ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A FUEL RETAIL STATION AND TRUCK DEPOT AT NGOMA, ZAMBEZI REGION
COMPILED BY: ON BEHALF OF:
GMAC INVERSTMENT CC NGOMA SERVICE STATION & SHOPPING MALL cc P. O. BOX 1215 P O. BOX 1770, KATIMA MULILO WINDHOEK EMAIL: [email protected] NAMIBIA Cell: 0812910649/0856949740
DOCUMENT INFORMATION TYPE PROJECT REPORT
TITLE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A FUEL RETAIL STATION AND TRUCK DEPOT AT NGOMA, ZAMBEZI REGION LEAD CONSULTANT MR. S. MULELE
CONSULTANT MR. G. SITENGU
REPORT REVIEWER MR. E. SIMASIKU
Table of Contents LIST OF FIGURES ...... 6 LIST OF TABLES ...... 6 ABBREVIATIONS ...... 7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... i CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 BACKGROUND ...... 1 1.2 PROJECT TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 1 1.3 METHODOLOGY ...... 2 CHAPTER 2: PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 3 2.1 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 3 2.2 EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES ...... 5 2.2.1 ROADS & ACCESSIBILITY ...... 5 2.2.2 WATER SUPPLY ...... 5 2.2.3 POWER SUPPLY ...... 5 2.2.4 SEWER DRAINAGE SYSTEM ...... 5 2.2.5 COMMUNICATION SERVICES ...... 6 2.2.6 SAFETY AND SECURITY ...... 6 2.3 PROPOSED PLAN ...... 6 2.3.1 PROJECT DESIGN ...... 6 2.3.2 PROJECT ACTIVITIES ...... 8 2.4 PROJECT IMPLICATIONS ...... 9 2.4.1 FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS ...... 9 2.4.2 PROJECT DESIRABILITY ...... 9 CHAPTER 3: THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ...... 11 3.1 CLIMATE ...... 11 3.2 TOPOGRAPHY ...... 12 3.3 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ...... 12 3.4 HYDROLOGY ...... 13 3.5 GEOHYDROLOGY ...... 18 3.6 BIODIVERSITY ...... 19 3.6.1 FLORA RESOURCES...... 19 3.6.2 FAUNAL RESOURCES ...... 20
3.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 22 3.7.1 DEMOGRAPHICS ...... 22 3.7.2 LAND USES ...... 23 CHAPTER 4: PROJECT ALTERNATIVES ...... 25 4.1 THE GO AHEAD ALTERNATIVE ...... 25 4.2 STATUS QUO ALTERNATIVE ...... 25 4.3 OTHER ALTERNATIVES ...... 26 CHAPTER 5: LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK ...... 27 CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS ...... 32 6.1 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION ...... 32 6.2 THE BACKGROUND INFORMATION DOCUMENT ...... 32 6.3 ENGAGEMENT WITH LOCAL TRADITIONAL AUTHORITY ...... 33 6.4 PUBLIC MEETING NOTICES ...... 33 6.5 POSTER NOTICES ...... 33 6.6 OTHER NOTICES ...... 33 6.7 PUBLIC CONCERNS AND RESPONSES ...... 34 CHAPTER 7: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSESSMENT ...... 37 7.1 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION ...... 37 7.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...... 38 7.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT PARAMETERS ...... 38 7.3.1 IMPACTS NATURE ...... 38 7.3.2 IMPACT PROBABILITY ...... 38 7.3.3 IMPACT EXTENT ...... 39 7.3.4 IMPACT MAGNITUDE ...... 39 7.4 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS ...... 41 7.5 IMPACT MITIGATION ...... 52 7.5.1 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ...... 52 7.6 POST- MITIGATION RISK ASSESSMENT ...... 69 CHAPTER 8: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 74 8.1 DEFINITION AND PURPOSE ...... 74 8.2 COMPOSITION OF AN EMP REPORT ...... 74 8.3 EMP REQUIREMENTS ...... 74 8.4 PROPOSED PROJECT EMP ...... 74
CHAPTER 9: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 75 9.1 CONCLUSION ...... 75 9.2 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 76 REFERENCES ...... 77 LIST OF APPENDICES ...... 78
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Proposed Project Site and outlook of surrounding area ...... 4 Figure 2 B8 highway with proposed site to the left of the road ...... 5 Figure 3 Rainfall pattern of Namibia (Source: Mendelson et al. 2002) ...... 11 Figure 4 flood risk modelling of the Zambezi Region (source: Nathaniel & Mendelsohn 2013) ...... 14 Figure 5 Flood risk overview for Zambezi Region (Source: Nathaniel & Mendelsohn 2013) ...... 15 Figure 6 Culvert structures for the flow of water across the B8 highway during flooding years ...... 16 Figure 7 A closer aerial view of flood prone sites (in red) in the Ngoma area (source: Google earth 2019) ...... 17 Figure 8 Identified Vegetation on the proposed project site ...... 20 Figure 9 Salambala Conservancy area (source: Laamanen & Otsub 2002) ...... 21 Figure 10 Some local features of the Ngoma area ...... 24
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Proposed project site coordinates ...... 3 Table 2 Expected project activities at different project stages ...... 8 Table 3 Existing boreholes information in the Ngoma area ...... 18 Table 4 List of wildlife species of Salambala Conservancy and risk status ...... 21 Table 5 Relevant policy and legislation to the project ...... 27 Table 6 Identified stakeholders...... 32 Table 7 Newspaper Notices information ...... 33 Table 8 Comments and responses at public consultation meeting ...... 34 Table 9 Identification of receptor and impacts...... 37 Table 10 Description of the type of impact ...... 38 Table 11 Description of impact probability ...... 39 Table 12 Description of the extent of impacts ...... 39 Table 13 Description of magnitude of impact ...... 39 Table 14 Likelihood vs Consequence matrix ...... 40 Table 15 Impacts Significance Rating ...... 40
ABBREVIATIONS
CCTV : Closed Circuit Television DEA : Directorate of Environmental Affairs. EAP : Environmental Assessment Practitioners. ECC : Environmental Clearance Certificate EIA : Environmental Impact Assessment EMA : Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2007) KAZA : Kavango – Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area MET : Ministry of Environmental and Tourism MME : Ministry of Mines and Energy MTC : Mobile Telecommunication Company NACSO : Namibian Association of Community Support Organisation NORED : Northern Electricity Distributor USTs : Underground Storage Tanks ZRC : Zambezi Regional Council
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Introduction Ngoma Service Station & Shopping Mall Cc appointed GMAC Investments cc independent environmental assessment Consultants to undertake an EIA for the proposed Ngoma Service Station and truck depot with other associated infrastructure at Ngoma, Zambezi Region.
The proposed site is located in Ngoma area, approximately 500m from the Ngoma border post, the control point before crossing to neighbouring Botswana. Ngoma is located about 60km from the regional centre, Katima Mulilo.
The EIA process undertaken conforms to the requirements of the Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2007) and EIA regulations (GN 30 of 2012).
Scope of Work The EAP’s terms of reference were to undertake the EIA process which is inclusive of the associated work of detail description of the project, investigate legislative requirements for the type of project, consider alternatives, identify activities and assess their impacts both positive and negative. Moreover, the EAP is further required to undertake a public consultation process and address concern arising, whilst establish sound administrative or engineering controls for management of identified significant impacts. Finally compile reports and submit an application for an ECC for the proposed project to the competent authority (i.e. DEA of MET).
Methodology The EAP undertook the use of different tools to ensure the terms of reference are met and these included; Screening of the legal requirements identifying this project as among activities requiring an EIA in accordance with the EMA No. 7 of 2007 and its regulations Physical inspection of the proposed project site and surrounding environment Use of aerial photography to examine physical features of the area Consultation with stakeholders such as the proponent, surrounding communities, local traditional and regional authorities. Expert assessment of the variables of the biophysical environment
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Relevant Policy and Legislation The following documents formed the guiding documents for the environmental assessment process Namibian Constitution (1990) Environmental Management Act No. 7 Of 2007 and Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations GN 30 of 2012 Water Act No. 54 Of 1956 Labour Act (11 of 2007) The National Heritage Act (No. 24 Of 2004) Petroleum Products and Energy Act of Namibia (Act No. 13 Of 1990) and Its Petroleum Products Regulations of 2000. Soil Conservation Act 76 Of 1969 Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Ordinance 11 Of 1976 Hazardous Substances Ordinance 14 Of 1974 Public And Environmental Health Act (No.1 Of 2015) Tourism Board Act (21 of 2000) National Solid Waste Management Strategy Nature Conservation Ordinance (No. 4 Of 1975) And It Amendment Act Of 1996 Forest Act No. 12 of 2001
Public Consultation The Public participation process was undertaken through a process that involved the following; Identifications of key stakeholders Preparation of background information document Placement of notices as required by law to invite I & APs to submit comments and attend a public meeting Conducting of the public meeting, receipt of all inputs, provision of feedback and integration into the EIA report
A few concerns received about the proposed project from engaged I & AP’s were to consider the flooding risk of the area and preservation of some wild fruits trees found on the proposed site. A higher level of acceptability of the proposed project was received from engaged stakeholders.
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Description of Receiving Environment The Ngoma area forms part of the Salambala Conservancy area although outside the core area. The locality is characterised mainly a rural setting comprising human settlement areas (i.e. villages), croplands, grazing land with scant forested areas that provide forest and non-forest products.
Located not so far away is the Chobe River, a shared resource with Botswana. Its extensive floodplain is prominent and an important biophysical feature for many ecological processes but also for livelihoods of the people along the river. Wildlife migrates free across the river boasting conservation tourism efforts across. Among such wildlife are elephants, lions and a variety of antelopes whose conservation status are vulnerable, while others such as hippos categorised as endangered.
The nature of soils is mainly sandy in upland areas and loamy in the floodplain, making flood prone areas best agricultural potential areas but affected by the high risk to annual flooding.
Due to proximity and thus interaction of ground and surface water, the aquifers are shallow and generally of good quality water, however, compounded by the texture of soils, lends this resource at high risks of contamination.
Ngoma has access to basic public services such as schools, clinic and police station in proximity. The population of Kabbe Constituency comprise mostly elderly pensioners although active groups within the age 15 – 59 are second. Unemployment is comparatively low, however, a development of this nature could help limit migration of youth to urban areas and boast the area’s economic base.
Focused physical assessment of the proposed sites yielded less information on natural resources of important conservation status except groundwater resource, drainage paths of floods and some few trees of preservation interest, these were highly considered in the impacts assessment section.
Consideration of Alternatives Although a number of alternatives were considered, the ‘go ahead alternative’ stood out prominent due to the favouring advantage of availability of land and also the great development potential of the area. Thus forgoing this alternative could be a significant missed opportunity to contribute to economic development of the country at both local, regional and national level.
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Preliminary identification of Receptors and Impacts A first hand consideration of the type of project proposed and the nature of the receiving environment, the following were identified as possible receptors and impacts
Resources/Receptor Impact nature Air quality Ambient air quality disturbance Land Soil disturbance Adjacent landscape disturbance Soil pollution Waste generation Fire Water environment Groundwater quality pollution Impeding drainage pattern or flow pattern of the area Overutilization of groundwater resources Biodiversity Destruction of smaller organisms and their habitats Removal of indigenous, endangered and near-threatened to threatened fauna and flora species Social-economics Safety and security in the area Employment opportunities Impeding of traffic movement Noise and vibrations Disturbance of heritage sites Cultural disturbance Ambient noise
Results of Impact Risk Assessment
Adverse Impacts and proposed Mitigations The following are among impacts identified as significant for the proposed project and measures in place to manage.
Impacts Mitigation measures
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Loss of vegetation and o Land clearing to be limited to areas of actual construction associated resources o The final fuel station design to consider Identified wild fruit trees (Garcinia livingstonei) location in design for preservation. Noise, dust and vibration and o Dust suppression and measurement should be implemented air pollution generation by whilst ensure work is carried out mainly during the day hours earth moving vehicles to avoid inconvenience to adjacent communities Interference with drainage of o Ensue all works in the vicinity does not impede flood flow surface and groundwater paths. Also ensure continual monitoring of groundwater Leakage or spills of oil and o All areas where petroleum products handled to be paved. petroleum products from earth o Continual monitoring of groundwater for contamination from moving machinery, USTs, fuel leaks dispensing areas, car wash o Development of spill handling procedure for the lifecycle of areas and other equipment’s operations used onsite o Compliance to sound environmental designs Generation of waste o Establish a controlled waste collection point. o Non-combustible waste collected to be channelled to the appropriate disposal sites Health and safety of workers o Take measures to ensure risks towards employees and general and community public are prevented or minimised to ensure the welfare Risk of fire and explosion o Ensure adequate firefighting control measures and techniques are implemented throughout the operations.
Positive Impacts The proposed project comes with the following beneficial impacts on implementation
Impacts Description Economic Impact o Creation of job opportunities for the locals and beyond o Promotion of development o Contribute to the local, regional and national economy o Provision of fuel and basic livelihood items closer to customers of the far eastern Zambezi region o Provide overnight accommodation and refreshment stop to travellers
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Social impact o Improvement of the living standard of workers through employment. o Prove access to basic daily livelihood items o Promotion of community development through corporate social responsibility o Promoting social development since the area is remote
Conclusion and Recommendations The EIA points out that a project of this type always has impacts on the environment, however with adequate implementation of proposed controls that should prevent the activities of the proposed project from causing irreversible damage to environment and social systems in the locality of implementation. It is the opinion of the Environmental Assessment Practitioners that the significance levels of the majority of identified negative impacts can generally be reduced by implementing the recommended mitigation measures in the Environmental Management and appropriate monitoring plans. Moreover, critical is that all role players in the implementation of the project to execute their responsibilities to ensure project benefits are enhanced and adverse impacts prevented or minim zed to acceptable levels. The EAP therefore recommend the approval of the project based on information contained in the EIA report, EMP and other associated documents.
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND Ngoma Service Station & Shipping Mall cc plans to construct and operate a fuel retail station and truck depot in the Ngoma area of the Zambezi Region. Ngoma is located some 60km south east of Katima Mulilo and forms the last and first stop for travellers between Namibia and neighbouring Botswana. The proposed project site lays 500m to the immediate west of the Ngoma Border Control Post along the B8 highway.
This EIA report undertakes to examine the potential positive and negative impacts associated with the proposed project relating to the biophysical, social and economic environment of the area. Undertaking EIA’s has become common practice in many countries, as the global drive to attain sustainability continues its momentum. The EIA approach ensures that social, economic and environmental issues are adequately addressed, where positives are enhanced while significant negative impacts are avoided or otherwise mitigated to acceptable levels.
1.2 PROJECT TERMS OF REFERENCE The Terms of Reference for this EIA report includes the following; A detail description of the proposed project A detail description of baseline information i.e. most sensitive receptors Description of the requirements from national environmental legislative and regulatory framework relevant to the proposed project. Description, evaluation and analysis of the foreseeable potential environmental effects of the proposed project with a focus on environmental and socio-economic aspects Evaluation and analysis of alternatives Propose and recommend specific environmentally sound and affordable measures for prevention and or mitigation of adverse effects from resultant implementation of the proposed project. Propose measures to prevent health and safety hazards and to ensure security in the working environment for the employees, residents and for management of emergencies, encompassing prevention and management of the foreseeable accidents and hazards during both the construction, operational and decommissioning phases.
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This full study report provides relevant information and environmental considerations on the project proponent’s intentions to seek approval from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism’s Environmental Affairs Department for the construction, operation and decommissioning of the filling station and associated infrastructure.
1.3 METHODOLOGY The EIA process was carried involved the following tools and techniques;
Screening of the legal requirements identifying this project as among activities requiring carrying out of a EIA in accordance with the EMA No. 7 of 2007 Physical inspection of the proposed project site and surrounding environment Use of aerial photography to examine features physical features of the surrounding environment over time, to determine variation in land uses Consultation with stakeholders such as the proponent, surrounding communities, local traditional and regional authorities. Expert/specialist assessment of the biophysical environment Analysis of various legislative and policy requirements for the proposed project.
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CHAPTER 2: PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 PROJECT LOCATION The proposed project sits a mere 500m west of Ngoma Border Post. Ngoma is located 60km southeast of the town of Katima Mulilo (i.e. the regional centre of the Zambezi region). The proposed site comprises approximately two (3) hectares of land along the B8 highway. Located to the east of the border post is the Chobe River, a distance of approximately a kilometre which forms the border boundary between Namibia and Botswana.
The Ngoma area is characterised mainly as a rural dominated setting comprising small villages in all its surroundings. Moreover, although not declared a settlement yet, several modern structures housing public services such as the border control post office building complex, a police station, district court, a clinic and two schools can be found within a kilometre radius.
The geographical coordinates of the site are provided in table 1 below, while figure 1 also below give a better appreciation of the Ngoma area mainly the proposed project site and surroundings.
Table 1 Proposed project site coordinates
Proposed Project Site -17.910009 S 24.709435 E
A map of the area and Surroundings area is provided in Figure 1 Below.
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Figure 1 Proposed Project Site and outlook of surrounding area
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2.2 EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 2.2.1 ROADS & ACCESSIBILITY The proposed site is adjacent to the B8 highway, therefore no new development of roads but an off the highway access to the site only (See the Figure 2).
Figure 2 B8 highway with proposed site to the left of the road
2.2.2 WATER SUPPLY Presently water supply to existing public service infrastructures in the area is from own drilled boreholes taping the local alluvial aquifer. The proposed project envisages drilling of a borehole and installation of two 3m3 tanks for water supply to the proposed facility.
2.2.3 POWER SUPPLY Current power supply to existing modern infrastructure and rural households is provided by NORED. The proposed project will secure electricity to the facility through application to the above mentioned service provider for an extension from the local nearby supply lines to the site.
2.2.4 SEWER DRAINAGE SYSTEM Currently all existing government offices utilises septic system in the area due to a lack of designed and installed sewer line system. Therefore, the proponent plans on construction of septic tanks with a combined capacity of handling approximately 6m3 combined sewer water for all the proposed facilities with each septic unit of 2m3 handling capacity. See Appendix 5 for generic designs of septic systems envisaged.
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2.2.5 COMMUNICATION SERVICES The Ngoma area is presently serviced with existing coverage of mobile telecommunication network and landline based network by service provider MTC and Telecom Namibia. The proponent will use both mobile and landline services (i.e. the latter for internet access) for the proposed development. The latter will be engaged through application for extension of landline cabling to the project site upon completion of construction of the first phase.
2.2.6 SAFETY AND SECURITY Located just about 500m from public services of police station and border control, the proposed project is advantaged to have quick access to these facilities, whilst proponent further plans on installation of security system that comprises CCTV monitoring and a 24 hour personnel security presence on site. Moreover, during the construction, use of local labour and permanent employment will be sourced from the local villages to build stronger community relations that could ensure less local security threats.
2.3 PROPOSED PLAN In consultation with the project proponent, the following outline of facilities is planned in two phases;
Phase I The following are planned for development in the first phase
Construction and fittings of underground Storage Tanks associated piping’s and fittings and fuel pumps in accordance with existing and required best practice standards. A main building housing an office, convenience shop, and ablutions facilities. Parking and loading bays (truck stop/depot area).
Phase II Car wash area and associated drains Restrooms and restaurant along with associated septic system
2.3.1 PROJECT DESIGN The final designs of all the infrastructures planned for construction and site layout pends obtaining an ECC to consider all necessary design provisions. However, current the following structures and works will be covered over the two phases;
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Fuel storage and dispensing area Three underground fuel tanks of capacity 5m3 each, where two will be used for diesel storage and one for petrol storage underlain by concrete as well as side banding and concrete above covering with a heavy duty covered man hole for each of the underground tanks. Breather and fuel monitoring points An impermeable concrete surface/pavement around the entire dispensing area designed with depression towards drains for stormwater management. Alternatively, the margins of the paved dispensing area surrounded by trenches as drains for stormwater and other spillages. An oil water separator to handle contaminated water (see appendix 5 for generic design of a simple oil water separator). A steel canopy over the small vehicles fuel dispensing area Two fuel pumps making four aisles for small vehicles and single pump making two aisles for large vehicles (trucks). Parking Bays and truck stop At least 5-6 small vehicles parking bays with impermeable surfaces/paving Large vehicles parking area for at least 2 -3 trucks at one time with partially impermeable surface (i.e. lined surfaces) Main building and other facilities Main building will comprise the following; Office for the station manager with inside safe A convenience shop Locker room storage rooms area for the staff with outside entrance and ablution for females and males Toilets with a shower for visitors/travellers separated for males and females and connection to 2m3 septic system.
The second phase of the development proposes the construction of the following structures Up to five (5) restrooms each providing a bed, own toilet and shower facility A restaurant comprising a kitchen, dining area and storage area Additional septic tanks of capacity 2m3 for sharing rooms Paved vehicle washing bay and associated drains with connection to an oil water separator.
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2.3.2 PROJECT ACTIVITIES The following activities are therefore indispensable to the project; Table 2 Expected project activities at different project stages
Activity Description Pre-Construction Phase Land ownership Confirmation of land ownership by letter from the traditional authority. Confirmation of boundaries with the bordering villages Construction Phase Land preparation Comprises clearing of the area, proceeded by up-earthing, levelling and compacting of the ground. Excavation Trenches for USTs as well as septic tanks construction area. Transportation and storage Fuel tanks, building materials and equipment’s will be of materials transported to the site from suppliers and delivered on site. Phase 1: Construction of The activity involves construction of the main building with its structures and subsequent various components, the dispensing area and pumps, station installations canopy, parking and loading bays, underground storage areas and septic system along with installations of fuel tanks and associate piping’s and fittings as well as covering concrete surfaces drains. Phase 2: Construction of Construction of car wash bays and associated drains restrooms structures and subsequent and restaurant with associated septic system. installations Installation of Utilities Connection of water and electricity supply lies to the facility will be undertaken at completion of each phase Any other installation and This stage will involve the post construction installation of fittings essential services such as security system, firefighting system and communication and any other essential facilities. Operational Phase Fuel transportation Fuel will be transported by trucks from a wholesaler and distributor in Namibia to site. Suppliers countrywide are being engaged in this regard. Fuel delivery to site Fuel will be delivered on site and transferred into USTs. Fuel Dispensing This will involve transfer of fuel from USTs to customers. Other operations Use of office building by the station manager
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Retailing from the convenience shop Restroom accommodation and meals to travellers and other guests Maintenance works Renovations, replacement of materials and equipment’s Decommissioning phase Dismantling of structures Upon near closure of the facility, the dismantling of all or certain constructed infrastructure will be carried out. Removal of underground The process will involve carful removal of fuel dispensers, tanks dismantling of impervious surfaces, excavation and removal of USTs. Area landscaping Once structures are removed, the area may require landscaping Disposal of redundant Redundant dismantled usable and none usable structure and materials equipment’s may need to be disposed or maintained safely
2.4 PROJECT IMPLICATIONS 2.4.1 FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The financial implication of the proposed project is yet clear as much is pending due to ECC that will enable the final construction designs. The investment is solely by the proponent who will see all the financial undertaking, however, investors have also been secured should need be to ensure completion of the proposed project.
2.4.2 PROJECT DESIRABILITY Ngoma Border Post has an economic growth potential due to being the last and first stop for a significant number of travellers out and into the Namibia from Botswana and other southern African neighbours. Construction of a modern facility such as a fuel station can go far in serving as a replenishment and refreshment stop for these travellers whilst contributing towards the social- economic development of the area and ultimately contribute to the overall developmental agenda of the country through Vision 2030. Meanwhile, it was also established that part of the Ngoma area is envisaged to be proclaimed a settlement in the future thus increased development, as such the proposed project comes at a right time in advancement of these envisaged developmental plans.
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CHAPTER 3: THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
3.1 CLIMATE The overall climate of Zambezi region is characterised by Mendelson & Robetson (1997) as distinctly more tropical than any of the regions in Namibia, ultimately experiencing higher rainfall, and slight less evaporation and warmer winters. Rainfall averages at 700mm per annum in the far north-east parts of the region to about 500mm per annum in the south western parts (MLR 2015). Mendelson and Roberts further emphasise variability of rainfall thus regular alternating occurrences of droughts and floods.
Temperature are characterised as moderate in summer months but highest around September to November with a range of 32-35oC while winter maximum ranges between 18-25oC and minimum up to 5oC (MLR 2015). Figure 2 below provides an overall rainfall outlook for entire country with distinctive rainfall figure for the eastern part of the Zambezi Region
Figure 3 Rainfall pattern of Namibia (Source: Mendelson et al. 2002)
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3.2 TOPOGRAPHY The Zambezi region is generally characterised as flat, without much recognisable protruding features such as hills or mountains, as elevation declines from the west towards the east of the region, reaching a low of 930 m above sea level at Impalila Island (Mendelson & Roberts, 1997). The flatter nature of the landscape lends almost the entire eastern parts of the region, consisting an extensive floodplain at risk of frequent annual flooding.
3.3 GEOLOGY AND SOILS The vast Zambezi region belong to the quaternary age Kalahari sand group which is present in the eastern and north eastern parts of Namibia. It is widely believed the Kalahari sand cover originally represent a series of sand dunes oriented mainly in a linear manner. This implies that contrary to present day tropical to sub-tropical conditions, the region was generally dry during the deposition of the wind-blown sand dunes. The base of the Kalahari sand cover is marked by the presence of Karoo basalts, which are exposed at the rapids near Katima Mulilo, and near Ngoma to the east, however, more of these basaltic rocks are extensively exposed within the Island of Impalila (Miller, 2008).
The thick Kalahari sand cover has varying thickness across the region, but was established through water borehole southwest of Katima Mulilo to average around 216m (Miller, 2008). Older borehole logs has shown a succession of sand or clayey to sand/loam in various parts of the region, with some of the sand layers unconsolidated. This sand layer is fine to medium grained, getting coarser with increasing depth.
Being part of the extensive Kalahari basin that formed over 130 to 180 million years, much of the soils of the region characterized by sand shaped into dunes. To a great extent the soil texture determines the classification of the soil, with much of the flood-prone areas characterized by high clayish to sand content, while westward of the region more sand content (Mendelson and Roberts, 1997). These soils are called aerosols and are extremely poor in nutrients as water drains through the sandy texture easily and little water is held in the surface layers where most plants have their roots. Fluvisols are found along the larger river courses and have relatively nutrient-rich soils for crop cultivation (Mendelsohn, 1997). Regrettably, this is also the low-lying areas, which flood annually, leaving areas flooded for up to 6 months.
An inspection of the area indicates both sandy and clayish soils patches described by Mendelson (1997; 2006) and thus high infiltration capacity for patches dominated by sands but low for clayish soils.
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3.4 HYDROLOGY The Zambezi region is bordered by four perennial rivers; the mighty Zambezi in the north, the Kwando in the west adjoining the Linyanti in the South connected to the Chobe through the Liambezi marsh in the east (MLR 2015). Therefore the region falls within the greater Zambezi basin drainage system
Literature reveals that flows in the Kwando river ceased contributing to the flow in the Zambezi river long ago, significant flows in exceptional years allows the former to discharges into the Linyanti swamp believed to follow a major fault line into Lake Liambezi and eventually into the Chobe swamp that adjoins joins the Zambezi River (Margane et al. 2005). In drier months, the Chobe swamp is supported by a backflow from the Zambezi River into this system.
Rivers are critical to the survival of important wetlands providing clean water if unpolluted and support resources such as fish populations. Available literature echoes declining water quality over many years of human settlement along the rivers of the Zambezi Region. On another hand much of the Chobe system is fragmented in drier months of the year reducing its water quality to a muddy appearance at most. However, experiencing different levels of flooding on a year to year basis, the water quality of the extensive Zambezi Chobe River system can be said to be fairly of good quality and many rural communities along the river draw and consume the eater without much a treatment. This is echoed in the IWRM Plan for Namibia Report (2010) highlighting that the northern perennial river of Namibia and associated wetlands have yet been polluted extensively, with their exceptional diversity of fauna, these systems continues to retain their natural cleansing processes and cycles such that water is classed as excellent and flood cycles largely unregulated.
The proposed project site is over a kilometre from the nearest reach of the Chobe River, a shared resources with neighbouring Botswana.
Review of the flooding risk of Ngoma area
The far eastern parts of the Zambezi Region is characterized by an extensive floodplain. Mendelson and Roberts (1997) approximates that 30% of the former eastern Caprivi are at risk of flooding in any given year. A 2013 spatial assessment of the risk of flooding in eastern Caprivi by Nathanael and Mendelsohn indicates the extent of flooding in the eastern parts for any given year dependent on river water levels.
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Figure 4 flood risk modelling of the Zambezi Region (source: Nathaniel & Mendelsohn 2013)
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Figure 5 Flood risk overview for Zambezi Region (Source: Nathaniel & Mendelsohn 2013)
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Figures 4 above shows the extent of flooding of the eastern parts of the region in different months of the different years, whilst also indicating the amount of water in different areas. Consequently the flood risk map in Figure 5 clearly indicates the high risk zones to flooding. Much of the entire far eastern parts of Zambezi region and more so the area around the proposed project site and surroundings are high risk areas to flooding at a regional scale, while at local scale, small elevated areas in this zone form human settlements areas. Figure 6 provides a much closer aerial view of the area indicating significance of small ‘upland Islands’ where villages are built surrounded entirely or partially by flooding areas. Government offices and other buildings built in this locality involved elevating of these areas to reduce the risk of continual yearly flooding.
To the east of the proposed project site are culverts structures (Figure 6) that allow the flow of access flood water across the highway to the southern parts. These structures are worthy noting and consideration in subsequent sections of the report as interference or blocking such a flow paths can have disastrous effects to the area.
Figure 6. Culvert structures for the flow of water across the B8 highway during flooding years
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Figure 7. A closer aerial view of flood prone sites (in red) in the Ngoma area (source: Google earth 2019) [17]
3.5 GEOHYDROLOGY The local hydrogeology of the area is less extensively examined by existing literature, attributed to lesser utilization of groundwater resources given proximity of perennial rivers of the Zambezi – Chobe system. However, at regional scale, the region is characterized as of the Kalahari Group formations that extensively overlays much of the eastern, northern to north-east parts of Namibia. The Upper Kalahari Group is composed mainly of Aeolian sands, colluvium, alluvial/deltaic sands, interbedded alluvium, sand, silt and clay, while the Lower Kalahari Group units include; conglomerates and gravel units which sporadically occur at the base of the Lower Kalahari Group and occasionally fine-grained, homogenous marls/clays; varicoloured, sandstones; calcretes, silcretes and other duricrusts (Kawawa, 2015; Thomas & Shaw, 1991b). The Kalahari Sequence is characterized mainly of porous aquifers, however displays variability in properties over short distances (Christelis & Struckmeier, 2001).
Groundwater table varies within 20 to 40 m below ground level in the far eastern parts of the region (Kawawa, 2015). Margane et al. (2015) indicates that boreholes drilled in mostly eastern parts can have up to yield of 40m3 per hour from the upper aquifer, while a trend towards effluent groundwater system is observed mostly in the north, west and south of the region. The quality of groundwater is characterized as highly variable throughout the region, however areas in proximity to rivers generally have good quality due to surface-groundwater interactions (Christelis & Struckmeier, 2001).
Despite significant potential of groundwater both qualitatively and quantitatively in the eastern parts this resource is less utilized and only recently becoming more recognized by communities, especially those having relocated higher ground along the highway.
Accessible 2013 boreholes data indicates existence of a few boreholes in the area. The table below presents the information about the boreholes.
Table 3 Existing boreholes information in the Ngoma area
Location Borehole ID Depth Yield Water level Quality (M) M3/S (M) Ngoma 35369 36 15 5.85 Ngoma 72893 - 15.3 4.6 Ngoma 72890 - 1.5 4.5 Ngoma 72891 - 11.5 6.1 Ngoma 72892 - 7.7 - -
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Ngoma 93479 - - - Marusburg 26607 37.2 - - -
The information in the table indicates shallow water levels in the boreholes but high yielding although water quality and depth information is not available. The average of water table levels is 5 metres below ground surface, attributed to the interactions of surface – groundwater of the Chobe system and adjacent aquifers.
Groundwater resources are important to the proposed project as water supply, however the shallow water levels and alluvial nature of the aquifer lends vulnerability to potential pollution.
3.6 BIODIVERSITY 3.6.1 FLORA RESOURCES Six land types that form a broad range of vegetation is described by Mendelson & Robertson (1997) for the Zambezi region. These vegetation types are open water, floodplains, riverine woodlands, mopane woodlands, Kalahari woodlands and Impalila woodlands. The Ngoma area can be grouped into the Chobe grassland-hummocks type of vegetation of the riverine woodlands described by Mendelson & Roberts as comprising mainly of sandy plains and hummocks along the Chobe River with some higher ground areas significantly well wooded by tall camelthorns, Lonchocarpus capassa, Kigelia Africana and Diospyros mespiliformis. Among these species, D. mespiliformis is among listed protected species under the Forest act of 2001.
A physical inspection indicates that the site is not very well wooded but more covered by grasses. Among a few identified trees on the sites are Garcinia livingstonei, Bahinia petersiana and Combretum imberbe, while grass is dominated by Hyperthelia hirta (see figure 8). None of the identified trees and grasses on the proposed site are listed as protected on Appendix 2 of the Forest act of 2001, however may form some be of ecological value at certain times of the year. Garciania livingstonei bears seasonal fruits that local community consume.
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Garcinia livingstonei Piliostigma thonningi
Combretum imberbe Hyperthelia hirta Figure 8 Identified Vegetation on the proposed project site
3.6.2 FAUNAL RESOURCES The Zambezi region is a key area for wildlife that moves freely within and beyond to neighbouring countries (Chase 2009). Surveys carried out in the Zambezi region on wildlife, have come to conclude that wildlife numbers in the region are on a generally trajectory trend due to facilitation of transboundary movements through KAZA and due to the concept of conservancies that supports community livelihoods (MLR 2015). The region boasts several established communal conservancies among which the Salambala Conservancy that engulfs the Ngoma area (See figure 9). Wildlife such as elephants, lions, buffalo, waterbuck, tsessebe, kudu, duiker, reedbuck, common impala, blue wildebeest, lenchwe, hippo, crocodile, zebra, warthog and steenbock are among those listed under the protection of that conservancy (NACSO 2010). Many of these species are protected species under the Nature Conservation Ordinance (No 4 of 1975), while some internationally holds recognised vulnerable status such as the elephant’s, thus special conversation attention. Nonetheless Chase’s 2009 survey affirms that although most of such wildlife was restricted to protected areas such as national parks previously, more recent surveys indicate significant numbers of wildlife in conservancies, further recognising increasing number of wildlife except for crocodile and reedbuck and warthog. The Ngoma area where the proposed project is located, is
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outside the core conservation area of the Salambala Conservancy. Movements of animals in the area is away from the rural settlements towards the floodplain, although unrestricted towards developed areas. Table 4 below provides information on the status of some wildlife species to come across in the Salambala Conservancy.
Figure 9 Salambala Conservancy area (source: DoF 2002)
Table 4 List of wildlife species of Salambala Conservancy and risk status (Source: MLR, 2015)
Species Status Elephants Vulnerable Lions Vulnerable Buffalo Waterbuck Tsessebe Vulnerable Kudu Duiker Reedbuck Common Impala Blue Wildebeest Red Lenchwe Vulnerable Hippo Endangered
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Crocodile Zebra Warthog Steenbock
3.6.2.1 BIRDS Beside large wildlife, the Zambezi region is renowned for its high diversity of wetland birds especially the eastern extensive floodplain. This makes the swampy wetlands of the eastern Zambezi region ecologically and biologically important. Among those mentioned by Chase (2009) are Cranes, Pelicans, Storks and Spur-winged goose. While others such as Slaty Egret, Wattled, Rufousbellied Heron, Saddlebilled Stork, Lesser Jacana, Whitecrowned Plover, Longtoed Plover, Redwinged Pratincole, Pinkthroated Longclaw and Montagu´s Harrrier prefers the wetland environment for breeding habitat (Simmons et al., 1999). Sighting of birds and nests did not provide any significant information for identification and documenting.
3.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 3.7.1 DEMOGRAPHICS The Ngoma areas was part of the combined Kabbe Constituency prior splitting into North and South in 2013. The population of the entire Kabbe constituency according to NPC (2011) is 14 518 with a slight higher margin of males (52%) to females. The age composition is skewed towards the elderly (over 60 years) comprising 51 percent, followed by 15-59 age group comprising 27 percent. The main sources of income are split between farming, wages and salaries, and pension while business unrelated to farming is recorded as prominent among the people of the constituency.
Unemployment in the constituency was recorded to be much lower (17%) than other constituencies of the region i.e. Katima rural (37%), Katima Urban (51%), Kongola (37) and Linyanti (30%). The lower unemployment rate can be attributed to the prominent age group of over 60 years, with majority of the most active members of the society (15– 59) having emigrated or residing in urban centres leaving the elderly behind. However, the Ngoma area like many other areas struggles with unemployed youth searching for economic opportunities.
The proposed project can therefore go a long way providing another alternative opportunity for the youth of the Ngoma area and an economic stream that can be able to lessen rural to urban migration.
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Health and education facilities
The Ngoma community has access to health facilities through a health clinic located less than a kilometre south of the B8 Highway. Prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV stands at 22.3% for the Zambezi region, the highest among all the regions of Namibia among adults aged 15-64 years (MHSS 2016).
Similarly to health facilities, education facilities in proximity include a primary and secondary school also located less than a kilometre south of the B8 highway.
3.7.2 LAND USES The entire Ngoma area falls within the Salambala Conservancy. The conservancy was registered in 1998 and engulfs an area of 19 300 hectares (DoF, 2002). The Ngoma area itself does not fall within the core area of the conservancy where there are restrictions on settlement, grazing and illegal harvesting of wood but designated only for wildlife and tourism (DoF, 2002). Beyond the core area of the conservancy, the local communities settle in villages varying in size and utilise surrounding land for subsistence livelihood activities such as crop farming, livestock grazing, harvesting of wood and non-wood forest products. Harring and Odendaal (2012) state that besides fields of maize and millet, locally each village has herds of cattle and or goats considered important safety nets by a considerable number of people of the region.
A physical inspection of the surroundings of the proposed project site and use of air photograph indicates that the proposed project area is characterised as typically rural comprising villages, crop farming areas, kraals with in-grown scant vegetation between villages or one land use activity to another beside some public institutions prior identified in the area. Figure 10 presents some features captured from the surroundings.
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Figure 10 Some local features of the Ngoma area
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CHAPTER 4: PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
The following alternatives are considered for the project; Go ahead alternative Status Quo Other alternative
4.1 THE GO AHEAD ALTERNATIVE The following reasons are considered drivers for this alternative; Firstly, availability of an affordable piece land is a complex and sensitive issue in the region like in many other parts of the country. The proposed project takes advantage that the parcel of land planned for development is owned by the proponent’s family therefore such eliminates the time to search and negotiate for a piece of land elsewhere as well as the complex process and conflicts that may arise from such a process.
Secondly, considering the lack of a more modern facility of the kind of fuel station and accessories in the Ngoma area, motorist from Ngoma and surrounding tourism operator’s travel some distances to Bukalo or Katima mulilo for fuelling of vehicles and bulk acquisition for boats. Alternatively the customers rely on fuel stations in Kasane (Botswana), a process that may be complicated for some. Should this project continue it will serve the Ngoma and surroundings community with cost effective fuelling point but also accessibility to basic daily livelihood items from the convenience shop.
Furthermore, travellers in both direction get a refreshment stop, considering the border posts operates within certain hours of the day.
It has been mentioned prior that unemployment is significant in many areas, Ngoma included. The proposed project is foreseen to provide temporal but also permanent jobs to the youth and active elderly of the area, complementing the current recorded sources of income.
Lastly, the Ngoma area has been highlighted as one of the rural areas that regional authorities foresee to be declared a settlement (see Appendix 7), therefore this project comes advanced to these plans and aligns with future land uses of the area.
4.2 STATUS QUO ALTERNATIVE The status quo alternative translates a forgone opportunity to establish a modern facility that can serve visitors that arrive in Namibia from its neighbouring countries, the surrounding communities
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comprising tourism operators that would get access to fuel closer to their operations, while at the same time provide an opportunity for employment to the community of Ngoma.
Moreover, it is a missed opportunity in building a sustainable economic base for this slowly growing rural area that is planned to be developed and declared a settlement in the near the future. Thus constant migration of youth to urban centres are to continue perceived lack of opportunities in the rural settings such as Ngoma.
Moreover, it is a missed opportunity to increase trade within the country and thus support the local and national economy.
4.3 OTHER ALTERNATIVES The alternative to the above scenarios is possible delayed wait for the declaration of Ngoma as a settlement as per envisaged future plans of regional authorities, of which plans in the future the area will remain to be used for similar developments, however acquisition of the land in demarcated settlement area may be challenging However these plans may take longer to achieve as this may involve the legal process of formalization of an area as a settlement, resettlement of affected communities within the gazetted boundaries.
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CHAPTER 5: POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK
The following legislative documents have been considered relevant to the proposed project
Table 5 Relevant policy and legislation to the project
LEGISLATIVE INSTRUMENTS REQUIREMENT PROJECT IMPLICATIONS NAMIBIAN CONSTITUTION (1990) Article 95 on maintenance of ecosystems, essential ecological o A relatively high level of environmental
processes and biological diversity of Namibia and utilization of living protection is called for in respect of pollution natural resources in a sustainable way for the benefit of all control and waste management. Namibians, both present and future. o Through implementation of the environmental management plan, the proposed service station operations will ensure conformity to the constitution in terms of environmental management and sustainability. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT Section 9.4 states that the storage and handling of dangerous goods, o Conduct EIA and Application for ECC NO. 7 OF 2007 AND ENVIRONMENTAL including petrol, diesel, liquid petroleum gas or paraffin, in containers o Conduct Public consultation process IMPACT ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS GN with a combined capacity of more than 30 cubic meters at any one OF 2012 location require an EIA. The application of the prescribed process of obtaining an ECC for this activity is highly required. WATER ACT NO. 54 OF 1956 Section 21 to 26 restricts the disposal of untreated effluent into the Application for Effluent disposal permit environment, prevention of pollution of water sources.
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Abstraction of water from water declared water control areas for Where abstraction if in declared water control commercial activities to apply for approval from competent areas or from near a stream, application be authority. made from water affairs department. LABOUR ACT OF 2007 The objectives of the Act is to ensure the health, safety and welfare of Compliance to all relevant sections of the Act employees but also outlines the rights and obligation of employers. relating to; - health and safety of employees, - discriminatory practices - hiring remunerations and other employees benefits - work hours and beyond - fair labour practices, disciplinary actions and employee rights to belong to labour associations THE NATIONAL HERITAGE ACT (NO. 24 Through section 46, prohibition is placed on removing or demolish, Should a heritage site or archaeological site (e.g. OF 2004) destroy or despoil, develop or excavate all or part of a protected place. a grave or stone markings) be uncovered or
Under subsequent sections of the act, such can be only conducted discovered during operations, the prescribed under provisions of an exemption or under a permit issued by the procedures need be implemented. council. Moreover, should during operations an object of historical significance be uncovered, the operations are to be halted immediately. PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND ENERGY The Acts sets out the conditions for possession, sale and other acts Application for a retail licences ACT OF NAMIBIA (ACT NO. 13 OF 1990) relating fuels. Very important is Chapter 2, Part II of the regulation Authorisation for consumer installations outlining the application of a retail license and conditions to acquiring
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AND ITS PETROLEUM PRODUCTS and operating under this license. Moreover, Part IV of the same Completion of form PP/10 for installation of REGULATIONS OF 2000. chapter outlays the conditions for consumer installations, accessories USTs that come with operating a fuel station. Moreover, the Chapter 3 is All other requirements addressed through the important as it relates to prohibitions, general duties, specifications management measures table. and standards, fire protection and petroleum product spillages. Chapter 4 relates to cost recovery by authorities for clean-up of spill incidents, information and record keeping and rights to inspection of premises by authorities. SOIL CONSERVATION ACT 76 OF 1969 The Act makes provision for the combating and prevention of soil Ensure project designs consider soil stability to erosion, and for the conservation, protection and improvement of the prevent erosion processes. soil, the vegetation and the sources and resources of the water supplies. Under section 4 the Minister may by means of a direction order the owner of land to construct the soil conservation works. ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION Section 24 requires persons located in dust protection zones to take Although the act relates mostly to emissions of PREVENTION ORDINANCE 11 OF 1976 prescribed steps or (where no steps have been prescribed) adopt the dust and noxious gases in prescribed areas, best practicable means for preventing dust from becoming so necessary measures need be taken to ensure dispersed or causing nuisance. Section 35 relates to measures taken release of noxious gases and dust is minimized to control the emissions from vehicles. in proximity to human settlement areas and prevent pollution. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES ORDINANCE The Act aims to provide for the control of substances which may cause Restriction on import, storage and sale of group 14 OF 1974 injury or ill-health to or death of human beings by reason of their I declared hazardous substances without a toxic, corrosive, irritant, strongly sensitizing or flammable nature or permit. the generation of pressure. Through amended by the Atomic Energy
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and Radiation Protection Act 5 of 2005 requires application in the prescribed manner and on payment of the prescribed fee (if any) and subject to the prescribed conditions and further conditions as may be determined, issue to any natural person a licence to carry on business as a supplier of Group I hazardous substances. PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Provides a framework for a structured uniform public and While the act prescribes local authorities as ACT (NO.1 OF 2015) environmental health system in Namibia; and to provide for focal institutions to ensure orderly conduct of incidental matters. activities to ensure public safety and health, Sections 47, 48, 49, 53 and 54, relates to issues of safety of water these also extend beyond established local supplies, foods, waste disposal and sanitation in a local authorities authorities as public health and safety is of with the power to inspect and issue compliance. national interest. All waste disposal, sanitation, supply of foods by commercial entities must be in accordance requirements of the act. TOURISM BOARD ACT Sections 20 and 21 of the act prohibits provision of operations of an Operations of the associated accommodation accommodation establishment without prior registration and requires registration with the Namibia Tourism grading. Board. NATIONAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT The strategy aims to strengthen institutional and legal framework for Consider the principles of waste management in STRATEGY management of solid waste serving as a guide to institutions such as setting up measures for management of solid local authorities on sound waste management practices. waste. NATURE CONSERVATION ORDINANCE The act is aimed at Protection of Namibia’s biodiversity. Sections 26 Hunting of wildlife is allowed only by (NO. 4 OF 1975) AND IT AMENDMENT to 40 prescribes specially protected and protected wildlife and permission ACT OF 1996 conditions upon which hunting may be allowed. Through its Recognise existence within the sphere of a subsequent amendment act, provision are made that allows for the conservancy
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establishment of conservancies and the role played in conservation of wildlife. FOREST ACT OF 2001 Section 22 of the Act prohibits cutting or removal of vegetation within Clearing vegetation within 100m of a stream
on sand dune, drifting sand or gully (a) or 100m of a river or stream needs application for a license. or watercourse (b) except under authorization of a license. Subsequent Section restricts the deforestation by size of the land to be cleared (over 15 000 ha) and by the volume (500 cubic metres in 1 year).
Recognized Industry Standards
SANS 10089-3 The petroleum industry Part 3: The installation, modification, and decommissioning of underground storage tanks, pumps/dispensers and pipework at service stations and consumer installations.
SANS 10089-1 The petroleum industry Part 1: Storage and distribution of petroleum products in above-ground bulk installations
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CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS
The EIA Process is incomplete without engagement of the public mainly those affected by the proposed development but also those with keen interest in the proposed development. The public consultation process allows persons or groups that may be affected or mere interested in a project the opportunity to submit or voice their concerns or comments regarding the proposed activity. Section 21 of the Regulations prescribes the steps to meeting the requirements of the public consultation process, these were guides to conducing of this very important step in the EIA process.
The following steps were taken in the public consultation process;
6.1 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION Competent Authorities Table 6 Identified stakeholders
Stakeholder Purpose Responsible MME Application for fuel retail Proponent license and fulfilment of other conditions/requirements MET Notice of intent to conduct an Consultant EIA and submission of an application for an ECC Zambezi Regional Council Pivotal to regional planning Consultant Local Ngoma Sub-Khuta Administration of land rights Proponent and Consultant and public meeting arrangements Office of the Councilor Information on the planned Consultant development Ngoma and Surrounding Affected/ Beneficiaries of the Consultant Communities project
6.2 THE BACKGROUND INFORMATION DOCUMENT A Background Information Document (BID) was compiled outlining the proposed plan for the activity with a map indicating the proposed site and made available to interested and affected parties (See Appendix 3).
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6.3 ENGAGEMENT WITH LOCAL TRADITIONAL AUTHORITY Preliminary communication was made with the local traditional authority of the area for information about the project and the proposed public meeting to be held. All communication to the Ngoma Sub-khuta was made through Induna Patrick Kaliki Malambo.
6.4 PUBLIC MEETING NOTICES Notices were placed in daily newspapers distributed throughout the country. These provided briefly the proposed development, its location, the proponent and invitation for the public to register as I&APs (Appendix 1).
Table 7 Newspaper Notices information
Date Publication Distribution Language 4th April 2019 Namibian Sun Nationally English 10th April 2019 Namibian Sun Nationally English 4th April 2019 The Namibian Nationally English 10th April 2019 The Namibian Nationally English
6.5 POSTER NOTICES Posters were prepared giving description of the project, an invitation to a public consultation meeting (i.e. detailing the date of the meeting, the venue and time) where comments can be provided to the consultants but also provision for submission of comments through given communication tools. The poster were posted at the following points; Ngoma border post entrance and departure points, Ngoma shops, Ngoma Clinic, Ngoma Sub-khuta. (See Appendix 1)
6.6 OTHER NOTICES The electronic version of the BID was posted on platforms such as a WhatsApp group of tourism operators (Namibian Wetland Route) in the Zambezi region for wider circulation. Moreover, the same BID was posted on the platform of leadership of the Zambezi Region that convenes all head of OMA’s.
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6.7 PUBLIC CONCERNS AND RESPONSES The meeting held on the 18th of April 2019 recorded the following comments Table 8 Comments and responses at public consultation meeting
Stakeholder Comments/Concerns Responses Way forward Local Mr Is the site for this The land marked as The proponent’s community Mwauluka proposed development proposed site on the map family to finalise of Ngoma confirmed or the project was pointed out to the obtaining of the is still in the search for a meeting. It was further confirmation letter site? elaborated on that it from the MTA for belongs to the family of the parcel of land. the Proponent. The village on the west of the proposed project site is where the proponent originates. The proponent’s family has agreed on its use and approached the Masubia Traditional Authority sub-khuta at Ngoma for a confirmation letter to this effect. Will the development The envisaged space is Proposed Project is not affect the adjacent approximately 3 welcomed villages, especially to the hectares of land, west of the site? (is the however the space to be space adequate) used will approximately use only a hectare, therefore, the space is adequate. Moreover, as the proponent’s village is the same, the family has agreed the extent of the development without impeding the village.
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Mr Malambo Are the boundaries of the The village on the east Another meeting to entire area under has been engaged by the be arranged by the ownership of the proponent’s family. An proponent’s family proponent’s family clear indication was given of with neighbours on on all sides? no objection as long as the east and north to Have the adjacent boundaries are possibly establish a neighbours aware of the respected. Although cutline on the exact proposed plan? there are some slight boundaries. misunderstanding of the boundary on the northern side with another family, the extent of the project is foreseen not advance or impede toward the area under disagreement. The proposed project is a Recorded for action To be addressed in welcome development to subsequent sections the area, however, of the report. caution should be taken not to remove certain trees providing wild fruits at times to locals. Identified as Garcinia livingstonei Loitering of cattle in the Recorded for action To be addressed in area grazing, there may subsequent sections be a need to fence the of the report. property Mr Sitali and Take note of the plans of They have been engaged Welcome the Mr Nyathi the Zambezi Regional about the project. An project as Council for indication was provided development of the establishment of Ngoma that the project is area settlement, and if outside of the demarcated planned
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proposed site falls under settlement area (see the plans attached maps, courtesy of ZRC) Zambezi Although in most cases Recorded for action To be addressed in Regional these types of subsequent sections Council developments by-pass of the report. their offices, they took note of the notices placed in daily papers for this proposed project and awaited being engaged. Their main concern is that the proposed side is bordered by a floodplains to the north, therefore the risk of area flooding in years with exceptional rainfall and flooding of the Chobe River Tourism None No comments or None None Operators concerns received Zambezi None No comments or None None leadership concerns received forum
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CHAPTER 7: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSESSMENT
7.1 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION The Potential impacts of the proposed activity were identified based on the details of project activities and their potential interactions with the surrounding environment (physical, ecological, and/or human receptors) while an understanding of the potential sources of impacts and impact pathways was supported by: An understanding of baseline conditions and potential receptors The spatial and temporal extent of the project area of influence Information from stakeholders, including authorities, experts, and the public Professional knowledge and experience of comparable projects or developments.
The process of identification and understanding of project activities and impacts was an iterative process conducted throughout the EIA process as more project and environmental and social baseline information became available.
Table 9 Identification of receptor and impacts
Resources/Receptor Impact nature Air quality Ambient air quality disturbance Land Soil disturbance Adjacent landscape disturbance Soil pollution Waste generation Fire Water environment Groundwater quality pollution Impeding drainage pattern or flow pattern of the area Intrusion into floodplain environment Overutilization of groundwater resources Biodiversity Blockage of wildlife migratory routes Destruction of smaller organisms and their habitats Removal of indigenous, endangered and near-threatened to threatened fauna and flora species Social-economics Safety and security in the area Employment opportunities
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Impeding of traffic movement Noise and vibrations Disturbance of heritage sites Cultural disturbance Ambient noise
7.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY Environmental risk assessment is carried out to identify a potential risk and to enable risk management decisions to be made. This process involves identifying, evaluating, selecting, and implementing actions to reduce risk to human health and ecosystems. Risks from a proposed activity can be managed in many ways, such may include; elimination of the risk, transfer, retention of the risk or reduction of the risk. This impact assessment methodology was applied to activities to be able to determine those that are significant and requires mitigation in the implementation phase of the proposed activity. The degree of confidence in the assessment relies primarily on the level of information available and the expertise and experience from activities of other projects.
7.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT PARAMETERS
7.3.1 IMPACTS NATURE Describes whether an impact is considered to be beneficial or negative (impact nature), and the degree to which an impact may be managed or modified by the mitigation measures is dependent upon the impact nature.
Table 10 Description of the type of impact
Term Description Impact Nature Adverse Impact -an impact that is considered to represent an adverse change from the baseline condition or introduces a new undesirable factor. Beneficial Impact - an impact that is considered to represent an improvement on the baseline condition or introduces a new desirable factor.
7.3.2 IMPACT PROBABILITY This describes the likelihood of the impacts actually occurring. The impact may occur for any length of time during the life cycle of the activity, and not at any given time.
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Table 11 Description of impact probability
Score Risk Level Description 1 Improbable The possibility of the impact occurring is very low, due either to the circumstances, design or experience. 2 Probable There is a possibility that the impact will occur to the extent that provisions must be made. 3 Highly It is most likely that the impacts will occur at some or other stage of the probable development. Plans must be drawn up before the undertaking of the activity. 4 Definite The impact will take place regardless of any prevention plans, and mitigation actions or contingency plans are relied on to contain the effect
7.3.3 IMPACT EXTENT Spatial extent (i.e. area impacted) or population extent (i.e. proportion of the population or community affected) as result of occurrence of an impact. The
Table 12 Description of the extent of impacts
Score Risk Level Description 1 Minimal Limited to the site and immediate surrounding at constituency level 2 Local level Extending beyond the project surrounding to 5km away from the site 3 Regional to Extending to the entire region with potential beyond regional level National 4 International Extending to the country’s border affecting shared resources with neighboring States
7.3.4 IMPACT MAGNITUDE Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or harmless and whether or not it exceeds set standards.
Table 13 Description of magnitude of impact
Score Risk Description Level 1 Negligible Limited damage to minimal area. Restricted to the project site and immediate surrounding 2 Moderate Short term impacts but not affecting the ecosystem or community functioning, may be rehabilitated in a very short time
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3 High Very serious long term impacts impairing ecosystem or population functioning. May take a lifetime to recover. 4 Very High Irreparable damage to highly valuable species, habitat or ecosystem or population.
Table 14 Likelihood vs Consequence matrix
Consequence (Magnitude x Extent) Scores 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 2 2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 3 3 6 9 12 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48
Likelihood 4 4 8 12 16 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64 Table 15 Impacts Significance Rating
Coding Significance Description Level Not These impacts do not require mitigation and are not a concern Significant of the decision-making process. Any impacts are expected to [2-12] be indistinguishable from the baseline or within the natural level of variation. Low Impacts with a “low” significance are expected to have minor significance noticeable changes to baseline conditions, beyond natural [13-32] variation, but are not expected to cause hardship, degradation, or impair the function and value of the resource/receptor. These impacts may warrant a minimum of monitoring while where practicable mitigation measures should be taken. Moderately Impacts with a “moderate” significance are likely to be Significance noticeable and result in lasting changes to baseline [33-52] conditions, which may cause hardship to or degradation of the resource/receptor, although the overall function and value of the resource/receptor is not disrupted. These impacts are a priority for mitigation in order to avoid or reduce the significance of the impact. Significant Impacts with a “high” significance are likely to disrupt the [53-64] function and value of the resource/receptor, and may have broader systemic consequences (e.g. ecosystem or social well- being). These impacts are a priority for mitigation in order to avoid or reduce the significance of the impact.
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7.4 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Activity Potential Impact Impact Likelihood Magnitude Extent Total Overall Remarks Nature Risk level Score Risk level Risk level Score Score Significance CONSTRUCTION PHASE Land clearing, Loss of vegetation Adverse Definite 4 High 3 Project site 1 12 None to Where possible ground and associated Low some vegetation levelling and resources significance essential to the excavation livelihood of the community should be avoided. Loss of soil fertility Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Project site 1 9 Not and stability Probable Significant Noise, dust and Adverse High 3 Moderate 2 Local 2 12 None to Where possible vibration and air Low take steps to reduce pollution generation significance the impacts lower by earth moving vehicles Increased safety risk Adverse Probable 2 Very high 4 Local 2 16 Low Measure need be of local community Significance taken to ensure from earth moving safety of local machinery people
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Accidental oil or fuel Adverse Probable 3 High 3 International 4 36 Moderately Dependent on spill or leakage from Significant volumes of spills, earth moving without machinery and containment of equipment’s used spills depending on onsite magnitude this could lead to impacts that may impact the Chobe System an international shared resource Obstruction of Adverse Highly 3 Moderate 3 Local 2 18 Low The two culverts hydrological flow Probable Significance west of the patterns paths proposed site allow across the road flow of water in times of flood. Obstruction may cause serious backup of water and flooding of areas north of the B8 highway.
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Measures need be taken to avoid the blockage of these culverts
Creation of temporal Beneficial Highly 3 Moderate 2 Reginal to 3 18 Low Measures needed labour Probable National Significance on approaching the issue of employment Increase prevalence Adverse Probable 3 High 3 Reginal to 3 27 Moderate Measures needed of STD/HIV in the National significance on approaching the area from flow of issue of people looking for employment temporal employment Generation of solid Adverse Definitive 4 Moderate 2 Local 2 16 Low Measures needed to waste Significance handle water generated during this phase Obstruction to traffic Adverse Highly 4 Moderate 2 Local 2 16 Low Measures needed to on the adjacent B8 Probable significance ensure no major highway obstruction to traffic flow
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Impact on local Adverse Improbable 1 Negligible 1 Project site 1 1 Not No heritage site heritage sites Significant close to the area Damage to existing Adverse Definite 4 High 3 Regional to 3 36 Moderate Telecommunication infrastructure such national significance line passes on the as power and northern side of the telecommunication B8 highway lines Need for ablution Adverse Definite 4 Moderate 2 Local 2 16 Low Needs to be facilities for the significance addressed Construction workers Transportation Obstruction of road Adverse Probable 2 Moderate 2 Regional to 3 12 None to Where possible of tanks and traffic flow along the National Low take measures to other building B8 highway significance reduce major materials from interference suppliers to proposed project site Storage of Materials exposed to Adverse Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not A loss to local buildings risk of damage or Significant development materials and theft tanks prior installations
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Constructions Noise and dust Adverse Highly 3 Moderate 2 Project site 1 6 Not works, generation Probable Significant installations of USTs , piping’s and fittings Operational Increased exposure Adverse Highly 3 Very high 4 Regional to 3 36 Not possible exposure safety and of health and safety Probable National Significant to fatalities if not health of the wellbeing of well managed construction construction team team Procurement of support to Beneficial Definite 4 Moderate 2 Regional to 3 24 Low building businesses that National Significance material for the supply buildings proposed materials and other project materials for types of project proposed Utilization of Change of the Beneficial Definite 4 High 3 Local 2 24 Low idol land for landscape from rural Significance development setting to more modern OPERATIONAL PHASE Accidental spillage Adverse Probable 2 High 3 Regional to 3 18 Low Needs to be national Significance managed
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Transportation Risk of fire and Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Regional to 3 27 Low Measures need be of petroleum explosion Probable National Significance taken to handle any products to site eventualities of fire and explosion on route Procurement of Beneficial Definite 4 High 3 Regional 3 36 Moderately petroleum from Significant suppliers nationally and other products Fuel delivery Leakage or spillages Adverse Highly 3 High 3 International 4 36 Moderate Due to location in and transfer to adjacent soils and Probable significance proximity to the into USTs onsite possibly shared river system groundwater a spill can result in contamination extensive longer term impacts through migration of pollution across the border over time Hydrocarbon Adverse Highly 3 Moderate 2 Local 2 12 None to Measures needed to gaseous escapes Probable Low limit escape of significance fumes where possible
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Fuel dispensing Nozzle drippings, Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Regional to 3 27 Low Measures needed to to customers accidental spills and Probable National Significance mitigate spillage of vehicle tank fuels coming to soils overflows USTs and connecting Adverse Probable 2 Very High 4 International 4 32 Low to Sensitivity of the system failures Moderate wetland system inclusive of corrosive Significance adjacent to the effects or damage to project piping’s and associated fittings Petroleum Adverse Definite 4 High 3 Local 2 24 Low Sensitivity of the contaminated Significance wetland system stormwater adjacent to the generation from project paved areas Risk of fire and Adverse Highly 3 Very High 4 Regional to 3 36 Moderate National interest explosion probable National Significance should such an incidents occur in accordance with legal requirements Provide access to fuel Beneficial Definite 4 High 3 International 4 48 Moderately for eastern Zambezi Significant Region Communities
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Operations of Solid waste Adverse Definite 4 High 3 Local 2 24 Low accumulation of convenience generation Significance solid waste could shop, office, have impacts even restroom and across the border restaurant and Increased demand Adverse Highly 3 Moderate 2 Regional to 3 18 Low Measures needed ablution for groundwater Probable National Significance to ensure overuse facilities abstractions of groundwater is prevented Permanent Beneficial Definite 4 High 3 Regional to 3 36 Moderate Measures needed employment National Significance on approaching the opportunities issue of employment Increase prevalence Adverse Probable 2 High 3 Regional to 3 18 Low Measures needed of HIV due to flocking national Significance on approaching the of people from other issue of areas employment ill-health or injury to Adverse Probable 2 High 3 Project site 3 18 Low employees Significance Loitering animals Adverse Highly 3 Moderate 2 Local 2 12 None to Where possible onto the premises Probable Low needs be addressed significance
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Exposure to safety Adverse Probable 2 High 3 Regional to 3 18 Low Necessary and security risks of national Significance measures are the premises needed to ensure safety of the infrastructure and employees Generation of Adverse Definite 4 High 3 International 4 48 Moderately All measures blackwater and Significant necessary to greywater contain blackwater produced need be put in place Exert pressure on Adverse Probable 2 Moderate 2 Regional to 3 12 None to where possible existing national national Low mitigate power grid significance Provide overnight Beneficial Highly 3 High 3 International 4 36 Moderately close Probable Significant accommodation for across border travelers Provide close access Beneficial Highly 3 High 3 Regional to 3 27 Low to basic items for Probable National Significance daily livelihoods to the community
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Car washing Oil and grease Adverse Definite 4 High 3 International 4 48 Moderate Accumulation of operations contaminated Significance unmanaged wastewater from contaminated wash bays water could over time end up in the shared river system Operation of Oil or petroleum Adverse Probable 2 High 3 International 4 24 Low Measures should be truck depot and drips or leaks from Significance taken to prevent vehicle parking parked large and petroleum or oil zones small vehicles leakage coming in contact with soils Maintenance Contamination of Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Local 2 18 Low Measures should be works to all adjacent soils from probable Significance taken prevent facilities repairs and pollution of the maintenance of adjacent soils buildings and other infrastructure onsite Disposal of defunct Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Local 2 18 Low equipment’s and Probable Significance replaced items as well as contaminated products
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DECOMMISSIONING PHASE Dismantling of Air pollution, noise Adverse Definite 4 Moderate 2 Local 2 16 Low structures and and dust generation Significance excavations for Spillage of remnant Adverse Highly 3 High 3 International 4 36 Moderate This is due to USTs and oils and fuels to Probable Significance proximity to the associated adjacent soils international works for border removal as well Risk to health and Adverse Probable 2 Very high 4 Regional to 3 24 Low Measures needed to as area safety of workers National Significance ensure employees landscaping health and safety Disposal of Environmental Adverse Highly 3 High 3 Local 2 18 Low Measures needed to redundant degradation Probable Significance ensure sound structures disposal Risk to health and Adverse Probable 2 High 4 Regional to 3 24 Low Measures needed to safety of the national Significance ensure public community and health and safety animals
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7.5 IMPACT MITIGATION
7.5.1 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS
7.5.1.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
ADVERSE IMPACTS
Activity 1: Land clearing, ground levelling and excavation Land preparation before construction of the planned fuel station will initially involve the removal of a number of trees of the area, while due to the lower laying nature of the area compared as compared towards the Highway, necessitates elevating the ground surface by an approximate 0.5 – 1 m to prevent flooding of the envisaged infrastructure. Moreover, once land clearing and levelling is completed, excavation for trenches will be undertaken to construct storage for fuel tanks. Consequently the following are significant to consider for mitigation against the outlines impacts.
Loss of vegetation and associated resources The area comprises more floodplain grasses and some trees although less in density compared to the former. The land preparation activity will lead to loss of this vegetation which presently forms micro-habitats for smaller organisms in the area. Moreover, the community expressed concern over loss of some tree species (Garcinia livingstonei) that locals rely on for wild fruits during certain times of the year. Therefore following measures are proposed for mitigation of the likely impacts.
Mitigations o Land clearing to be limited to areas of actual construction. o The final fuel station design to consider Identified wild fruit trees (Garcinia livingstonei) location in design for preservation. o All trees to be left behind should be marked appropriately.
Intercept groundwater resources due to excavation works Due to the shallow water table in the area as from groundwater data, the risk of pollution of this aquifer is high therefore, excavation of trenches for USTs and septic tanks need to be restricted and adequate containment built.
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Mitigations o All excavation works limited to 4.5 m below ground surface o Should groundwater table be intercepted at any depth less than expected, all works to stop. The excavated area backfilled to at least 1m of prior depth and construction of containment floor to proceed. o Ensure best practices through SANS 10089 – 3 on construction of storage for underground tanks
Obstruction of flood drainage pathways The uplifting or up earthing of the ground level will involve the transfer and compacting of fill material which could lead to obstruction of surface water drainage path in years of excess water (i.e. flood years), leading to backing up of water on the northern part of B8 Highway and thus increase the risk of flooding of those areas.
Mitigations o A 10-15m buffer zone created between the first culvert on west of the proposed site, where no uplifting involving the placement of materials and compacting should be done, thus allowing normal flow of water through existing culverts. o Close supervision of the up earthing and compacting to ensure buffer zone is maintained.
Noise, Dust, Vibration and Air Pollution Land preparation process will involve the use of earth moving machinery that generate dust, noise and vibration. This could cause a nuisance to neighbouring villages and other surrounding communities while also causing air pollution through release of noxious gasses. This impact also occurs in the decommissioning phase of the project and is addressed simultaneously.
Mitigations o Construction works to be carried out only during the day (i.e. 06:00 -18:00). o Placement of billboards at the construction site notifying of the construction activity and timings. o Where possible, manual labour is recommended in the construction phase for some activities to reduce the noise and dust emitted by construction machinery e.g. land clearing. o Sensitize construction vehicles drivers and machinery operators to switch off engines of vehicles when not in use.
Accidental Oil or Fuel Spill or Leakage from the Earth Moving Machinery and Equipment’s Used Onsite
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The presence and use of earth moving machinery in the area, presents risks of accidental leakage or spillage of oil and fuels while operating or during stationery time. This lends susceptibility to the risk of contamination of soils and eventually contamination of groundwater resources of the area.
Mitigations o Daily inspection of all machinery before use for any signs of leaks for oil or fuels and continuous observation during operations to avoid excess leakages to the ground o Develop a spill prevention and control plan to manage emergencies that may occur/arise in the event of accidental spills or leakage. The procedure should prioritise the containment of the source of the leak or spill and eventual removal or scooping of the contaminated soils to demarcated area prior further handling. Once the soils have been removed, they can be taken to an authorised treatment facility or lined disposal area to allow for volatilization of excess hydrocarbons. o Conduct trainings on operators on spill prevention measures and accidental spill handling measures. o Any spillage of more than 200 litres must be reported to the relevant authorities and remediation instituted as per section 49 of the Petroleum Products and Energy Act, 1990 (Act No. 13 of 1990).
Generation of solid waste Unavoidable is the generation of construction waste due to operations and presence of construction team in the area. Such waste may include both recyclable and none recyclable objects.
Mitigations o Establish a controlled solid waste collection point. o Combustible waste to be safely burnt at the collection point. o Non-combustible waste collected to be channelled to the approved dumpsite in Katima Mulilo.
Safety of local community from earth moving machinery Movement of earth moving machines in the area presents a safety risk to the movement of people of the area. An accident to the extent of fatality from these activities is likely to attract national interests and therefore there is a need to ensure safety of the community during the construction.
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Mitigations o Construction activities should be done only during the day during prescribed hours. o Place signage to inform and caution the public when works starts and when it will be completed. o No unauthorised persons should be allowed onsite o Barricade the construction area where possible
Obstructing traffic flow on the B8 highway Movement of construction vehicles to the area is likely to cause interference with normal flow of traffic on the adjacent B8 Highway. The economic importance of the B8 highways cannot be overemphasised further as goods vehicles and people constantly arrive and leave the Ngoma border post through this route. Therefore, massive disturbance to traffic flow has likely economic implications that could go beyond national level.
Mitigations o Place temporary construction signage by the B8 highway roadside to caution road users in both directions. o Contractor must ensure that there is always a supervisor on site to ensure that no driver under the influence of alcohol or narcotics is driving company vehicles. o Ensure all drivers employed have valid driver's licenses of vehicle types they are employed for and that they have experience in driving those vehicles.
Damage to existing infrastructure/Utility lines North of the B8 Highway is a telecommunication line, access to the site for large vehicles risks damage to the line. It is therefore necessary that prior arrangements are made for clearance with the telecommunication services provider of the line.
Mitigations o Obtain clearance for the existing telecommunication line passing the site prior beginning of any construction activities. o Place warning signs and ensure construction teams operates sensibly in the area.
Need for establishment of ablution facilities for Construction workers
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Relocation to the project site of the construction team during this phase will trigger the need for establishment of some facilities for ablution. To prevent the use of the surrounding bushes by the construction team, lavatory facilities may need be constructed onsite.
Mitigations o It is proposed that the Construction team are accommodated to use existing ablution facilities on the proponent’s village to avoid establishment of new facilities or hire mobile toilets. o Prohibit use of bush toilet
Increase prevalence of STD/HIV in the area from the flow of people looking for temporal employment The movement of people seeking temporal employment as well as the construction team may lead to an increase in the prevalence of STDs in the area, which has subsequent effects that go beyond local level to regional and national.
Mitigation o Contractor should allocate time for the employees to visit their families. o Sensitize employees on HIV/AIDS and STDs. o Ensure employees can access condoms at nearby clinic o Prioritise the hire of locals for any temporal works
Operational safety and health Construction work comes with exposure to risks of injury and illness that come to any member of the construction team. Overlooking the safety and health could be attract interest at national level.
Mitigations o Contractor to ensure that all staff on site are provided with protective equipment (helmets, gloves, respirators, work suits, earplugs, goggles and safety shoes where applicable). o Safety talks to be done every day before commencement of work. o Ensure provisions of immediate accident/incident reporting, investigation and rectification of faults and closeout. o Provide onsite first aid kit and training for minor incidents. o Ensure arrangement for timely access to medical treatment where incidents are beyond first aid and local clinic level.
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Activity 2: Transportation of tanks and other building materials from suppliers to project site The Ngoma area does not have suppliers of many construction materials, therefore most materials for construction will be sourced from Katima Mulilo and other towns for delivery to the site. Therefore such procurement may bring about the following impacts below.
Obstruction of road traffic flow along the B8 highway The transportation of material for construction such as USTs and building materials may interfere with normal traffic flow from supplier’s base to proposed project site.
Mitigations o Transportation of materials should be undertaken during off-peak hours for traffic to prevent substantial traffic flow disturbance. o Where possible source basic construction materials from locals and consideration for local materials in the construction process.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Temporal Employment for locals The construction phase is likely to benefit the community of Ngoma through the hire of local labour for clearing of proposed site but also the construction of buildings and assist in control of traffic movement among other temporary works.
Better use of vacant land The Ngoma area is likely to developed in the future with plans for upgrading to a settlement, thus it is an eventuality adjacent land is likely to be developed to either housing or business areas therefore this activity aligns with the foreseeable future land use plans.
Support to local and regional business through supply of construction materials The construction phase of the proposed project will requires extensive supply of building materials. Such materials can only be acquired from current exiting building material shops in the regional capital of Katima Mulilo, therefore acquisition of such materials will support business for these shops. Furthermore, it is foreseen that some local materials that can be used in the construction will be used thus also supporting the local businesses. Beyond region, acquisition of USTs from suppliers at national level will also add value to the economy.
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7.5.1.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE
ADVERSE IMPACTS
Activity 1: Transportation of petroleum products to site Full operation of the fuel station will include the procurement of petroleum products from suppliers and delivery to site. The distance that may be covered to the project site lends susceptibility to road accidents, therefore necessary measures need be put in place mitigate any unexpected eventualities. The following are expected impacts from this activity;
Spillage of Petroleum Products due to road accident During the transportation of petroleum products to the established fuel station from suppliers nationally, road accidents may occur that may consequently lead to considerable spillage of petroleum and likely fire and explosion. The likelihood of this impact happening is probable therefore mitigation measures below are highly necessary for implementation.
Mitigations o Ensure the supplier drivers are well trained with valid driver’s license for specific vehicles used. o Ensure truck drivers are well trained on spill handling protocol. o Ensure that supplier continuously monitors the delivery vehicle’s throughout the route i.e. speed and location at all times o Any spillage of more than 200 litres must be reported to the relevant authorities and remediation instituted as per section 49 of the Petroleum Products and Energy Act, 1990 (Act No. 13 of 1990).
Risk of fire and explosion The nature of the product transported (i.e. highly flammable) makes the risk of fire and explosion highly probable should it be involved in a road accident. Therefore, the following measures are necessary;
Mitigation Measures o Ensure supplier has fitted adequate firefighting equipment’s on all delivery vehicles. o Ensure all vehicle drivers are adequately trained on fire fighting.
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o Ensure suppliers regularly require drivers to update their firefighting skills through regular drills and maintain records
Activity 2: Fuel delivery and transfer into underground storage tanks onsite On arrival of delivery vehicles to the site, the transported petroleum products will be transferred into the USTs. The process of transfer needs be carefully handled as it probable that without such care, spillages with possibility of contamination of adjacent soils is probable. The following measures are proposed for management of this impact;
Spillages of petroleum products The transfer of petroleum products from delivery vehicles to USTs could likely result in spillages should this process not well managed. Spillages could possibly end up contaminating adjacent soils and possibly groundwater resources over time. Therefore there is a need to ensure that this activity is well managed to reduce or prevent the risks associated.
Mitigations o Develop procedures that includes all aspects of the delivery or loading operation from arrival to departure, including wheel blocking to avoid vehicle movement, connection of grounding systems, verification of proper hose connection and disconnection, adherence to no-smoking and no-naked light policies for visiting drivers, among other considerations. o All fuel transfers to be undertaken on concrete bounded/paved areas. o Fuel pipes should have suitable fittings to ensure a secure, leak-proof connection with the hoses from delivery trucks. o Such fittings should have provision for a locking device that prevents unauthorized access. o Deliveries should be conducted by properly trained personnel according to pre- established formal procedures. o Nozzles fitted with automatic shut off attitude devices. o Where fuel pipes are above ground, the height should be below the minimum height of the delivery tanker’s bottom loading adaptor to ensure proper draining of the hose contents into the storage tanks. o Install sand bucket to clean minor spillages at the Service Station.
Hydrocarbon gaseous escapes Petroleum gaseous escapade is highly likely to occur during the transfer of fuels from delivery vehicles to the USTs through the opening of valves and hoses.
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Mitigations o Nozzles fitted with automatic shut off attitude devices. o Provide gas marks for people offloading the fuel. o Ensure that vent pipes for pressure release of fuels in the tanks are high enough and placed far from people activities.
Activity 3: Fuel dispensing to customers Dispensing of fuel to customers serves as one of the activities that will be pronounced of the operations, therefore it is highly likely that a several impacts may arise out of operations of drawing fuel from USTs and fuelling vehicles of all sizes and other bulk customers such as tourism operators in eastern Zambezi Region. The following are expected impacts and mitigations.
Nozzle drippings, spillages and vehicle tank overflows Dispensing of fuels to consumers may result in drippings and spillages but also in some cases vehicle tank overflows that may end up contaminating adjacent soils and likely groundwater resources over time, without sound containment measures. The following are proposed for mitigation;
Mitigations o Nozzles fitted with automatic shut off attitude devices. o The entire fuelling area to be constructed containment concrete slabs cover/floor designed with U-shape surfaces to prevent petroleum products coming in contact with soils. o Ensure that all fuel attendants are well trained to operate fuel pumps to prevent excessive spillages. o Use of sand buckets to treat minor spills with proper after use handling of contaminated sand.
USTs and connecting system failures, inclusive of corrosive effects or damage to piping’s and associated fittings The functioning of the fuel distribution system on the station over time exposes the USTs, piping’s and associated fittings infrastructure to failures due to various factors among such aging and corrosion which may result in leakage of petroleum products. Dependent on design of the USTs holding ground trenches, leakages are likely to occur, therefore measure needed to contain such from coming in contact with the soils.
Mitigations
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o Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) whether constructed from steel or fiberglass- reinforced plastic, should be designed and built according to recognized industry standards (SANS 10089-3:2010). o USTs should have secondary containment systems to prevent the uncontrolled release of fuel. Secondary containment systems may consist. - Double wall construction for Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) - Connection to a continuous leak detection system. o All storage tanks should undergo periodic inspection for corrosion and structural integrity and be subject to regular maintenance and replacement of equipment (e.g. pipes, seals, connectors, and valves). o Establish a leak detection strategy that includes groundwater monitoring downstream of the USTs, these shall be established once final design of the location of the USTs.
Risk of fire and explosion Daily operations of the fuel station lends it susceptible to risk of fire and explosion.
Mitigations o Install an automatic fire alarm system with heat and smoke detectors in all buildings. o Ensure that all firefighting equipment are strategically positioned, regularly maintained and serviced. o Provide for emergency fire hydrants/piping connections with direct link to water storage tanks for firefighting. o Conduct regular fire drills/simulations to sensitize workers and maintain records. o Provide fire hazard signs such as ‘No Smoking’ signs, direction to exit in case of any fire incidence and emergency contact numbers, fire assembly point and no-cell phone usage close to fuelling pumps. o Provisions of marked fire exits and ensure that these exits are unobstructed at all times. o Ensure customer switch off their engine while refuelling
Activity 4: Operations of convenience shop, offices, restroom and restaurant associated facilities Besides the operation of the fuel station, the main building with convenience shop and ablution facilities, accommodation and restaurant facilities are foreseen to result in several impacts on the area once fully operational. The following impacts are envisaged and with possible mitigations.
Solid waste generation
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Operations of all infrastructure onsite will result in solid waste generation from all areas of the premises. This solid waste will range from recyclable materials such as plastics to non-recyclables such as card boxes to contaminated sands and food waste.
Mitigations o Set up waste bins for solid waste collection at various points of the station. o Establish waste separation protocols to ensure separate handing and management. o Seek opportunities for private companies handling recyclable waste. o Engage existing local authorities on disposal of non-combustible and non-recyclable waste
Increased demand for groundwater use The full operation of the envisaged infrastructure will increase demand for water to supply all facilities. Since the Ngoma areas presently does not have a bulk water supplier, but individual supply from own boreholes, this will increase abstraction from the local aquifer. Such aquifers are recharged by interaction with surface systems (streams) therefore there is need for close monitoring of abstraction over time. The following measures are proposed for mitigation.
Mitigation o Monitor and record groundwater abstractions volumes. o Encourage water conservation practises that includes closing of unused taps, reuse of water greywater.
Risk to health and safety of workers Operation of the all facilities comes with exposure to hazards that impacts on the health and safety of the staff. It is therefore crucial that measures are implemented to ensure the environment is safe and staff protected from work related hazards that may cause injury or illnesses.
Mitigations o A first aid kit should be provided within the site and should be fully equipped with essential first aid supplies. o Provide employees with personal protective clothing where possible in accordance with specific designated tasks. o At least one to two employees trained in first aid to handle minor incidental cases. o Ensure timely access to local or regional health facility for cases beyond first aid level. o Encourage regular health check-ups for employees at local clinic to establish health status.
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Loitering animals onto the premises The loitering livestock issues was raised at public meeting by community as possible nuisance for the operations of the envisaged project. It was therefore advised that the proponent consider fencing the premises as mitigation. These may also pause a danger to motorists.
Mitigation o Ensure the area is fenced-off to prevent the loitering of livestock within premises
Safety and security of the premises Although the proposed project is located not far away from a local police station, it is possible that such development characterized as rural could be at a safety risk which may lead to damage to property or loss of property through theft and from a possible target to criminal activities due to possibility of cash availability onsite. The following measures are proposed as mitigations;
Mitigations o Strategically install 24 hour CCTV monitoring for the station. o Employment of 24 hour security guarding with regular premises patrols and reporting. o Ensure lighting systems that illuminate the area well. o Installation of security alarms. o Ensure that keys to the safe is kept off-site and adequate security for transportation of bulk cash off-site
Generation of blackwater and greywater Operation of accommodation and restaurant as well as ablution facilities of the main building will result in producing two types of wastewater; greywater from kitchen sinks and blackwater from toilets and showers. Legislation requires such is handled carefully to ensure that this water is treated prior release back to nature, thus does not form pollution source and a health hazard in the environment. The following are proposed measures;
Mitigations o Construction of adequate septic system of at least 6m3 capacity constructed to cover all facilities onsite. o Establish protocols and ensure regular treatment, inspection and maintenance of continued operations of septic system. o No untreated sewer water should be allowed to flow on ground surface untreated.
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o Ensure separation of greywater from kitchens by passing it through a fat trap before discharge for evaporation or use as dust suppressor
Exert pressure on existing national power grid The power supply of Zambezi region mainly imported from neighbouring countries often results in outages that may at times take 24 hours for return as such this may hamper operations. Moreover, the SADC region as a whole suffers deficit of power however for smaller operations, alternative energy sources such as renewables are worthy considerations supplementary to current conventional supplies. Therefore, where possible the project to consider the following;
Mitigation o Consider opportunities for use of renewable energy such as use of solar energy. o Consider Installation of backup generator for emergencies
Activity 5: Car washing operations and storm from pavements
Petroleum, Grease and oil contaminated wastewater from wash bays Operation of a car wash facility results in considerable amount of wastewater contaminated with washing detergents, grease and oil, and thus requires sound handling and treatment. The following measures are proposed to manage this resultant wastewater.
Mitigations o All wash bays designed with U-shape concrete floors to allow draining of wastewater towards treatment point. o Car wash areas and other places handling oil activities within the site should be well managed and drains from these areas controlled and inspected regularly for blockages. o Oil interceptors should be installed along the drains leading from such areas with regular removal of accumulated oily residues to waste collection point for use in managed incineration of combustible waste. o Treated water can be reused for dust suppression or other. o All paved areas to be fitted with drainages to allow channel flow of water to treatment point prior disposal
Activity 6: Truck depot and vehicle parking zones
Oil or petroleum drips or leaks from parked large and small vehicles
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Parked vehicles and trucks in designated parking zones are likely to incur leaks of oil and petroleum from tanks or piping’s, which may drip to the ground and contaminant soils and eventually the groundwater resources of the area and general environment. Is therefore necessary that the following are carried out;
Mitigations o All parking bays for trucks partially lined with a mixture of gravel stones and sand to prevent contamination of undelaying soils and groundwater. o All parking and loading bays for smaller vehicles should be paved to prevent all possible leaks from contaminating adjacent soils.
Activity 7: Infrastructure maintenance Although maintenance is expected overtime as equipment’s and buildings age, all repairs, replacements and re-painting should be conducted with care to the adjacent environment thus the following are foreseen impacts and mitigations.
Contamination of adjacent soils from repairs and maintenance of buildings and other infrastructure onsite Maintenance works that may include painting of buildings may result in used chemicals coming in contact with soils in unpaved areas but also exposed through stormwater flows from paved areas, therefore this activity needs to be carefully carried out.
Mitigations o Any maintenance work should be carried out in a designated area (protected service bays) and where oil spills are completely restrained from reaching the ground. o Take necessary steps to prevent spills may not reach the ground
Disposal of defunct equipment’s and replaced items as well as contaminated products Disposal of replaced materials as well as containers and others need be carried out in an environmental sound manner.
Mitigations o Continuously look for opportunities for re-use of defunct items for other purposes or uses in other areas than disposal. o Where items may not be re-usable ensure safe disposal at appropriate disposal site
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BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Permanent employment Opportunities The operational stage of the project will see employment opportunities in various areas created. Amongst envisaged opportunities are; Station manager, fuel attendants, Car washers, Security guards, Kitchen attendants and accommodation attendants. These opportunities are expected to contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the area’s residents.
Fuel availability to customers The operation of the fuel station and depot will bring the much needed fuel close to the community and vast tourism operators that always have to rely on visiting the Katima Mulilo, Kasane (Botswana) or Bukalo settlement.
Provide overnight accommodation and refreshment stop for travellers The Ngoma border post operations are restricted to 06:00 to 18:00 thus in instances, travellers arrive beyond these operating hours and thus are challenged to find nearest overnight accommodation prior departure the following morning. Moreover, good vehicles that arrive beyond operate hours are challenged to find adequate space for parking of trucks and overnight, thus the depot/parking area to be provided on the station as well as accommodation will render an essential service to constant and casual travellers through the border post.
Prove access to basic daily livelihood items The operation of a convenience shop will provide basic daily livelihood necessities that presently, residents of Ngoma either have to travel to nearest towns for. However, although some small businesses in the area also sell basic daily livelihood items, the convenience shop aims to concentrate on materials and beyond provided for by the small entrepreneur businesses of the area, to prevent competition.
Contribute to national economy Through payment of taxes from selling of goods in convenience shop, fuel levies, tourism levies and purchasing of petroleum products, telecommunication and power supply, the operations of the facility will contribute to the national economy of the country. Moreover, it is likely that residents across the border are likely to be attracted to the facilities and earn foreign currency for the current.
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Support to local development agendas (i.e. Social Responsibility) Successful operations of the proposed facilities in the area is likely to have ripple effects of supporting community activities of the area to bring about cohesion and draw development. Such may include support to the local schools and youth activities of the area.
7.5.1.3 DECOMMISSIONING PHASE
ADVERSE IMPACTS
Activity 1: Dismantling of structures, excavation of USTs and associated piping’s for removal and area landscaping Post operation of the facility, it is foreseen that parts of the infrastructure is expected to be retained for residence by the proponent while some requiring s dismantling, removal and disposal. Those infrastructure for removal include the USTs and associated piping’s and fittings as well as some paved areas.
Generation of noise, dust and vibrations Exposure to risk of health and safety of workers Mitigation These impacts are mitigated similarly as in Construction Phase.
Activity2: Disposal of redundant structures, rubble and contaminated waste The dismantling of certain identified structure will definitely produce waste of different types that need careful handling and disposal. Below are foreseen impacts and mitigations.
Risk to health and safety of the community and animals Disposal of any redundant structures need be carefully considered and executed to ensure that no subsequent impacts are taken care off. Inconsiderate disposal is likely to expose the community along with their livestock and wildlife in the area to health and safety risks.
Mitigations Consider safe re-use of certain items in other ways All items and materials that are non-reusable to be disposed safely at appropriate disposal sites
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Degradation of the local environment It is likely that should disposal of structures and waste not be carried out in an environmental sound ways, this may lead to environmental degradation.
Mitigations Demolished and excavated materials will be used as backfills for trenches. Wastes should be properly separated to encourage recycling of some useful items All contaminated soils be handled according to the established spill handling protocol to avoid further contamination of areas and resources.
Contamination of soils through remnant petroleum residue in tanks and piping’s The removal of certain equipment’s and structures such as tanks and associated pipes and fittings has likelihood that petroleum residue in the system may spill to adjacent soils and contaminate soils. Therefore care needs be taken during this process.
Mitigations Adhere to established standards on decommissioning of fuel facilities relating to removal of tanks and handling of all related activities to prevent contamination of adjacent soils. All such removals to be carried out prior the dismantling of containment pavement to prevent remnant petroleum from coming in containment with adjacent soils.
BENEFICIAL IMPACTS
Temporal employment As similar in the construction phase, temporal employment opportunities will be created in the process of dismantling of certain structures and disposal.
Availability of reusable materials It is likely that community member may find the use of certain materials from the decommissioning phase and these could be acquired by community for use, in turn limit the need for disposal of such materials, although care should be taken possible future impacts post use by the acquirer.
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7.6 POST- MITIGATION RISK ASSESSMENT
Activity Potential Impact Impact Initial Initial Likelihood Magnitude Extent Revised Revised Nature Total Overall Total Overall Score Significance Risk level Score Risk level Risk Score Score Significance level CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Land clearing, Loss of vegetation Adverse 12 None to Definite 4 High 2 Project 1 8 Not ground levelling and associated Low site Significant and excavation resources significance Noise, dust and Adverse 12 None to High 3 Moderate 1 Project 1 3 Not vibration and air Low Site Significant pollution generation significance by earth moving vehicles Increased safety risk Adverse 16 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Local 2 4 Not of local community Significance Significant from earth moving machinery Accidental oil or fuel Adverse 36 Moderately Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not spill or leakage from Significant site Significant earth moving machinery and equipment’s used onsite Obstruction of Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not hydrological flow Significance Significant patterns paths Creation of temporal Beneficial 18 Low Highly 3 Moderate 2 Reginal 3 18 Not labour Significance Probable to Significant National
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Increase prevalence Adverse 27 Moderate Probable 2 High 2 Reginal 2 8 Not of STD/HIV in the significance to Significant area from flow of National people looking for temporal employment Generation of solid Adverse 16 Low Definitive 4 Negligible 1 Project 1 4 Not waste Significance site Significant Obstruction to traffic Adverse 16 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not on the adjacent B8 significance Significant highway Damage to existing Adverse 36 Moderate Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not infrastructure such as significance Significant power and telecommunication lines Need for ablution Adverse 16 Low Definite 4 Moderate 2 Local 1 8 Not facilities for the significance Significant Construction workers Transportation Obstruction of road Adverse 12 None to Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not of tanks and traffic flow along the Low Significant other building B8 highway significance materials from suppliers to proposed project site Operational Increased exposure Adverse 36 Moderately Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not safety and health of health and safety Significant Significant of the wellbeing of construction construction team team
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OPERATIONAL PHASE Transportation Accidental spillage Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not of petroleum Significance Significant products to site Risk of fire and Adverse 27 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not explosion Significance Significant Fuel delivery Leakage or spillages Adverse 36 Moderate Probable 2 High 1 Local 2 4 Not and transfer into to adjacent soils and significance Significant USTs onsite possibly groundwater contamination Hydrocarbon gaseous Adverse 12 None to Definite 4 Negligible 1 Project 1 4 Not escapes Low Site Significant significance Fuel dispensing Nozzle drippings, Adverse 27 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not to customers accidental spills and Significance Site Significant vehicle tank overflows USTs and connecting Adverse 32 Low to Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not system failures Moderate Site Significant inclusive of corrosive Significance effects or damage to piping’s and associated fittings Petroleum Adverse 24 Low Definite 4 Negligible 1 Project 1 4 Not contaminated storm Significance Site Significant water generation from paved areas Risk of fire and Adverse 36 Moderate Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not explosion Significance Site Significant Operations of Solid waste Adverse 24 Low Definite 4 Moderate 1 Local 1 4 Not convenience generation Significance Significant shop, office, Increased demand for Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not restroom and groundwater Significance Significant restaurant and abstractions
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ablution Permanent Beneficial 36 Moderate Definite 4 High 3 Regional 3 36 Moderate facilities employment Significance to Significance opportunities National Increase prevalence Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not of HIV due to flocking Significance Significant of people from other areas ill-health or injury to Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Project 1 4 Not employees Significance site Significant Loitering animals Adverse 12 None to Highly 3 Moderate 2 Project 1 6 Not onto the premises Low Probable site Significant significance Exposure to safety Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not and security risks of Significance site Significant the premises Generation of Adverse 48 Moderately Definite 4 Negligible 1 Project 1 4 Not blackwater and Significant site Significant greywater Exert pressure on Adverse 12 None to Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not existing national Low Significant power grid significance Car washing Oil and grease Adverse 48 Moderate Definite 4 Negligible 1 Project 1 4 Not operations contaminated Significance site Significant wastewater from wash bays Operation of Oil or petroleum Adverse 24 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not truck depot and drips or leaks from Significance site Significant vehicle parking parked large and zones small vehicles Maintenance Contamination of Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not works to all adjacent soils from Significance site Significant facilities repairs and maintenance of buildings and other infrastructure onsite [72]
Disposal of defunct Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Local 2 8 Not equipment’s and Significance Significant replaced items as well as contaminated products DECOMMISSIONING PHASE Dismantling of Air pollution, noise Adverse 16 Low Highly 3 Moderate 2 Project 1 6 Not structures and and dust generation Significance Probable site Significant excavations for Spillage of remnant Adverse 36 Moderate Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not USTs and oils and fuels to Significance site Significant associated adjacent soils works for Risk to health and Adverse 24 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Project 1 4 Not removal as well safety of workers Significance site Significant as area landscaping Disposal of Environmental Adverse 18 Low Probable 2 Negligible 1 Project 1 2 Not redundant degradation Significance site Significant structures Risk to health and Adverse 24 Low Probable 2 Moderate 2 Project 1 4 Not safety of the Significance site Significant community and animals
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CHAPTER 8: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
8.1 DEFINITION AND PURPOSE An EMP is a plan or program that seeks to achieve a required end state and describes how activities, which have or could, have an adverse impact on the environment, will be mitigated, controlled, and monitored during the commissioning, mobilization, construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of a project; and that the positive benefits of the projects are enhanced. The plan aims to ensure that any environmental impact during all the project phases is minimized and lead in the direction of sustainable development.
8.2 COMPOSITION OF AN EMP REPORT Although no specific format is prescribed for compilation of environmental management plans, it is necessary that it includes the following components; the impacts, mitigation measures, roles and responsibilities, timescales and possible costs of mitigation.
8.3 EMP REQUIREMENTS An EMP is a dynamic and flexible document, therefore it should conform and include the following;
Regularly updated to align with the project progress though all phases. Be revised where necessary to mitigate unanticipated impacts. Confirm to best Management Practices (BMP) that includes aspects of record keeping, reports, communication, training, monitoring, and corrective action.
Moreover, all stakeholders with roles and responsibilities in the EMP should be made aware to ensure successful implementation.
8.4 PROPOSED PROJECT EMP The EMP for this report has been prepared as a separate document, based on the assessed impacts and mitigation measures proposed of Chapter 7 of EIA document. See Appendix 4 for the EMP Report.
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CHAPTER 9: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
9.1 CONCLUSION This environmental impacts assessment through chapters 2 to 7 has provided the details of the proposed project, policy and legislative requirement for the proposed type of project, the nature of the receiving environment and very important the nature and significance of the impacts expected should the proposed project approved by competent authority. Moreover, through Chapter 8 and its appendix mitigation measures are outlaid to safeguard the environmental and it social- economic components.
Evident from the Chapter 7 is that the project has several significant adverse impacts should it be implemented and major ones includes relating the environment include impeding normal hydrological drainage, contamination of soils and groundwater resources of the area through spillages or leakages of oil and petroleum products, sewage water release into the environment and land degradation due to solid waste generation. Those of social importance are the safety and health of the community and working teams. However, alternative to mentioned adverse impacts, the proposed project encompasses significant benefits to the local community of Ngoma and surroundings, the Zambezi Region and Namibia nation as whole. These benefits include creation of employment both temporal and permanent at various project lifecycles stages, provide accessibility to daily livelihoods for the local community, provide access to petroleum products within proximity to community of the far east of the Zambezi region as well as across the border, but also paying of taxes and levies to the national coffers.
Additional to the benefits above, the Ngoma area is foreseen to attract development in the near future in line with developmental planning of regional authorities, as such the proposed project site aligns with the regional planning of converting the characterised rural setting of the area to a settlement and eventually an urban environment in the longer term, therefore a project of this kind is one step towards achieving this foreseeable future. Therefore, despite the adverse environmental impacts expected of a project of this nature, implementation of the proposed controls assures that the benefits are enhanced while adverse impacts are minimized to acceptable levels in line with principles of sustainability.
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9.2 RECOMMENDATIONS In line with above conclusions and based on available information and expertise relied upon during the process, the proposed project by Ngoma Service Station and Shopping Mall cc is recommended for approval by the competent authority with the following conditions;
Full implementation and adherence to the controls of the EMP. Regular review and update of the EMP to ensure that anticipated impacts are well managed while unanticipated impacts are included and managed All stakeholders are made aware of the roles and responsibilities in the implementation of the EMP
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REFERENCES
African Wildlife Foundation. 2004. Four corners TBNRM project: reviews of existing biodiversity information.
Chase, M. 2009. Fixed-wing aerial wildlife census of the Caprivi river systems; a survey of rivers, wetlands and floodplains.
Christelis, G. & struck Meier, W. (2011): Groundwater in Namibia - an Explanation to the Hydrogeological Map.
Directorate of Forestry. 2002. Forest management plan for the Salambala conservancy core area. Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Republic of Namibia.
Harring, S. L. and Odendaal, W. 2012. “God stopped making land!” Land Rights, Conflict and Law in Namibia’s Caprivi Region. Legal Assistance Centre
Kawawa, E. Banda. 2015. Sedimentology, hydrogeology and hydro geochemistry of Machile Basin, Zambia, PhD Thesis. DTU Environment, Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark.
Mendelsohn J & C Roberts. 1997. An Environmental Profile and Atlas of Caprivi. Environ mental Profiles Project. Directorate of Environmental Affairs. Windhoek, Namibia.
Mendelsohn, J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. and Robertson, A. 2002. An atlas of Namibia. A portrait of the land and its people. New Africa books Pty. ltd. Cape Town
Miller. R. MG. 2008. Geological of Namibia. Geological Survey of Namibia. Ministry of Mines and Energy, Windhoek, Namibia
Ministry of land Reform.2015. Baseline Report (Volume 1) for the Zambezi Integrated Regional Land-use Plan
Ministry of Health and Social Services. 2016. Surveillance Report of the 2016 National HIV Sentinel Survey. Republic of Namibia.
Namibian Association of CBNRM Support Organisations. 2010. Namibia’s communal conservancies; a review of progress and challenges
National Planning Commission. 2011. National population and housing census; Caprivi regional tables based on 4th delimitation.
Nathanael, B. and Mendelsohn, J. 2013. Notes on a spatial assessment of the risk of flooding in eastern Caprivi.
Simmons R.E., Barnes K.N., Jarvis A.M. & Robertson, A. 1999. Important Bird Areas in Namibia. Research discussion paper.
World Wildlife Fund. 2007. Annual plan 2007 – integrated management of Zambezi/Chobe River system transboundary fishery resources
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LIST OF APPENDICES
1. Public Consultation Tools 2. Attendance Register 3. Background Information Document 4. Environmental Management Plan 5. Generic Designs of Septic Tanks, Oil-water separator and USTs. 6. Letter from the traditional authority 7. Proposed design of the future Ngoma Settlement 8. CV of EAP’s 9. Consent letter of Supply of Petroleum Products Distributor
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION DOCUMENT
EIA for the Proposed Construction of a Fuel Retail Station and Truck Depot Ngoma, Zambezi Region March 2019
PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT The purpose of this document is to provide interested and affected Parties (I & AP’s) with information on the EIA Process for the proposed construction of a fuel retail station and truck depot at Ngoma in the Zambezi Region by Ngoma Trading cc. The document further serves to invite all I&APs to participate in this process through registration as to receive further communication and being updated of the progress of the EIA process.
Before commencing with the proposed project, in accordance with the Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2007) and its regulation (GN 30 of 2012), an application will be submitted to the Department of Environmental Affairs of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism to undertake an environmental assessment to obtain an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC). Therefore, Ngoma Trading cc. as proponents have appointed Consultants of GMAC Investments cc. as the environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to fulfil legislative requirements by undertaking EIA Process a prerequisite to obtain an ECC. This document therefore introduces the reader to the project and the EIA process and advices on how such I&APs can get involved throughout the process.
PROJECT LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION Ngoma is located some 60 kilometer east of Katima Mulilo and serves as the last and first stop for travelers between Namibia and Botswana. Ngoma border posts hosts a number of public institutions such as police station, a court, school,clinic, customs and finance offices and their accommodation facilities. Beside these formal buildings a few small informal cuca-shops exist within the area serving the surrounding rural community in villages and occasionally travelers. Being the last and first stop for travelers between the two countries, the area hosts a significant number of motorists particularly, residents of the two countries, tourists and haul trucks for goods in both directions. Ngoma Trading cc identified the need to establish a fuel retail station to serve both these travelers with essential modern services while at the same time contribute to the social economic development of the locality. The proposed plan is construction of a fuel station at the locality indicated on the map (see figure). Storage tanks will be built to store both petroleum and diesel fuel on the site, while also providing essential facilities for ablution, convenience shop, parking and loading bays for both small and large vehicles (i.e. trucks), and restroom accommodation. The detailed plain with outlay of the construction pends obtaining the ECC, upon which will be completed and provided. GMAC Consultants have been appointed by the proponent to facilitate the process for the application and obtaining an ECC for the project. PROJECT MOTIVATION Ngoma border post has an economic growth potential due to being the last and first stop for a significant number of travelers out and into the country. Construction of a modern facility such as fuel station can go far in serving as a replenishment and refreshment stop for these travelers whilst contributing towards the social-economic development of the area and ultimately contribute to the overall developmental goals of the country.
THE EIA PROCESS GMAC Consultant’s will follow the EIA Process as guided by the EMA and its Regulations to identify the potential impacts associated with the proposed project. This process as guided involves the following steps; Initial notification and call to register as I&APs by advertisements through media, notices and letters with aim of making public aware of the EIA Process. Submission of an application to the competent authority (MET). This aims to enable the competent authority to register the project, screen the project and advice on the project scope. Scoping phase: this will fully describe the nature of the activity, the nature of the receiving environment, identification of alternatives and the associated impacts. Public consultation phase: the draft scoping report shall be subjected to public examination through a public consultation session. Views, comments and opinions of all Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) shall be recorded and addressed and feedback provided appropriately. Moreover, this is an ongoing activity that continues throughout as the project progresses. Final scoping report inclusive of any necessary specialist studies necessary and developed environmental management plan will be submitted to DEA for final decision making. REGISTRATION AS I & AP’S To register as I&AP and receive communication about the project, send your details to; GMAC Investments cc. P. O. Box 1215 Katima Mulilo Email: [email protected] Call : 0812910649 or 085694974
Figure: Ngoma surroundings indicating proposed construction site APPENDIX 5
CONNECTED SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN
SIDE & AERIAL VIEW OF A SPETIC TANK
GENERIC OIL WATER SEPRATOR DESIGN
USTs OUTLAY
LAYOUT OF PLANNED NGOMA SETTLEMENT BOUNDARIES
Proposed project site
Sililo Godfrey Sitengu
Physical address Postal address
Erf 2553 NHE Ext 3 P.O.Box 1215 Moraliswani Maiba street Ngweze Katima Mulilo Katima Mulilo
Mobile: +264 812910649 E-mail: [email protected]
Personal Profile Statement / Career Objective
Qualified and reliable environmental consultant with broad knowledge of delivering environmental assessments, systems, sustainability, water quality and waste management and other environmental matters.
Education
2008 University of Pretoria Bsc Hons:Environmental Technology
2006 Cape Peninsular University of Technology PG. Certificate Environmental Technology
2001- 2004 University of Namibia Bsc. Natural Resources
EIA – EMP projects/consultancy work experience
Position Institution 2018 Environmental Consultant Namib consulting cc Project 1. Scoping Report and EMP
Client: CroisiAfrica River Safaris
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Kaza Safari Lodge
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Cascade Island Lodge
Project 2. Scoping Report and EMP Client: Zambezi Collections - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Ichingo Lodge
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Zambezi Queen Houseboat
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 1 Houseboat
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 2 Houseboat
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 3 Houseboat
Position Institution 2018 Environmental Consultant GMAC Investiments cc
Project 3. Scoping Report and EMP Client: Zovu Elephant Lodge
- Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Zovu Elephant Lodge
Skills
Environmental Impact Assessments Environmental Management Plans Environmental Auditing Ability to present and write reports
Hobbies and Interests
Fishing Sports
References
Name: Debbie Duke-Norris Position: Regional Manager Zambezi Queen Collection Email: [email protected] Mobile: +267 7134 8435
Name: Brett Mc Donald Position: MD Flame of Africa Email: [email protected] Mobile: Botswana +26772334949 RSA +27828572094 SIYAMANA O. MULELE
ADRESS DETAILS
Physical address Postal address
Erf 5152, Unit 69 P. O. Box 96093 Zanzibar Street Windhoek Windhoek
Mobile: +264 85 694 9740 E-mail: [email protected]
EDUCATION
2013 University of South Australia Master of Environmental Management and Sustainblility
2009 University of the Freestate B.Sc.(Hons) Geohydrology
2008 Cape Peninsular University of Technology PG. Certificate Environmental Technology
2004 University of Namibia Bsc. Natural Resources
EIA – EMP PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Consultacy : Namib Consulting Services cc Position : Lead Environmental Consultant/Hydrogeologist Client : CroisiAfrica River Safaris
Projects: - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Kaza Safari Lodge - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Cascade Island Lodge
2018 Consultacy : Namib Consulting Services cc Position : Lead Environmental Consultant/Hydrogeologist Client : Zambezi Collections
Projects: - Sccoping and Environmental Management Plan for Ichingo Lodge - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Zambezi Queen Houseboat - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 1 Houseboat - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 2 Houseboat - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Chobe Princess 3 Houseboat
2018 Consultancy : GMAC Investiments cc Position : Lead Environmental Consultant/Hydrogeologist Client : Zovu Elephant Lodge Project: - Scoping and Environmental Management Plan for Zovu Elephant Lodge
2017 Consultancy : Namib Consulting Services cc Position : Lead Environmental Consultant/Hydrogeologist Client : Liguva Thunderstorm Power Investment cc Project: - Environmental Clearance for Mining Claims in Kabbe area, Zambezi Region
REFEREES
Name: Debbie Duke-Norris Position: Regional Manager Zambezi Queen Collection Email: [email protected] Mobile: +267 7134 8435
Name: Brett Mc Donald Position: MD Flame of Africa Email: [email protected] Mobile: Botswana +26772334949 RSA +27828572094