security that may arise community health and safety risks. from project activities. ESS Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Applicable. Prior to the 5. Involuntary Resettlement. construction of sanitation This standard requires that project does not result in infrastructure each site will be involuntary resettlement or at least if unavoidable it is screened to determine if EDD5 is minimized by exploring alternative project designs. It applicable. If applicable the also requires that the project ensures that social and activities will be guided by the 24 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT economic impacts from land acquisition or restrictions Resettlement Policy Framework. on affected persons' use of land are mitigated. The potential sites for the infrastructures are educational and health facilities, and individual residential houses. ESS Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Not Applicable. The proposed 6. Management of Living Natural Resources. sanitation infrastructures will not This standard aims to protect and conserve be located in biodiverse areas and biodiversity, the variety of life in all its forms, including unlikely to affect biodiversity. genera, species and ecosystem diversity and its ability to change and evolve; which is fundamental to sustainable development. ESS Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Not Applicable. The country does 7. Historically Underserved Traditional Local not have undeserved traditional Communities- local communities, and as such the It recognises the possibility of vulnerability of application of this standard is indigenous people owing to their culture, beliefs, limited. institutions and living standards and that it may further get compromised by one or other project activity throughout the life cycle of the project. This standard underlines the requirement of minimizing adverse impacts on indigenous people in the project area, respecting the local culture and customs, fostering good relationship and ensuring that development benefits are provided to improve their standard of living and livelihoods. ESS Cultural Heritage Applicable . In cases where the 8. It aims to protect the irreplaceable cultural heritage project finds items of cultural and to guide project proponents on protecting cultural importance, notification heritage in the course of project operations. procedures will have to be followed to ensure protection of cultural heritage of the area and the country. ESS Financial Intermediaries (FIs) Not Applicable. There are no 9. This ESS identifies that strong domestic capital and Financial Intermediaries in this financial markets and access to finance are important project. for economic development, growth and poverty reduction. FIs are required to monitor and manage the environmental and social risks and impacts of their portfolio and FIs subprojects. They also develop and maintain, in the form of an Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), effective environmental and social systems, procedures and capacity for assessing, managing, and monitoring risks and impacts of subprojects, as well as managing overall portfolio risk in a responsible manner. ESS Stakeholder Engagement and Information Applicable. The proposed project 10. Disclosure. will require extensive stakeholder This ESS recognizes the importance of open and engagement because its success transparent engagement between the Borrower and will depend on how it is received by project stakeholders as an essential element of good the communities. In addition, its international practice. Effective stakeholder design will have to be informed by engagement can improve the environmental and the involvement of the affected social sustainability of projects, enhance project communities and other acceptance, and make a significant contribution to stakeholders. SEP has been successful project design and implementation. prepared and cleared by the Bank and it shall guide stakeholders’ engagements/consultations throughout the project cycle, 25 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Environmental and Social Risk Classification The Bank will classify all projects (including projects involving Financial Intermediaries (FIs)) into one of four classifications: High Risk, Substantial Risk, Moderate Risk or Low Risk. In determining the appropriate risk classification, the Bank will take into account relevant issues, such as the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the project; the nature and magnitude of the potential environmental and social risks and impacts; and the capacity and commitment of the ESWC (including any other entity responsible for the implementation of the project) to manage the environmental and social risks and impacts in a manner consistent with the ESSs. Other areas of risk may also be relevant to the delivery of environmental and social mitigation measures and outcomes, depending on the specific project and the context in which it is being developed. These could include legal and institutional considerations; the nature of the mitigation and technology being proposed; governance structures and legislation; and considerations relating to stability, conflict or security. Component II Risk Classification-Moderate Risk The component II of this project (sanitation) is classified as Moderate Risk. Specifically, due to the fact that: (iii) the potential adverse risks and impacts on human populations and/or the environment are not likely to be significant. This is because the project is not complex and/or large, does not involve activities that have a high potential for harming people or the environment, and is located away from environmentally or socially sensitive areas. As such, the potential risks and impacts and issues are likely to have the following characteristics: • predictable and expected to be temporary and/or reversible • low in magnitude • site-specific, without likelihood of impacts beyond the actual footprint of the project • low probability of serious adverse effects to human health and/or the environment (e.g. do not involve use or disposal of toxic materials, routine safety precautions are expected to be sufficient to prevent accidents, etc.) (iv) risks and impacts can be easily mitigated in a predictable manner Requirements for Public Disclosure This ESMP will be disclosed in country through posting on the website for EWSC as well as in the Bank’s external website. If there are any changes, a final version will be disclosed in the same manner and places described later. Site specific ESMPs prepared at a later stage will also be disclosed in accordance with the World Bank Policy on Access to Information. 26 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 5. BASELINE DATA This section describes the overall baseline condition in terms of bio-physical environment, as well as the socio-economic. Location of the Project Area The proposed project is located in the Shiselweni Region of Eswatini. The proposed project covers a major part of this region. The largest town in this region is Nhlangano, and this is where all the regional offices are located. Figure 5-1.shows Eswatini with its neighboring states Land Use The project area is rural, and therefore it mainly consists of settlements. It is sparsely populated, with subsistence crop farming and livestock grazing. In areas from an estimated distance of 10 km from Nhalngano, there is commercial forest called Agro Forestry Development. These plantations have Acacia mearnsii, commonly known as black wattle, and pine trees (Pinus monticola andsome Aracaria columnaris). The area also has Psidium guajava, commonly known as guava trees. There are commercial banana plantations around Mhlosheni. A few formal business establishments are found in the project area. These include small shops, maize milling operations, butcheries and filling stations. Government establishments found in the area include a police station at Hluthi, Sub-regional Government offices, a number of schools and clinics. The site is near the border with the republic of South Africa, and as such the Lavumisa border gate and Nsalitje border gate are within a 20 km radius of the site. 27 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Figure 5-2. Market Stalls and banana plantations at Mhlosheni Surrounding Land use The following are establishments that are neighbouring the project area: ▪ Bahle Benguni Milling ▪ United Christian Church ▪ Agro Forestry Development ▪ Evangelical Church ▪ Concrete Block Supplier ▪ Mgazini Nazarene Clinic ▪ Muna nwar Investments ▪ Nhlangano Funeral Parlour ▪ Sibovini Supermarket ▪ Siphambanweni Milling ▪ ESIGAS Filling Station ▪ Kantombanyana Restaurant and Mini Supermarket ▪ Ka-Lakhumalo ▪ Swazi Sigwe ▪ Try Again Supermarket ▪ Cordan Hardware Store ▪ Van niekarks Farm ▪ Lijaha Sisu General Dealer ▪ Imphilo Butchery ▪ Gugwane Hardware Geology and Soils The geological map of Eswatini indicates that the geological setting of Nhlangano is made up of 6 groups, the first being dominant in the area is the Nhlangano gneiss a granite gneiss reddish in the Nhlangano area while in Mkhondo Valley are Nhlangano outcrops of gneissoe veined at the margins, homogeneous with a plutonic aspect centrally. A few are folded malic dykes which are upright gneiss domes mantled mainly by Pongola and related rocks. Also characteristic of the area is a few of the Hlatikhulu granite (Htg), Mahamba Gneiss (Mh gn) Mozaan Group (Mz) Mkhondo Valley (MVms) and Dolorite grabbo (do). The Hlatikhulu granite is coarse to medium-grained relicas and xenolithis common in some areas around Hlatikhulu in sheet like form fed from below by dykes and sheets- late pegmelites and mesocralic granite dykes. The Mahamba Gneiss is a semi pelitoc gametilerous gneiss which its correlation is uncertain. The Mozaan group is a basalt about 150m thick. Lastly is the dolorite grabbo and metegrabbo which is mostly dykes of various swarms and ages which a few may be proterozioc or karro. 28 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT The arrangement of the soil structure in the project area varies considerably. From Nhlangano to Qinisweni, there are three soil types. It is mostly deep red loam, very acidic soil. Some parts of the soil structure are orange loam, on a soft iron pan. It ranges from ferrisolic to ferralitic. Right after Qinisweni and up to Mantambe, the structure is generally ferralitic; beginning with a Highveld grey on orange which is gravely loam. There are also rock outcrops with stony ground (raw mineral soil) and grey loam on the thick stone line. Moving up to Makhondza area, just before Shiselweni 1, the soil arrangement is deep yellow, loam and very acidic. In some parts, this ferralitic structure is deep pale grey sand on clay. Masiphula area is represented by generally lithosolic rock. It is grey sandy on hard iron pan and shallow grey to sandy loam on hard rock. From Masiphula to Hluthi, the structure of the soil is mostly shallow grey to sandy loam on hard rock, with Highveld grey on orange which is gravely loam and deep red loam, very acidic. Hluthi to Siphambanweni has ferralitic soil which is slightly vertisolic. This gives the soil an acidic dark to deep dark brown clay structure with rock outcrops. It is in some parts marsh, with deep black clay and is calcareous. The erosion hazard map indicates that soils in Nhlangano area fall between an erosion hazard category 2 and 4 with sub-factors s, r and e. This means the soils in the area are erodible, but at an intermediate rate with contributing factors of slope and rainfall. From Nhlangano town to Galile Primary, the slope is a major contributing factor to erosion. In the area with a steeper slope (such as St Florence Christian High Academy), there is greater erosion power. This area is also susceptible to rainfall erosivity. The flat areas are not susceptible to erosion by slope but during periods of high rainfall in January where most precipitation, the area is likely to experience erosion as a result of rainfall in disturbed areas that have not been rehabilitated. The erosion hazard category ranges from as low as 2 to a medium (3). Galile Primary area has a steep slope too with an erosion hazard category of 4 which is a high medium and soil erodibility due to the nature of the slope. Moving into Hluthi and up to Siphambanweni, the erosion hazard map shows that the soil has an erosion hazard category of 3 with soil erodibility due to slope. Climate The climate is warm and temperate in Nhlangano. In winter, there is much less rainfall than in summer. The wet season is warm and partly cloudy and the dry season is comfortable and mostly clear. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies significantly. The average percentage of the sky covered by clouds experiences significant seasonal variation over the course of the year. The clearer part of the year in the area begins around February ending around October. June normally has the clearest day of the year; the sky is clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy 88% of the time, and overcast or mostly cloudy 12% of the time. The cloudier part of the year begins around October, ending around February. November normally has the cloudiest day of the year; the sky is overcast or mostly cloudy 44% of the time, and clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy 56%of the time. The wetter season lasts between October and March; with a greater than 27% chance of a given day being a wet day. The chance of a wet day peaks at 50% in December. The drier season is usually from March to October. The smallest chance of a wet day is 3% on July. Over the course of July the length of the day gradually increases. From the start to the end of the month, the length of the day increases by roughly 23 minutes.The graphs below (using data sourced from the 29 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Eswatini Meteorological Department) indicate the average temperatures and rainfall measures between year 2015 and 2018. Data used here was collected from the Mbabane weather station. Average Monthly Rainfall of Nhlangano Generally, the most rain falls during the 31 days cantered in January and December. But on Figure 10, it is shown that between 2015 and 2018, the highest average rainfall was measured in February (90.5mm). December and March also recorded significantly average rainfall totals of 59.4mm and 75.3mm respectively. The rainless period of the year is between May, June, July and August with average rainfall totals of 21.4mm, 0.4mm, 6.5mm and 9.8mm correspondingly. The least rain falls around June; with an average total accumulation of 0.4mm. Average Monthly Rainfall 100 90 80 70 Rainfall (mm) 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Month Figure 5-3.Average Monthly Rainfall Measured Between 2015 and 2018 (Sourced from the Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018) Average Annual Rainfall of Nhlangano Nhlangano experiences extreme seasonal variation in monthly rainfall. The lowest and highest rainfalls at 235 mm and 486 mm respectively. The lowest rainfall was in the 2015 and highest in 2018. This, along with the rainfall totals for 2016 and 2017 is shown in figure below. 30 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Annual Rainfall 600 500 Rainfall (mm) 400 300 200 100 0 2015 2016 2017 2018 Year Figure 5-4.Annual Rainfall Measured 2015-2018 (Sourced from the Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018). Temperature The warm season lasts from December to February; with the highest monthly temperatures at 28.6 Degrees Celsius, 27.9 Degrees Celsius and 28.9 Degrees Celsius in December, January and February respectively. The hottest month of the year is February, with an average high of 28.9 Degrees Celsius. The cool season is normally from May to August with average monthly high temperatures of 10.4 Degrees Celsius, 9.9 Degrees Celsius, 8.9 Degrees Celsius and 10.6 Degrees Celsius in May, June, July and August respectively. The coldest month of the year is July; with an average monthly low of 8.9 Degrees Celsius. Figure below demonstrates the average minimum and maximum monthly temperatures between 2015 and 2018 from January to December. Average Monthly Temperature 30 Temperature (Degrees Celcius) 25 20 15 10 5 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Months Min Max Figure 5-5.Average Monthly Minimum and Maximum Temperatures between 2015 and 2018 (Sourced from Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018) The subsequent figure (Figure 5.6) shows the average annual temperatures from 2015 to 2018. This is to show variation within the years and not just the monthly average totals. The figure shows a drastic decline in the average minimum temperatures; with the lowest temperature recorded in the year 2018. The lowest being 12.1 Degrees Celsius in 2018 while 14.4 Degrees Celsius in 2015. This shows a decrease by 2.3 31 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature dropped marginally to 24 Degrees Celsius in 2017. The temperatures continued to plateau out up to 2018. However, towards the end of 2018, there was a minute increase to 24.1 Degrees Celsius. Average Annual Temperature 30 Temperature (Degrees Celcius) 25 20 15 10 5 0 2015 2016 2017 2018 Year Minimum Maximum Figure 5-6.Average Annual Minimum and Maximum Temperatures (Source Eswatini Meteorology Department 2018). Topography Eswatini is oval shaped and bestrides the dissected edge of South African Plateau. The elevation of the country decreases from west to easterly direction. There are four main geographical regions running longitudinal north to south and these are (Microsoft Encarta Encyclopaedia, 2002 and Mwendera, 2003). • The mountainous westernmost portion, the Highveld, has an average elevation of 900 m to 1400 m and in some places it reaches an altitude of more than 1800 m above sea level; • The hilly central Middleveld has an elevation of 400-800 m; • The eastern Lowveld is a rolling area that averages from 120 to 130 m above sea level; and • The Lubombo Mountains bound the Lowveld on the east. Significant ridge areas are present in the region of the proposed project. 32 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Project Area Figure 5-7.Topography of Eswatini Source: Wikipedia Biodiversity Flora The area has some exotic flora species, like wattle trees and gum trees. This is mainly in the parts where there is commercial forests. The following table outlines the few species that were observed on site. Table 5-1.List of Flora in the Project Area. Scientific name Common name Siswati Name Comment Syzygium cordatum Water berry Umcozi Indigenous Psidium guajava guava Umgwava Invasive Lantana Camara Emehlo akati Alien invasive species Pinus sp. Pine Tree Umtfolo Alien invasive species Sclerochiton harveyanus Blue-lips Mazabuka Weed Lannea discolor Live-long umnTfokolovu Indigenous Ozoroa engleri R. & A.Fern White Resin Tree imFuce Indigenous lemhlophe Ozoroa sphaerocarpa R. & A.Fern Currant Resin Tree imFuce Indigenous lemnyama 33 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Scientific name Common name Siswati Name Comment Rhus chirindensis Baker f. R. Red Currant inHlangushane Indigenous legatii lenkhulu Rhus pentheri Zahlbr. R. cuneata Crow-berry inHlangushane, Indigenous Sitsatsatsa Sclerocarya birrea Marula umGanu Indigenous Monanthotaxis caffra (Sond.) Dwaba-berry siTitane, Indigenous maSweleti, maSweti Carissa bispinosa (L.) Num-num umVusankunzi, Indigenous umBethankunzi Cussonia spicata Cabbage Tree umSenge Indigenous Chromolaena odorata (L.) Riffid Weed, Sandanezwe Paraffin Weed Vernonia myriantha Eared Vernonia, liNyatselo Indigenous Eared Bitter-tea, Blue Bitter-tea Kigelia africana Sausage Tree umVongotsi Indigenous Eucalyptus spp Gum tree Gomu Ricinus communis L Castor Oil Bush umHlafutfo Indigenous Pinus patula var. patula Pine Tree Sipheshula Indigenous Prunus persica Peach uMpetjisi Persea americana Ovacado uMkotapeni Englerophytum magalismontanum umnumbela Indigenous Bidens bipinnata daisy Chuchuza Alternanthera sessilis sessile joyweed Imbuya Herb Corchorus argillicola Jew's mallow Ligusha Herb Pluchea bojeri sunflower Nukani, Herb Shashasha Vangueria cyanescens Kalahari wild- Umntulwa Indigenous medlar Fauna The following fauna species are known to be found in the project area Table 5-2.Fauna Species in the Project Area Species Common name SiSwati name Chiroptera spp Bats Lilulwane Lepus saxatilis Scrub hare Logwaja Pronolagus Natal red rock rabbit Logwaja crassicaudatus Cercopithecus mitis Samango monkey Ingobiyane Chlorocebus pygerythrus Vervet monkey Ingobiyane Papio ursinus Chacma baboon Imfene Aethomys chrysophilus Red veld rat Ligundvwane Aethomys ineptus Tete veld rat Ligundvwane Aethomys namaquensis Namaqua rock mouse Ligundvwane Sylvicapra grimmia Common duiker Impunzi Poyntonophrynus Northern Pygmy Toad Sicoco fenoulheti Schismaderma carens Red Toad Sigogodvolo Sclerophrys capensis Raucous toad Sigogodvolo 34 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Water Resources Hydrology The project area falls within the Usuthu River Basin. The main river flowing through Shiselweni is the Mkhondvo river, which is the source of water supply for the project. Its confluence with the Usuthu River is at Sidvokodvo. The figure below shows the main river basins of the country. Project area Figure 5-8.River Basins in Eswatini Along the MR11, there a number of small, seasonal streams namely; • Mahosha • Mthongwane • Mantambe • Mdakane There is also a wetland approximately 3km from Siphambanweni. Social Environment Socio Economic Baseline The population of Eswatini is largely rural with the population of Eswatini concentrated in the Hhohho and Manzini regions. Thirty one percent (31%) of the Eswatini’s population reside in the Manzini region where the proposed project is allocated. Fifty 35 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT three percent (53%) of the Eswatini population are female whilst 47% are male (Central Statistical Office, Volume 3, 2007). Population Age distribution The combined population of the proposed project areas which include Zombodze Emuva, Hosea and Shiselweni is 38’233 people. Of these 53.6% are female and 46.37% are male. In comparison to the national average the population of Shiselweni region has more people under the age of 14 and over the age of 65 as outlined below. This usually denoted a high dependency ratio as the working age population is smaller than elsewhere. Table 5-3.Distribution of Population in Shiselweni Age (Years) 0 -14 15 -64 64+ Eswatini 35.6% 59.9% 4.5% Shiselweni 39.2% 55.1% 5.7% (CSO, 2017) Male to Female Ratio The country’s male population is higher than females up to the age of 44, after which the female population is higher. The Shiselweni region has the lowest Male Female ratio (89%) compared to the other regions. Higher male population is 24 years and below. This implies a higher emigration ratio of the male population from this region. Population density The population density for Eswatini is 63 people per square metre. Shiselweni region has the third highest population density (54) after Hhohho (89) and Manzini (87), while Lubombo region has the lowest (36). Amongst the 3 Tinkhundlas in the project area, Zombodze has the highest population density (67), followed by Hosea (54), then Shiselweni 1 (42). Amongst the 3, only Zombodze has a population density above the national average. Education The country has a 91% enrolment rate for primary education. At secondary (form 1 to 5), the enrolment rate drops to 51.25%. This may be attributed to the access to free primary education, which then makes the literacy for the country to be 94.61, with males having a higher literacy (95.64%) than females (93.77%). The average money spent on education per household is SZL1, 114.54. Health The total percentage of the population with impairment is at 18.13%. The healthcare affordability for the country is about 80%. The average distance travelled to a health facility is 11.36 km. The national average health expenditure is SZL649.93 per year per household. Poverty levels A majority of the population (58.90%) in Eswatini lives below the poverty line, but only 20.1% live below the extreme poverty line. The percentage working poor is 38.90%. More people living below the poverty line live in the rural areas (70.15%) than urban areas (19.55). Amongst the 4 regions of Eswatini, 67% of the Shiselweni population lives below the population lives below the poverty line, after Manzini (51.07) and 36 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Hhhohho (54.08), while the Lubombo region has the highest percentage at 71.53%. The trend is similar with the population living under extreme poverty. The highest percentage population living below the extreme poverty line is for Lubombo region (33.6%), followed by Shiselweni (21.1%), then Hhohho (18.9%) and Manzini (13.3%). The national poverty gap is 24.9%. The region with the highest poverty gap is the Lubombo Region at 34%. Shiselweni Region has a poverty gap of 28.3%. Hhohho and Manzini have poverty gaps of 22.9% and 19.5% respectively. Household income and consumption per Capita The national average household income per capita is SZL1651, and the consumption average per capita is SZL1074. The percentage entrepreneurship rate is 27.69%. A majority of enterprises (66.45%) have a female decision maker. This indicates that women in Eswatini are more empowered than man to run their own businesses. Water Supply and Sanitation At a national level 29.9% of the population has functional connection to the EWSC grid and a further 11.76% get water from functional community taps. 75.6% use improved sources of drinking water; 12.8% use unimproved drinking water using appropriate treatment methods and 77.43% are engaged in water harvesting. In terms of sanitation 53.68% have access to safely managed; none shared Sanitation facilities. The Shiselweni region as whole lags behind the three other national regions in terms of improved water and sanitation. The following tables indicate the percentage of improved drinking water by region and percentage improved sanitation respectively. Table 5-4.Improved Sources of Drinking Water by Region Region Percentage sources of drinking water Hhohho 79% Manzini 79.5% Shiselweni 65.7% Lubombo 71.9% (CSO, 2017) Table 5-5.Improved Sanitation by Region Region Percentage Improved sanitation Hhohho 48.7% Manzini 43.8% Shiselweni 42.3% Lubombo. 49.7% (CSO, 2017). Vulnerabilities HIV/AIDS The key factors that underpin Eswatini’s social vulnerability are the devastating impact of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) pandemic with national HIV prevalence estimated at 39% in 2006, increasing food insecurities due to persistent drought conditions in certain regions of the country, low economic growth levels (below 2% in 2006/7); shrinking agriculture output and rising unemployment. In 2002 the unemployment rate was 34.2%. The impact of HIV and AIDS, unemployment and rising poverty and the corresponding 37 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT decrease in purchasing power exposes many households to food insecurity (pension- watch knowledge centre). In the Shiselweni region, HIV prevalence was shown to be 37.5% in women and 22.3% in men8. A total of 39.7% of people were reported to have comprehensive knowledge of HIV in the region. Sexual behavior that increases the risk of HIV infection, having sex before 15 and having sex with multiple partners, was shown in 5.3% and 16.7% of men and 3.9% and 2.8% of women (aged 15-24 years) 9. The Government launched an initiative, called “ALL IN�. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that the country attains a National Vision of having an AIDS free generation by 2022. This campaign is also aimed at uniting different sectors in the reduction of AIDS deaths by 65% and reduction in new infection by adolescents by 75% by 2022, and thus set the AIDS movement on track to end the AIDS epidemic among adolescents by 2030. 8 Swaziland HIV Incidence Measurement Survey, 2011 9 Swaziland Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, 2014 38 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 6. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT This chapter analyses the potential positive (beneficial) and negative (adverse) environmental consequences of the sub project investments envisioned under the Sanitation component. Beneficial Impacts Reduced Spread of Public Health Diseases The construction of pit latrines in households will lead to reduction in Open Defecation and achieve Community Total Led Sanitation (CLTS) which will in effect lead to reduction in public health diseases spread by poor sanitation including open defecation. Infant mortality The project will lead to reduction in infant, child and maternal mortality and morbidity due to improved health and sanitation services in the health units and household level. Improved Hygiene For Girl Child The construction of septic tanks and toilet facilities in schools will lead to generally improved hygiene in these facilities. There is lack of adequate sanitation facilities in schools equipped for menstruation management. The onset of menstruation coincides with higher dropout rates among female students. Lack of information about menstruation, and the absence of adequate sanitation facilities exacerbates the challenges faced by girls and young women. Poor menstrual hygiene, caused by inadequate sanitary conditions, places adolescent girls at risk of urinary tract infections.10 The project will promote design standards that take into account menstrual hygiene management needs and good practice (separate cabins for boys and girls, safe locks, lighting, presence of disposal bins, and handwashing stations). These activities will be supplemented with a hygiene promotion campaign in schools, with information on menstruation (designed for students and teachers). Employment Creation The construction of the septic tanks and pit latrines will lead to the creation of employment (skilled and un-skilled) due to the fact that workers will be required for construction purposes. Reduced Contamination of Water Resources Better and properly sited sanitation facilities at the household level will reduce the risk of contamination of surface and groundwater resources. Adverse Impacts Site Related Spills During construction specifically of the septic tanks where motorized equipment (excavators etc.) may be used, oil spills may result from construction site equipment and storage, which may affect the flora, fauna, soils, and water ways in the area. Mitigation Measures 10 Humanitarian Needs Overview, The Kingdom of Eswatini, 2016 39 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT  The Contractor should ensure that the employees on site are aware of the company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks e.g. using dispersants or adding biological agents to speed up the oil breakdown for the construction machinery though induction and safety training. There will be limited used of motorised equipment during the construction with construction work mainly through manual hand-held equipment.  In case of spillage the Contractor should isolate the source of oil spill and contain the spillage to the source of leakage before it makes it leaves the affected area, using sandbags, sawdust, absorbent material and/or other materials;  All vehicles and equipment should be kept in good working order, serviced regularly in accordance to the manufacturers specifications and stored in an area; Air Quality Construction activities using motorized equipment (septic tanks) including materials delivery, excavation, concrete works and will generate noise and dust. Vehicular traffic emissions will bring about air pollution by increasing the fossil fuel emissions into the atmosphere. However, the construction activities are mainly going to be through manual labour and use of hand-held equipment with limited use of mechanized machines whenever necessary. Mitigation:  Use protective clothing like dust masks on construction crew.  Construction sites a will be water-sprayed on regularly up to three times a day, especially if these sites are in sensitive receptors, such as residential areas or institutions (hospitals, schools etc.).  All the vehicles and construction machinery should be operated in compliance with relevant vehicle emission standards and manufacturer’s specification to minimize air pollution.  Undertake regular maintenance of generator Noise Pollution Noise and vibration generated during construction (septic tanks), such as excavators, and transportation vehicles. There will be limited use of construction machinery which will not be heavy in nature. In order to create employment, the project will use manual forms of labour and equipment. Generally, construction noise exceeding a noise level of 70 decibels (dB) has significant impacts on surrounding sensitive receptors within 50m of the construction site. These sensitive receptors include, schools and clinics in the area. Mitigation: 40 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT  Avoid night time construction when noise is loudest. Avoid night-time construction using heavy machinery, from 22:00 to 6:00 near residential areas.  During the day, construction may be avoided in the health facilities and schools due to the nuisance/noise impact and undertaken during weekends  No discretionary use of noisy machinery within 50m of residential areas and near institutions, manual labour can be used at this point.  Good maintenance and proper operation of construction machinery to minimize noise generation.  Where possible, ensure non-mechanized construction to reduce the use of machinery  Undertake regular maintenance of generator Impacts on Flora and Fauna Removal of vegetation will lead to loss of plants and animal habitats. The biodiversity that may be affected includes insects, small mammals, reptiles and birds. This impact is expected to be insignificant in view of the fact that the land requirements for pit latrines and septic tanks is very minimal to lead to degradation of flora and fauna. Mitigation:  Re-plant vegetation as much as possible once work is completed.  Spare the vegetation that must not necessarily be removed such as or replace the trees.  Minimize the amount of destruction caused by machinery by promoting non- mechanized methods of construction.  Ensure protection of the flora and fauna by proper handling of cement during civil works.  The Contractor should ensure that the employees on site are aware of the company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks e.g. using dispersants or adding biological agents to speed up the oil breakdown for the construction machinery though induction and safety training (the contractor will propose a method of clean-up which will be subject to approval);  Provide a waste management plan  Provision of dustbin and sanitation facilities to prevent seepage into the natural environment. Public Health and Safety Construction staff and the general public will be exposed to safety hazards arising from construction activities with respect to construction of septic tanks more specifically. The project works will expose workers to occupational risks due to handling of machinery, construction noise and manual handling, etc. Construction activities of vegetation clearing, excavation, materials delivery may generate dust that will pollute the air and this may affect the respiratory system. Construction sites may be a source of both liquid and solid wastes. If these wastes are not well disposed these sites may become a breeding ground for disease causing pests such as mosquitoes and rodents. 41 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Mitigation:  Contractor to risk asses the project activities, develop and implement relevant C-ESMP which will include but not limited to: o An Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan o Waste Management Plan o Labour influx strategy o Gender based violence plan o Child protection strategy o Employment plans o Occupational Health and Safety Plan o Spoil management plan; o Grievance redress Mechanism; o Stakeholders engagement and communication plan;  Ensure through routing training and induction to all workers and the community on the project risk and the controls developed to manage them;  Ensure that all construction machines and equipment are in good working conditions and to manufacturer’s specifications to prevent occupational hazards.  Cordon off working areas with a reflective tape to ensure safety of pedestrians and provide crossing areas for access to cut off businesses and structures.  Appointing experienced and trained occupational health and safety staff, first aiders and fire marshal on-site for the duration of the construction work. (both supervising engineer and contractor)  Provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).  Provide a waste management plan  Fence off the site with security to avoid unauthorized access to the project site (s) and hence potential injuries.  Provide clean toilets for workers Labour Influx The Project is expected to stimulate minimal in-migration. Several features of the Project could prompt in-migration. Construction works are also likely to act as a magnet for people and are likely to attract some in-migrants. The following restorative measures are agreed upon. • Preparation of Influx Management Plan by contractor • Preparation of Labour and Recruitment Plan by contractor • Preparation of a “code of conduct for workers. HIV & AIDS Impacts In migration of people from different regions may lead to behavioral influences which may increase the spread of diseases such as Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Mitigation: 42 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT  Sensitize workers and the surrounding communities on awareness, prevention and management of HIV/AIDS through staff training, awareness campaigns, multimedia and workshops or during community barazas. Provide information, education and communication about safe uses of drinking water.  Provide an on-site clinic to provide Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services to construction crew Gender Equity, Sexual Harassment The construction of the septic tanks will be in schools and the risk of sexual harassment by workers on the school going children is likely to be high. Construction workers are predominantly younger males. Those who are away from home on the construction job are typically separated from their family and act outside their normal sphere of social control. This can lead to inappropriate and criminal behavior, such as sexual harassment of women and girls, exploitative sexual relations, and illicit sexual relations with minors from the local community. Influx of male labor may also lead to an increase in exploitative sexual relationships and human trafficking whereby women and girls are forced into sex work. Mitigation:  Ensure all workers sign code of conduct  Training on Gender Based Violence (GBV)  Prepare GBV/SEA Action Plan Impacts During Operation and Maintenance The establishment of sanitation system and infrastructure in schools, health facilities and households will be mostly beneficial to the local community. However, the following impacts associated with such facilities may be experienced including: Oduor The pit latrines and septic tanks if not well sited and maintained will be a source of foul smell that will affect those within the area. Mitigation:  Ensure proper siting of septic tanks and pit latrines in accordance with the Eswatini’s EHD/MOH guidelines for siting and construction of pit latrines  Ensure proper maintenance of sanitation facilities including cleaning and hygiene training  Provide hand washing facilities and water in all the sanitation infrastructures Water Contamination Faecal matter may lead to underground water contamination if the water table is high or in the case of pit latrines, when there is an overflow due to heavy rains. Contamination of water may lead to outbreak of diseases e.g. cholera, dysentery, typhoid, diarrhoea etc. Mitigation: 43 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT  Ensure proper siting of septic tanks and pit latrines in accordance with the Eswatini’s EHD/MOH guidelines for siting and construction of pit latrines  Ensure proper maintenance of sanitation facilities including cleaning and hygiene training.  Provide hand washing facilities and water in all the sanitation infrastructures Disease Spread The area above the slab (i.e., pedestal for sitting or squatting slab) and the pit may contain substantial amounts of pathogens, which vary based on the toilet use, geographical location, and incidence of infectivity. Within the pit, the highest number of pathogens are often found in the top section of the accumulated sludge because it has the most recently delivered excrement; however, pathogens may migrate downwards in the pit or percolate with urine and thus lower parts should not be considered risk-free. Pit latrines can also be breeding grounds for flies and mosquitoes which are disease vectors. Emptying and transportation of faecal matter when pit latrines are full could also lead to pathogen exposure. Mitigation:  Ensure proper siting of septic tanks and pit latrines in accordance with the Eswatini’s EHD/MOH guidelines for siting and construction of pit latrines  Ensure proper maintenance of sanitation facilities including cleaning and hygiene training.  Provide hand washing facilities and water in all the sanitation infrastructures  Ensure super structures are well constructed and lead to privacy so as to ensure use by family members. Super structures poorly constructed can lead to embarrassment and non-use. Hazards Super structures if poorly constructed and designed could lead to hazards including falling into the pit if the super structure floor/slab gives ways. This can lead to injury or loss of life. Mitigation:  Ensure super structures are well constructed including the slab with the required strength Pest outbreak Common pests attracted to dirty environment are rats, cockroaches, flies. These animals are also disease vectors. They transport germs from the toilet to nearby human settlement. When they come into contact with human food they cause food spoilage and spread of diseases. Dirty environmental also offer a perfect breeding ground for these pests to multiply. Mitigation:  Ensure proper cleaning of toilets  Ensure and provide training on cleaning of toilets  Use biopesticides to manage pests 44 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Environmental and Social Management Process This ESMP contains potential generic mitigation measures and monitoring indicators through which the adverse impacts for specific sub project investments may be managed. However, site specific ESMP will be developed for the (each) education and health facilities once locations are identified. For household sanitation facilities, there is a likelihood that ESMPs will not be required, instead, construction will have to be consistent with Eswatini’s guidelines for construction of pit latrines. Mitigation and Monitoring Plan Monitoring of Environmental and Social Indicators The mitigation and monitoring requirements of the project are summarized in Table 6.1 below. 45 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Table 6-1. Environmental and Social Mitigation Plan Project Phase Environmental / Social Impact Mitigation Measure Construction Site Related Oil Spills • Employee awareness on company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks. • Containment of leaks. • Provision of absorbent material • Maintenance of contractor’s equipment • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Construction Soil Related Impacts • Stock piling of soil for reuse • Restoration of the ground by sowing adequate grass cover and planting of trees. • Planning emergency response measures in case of accidental oil spills. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Pre-construction Impact on Water Resources • Provide a waste management plan Construction • Proper solid and liquid wastes disposal mainly from the construction sites. • Ensuring proper measures are in place for collection and disposal of spilled oils and lubricants. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Pre-construction Socio-Economic Impacts • Prepare a labour influx plan to manage labour influx • GBV/SEA Action Plan Construction • Hiring unskilled construction and skilled (if available) labour from the local population as far as possible. • Use of manual labour during excavation and construction works where possible. • Sensitizing workers and the surrounding community on awareness, prevention and management of HIV / AIDS. • Provide an on-site clinic to provide VCT services. • Enforcing and maintaining a code of conduct for his employees Construction Air Quality • Use of protective clothing like dust masks on construction crew. • Operated and maintenance of contractor’s plant in compliance with relevant vehicle emission standards and manufacturer’s specification to minimize air pollution. Construction Noise Pollution • Avoiding night time construction when noise is loudest near residential areas. • Avoid to extent possible construction when schools are in session 46 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Project Phase Environmental / Social Impact Mitigation Measure • No discretionary use of noisy machinery within 50 m of residential areas and near institutions or use of manual labour in these sections. • Good maintenance and proper operation of construction machinery. • Where possible, ensure non-mechanized construction to reduce the use of machinery Pre-construction Impact on flora and fauna • Provide a waste management plan Construction • Re-planting the indigenous vegetation as much as possible once work is completed. • Sparing the vegetation that must not necessarily be removed. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. • Promoting non-mechanized methods of construction. • Ensuring protection of the flora and fauna by proper handling of cement during civil works. • Ensure that the employees on site are aware of the company procedures for dealing with spills and leaks from oil storage tanks • Provision of dustbin and sanitation facilities. Pre-construction Public Health and Safety • Provide a waste management plan. Construction • Ensuring proper maintenance and operation of Contractor’s plant. • Providing workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Provide workers with adequate drinking water and breaks. • Provide workers training on safety procedures and emergency response. • Cordon off working areas with a reflective tape to ensure safety of pedestrians and provide crossing areas for access to cut off businesses and structures. • Providing clean toilets for workers. • Provide training (households) on construction of pit latrines in accordance with Eswatini’s Guidelines for construction of and siting of pit latrines. Pre-construction HIV & AIDS Impacts • Sensitizing workers and the surrounding communities on awareness, prevention and management of HIV/AIDS. Construction • Sensitizing workers and the surrounding communities on awareness, prevention and management of HIV/AIDS. • Provide an on-site clinic to provide VCT services to construction crew Pre-construction Child Labour and Protection • Provide a child protection strategy Construction • Implement a child protection strategy • Ensuring no children are employed on site in accordance with national labour laws • Ensuring that any child sexual relations offenses among contractors' workers are promptly reported to the police 47 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Project Phase Environmental / Social Impact Mitigation Measure Pre-construction Gender Equity, Sexual Harassment • Provide a gender-based violence strategy, which will include: o Gender mainstreaming in employment at the worksite with opportunities provided for females to work, in consonance with local laws and customs o Grievance redress mechanisms including non-retaliation. o Provide and implement an employee code of conduct • The works contractor should be required, under its contract, to prepare and enforce a No Sexual Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy, in accordance with national law where applicable. Construction o Implement gender-based violence strategy Operation Odour/Foul smell • Ensure proper siting of the pit latrine • Provide training to communities on proper use of latrines and hygiene • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Water pollution/contamination • Ensure proper siting of the pit latrine and septic tanks • Provide training to communities on proper use of pit latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Exposure to pathogens • Ensure pit latrines are frequently cleaned • Provide training to communities on proper use of pit latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Disease Spread • Ensure pit latrines are frequently cleaned • Provide training to communities on proper use of latrines • Provide hand washing facilities Operation Pest Menace • Ensure proper cleaning of pit latrines • Use biopesticides • Provide training on proper latrine hygiene Decommissioning Decommissioning of old pit • Ensure that pit latrines are covered when decommissioned to avoid pathogen exposure latrines/septic tanks • Ensure PPE is provided to those demolishing super structures Table 6-2. Monitoring Parameters Environmental Frequency of Responsibility Performance Indicators Monitoring Requirements Corrective Action Component monitoring Public health • Prevalence rates of • Physical inspection Monthly Environmental Investigate non- common diseases. • Documentation Number and Social Team compliance and make • Availability of adequate of complaints from EHD and recommendations solid waste bins. • Interview with residents EWSC 48 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Environmental Frequency of Responsibility Performance Indicators Monitoring Requirements Corrective Action Component monitoring • System of safe disposal of Implement both solid and liquid recommendations waste in place. • Availability of first aid facilities. • Compliance with the Health and Safety Act. Solid and liquid • Presence of scattered • Physical inspection Daily Environmental Implement wastes litter. • Number of complaints. and Social Team recommendations from EHD and EWSC HIV&AIDS • Number campaign • Inspection of HIV/AIDS Quarterly Environmental Implement meetings on transmission prevention services within and Social Team recommendations of diseases like HIV/AIDS the site. from EHD and and other STDs. • Number of condoms, EWSC • Number of condom ARVs provided. dispensers within the site. Solid and liquid • Scattered litter • Physical inspection Monthly Environmental Implement wastes • Signs of obstruction of • Number of complaints and Social Team recommendations water ways. from EHD and • Flow of wastewater on the EWSC ground surface. • Provision of sanitary facilities to the construction crews. Noise • Level of noise generated. • Liaise with other Daily (using Environmental • Implement dB(A) • Provision of PPE. stakeholders. portable hand-held and Social Team recommendations • Compliance with existing • Documentation on noise meter from EHD and noise standard issued by complaints about noise EWSC NEMA. Air pollution • Level of dust generated. • Physical inspection Daily (using Environmental • Implement • Provision of PPE. • Interview residents portable hand-held and Social Team recommendations including workers air emission meter) from EHD and EWSC 49 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Environmental Frequency of Responsibility Performance Indicators Monitoring Requirements Corrective Action Component monitoring • Liaise with other stakeholders Flora and Fauna • Amount of vegetation • Documentation of Quarterly Environmental • Implement removed uprooted trees and Social Team recommendations • Change in animal • Observation from EHD and behavioural patterns EWSC Child Labour • Record of employees • Review of records Monthly Environmental • Implement including IDs • Interviews with staff and and Social Team recommendations local community from EHD and EWSC Gender Equity and • Number of complaints • Review of grievance Monthly Environmental • Implement Sexual Harassment redress forms. and Social Team recommendations • Interviews with local from EHD and community EWSC Loss of Life, Injury • Record of accidents and • Review of records Monthly Environmental • Implement and Damage to damages done • Interviews with staff and and Social Team recommendations Private property local community. from EHD and EWSC 50 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Monitoring Roles and Responsibilities EWSC/PIU-Environmental and Social Specialist The EWSC/PIU has recruited environmental and social safeguard specialists who will provide oversight, in monitoring and evaluation of all the sub projects. In principle the 2 specialists will work with the Environmental Health Department (EHD) to ensure that monitoring of the sub projects are undertaken and findings are reported to them periodically so that needed technical assistance to ensure compliance is provided. They will be required to prepare periodic (quarterly and annual) monitoring reports for submission to the to the Bank. Eswatini Environment Health Department The rural water supply unit closely coordinates at the operational level with the Environmental Health Department (EHD) of the Ministry of Health (MoH), who is responsible for the coordination of the overall sanitation and hygiene sector in rural and peri-urban areas, around the construction of latrines in the same communities, as well as hygiene awareness programs. The EHD also cooperates with the Ministry of Education and Training to provide improved sanitation and hygiene services at school level. EHD activities comprise the support for construction of pit latrines in the rural areas where it provides technical support for construction of facilities and material provision. Behavior change and education promotion on proper use of drinking water and sanitation facilities are also done through this department. The EHD will identify households, education and health facilities to benefit from the sanitation infrastructure. Further, the EHD will prepare project briefs for submission to EAA to determine category of the investment and will conduct training and capacity building targeting households on construction of pit latrines including sanitation hygiene and use of the facilities. Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) The Government of Eswatini places the responsibility of environmental protection on EEA as the coordinating agency. EEA is charged with the overall role of providing oversight in regard to monitoring for all project activities that have potential impacts on the environment in Eswatini. EEA will undertake periodic monitoring of the investment projects by making regular site inspection visits to determine compliance with the investment projects ESIAs approved and will further rely on the submitted annual audit reports submitted for each investment project annually as required by EMCA as a way of monitoring. EEA will provide approvals and ESIA licence to all the investments based on the ESMP reports submitted, without EEA’s approval implementation of the investment project will not move forward. All monitoring reports as well as project compliance reports will be submitted to EEA as specified by the environmental assessment and audit regulations. World Bank Monitoring and Implementation Support The Bank will monitor the environmental and social performance of the project in accordance with the requirements of the legal agreement, including the ESCP, and will review any revision of the ESCP including changes resulting from changes in the design of a project or project circumstances. The extent and mode of Bank monitoring with respect to environmental and social performance will be proportionate to the potential environmental and social risks and impacts of the project. The Bank will monitor projects on an ongoing basis as required by OP 10.00.44. The project will not 51 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT be considered complete until the measures and actions set out in the legal agreement (including the ESCP) have been implemented. To the extent that the Bank evaluation at the time of project completion determines that such measures and actions have not been fully implemented, the Bank will determine whether further measures and actions, including continuing Bank monitoring and implementation support, will be required. The Bank will provide implementation support regarding the environmental and social performance of the project, which will include reviewing the Borrower’s monitoring reports on compliance of the project with the requirements of the legal agreement, including the ESCP. 52 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 7. REVIEW, COORDINATION & IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS The Eswatini’s Environmental Management Act (EMA) require that all projects be subjected to a review and screening process in order to determine their categorization and need for ESIA or ESMP. This is done through preparation of a project brief which will be prepared by the EHD jointly with the support of EWSC/PIU. The construction of septic tanks in schools and health facilities will be reviewed independently for potential environmental and social impacts. The construction of the septic tanks will require preparation of ESMPs since they fall under category 1. This will ensure that environmental sound design including proposed mitigation measures as well as alternatives are incorporated at the design stage hence avoiding design change. No support to component 2 will be provided until (i) the applicant has presented the WB with a certified copy of the positive conclusion of the relevant national authority or - as the case may be - the World Bank determines that no further environmental review is required, and (ii) the World Bank has reviewed and cleared the environmental documentation and issued its formal no objection. Preparation of Project Brief The Environmental Health Department (EHD) staff will prepare a project brief (see 7.5.1) below which will be reviewed by the safeguard’s specialist in the PIU and then submitted to EAA to facilitate assigning of category and determination whether to prepare ESIA or ESMP. Preparation of ESMP The proposed sanitation infrastructures (pit latrines and septic tanks) are falling under category 1 within Eswatini’s Environmental requirements and as described in section 7.5 below. Thus, an ESMP is required to be prepared and submitted to EEA for review and approval. The ESWC/PIU will recruit a consultant to prepare ESMPs for identified infrastructures specifically the septic tanks for schools and health facilities and obtain necessary license from EAA prior to commencement of construction. Pit latrines to be sited in households may not require licensing but will instead be guided by the existing guidelines by EHD for siting and construction of pit latrines. The EHD will offer training to households on construction of pit latrines. Sample ESMP Contents The ESMP for each sub project should at a very minimum contains among others; - • Description of the possible adverse effects that the ESMP is intended to address; • Identification of project design alternatives that would meet similar objectives, and a description of why these projects are not viable, especially if they have a lesser environmental or social impact; • Description of planned mitigation measures, and how and when they will be implemented • Program for monitoring the environmental and social impacts of the project, both positive and negative; • Description of who will be responsible for implementing the ESMP; and 53 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT • Cost estimate and source of funds. Environmental Assessments Process in Eswatini In terms of section 32 of the Environmental Management Act, 2002, no person shall undertake any project that may have an effect on the environment without the written approval of the Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA). This is done to determine whether any environmental impacts may occur as the project is implemented. Project Screening and Scoping The proponent submits a project brief to the EEA, outlining sufficient information to enable the authority to determine the potential impacts of the development. The authority then assigns a category to the project, depending on the level of impact it may have on the environment. There are 3 categories used to classify projects; category 1, category 2 and category 3. Category 1 These are projects that the Authority that do not have significant adverse environmental impacts. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is required upon categorisation. The EMP outlines the project details and potential impacts on the environment. It also includes mitigation measures to be followed to minimise impacts. Report compilation may take 1-2 weeks. The EEA takes about 2-3 weeks to review it and give feedback. An Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) is issued upon approval of the EMP. This project falls under category 1. Category 2 Category 2 Projects have significant adverse impacts to the environment. These are projects whose environmental impacts may be easily determined and for which there are appropriate, well known and tested mitigation measures. This category requires the compilation of an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE). The IEE draws conclusions and makes recommendations on how to improve with environmental performance of the project. Findings of the IEE are used to prepare a plan to implement these recommendations and monitor their effectiveness through a Comprehensive Mitigation Plan (CMP). When the IEE and CMP reports are approved by the EEA, an Environmental Compliance Certificate is then issued allowing the proponent to implement the proposed project. Compilation of the report takes about 2-3 weeks; the EEA takes about 4 weeks to review and give feedback. Category 3 This category is assigned to projects whose environmental impacts are anticipated to be significant but cannot be easily determined. They require detailed specialist studies and extensive public participation. They need an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process. A summary outline of the process is shown below. 54 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Figure 7-1.Illustration of the Environmental Process in Eswatini World Bank Approval of ESMPs The site specific ESMPs prepared and submitted to EAA for approval by the EWSC/PIU will also be submitted to the Bank for review and clearance. ESMP Disclosure The World Bank disclosure standards require that ESMP report for the project is made available to project affected groups, local NGOs, and the public at large. Public disclosure of ESMP document is also a requirement of the Eswatini environmental procedures. EWSC/PIU will make available copies of the ESMPs on strategic locations and offices of the ministries. Public notice in the media should be used to serve as information source to the public. The ESMPs will also be disclosed on the World Bank’s external affairs website. Overall Project Compliance and Reporting This ESMP will be implemented by the EWSC/PIU in collaboration with the EHD with the ESWC/PIU taking full responsibility of all environmental and social risks including ESMP implementation and monitoring. The EHD will collaborate with the environmental and social specialist within the EWSC/PIU and the World Bank to ensure effective execution. 55 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 8. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE Public Consultation Process In the preparation of this generic ESMP, consultations were held with stakeholders in the proposed project region. Stakeholder consultation formed part of the methodology in preparing this ESMP where the project interested and affected stakeholders who could be identified at this early stage were consulted. Public consultation and meetings were made; one in each of the three areas (Tinkhundla) affected and a scoping meeting held with the purpose of allowing members of the public to raise their concerns and likewise inform the preparation of the ESMP. At the inception of the ESMP process, the Development Teams from each benefiting community were engaged. Meetings were also held with the Ministry of health, which is driving the sanitation part of the project. Consultations were conducted at Regional level (Shiselweni Region Development Team) and further condensed to Constituency level (Zombodze Emuva Inkhundla Development Team, Hosea Inkhundla Development Team and Shiselweni 1 Development Team). Site notices were erected at various noticeable locations along the MR11 corridor (Nhlangano - Siphambanweni) to advertise the planned scoping meeting. The purpose of these notices was to raise awareness about the planned scoping meeting, for optimal participation. A4 size site notices in both English and Siswati were placed in the site, especially population concentrated areas (Hluthi Police Station, Siphambanweni Water Kiosk, Market Stalls and multiple Bus Stop Shelters along the aforementioned road amongst others), inviting interested and affected members of the public to a scoping meeting as part of the ESMP compilation process. All information; including details on who was consulted, consultation dates, what was consulted on and general feedback on consultation process, responses, has been included and acts as a record of the communication/public involvement process. Minutes of these consultations have been attached as Appendix A of this report. A total of five consultative meetings were held and a total of 234 people have attended these meeting on the dates shown under table 8.1, the last meeting was the public scoping meeting. 56 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Table 8-1: Public consultation meetings Meeting Venue Number of Date participants Shiselweni Regional 14 ESWC Regional office 50 Attendees: 29 Development Team March auditorium males, 21 males 2019 Zombodze Emuva 16 Zombodze Emuva 35 attendee, 21 Constituency March Constituency Building males, 14 females 2019 Hosea Constituency 23 Hosea Constituency 43 Attendees: 29 March Building Males, 14 females 2019 Shiselweni 1 Constituency 30 Shiselweni 1 50 Attendees: 25 March Constituency Building males, 25 females 2019 Hluthi Police Station - 04 April Hluthi Police Station - 47 Attendees: 35 Conference Room (Scoping 2019 Conference Room males, 12 females Meeting) During these consultations, a powerpoint presentation was done by the EWSC’s Project Manager; Mr Bongani Mdluli and the Corporation’s Public Affairs Manager Ms Nomahlubi Matiwane explained the aim of the meeting which was to; • Provide background information about the proposed water supply and sanitation project (project brief) • Gather feedback and identify stakeholders’ interests • Address social, technical and environmental issues Meeting attendees were then allowed to voice their comments and seek clarifications. Participants were asked for their perceptions and expectations with respect to the proposed project and in particular the location of kiosks along the project area for ease of accessibility. They were also asked to indicate the main challenges they face as a result of the unavailability of potable water in the area. Issues of sanitation were also discussed as perpetuated by the lack of clean water. The issues raised and concerns expressed including possible mechanisms of addressing these issues and concerns are shown in the tables below. The tables present all the issues and responses provided during the public consultation for the whole project, since a number of issues are pertinent to all components of the project. The stakeholder consultation was significant to the preparation of this ESMP and formed the basis for the determination of potential project impacts and design of viable mitigation measures. 57 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Table 8-2. Issues and Response from Public consultations Category Question Response Project Timelines 1. When will the World Bank approve the The World bank will meet to consider the project for funding in July and project for implementation. communicate decision to EWSC soon after that. 2. How long after approval will After approval, there will be an appointment of design consultants to make implementation commence? detailed designs, which will take 6-12 months. The contractor will then be appointed to start the construction. 3. After receipt of approval from the Bank, may EWSC work speedily to complete EWSC will ensure that there are no delays after approval of eth project for funding this project? and run processes in parallel where possible. Resettlement & 1. Will there be compensation due to Privately owned land that is affected will be compensated after extensive Compensation movement of water network through consultations with property owners, using national and international guidelines. privately owned land? Compensation will be done in accordance with national and international guidelines. No civil work shall commence unless compensation and Resettlement Assistances are paid to Project Affected Persons (PAPs) Employment 1. What benefits will the community Locals will be given first preference, depending on the availability of their skills. receive e.g. job opportunities? The contractor will be advised to ensure non skilled labour is sourced from the community. Unskilled labour will be sourced from the Tinkhundla in the area. Appointed Community Liaison Officer (CLO) will assist. 2. Are there any laws that address Companies, contractors included, are expected to comply with labour laws of the payment of unskilled labour? country to ensure that salaries paid to workers are above the minimum wage. Movement of 1. How will the pipe laterals move from To minimise disturbance to traffic, the design will use storm water culverts that Laterals the Left Hand Side (LHS) to the Right cross under the roads. Hand Side (RHS)? Water Abstraction 1. Has a water abstraction permit been The water abstraction permit for the existing Masibini water treatment plant has obtained? more water allocation than is currently abstracted. The required volumes from this project will still be within the allocated quota. 2. How does EWSC plan to continuously provide water in cases where 58 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Mkhondvo River levels are significantly low? ESIA Process 2. 1. Once Environmental Compliance Certificate The EEA does not revoke the EEC before doing extensive consultations and (ECC) has been issued out by the EEA, can engagements with concerned parties. It is after that exercise has been exhausted EEA evoke the Certificate due to concerns that the EEC may be revoked, but also based on valid environmental non from the public? compliances. Socio-economic 1. Can child-headed families who cannot The project does not give preferential treatment for installation cost to Issues afford meter installation fee be given a disadvantaged groups. However, the provision of kiosks, which provided water discount? at E0.20 per litre, makes a provision for disadvantaged groups to access water at minimal cost. 2. Do water charges differ in the rural areas compared to the urban areas? Water Kiosks 1. Will multiple Water Kiosks be placed in Location of kiosks will be based on ease of accessibility, population coverage densely populated areas? and also the need to have individual kiosks service multiple people to sustain the business. areas with a high density of less privileged people will also be considered first. The placement and number of kiosks will be done in consultations with community and will ensure maximum coverage in these communities. Pipeline Coverage 1. What is the estimated number of The estimated population of 20,000, and up to 50,000 people are expected to people to be provided with potable benefit from this project. water in this project? There will be laterals that will be constructed to feed communities that are not in 2. How will the water reach homesteads close proximity to the highway, as shown in the project layout drawings away from the MR 11 corridor? presented. EWSC provides 15m coverage from main pipe to homes. Individuals who fall beyond the 15m can acquire a quotation from EWSC to bring meter closer to their homes. Quotation is based on the number of additional metres required by the client. Most of the water will be driven by gravity because the pipeline is from an area 3. Are there any pump stations along the of higher latitude to lower altitude. However, because of the different laterals, the network? pressure will need to be boosted by pumping. Only one solar powered pump 59 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT station is proposed, opposite St Florence Christian Academy due to extremely steep slope. 4. Is an individual allowed to buy a similar The Corporation does not encourage that the public buys their own pipes, pipe grade for movement of meter because the quality may be substandard. EWSC encourages the use of SABS within his/her home instead of those approved pipes. Water pipes sold in most local hardware shops cannot withstand provided by EWSC to avoid high the velocity at which the water flows and will therefore lead to bursting of the installation costs? pipes. 5. Will the network cover Bambitje area? Bambitje has been included in this project. It has been previously left out and is in desperate need for potable water. Appointment of 1. Contractor appointed in a similar The procurement of the contractor will follow standard EWSC procurement Contractor project in Lavumisa did an exceptional procedures, and equal opportunities will be given to contractors job. Can he be appointed for this project? Existing Water 1. Will existing multiple water committees For ease of sustainability, water supply from EWSC should not be supplementary Committees and and community water schemes be to other water supply projects. One member from the various water committees Schemes dissolved for the formation of new in each Inkhundla can be selected for the formation of a water committee to work committees to assist in with EWSC. implementation? 2. Some people have already paid in The project will give an option for people to access water. It will not compel people water schemes, what is the way to change form their schemes if they prefer to stick with them. forward? General 1. Request for EWSC to open a branch in The suggestion was noted and would be taken up with the leadership of EWSC Hluthi EWSC does the installation of the bulk infrastructure up to the water meter. The 2. Who digs and buys the pipes for supply plumbing from the water meter to the houses is done by plumbers that are in homes? engaged by home owners. 8.1.1 Consultation with women 60 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT A number of focus group discussions were held to solicit input of various groups in the project area. Focus group meetings were with women (25 women at Shiselweni 1 Inkhundla, 10 at Lushini and 13 at Mchinsweni communities). Table 8.3 below summarizes comments and issues from women’s groups. Table 8-3. Issues Raised by Women focus group Category Comment/Issue Existing water supply Existing stand-pipes within their community are unreliable. When this happens, the community has no choice schemes but to return to unsafe sources such as rivers. Although technically they are near to safe water sources these are often shut down. These water schemes were implemented by Rural Water Supply Branch and as is the norm, community members had to put down a joining fee to be part of the scheme as well as provide labour for the installation of pipes. Some schemes are said to be non-functional at least once per month for a couple of days at a time even though community member are paying E10 per month. Water Availability Each person is allowed a 20litre container at a time at the borehole pumps. If there are many people at the borehole the process is slowed considerably. Water quality The water is drawn from an earth dam that was built so respondents are not sure how clean it is. Water from the boreholes is sometimes muddy. Affordability There is concern in the community that some will not be able to afford to pay their bills which in the past has affected neighbours. For this reason, the kiosk is the preferred means of getting safe potable water. Access to water supply The elderly find it increasingly difficult to fetch water or use an outdoor toilet. For many the option of indoor plumbing is desirable as even the water kiosk is considered far for some. Those who live with or near sick or elderly people are concerned to ensure they leave enough water for the day. Some respondents claim that they sometimes queue for water from 3am to 7am before they can return home. Those who have transport make use of the EWSC water kiosk at Nsalitje. Sanitation VIP toilets had to be built by homesteads in order for them to be eligible for the Rural Water scheme but many of these quickly fell into disrepair because they were done hurriedly to facilitate the project. Some have hand- washing facilities but most do not. Maintenance of water Community members are further frustrated because they have to constantly maintain clogged pipes and supply infrastructure repair burst pipes or other infrastructure which they provided labour to install in the first instance. General As carrying water is cumbersome, most opt to wash the cloths at the river rather than at home. This time- consuming task means other household chores are put on hold. The availability of water closer to the homestead is seen as a timesaving intervention where additional activities such as cooking, and watering livestock can be carried out simultaneously. 61 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Category Comment/Issue Waste management Disposable nappies are littered all over the community in dongas and even along the side of the road. The preference to disposable nappies is said to be nothing to do with the availability of water but the allure of ‘modern’ living. Recommendations from women’s groups were: i. The project should use local labour for their (‘our’) projects and were keen to know if the kiosk would provide more long - term employment. ii. They are eager to learn more about water conservation with a view to reducing costs. iii. They are looking forward to having the water project implemented and they wold protect against anyone who stopped a water project. 8.1.2 Consultation with Rural Health Motivators Rural Health Motivators are generally regarded as the most knowledgeable community members with regards to water and sanitation having been trained on WASH issues by government and non-governmental organisations over the years. Rural Health Motivators (RHMs) were also consulted to solicit their views on the project. These are community people that work with the Ministry of Health to promote health issues and play a liaison role between the Ministry of health and the community. Table 8.4 provides a summary of issues raised by RHMs in the project area. Table 8-4. Issues raised by Rural Health Motivators Category Issue raised Need for the project Expressed gratitude for the project No single home in Bambitje community has a water connection Water kiosk is the first priority so that everyone in the community can have access to clean potable water. The respondents request that ESWC consult them with regards to the site of the proposed kiosk. Then those who can afford to can opt for individual connections. 62 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Category Issue raised Existing water schemes Though there have been boreholes with communal hand-pumps in the area these are not maintained Not reliable Water availability Most people collect water from the river which they share with livestock Now even the rivers are drying up so that in many places people have to dig for water. There is so little water to spare that one respondent remarked that ‘people do not even offer water to travellers if they ask – we pretend not to hear.’ Respondents also observed that the availability of water at home or close to home would allow them to be more efficient in their chores. Water reuse and recycling The use of ‘grey’ water for homestead gardens is understood but respondents complain that this water is hardly adequate for viable gardens. Sanitation In many areas, percentage of homestead with good, effective VIP toilets in the area has decreased. This is because many of the existing VIPs are old and have become dilapidated or because they are many new homesteads who did not benefit from past interventions. Bambitje community has recently benefitted from an EU funded sanitation programme implemented by World Vision. Every home has a clean toilet with additional waste pits in each. These new VIP toilets also include hand-washing facilities utilising 2 litre plastic bottles attached to the toilet. There has been education on sanitation and hygiene for all the families in the area although it is difficult to estimate who adheres to this. Education and awareness raising The Rural Health motivators stated that they try to teach people about purifying drinking water and believe that many are following their advice because the cases of diarrheal diseases in the community have declined over the years. Waste management – Disposable A big challenge to waste management are disposable nappies which are said to litter the nappies community. Although burning disposables and sanitary towels is an option many chose to throw in the veld or in the VIP latrines which are already full. This is a source of annoyance for those family members who have to dig new pits, in many instances the men. Recognising that water projects 63 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Category Issue raised always have a sanitation component; respondents were concerned that some families will not be able to improve their facilities. Affordability Respondents stated that many will make the connections even if they may be an initial reluctance to commit. An elderly couple stated that would even be willing to sell their cattle if necessary because they find it increasingly difficult to cope with fetching water and using an outdoor latrine. This is an important commitment considering the traditional attachment to cattle among Emaswati. Recommendation from RHM indicated that the community would be grateful for more information on how to maintain their water connections, how to avoid faults and how to reduce costs. 8.1.2 Consultation with Traditional authorities The importance of engaging with traditional authorities cannot be understated. Buy in from the traditional authority in general is key to the success of a project in the country. Table 8.5 summarises the issues raised during the engagements. Table 8-5: Issues raised by Traditional Authorities Category Comment/Issue Consultations Respondents suggest that previous projects have been stalled or cancelled because the traditional authorities felt that they were not adequately consulted. Following the scoping activities that have been carried out by ESWC, Bandlancane expressed satisfaction with the consultations carried out so far in this project. Reception of the project The people of this area look forward to having water not only for drinking but also to plant vegetables. Some even have ambitions to plant sugar cane rather than maize. It is clear from informants that the implementation of a water project will give positive political mileage for all community leaders associated with it. Many are keen that the project be implemented during their term of office Recommendations from Traditional authorities i. Although all traditional authorities including Bandlancane expressed satisfaction with the scoping process carried out, further enhancement of this benefit would be for the Regional Administrator who is responsible for Chiefs within the region to be informed of the project and formally and to liaise with his chiefs for the duration of the project. 64 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT ii. Members of Libandla also expressed a hope that there would be further consultations as to where to construct Kiosks so that they are in easy reach of the neediest in the community. Further Consultations will be carried out as outlined in the environmental and Social commitment plan (ESCP) and the Stakeholder Engagement Plan. 65 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 9. CAPACITY BUILDING, TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Institutional Capacity for ESMP Implementation The principal institution that will provide overall coordination including administration of the project is EWSC in order to ensure environmentally sound design and management of proposed project investments. However, other institutions will be directly or indirectly involved in the project. Eswatini Water Services Corporation The Eswatini Water Services Corporation, a parastatal organization under the MNRE, is responsible for the provision of potable and waste water services to scheduled designated areas which occur mostly in urban and peri-urban water supply and sanitation. EWSC has the technical capacity to oversee the implementation of the project. The EWSC will have overall responsibility for project implementation and coordination of activities. EWSC has established a project implementation unit (PIU), which includes a manager/coordinator and key specialists in the areas of engineering, environmental, social, procurement and financial management. In addition to these specialists, the PIU will also include sub-coordinators from DWA, EHD-MOH, and NDMA. The PIU will be responsible for preparation of consolidated workplan, procurement, financial, technical, environmental and social related documentation required for the project, as well as for the overall project monitoring and evaluation and preparation of progress and financial reports for the Project. A Project Operations Manual (POM) describing all processes, procedures, roles, and responsibilities related to project management and implementation will be prepared by the PIU within 3 months after project effectiveness. The EWSC/PIU Environmental and Social team will require capacity building via awareness and training in the following areas namely: - • World Bank ESSs • Review of ESMP • ESMP Implementation including monitoring and evaluation Environmental Health Department The Environmental Health Department (EHD) at Ministry of Health (MOH) will report periodically to the EWSC/PIU on all issues and aspects related to this project including environmental and social risks. The EHD will require capacity building via awareness and training in the following areas namely: - • World Bank ESSs • Preparation of Project Brief for submission to EAA • Proper siting of pit latrines • Proper siting of septic tanks • Cleaning and maintaining pit latrines • Cleaning/removal of sludge from pit latrines and septic tanks • Proper use of pit latrines • ESMP implementation including monitoring and evaluation 66 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Local Communities/Beneficiaries The beneficiaries of the sanitation component will be the total population of the three target tinkhundla (Zombodze (14,231), Hosea (14,733) and Shiselweni I (9,269)) with a maximum reachable population of 38,233 people (2017), estimated to increase to 47,463 by 2047. Improved sanitation services will be provided to 4 health clinics and 32 schools in the three target tinkhundla reaching an estimated 2,000 people and 5,600 people, respectively. The Baby WASH interventions will target all households with children under 1000 days old living in the household (assuming approximately 8 percent of households11). The beneficiaries will receive training and awareness as part of capacity building on among others: - • Training on construction of pit latrines • Proper siting of pit latrines • Proper siting of septic tanks • Proper use of pit latrines • Cleaning and maintaining pit latrines (hygiene) • Cleaning/removal of sludge from pit latrines and septic tanks • Training on handwashing in schools, households and health facilities • Communication for a change in hygiene behaviour; Contractors and supervision consultants Contractors and supervision consultants who will be procured to construct the septic tanks in schools and health facilities as part of best practice, and in order to comply with international standards for Occupational, Health and Safety (OHS), will be provided with awareness raising and environmental and OHS training on site. Training on Gender Based Violence (GBV), child labour and sexual harassment will also be provided to the contractors. A proposed format for 1 day training is provided in the following Table 9-1 below. Table 9-1. Awareness raising and training for civil work contractors and supervision consultants Topic Input Awareness raising • Environmental awareness and the importance of effective mitigation • Practice mitigation measures and environmentally sound construction techniques 0.5 day • Compliance with local legislation on OHS and ESMP requirements • Code of conduct • GBV and sexual harassment training Technical training • Implementation of the ESMP (contract clauses) 0.5 day • Monitoring of ESMPs during construction Total 1 day 11 Based on Eswatini MICS survey results 2014 67 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT The estimated cost of capacity building and other support to implement the ESMP is given as US $, 500,000 which excludes the cost of preparing project site specific ESMPs in the event EAA requires so. 68 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 10. ANNEX Annex A. Stakeholders Consulted- Attendance Register and Pictures 69 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 70 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 71 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 72 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 73 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 74 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 75 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 76 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 77 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 78 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Annex B. Legal Framework The Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini Act The Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini Act, 2005 (Act No: 001 of 2005) in section 210 declares all land, minerals and water as national resources. The section also obliges the State to in the interest of the present and future generations, to protect and make rational use of its land, mineral and water resources as well as its fauna and flora, and shall take appropriate measures to conserve and improve the environment. In terms of section 216(1) every person has the responsibility to promote the protection of the environment and section 216(3) obliges the State to ensure a holistic and comprehensive approach to environmental preservation and shall put in place an appropriate environmental regulatory framework. Chapter 13 of the new constitution requires the establishment within five years of a single countrywide system of local government, to allow people at sub-national and local level to progressively take control of their own affairs. Local governments shall be organized and administered through democratic means. The introduction of the new constitution coincides with the government’s decentralization policy and implementation strategy. The new constitution specifically articulates its position on property and compensation in Section 19 (1) states that “a person has the right to own property alone or in association with others.� Furthermore, the in 19(2b) the constitution states that no one should be deprived of property ownership and in cases of public interest or safety owners shall be duly compensated. The Environmental Management Act No 5 of 2002 The stated purpose of the Environment Management Act, 5 of 2002 (s4) is to provide for and promote the enhancement, protection and conservation of the environment and where appropriate, the sustainable management of natural resources. The Act goes further and establishes guiding environmental principles in section 5 and in section 6(1) obliges any person or body exercising powers or functions or making decisions under this Act shall give effect to the purpose of this Act and the principles. Section 6(2) obliges any Cabinet Minister, Government Officer or other person exercising a public function that is likely to affect the protection, conservation or enhancement of the environment or the sustainable management of natural resources to in the course of exercising that public function apply and provide for these principles in exercising that public function. In section 9 the Eswatini Environment Authority is established and its functions is listed in section 12(2) and includes amongst others – • to administer licences issued under the Act in accordance with the provisions of the Act; • to review environmental impact assessment reports and strategic environmental assessments reports; • to facilitate public involvement in decision making concerning the environment including establishing procedures to facilitate the submission of comments on licence applications under this Act; Section 32(1) states that no person shall undertake any project that may have an effect on the environment without the written approval of the Authority, or in the case of a review, of the Minister, and except in accordance with any conditions imposed in that approval. 79 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT The various subsections of section 32 establish the process that needs to be followed in obtaining approval to undertake a project which may have an impact on the environment. The section also prescribes the content of the various reports required and the process that needs to be followed by the SEA in advising the Minister on such an application. Section 33 provides for the Minister responsible for environmental affairs to make regulations for the better administration of amongst others environmental impact assessments and may prescribe inter alia – • Categories of projects that may have an impact on the environment; • Procedural requirements for public hearings; • Information be included in environmental impact assessment reports and comprehensive mitigation plans; • Administration fees for applications. The Principles of the Environmental Management Act In achieving the purpose of this Act, the following principles shall be applied: • The environment is the common heritage of present and future generations; • Adverse effects should be prevented and minimised through long term integrated planning and the coordination, integration and co-operation of efforts, which consider the entire environment as a whole entity; • The precautionary principle, which requires that where there is a risk of serious or irreversible adverse effects occurring, a lack of scientific certainty should not prevent or impair the taking of precautionary measures to protect the environment; • The polluter pays principle, which requires that those causing adverse effects shall be required to pay the full social and environmental costs of avoiding, mitigating, and/or remedying those adverse effects; • The generation of waste should be minimised wherever practicable; • Waste should, in order of priority, be re-used, recycled, recovered and disposed of safely in a manner that avoids creating adverse effects or if this is not practicable, is least likely to cause adverse effects; • Non-renewable natural resources should only be used prudently, taking into account the consequences for the present and future generations; and • Renewable resources and ecosystems should only be used in a manner that is sustainable and does not prejudice their viability and integrity. The Environmental Audit, Assessment and Review Regulations, 2000. These regulations issued under the Eswatini Environmental Authority Act, 1992 and Environmental Management Act, 2002; underline processes that must be taken for any proposed project in order to predict and evaluate likely environmental impacts under studies such as the ESIA. An Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) is issued by the SEA when all the necessary environmental documentation has been submitted and approved by the authority for a proposed project. The assumption underlying the issuance of an ECC is that the proposed project is not likely to cause unacceptable environmental impacts and that the proponent will manage the construction and operation of the project in accordance with an approved comprehensive mitigation plan. In Eswatini, the term ‘project’ is defined as: “a p lan, 80 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT operation, undertaking, construction, development, change in land use or other entity, or alteration which may not be implemented without a permit, licence, consent or approval from an authorising agency.� There are several other important permits and licences required in terms of other environmental legislation in Eswatini relating to environmental issues. Other applicable legislation The Flora Protection Act of 1958 This Act promotes the conservation and protection of certain plants, through the use of a Schedule, trees, shrubs and vegetation and any living or dead portion of plants from destruction. If any protected flora exists in the project area and is likely to be cut or uprooted, this requires a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives (MOAC). Very few protected plants or trees will be affected by the project, and every measure should be undertaken to protect these plants if possible. The Public Health Act of 1969 Eswatini Public Health concerns, and ways of dealing with them, have been expressed in the principal legislation: the Public Health Act 5 of 1969. The Act defines the Authority for prescribing and enforcing preventative and remedial measures for the protection of public health in Eswatini. However, in recent years there has been increasing concern expressed by the environmental health officials, health officers and others that the Act fails to provide the back-up required to control risks to public health, and that it fails to meet the present-day environmental health needs. The Act is relevant in view of the fact that the project activities may lead to public health risks during construction and operation of the sanitation facilities. Human Settlements Authority Act of 1988 The act established the Human Settlements Authority and its objects and functions. It provides policy support to Government and the orderly development of human settlements by allowing for and outlining procedures for the establishment of Human Settlements. It also makes provision for the development of human settlement development plans, the revocation or modification of development plans and finance mechanisms for the supply and maintenance of improved shelter and infrastructure. Urban Government Act of 1969 This Act provides the basis for the establishment of local authorities in Eswatini as a primary legal instrument defining the parameters under which city councils conduct their affairs. The act outlines the duties and powers of Councils; makes provision for meetings of Councils and Committees, Management Committees and staff; designates towns, land, streets and public places; and the administration and audit of Council accounts. Factories, Machinery and Construction Works Act of 1972 The act deals with the regulation of working conditions and the use of machinery at factories and construction sites. Section 19 requires the reporting of accidents in the workplace and therefore any accident during the project is to be formally reported. Section 20 requires that safety devices not be interfered with, that employees shall use safety equipment provided and that no persons shall do anything that places their own safety and that of others at risk. 81 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Workmen’s Compensation Act of 1983 The Act provides for the compensation and medical treatment of workmen who suffer injury or contract work-related diseases in the course of their employment. Relevant to this project is section 25 which requires the employer to be insured against liability for work-related injuries. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 200 The Occupational Safety and Health Act provides for the safety and health of persons at work and at the workplace, and for the protection of persons other than those at the workplace against hazards to safety and health arising from work activities. Relevant aspects of this act are section 9 which stipulates the duties of the employer to ensure safe and healthy working conditions, make employees aware of the hazards of the workplace, provide personal protective equipment, provide training and supervision of employees, prevent exposure of non-employees to hazards arising from the works; section 11 which stipulates the duties of the employee to cooperate and follow the instructions of the employer, use equipment and safety devices provided by the employer, report accidents and unsafe conditions to the employer; section 28 which requires the employer to record and report minor and major accidents and dangerous occurrences to the Labour Inspector. Regulations Building Operations Regulations of 1969 The regulations control building activities and the safety of buildings. Regulation 54 requires a person carrying out building work to minimize any public nuisance such as noise, dust and unsightliness caused by the work. This is relevant to the project in terms of potential noise and dust. Environmental Audit, Assessment and Review Regulations of 2000 Under the SEA the Environmental Audit, Assessment and Review Regulations, 2000 have been issued which regulate the EIA process and place requirements on reporting techniques. Three categories of project are assigned by the Authority, having due regard to environmental sensitivity. Category 1 is the least impactive and requires little study. Category 3 projects are deemed to have “significant adverse impacts whose scale extent and significance cannot be determined without in-depth study�. The project under review has been assigned a Category 2 in accordance with these regulations. The depth of study and reporting format are in accordance with the regulations. Factories, Machinery and Construction Works Regulations of 1974 The regulations control health and safety working conditions and the use of machinery at factories and construction works. Regulation 9 requires that machinery be kept in good and safe working condition and used safely which is relevant to construction vehicles and other equipment; Regulation15 requires the training and supervision of inexperienced personnel using machinery which is relevant to the machine operators; Regulation 151 requires that hearing protection be provided and used in noise zones which is relevant for operators of noisy machinery (above 85 decibels); Regulation 152 requires that no person under the influence of alcohol be permitted into the workplace. Standard Building Regulations of 1969 82 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT These regulations provide for the control of building activities and the safety of buildings. Relevant to this project is Regulation 70 which stipulates that no lavatory or pit latrine shall be constructed within 30.5 m of any water source. Eswatini Building (Grade II) Regulations of 1966 These regulations provide for the control of building activities and the safety of buildings. Of relevance to this project is Regulation 11 which stipulates that no person shall dump or dispose of any debris or rubbish except at such places and in such a manner as may be appointed by the local authority. Waste Regulations of 2000 The Waste Regulations control the collection, transport, sorting, recovery, treatment, storage and disposal of waste collection and disposal of waste. Waste generation is anticipated during this project and hence the relevance of these Regulations. Water Pollution Control Regulations of 2010 The regulations control the discharge of effluents exceeding acceptable effluent standards for the preservation of water quality. If any person intentionally or negligently discharges potentially polluting substances into a water body above acceptable standards, that person will be guilty of an offence. Activities during establishment and operation that may cause pollution will be subjected to these regulations. This is particularly pertinent given the potential disposal of waterborne wastes. Workmen’s Compensation Regulations of 1983 These Regulations control the reporting of workplace accidents and work-related diseases, the provision and payment of medical treatment of injured employees and the compensation of such employees. Gender equity Since 2000, a series of significant legislation relating to gender equity in Eswatini has come into being including the new constitution. The situation may be summarized as follows: • Under the UDP a 99-Year Lease was introduced which provided equal access to land regardless of gender; • The Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini (2005), as well as protecting fundamental rights of all citizens (Section 14), specifically enshrines the rights of women (Section 28) to equal treatment, political, economic and social opportunities and commits the Government to enhancing their welfare, and provides for equal access to land irrespective of gender (Section 211). Furthermore, according to Section 28 (3) women may not be compelled to undergo or uphold any custom “to which she is in conscience oppose d. • The Gender Unit in the Ministry of Home Affairs has identified Constitutionalism and Law Reform as a priority and they have drafted a Program of Action with the assistance of UNDP. Currently the Constitution has two provisions explicitly stating the protection from gender discrimination and inequality before the law based on gender. Sections 14 and 28 enshrine gender equality reforms and redress previous legislation such as the Marriage Act of 1964, the Deeds Registry Act of 1938 and the Intestate Succession Act of 1953 and other inheritance laws. 83 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 84 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT World Bank Environmental and Social Standards The Nhlangano-Siphambanweni Water Supply and Sanitation Project (NSWSP) to be supported by the Bank through Investment Project Financing are required to meet the following Environmental and Social Standards and objectives and their applicability is shown in Table below: Table 10-1: WB ESSs Objectives and Applicability ESF Objectives Standards Objective s Applicability ESS1 Assessment and To identify, evaluate and manage the environment and ESS1 applies to all projects supported by the Bank Management of social risks and impacts of the project in a manner through Investment Project Financing and is Environmental and Social consistent with the ESSs. To adopt a mitigation hierarchy therefore applicable in this project. Risks and Impacts approach to: (a) Anticipate and avoid risks and impacts; (b) Where avoidance is not possible, minimize or reduce risks and impacts to acceptable levels; (c) Once risks and impacts have been minimized or reduced, mitigate; and (d) Where significant residual impacts remain, compensate for or offset them, where technically and financially feasible . To adopt differentiated measures so that adverse impacts do not fall disproportionately on the disadvantaged or vulnerable, and they are not disadvantaged in sharing development benefits and opportunities resulting from the project. To utilize national environmental and social institutions, systems, laws, regulations and procedures in the assessment, development and implementation of projects, whenever appropriate and also promote improved environmental and social performance, in ways which recognize and enhance Borrower capacity. 85 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability ESS2 Labor and Working To promote safety and health at work. To promote the fair Its applicability depends on the type of employment Conditions treatment, non-discrimination and equal opportunity of relationship between the Borrower and the project project workers. To protect project workers, including worker and it is established during the environmental vulnerable workers such as women, persons with and social assessment described in ESS1.For the disabilities, children (of working age, in accordance with this implementation of this project, labour (ranging from ESS) and migrant workers, contracted workers, community unskilled to skilled) will be required. workers and primary supply workers, as appropriate. To prevent the use of all forms of forced labor and child labor. To support the principles of freedom of association and collective bargaining of project workers in a manner consistent with national law. To provide project workers with accessible means to raise workplace concerns. ESS3 Resource To promote the sustainable use of resources, including The applicability of this ESS is established during the Efficiency and Pollution energy, water and raw materials. To avoid or minimize environmental and social assessment described in Prevention and adverse impacts on human health and the environment by ESS1. EWSC will be required to consider ambient Management avoiding or minimizing pollution from project activities. To conditions and apply technically and financially avoid or minimize project-related emissions of short and feasible resource efficiency and pollution prevention. long-lived climate pollutants. To avoid or minimize generation of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. To minimize and manage the risks and impacts associated with pesticide use. ESS4 Community Health To anticipate and avoid adverse impacts on the health and The applicability of this ESS is established during the and Safety safety of project-affected communities during the project life environmental and social assessment described in cycle from both routine and non-routine circumstances. To ESS1. This ESS addresses potential risks and promote quality and safety, and considerations relating to impacts on communities that may be affected by climate change, in the design and construction of project activities. Occupational health and safety infrastructure, including dams. • To avoid or minimize (OHS) requirements for project workers are set out in community exposure to project-related traffic and road ESS2, and measures to avoid or minimize impacts 86 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability safety risks, diseases and hazardous materials. To have in on human health and the environment due to existing place effective measures to address emergency events. To or potential pollution are set out in ESS3. ensure that the safeguarding of personnel and property is carried out in a manner that avoids or minimizes risks to the project-affected communities. ESS5 : Land Acquisition, To avoid involuntary resettlement or, when unavoidable, This ESS applies to permanent or temporary physical Restrictions on Land Use minimize involuntary resettlement by exploring project and economic displacement resulting from the and Involuntary design alternatives. To avoid forced eviction. To mitigate following types of land acquisition or restrictions on Resettlement unavoidable adverse social and economic impacts from land use undertaken or imposed in connection with land acquisition or restrictions on land use by: (a) providing project implementation: (a) Land rights or land use timely compensation for loss of assets at replacement cost rights acquired or restricted through expropriation or and (b) assisting displaced persons in their efforts to other compulsory procedures in accordance with improve, or at least restore, their livelihoods and living national law; (b) Land rights or land use rights standards, in real terms, to pre-displacement levels or to acquired or restricted through negotiated settlements levels prevailing prior to the beginning of project with property owners or those with legal rights to the implementation, whichever is higher. To improve living land, if failure to reach settlement would have conditions of poor or vulnerable persons who are physically resulted in expropriation or other compulsory displaced, through provision of adequate housing, access procedures; (c) Restrictions on land use and access to services and facilities, and security of tenure. To to natural resources that cause a community or conceive and execute resettlement activities as sustainable groups within a community to lose access to development programs, providing sufficient investment resource usage where they have traditional or resources to enable displaced persons to benefit directly customary tenure, or recognizable usage rights . This from the project, as the nature of the project may warrant. may include situations where legally designated To ensure that resettlement activities are planned and protected areas, forests, biodiversity areas or buffer implemented with appropriate disclosure of information, zones are established in connection with the project; meaningful consultation, and the informed participation of (d) Relocation of people without formal, traditional, or those affected. recognizable usage rights, who are occupying or utilizing land prior to a project specific cut-off date; (e) Displacement of people as a result of project impacts 87 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability that render their land unusable or inaccessible; (f) Restriction on access to land or use of other resources including communal property and natural resources such as marine and aquatic resources, timber and non-timber forest products, fresh water, medicinal plants, hunting and gathering grounds and grazing and cropping areas; (g) Land rights or claims to land or resources relinquished by individuals or communities without full payment of compensation; and (h) Land acquisition or land use restrictions occurring prior to the project, but which were undertaken or initiated in anticipation of, or in preparation for, the project. This ESS does not apply to impacts on incomes or livelihoods that are not a direct result of land acquisition or land use restrictions imposed by the project. Such impacts will be addressed in accordance with ESS1. 6. This ESS does not apply to voluntary, legally recorded market transactions in which the seller is given a genuine opportunity to retain the land and to refuse to sell it, and is fully informed about available choices and their implications. However, where such voluntary land transactions may result in the displacement of persons, other than the seller, who occupy, use or claim rights to the land in question, this ESS will apply. ESS6 Biodiversity This standard aims to protect and conserve biodiversity, the This policy is triggered by any project (including any Conservation and variety of life in all its forms, including genera, species and sub-project under a sector investment or financial 88 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability Sustainable Management ecosystem diversity and its ability to change and evolve; intermediary) with the potential to cause significant of Living Natural which is fundamental to sustainable development. conversion (loss) or degradation of natural habitats, Resources whether directly (through construction) or indirectly (through human activities induced by the project). ESS7 Indigenous It recognises the possibility of vulnerability of indigenous The policy is triggered when the project affects the Peoples/Sub-Saharan people owing to their culture, beliefs, institutions and living indigenous people in the project area. African Historically standards and that it may further get compromised by one Underserved Traditional or other project activity throughout the life cycle of the Local Communities project. This standard underlines the requirement of minimizing adverse impacts on indigenous people in the project area, respecting the local culture and customs, fostering good relationship and ensuring that development benefits are provided to improve their standard of living and livelihoods. ESS8 Cultural Heritage It aims to protect the irreplaceable cultural heritage and to This standard is triggered when a project finds items guide project proponents on protecting cultural heritage in of cultural significance. the course of project operations. ESS9 Financial The standard identifies that strong domestic capital and Applicable when there are Ifs in the project area. Intermediaries (FIs financial markets and access to finance are important for economic development, growth and poverty reduction. FIs are required to monitor and manage the environmental and social risks and impacts of their portfolio and FIs subprojects. They also develop and maintain, in the form of an Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), effective environmental and social systems, procedures and capacity for assessing, managing, and 89 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability monitoring risks and impacts of subprojects, as well as managing overall portfolio risk in a responsible manner. ESS10 Stakeholder This ESS recognizes the importance of open and Engagement and transparent engagement between the Borrower and project Information Disclosure stakeholders as an essential element of good international practice. Effective stakeholder engagement can improve the environmental and social sustainability of projects, enhance project acceptance, and make a significant contribution to successful project design and implementation. World Bank Group The General EHS Guidelines contain information on cross- These guidelines will be followed during the Environmental, Health cutting environmental, health, and safety issues potentially preparation of mitigation measures. When host and Safety Guidelines applicable to all industry sectors. The guidelines include;- country regulations differ from the levels and Environmental measures presented in the EHS Guidelines, projects ▪ Air Emissions and Ambient Air Quality are expected to achieve whichever is more stringent. ▪ Energy Conservation If less stringent levels or measures are appropriate in ▪ Wastewater and Ambient Water Quality view of specific project circumstances, a full and ▪ Water Conservation detailed justification for any proposed alternatives is ▪ Hazardous Materials Management needed as part of the site-specific environmental ▪ Waste Management assessment. These EHS Guidelines give specific ▪ Noise guidance on prevention and control of community ▪ Contaminated Land health and safety impacts that may occur during new Occupational Health and Safety project development, at the end of the project life- ▪ General Facility Design and Operation cycle, or due to expansion or modification of existing ▪ Communication and Training project facilities. Cross referencing is made to ▪ Physical Hazards various other sections of the General EHS 90 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability ▪ Chemical Hazards Guidelines. Employers and supervisors are obliged ▪ Biological Hazards to implement all reasonable precautions to protect ▪ Radiological Hazards the health and safety of workers. Preventative, ▪ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) measures will be introduced to ensure OHS. They ▪ Special Hazard Environments also provide guidance in the preceding ▪ Monitoring environmental and occupational health and safety Community Health and Safety sections, specifically addressing some aspects of ▪ Water Quality and Availability project activities taking place outside of the traditional ▪ Structural Safety of project Infrastructure project boundaries, but nonetheless related to the ▪ Life and Fire Safety (L&FS) project operations, as may be applicable on a project ▪ Transport of Hazardous Material basis. These issues may arise at any stage of a ▪ Disease Prevention project life cycle and can have an impact beyond the ▪ Emergency Preparedness and Response life of the project. Construction activities may result Construction and Decommissioning in a significant increase in movement of heavy ▪ Environment vehicles for the transport of construction materials ▪ Occupational Health and Safety and equipment increasing the risk of traffic-related ▪ Community Health and Safety accidents and injuries to workers and local communities. The incidence of road accidents involving project vehicles during construction should be minimized. WBG EHS Guidelines for Impoundment should prevent adverse impacts to the Where the project includes the delivery of water to Sanitation quality and availability of groundwater and surface water the community or to users of facility infrastructure resources (such as hotel hosts and hospital patients), where water may be used for drinking, cooking, washing, and bathing, water quality should comply with national acceptability standards or in their absence the current edition of with WHO Drinking Water 91 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Standards Objective s Applicability Guidelines. Groundwater and surface water represent essential sources of drinking and irrigation water in developing countries, particularly in rural areas where piped water supply may be limited or unavailable and where available resources are collected by the consumer with little or no treatment. Project activities involving wastewater discharges, water extraction, diversion or impoundment should prevent adverse impacts to the quality and availability of groundwater and surface water resources. . Drinking water sources, whether public or private, should at all times be protected so that they meet or exceed applicable national acceptability standards or in their absence the current edition of WHO Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality. Air emissions, wastewater effluents, oil and hazardous materials, and wastes should be managed according to the guidance provided in the respective sections of the General EHS Guidelines with the objective of protecting soil and water resources. Project activities should not compromise the availability of water for personal hygiene needs and should take account of potential future increases in demand. The potential effect of groundwater or surface water abstraction for project activities should be properly assessed through a combination of field testing and modeling techniques, accounting for seasonal variability and projected changes in demand in the project area. 92 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 93 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Annex C. Guidelines for Construction of Pit Latrines 94 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 95 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 96 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 97 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 98 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 99 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 100 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 101 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 102 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 103 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 104 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 105 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 106 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 107 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 108 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 109 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT 110 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NHLANGANO-SIPHAMBANWENI WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT Annex D. Typical Layout/Plan of Septic Tanks 111