1
OKAKARARA | TOWNSHIPS ESTABLISHMENT
Environmental Scoping Report
August 2013
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 2
COPYRIGHT © ENVIRO DYNAMICS, 2013. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Proposed Townships Establishment of five Townships within The PROJECT NAME Remainder of the Farm Okakarara Townlands No. 517
Draft Scoping Report for Public review STAGE OF REPORT
Veiinatobias Organizational and Sustainable Development CLIENT Planners (PTY) Ltd Enquiries: Mr Justus Veii Tel: (061) 402 328 E-Mail: [email protected]
Enviro Dynamics LEAD CONSULTANT Enquiries: Sheldon Husselmann Tel: (061) 223-336 E-Mail: [email protected]
August 2014 DATE OF RELEASE
Sheldon Husselmann, Charlotte Cronje, Carla Saayman, Eddy AUTHORS Kuliwoye, Eloise Carstens Internal Reviewer: Stephanie van Zyl
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 3
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that I:
have knowledge of and experience in conducting assessments, including knowledge of the Environmental Management Act, its regulations and guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;
have performed the work relating to the application in an objective manner, regardless of whether or not the views and findings were favourable to the applicant;
have complied with the Act, and its regulations, guidelines and other applicable laws.
I also declare that there is, to my knowledge, no information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing –
any decision to be taken with respect to the application in terms of the Act and its regulations; or
the objectivity of this report, plan or document prepared in terms of the Act and its regulations.
Stephanie van Zyl
Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
The Okakarara Town Council formed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Veiinatobias Organizational and Sustainable Development Planners (Pty) Ltd in 2010 in an effort to plan for the future development of the town of Okakarara. Part of this future planning includes the townships establishment of 5 townships (Portions A-D and 6), within the Remainder of the Farm Okakarara Townlands No. 517.
Enviro Dynamics CC has been appointed to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and compile an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the proposed Townships Establishment.
The terms of reference for this EIA are as follows:
Assessment of the proposed townships to be established; Compilation of an EMP; and Compilation of scoping report. Specialist studies were conducted at a scoping level, which was sufficient to address the impacts identified. The following studies were conducted: Hydrogeological study – Mr P Botha; Air quality study – Dr M Zunckel; and Baseline tree survey – Mr J Hausiku.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 5
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The town of Okakarara is growing and in need of sustainable town planning for projected future growth. The layout of the 5 townships proposed for establishment are displayed in the map below.
The proposed townships will consist of the following land use designations:
Portion D (Extension 6) – Predominantly industrial land use, with some business erven and public open space; and Portions 6, A, B and C – Predominantly residential land use with some business, public open space and institutional as well.
The majority of Portion D consists of erven zoned “Industrial” (approximately 197) and erven zoned “Business” (approximately 81). A significant part of the concept for Portion D is to define a new entrance into the town. It should be noted that the Okakarara Town Planning Scheme does not make a distinction between land for light and heavy industry. Although a Public Open Space corridor has been designated for the length of the stretch of the Omatako River, which runs through Portion D, the lower reaches of the river will run through erven zoned as “industrial”. According to the Town Planning
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 6
Scheme all erven zoned “Industrial” may as a “Primary Use” have “industrial buildings” constructed on them.
Portions A, B and C consist of a total of approximately 417 erven zoned “Residential 1”, while Portion 6 has approximately 272 residential erven. The Town Planning Scheme defines three zonings for residential land use – “Residential 1”, “Residential 2” and “General Residential”. Only “Dwelling Units” may be constructed on these erven at densities of 1:600m², 1:300m² and 1:200m² respectively.
An extensive road network will be constructed for each of the 5 portions, with each tailored to fit the needs of the various land uses. Standard services (potable water, sewerage and electricity networks) will be supplied to each of these portions by the local authority and maintained by the same authority.
The Roads Authority (RA) is considering relocating the section of the MR0117 running through the CBD south as well as deproclaiming of the district road DR3827 (which will mean this road will become one of the internal roads of Okakarara). No business erven are permitted on any of the RA roads.
The state of the current sewage treatment facility (located within Portion D) is unsustainable and in need of upgrading. A concept design proposal for a new closed- system sewage treatment facility has been compiled and submitted to the Otjozondjupa Regional Council for consideration.
The power demand (excluding 25 MW required for the new sewage treatment facility, which will supply its own energy needs) is expected to rise by 4-7 MW over the next 2-8 years. The demand for water is expected to triple within the next 3-5 years.
LEGAL AND BASELINE REQUIRMENTS
A thorough review of relevant legal instruments has been conducted. The most relevant legal provisions are in the form of the Water Act 54, the Road Ordinance 1972, the Public Health Act 36, and the Forest Act 12.
A concise description of the baseline conditions of the receiving environment has been provided, informed by specialists’ scoping studies where relevant. Key sensitivities and potential impacts for relevant aspects of both the socio-economic and biophysical environment have been highlighted. Key sensitivities were identified in the fields of ground and surface water, air quality, vegetation, and resettlement and compensation.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 7
ISSUES IDENTIFIED SO FAR
THEME ISSUE
The contamination of surface and groundwater. GROUND AND SURFACE WATER
Residential erven located downwind of the proposed industrial centre and sewage AIR QUALITY treatment plant will be exposed to poor air quality and odour nuisances
The loss of biodiversity and the removal of protected plant species. VEGETATION
The traditional land use for proposed development area is livestock farming which is RESETTLEMENT AND the major source of income for Okakarara. COMPENSATION
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public participation was carried out in a standard accordance contained within the EIA Regulations. Various stakeholders were identified at national, regional and local levels and their input requested. Particular effort was exerted to involve stakeholders at a local level – those living in and around the project area.
Based on the comments received during the public meeting, the main issues that the stakeholders were concerned about were the compensation for the loss of agricultural land, the potential air and water pollution, and the loss of protected tree species.
IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The issues identified in the environmental baseline and during the public participation process are assessed using a range of assessment criteria. The application of these criteria uses a balanced consideration of duration, extent, and intensity/magnitude, modified by probability, cumulative effects, and confidence in order to determine significance. Mitigation measures are outlined for each impact.
RECOMMEDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
The next steps to be taken in terms of administrative and legal arrangements as well general planning preparations are as follows:
In an effort to streamline environmental assessment associated with future development activities within these 5 proposed townships, future development guidelines have been compiled as part of the EMP for these townships. This scoping report has identified and assessed the most significant impacts within these 5 townships at a strategic level and as such it is not necessary that all future
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 8
development activities, within these townships should be subject to a scoping level assessment, or full EIA. Activities listed under the column “Permissible activities requiring approval for EMP from DEA” within the “Development Guidelines” table within the EMP should therefore only be subject to the following provisions of the EIA Regulations: o Section 8(j) which details the requirements for an EMP; o Section 18, which details the Environmental Commissioner’s decision; and o Sections 19 and 20, which detail provisions pertaining to the amendment and transfer of an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC). The activity specific EMPs, compiled for the aforementioned activities, should be submitted to the DEA for review and if deemed satisfactory receive an ECC for the particular activity. In addition the OTC should arrange that these EMPs are reviewed by DEA and issued with an Environmental Clearance Certificate valid for the regulated period of three years. The planning layout should be adjusted to designate the majority (at least 75%) of the cluster, located along the south-eastern boundary of Portion B to public open space, so as to preserve these protected trees. This recommendation has been carried out and the cluster in question has been incorporated into the current planning layout. The heavy industrial activities with inorganic/ non-biodegradable effluent streams should be moved at least 500 m south of proposed future residential development. Currently no flood line study (neither for the 50 nor 100 year return period) has been conducted for the stretch of the Omatako River which runs through the Okakarara Townlands. The industrial erven located adjacent to the Omatako River are thus potentially at risk of flooding. The Town Council should ensure that those to whom the erven in question are sold are informed of the potential flood risk. In addition the Town Council should include legally binding conditions as outlined in the EMP that ecologically sensitive engineering solutions should be sought during the project design phase to safeguard property against potential flood risks. The river should not be canalised. A new sewage treatment facility, including the associated biogas power generator, needs to be constructed to accommodate the future increase in sewage volumes and solid organic waste, respectively, from both future residential and industrial areas. In addition separate biodigester units should be constructed – the main biodigester for the effluent from the agro-industrial activities and a smaller unit for the residential effluent stream.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 9
A waste treatment facility needs to be constructed to handle animal waste products like blood, bones, entrails etc., before any application for the carrying out of a meat-works industrial activity is considered. The OTC needs to compile a Resettlement and Compensation Plan. Further consultations regarding the Resettlement and Compensation Plan need to take place before any resettlement takes place.
Regarding subsequent construction of services infrastructure and the eventual rolling out of forthcoming development activities:
Mitigation measures should be put in place within the EMP to ensure that any potential increase in risky sexual behaviour, and associated increase in HIV/AIDS infection rates, during the construction phase is minimised as far as possible. A chance find procedure should be outlined in the EMP and a responsible person appointed to ensure that any potential unearthing of undiscovered graves is dealt with in a responsible manner. Effluent streams need to be separated in order to ensure sustainability of industrial activity within Okakarara. Only activities with organic/ biodegradable effluent streams should be allowed within Portion D. Furthermore the proposed agro-industrial activities should not be sited south of the Omatako River, so as to prevent any potential transfer of effluent, with associated infrastructure damage and pollution risks, across the river. Unless the Town Council constructs its own chemical waste water treatment facility, activities with chemical-laden effluent streams should each treat their own effluent streams and ensure no interaction of such streams with ground or surface water.
It is concluded that most of the impacts identified during this Environmental Assessment can be addressed through the recommended mitigation and management actions for both the construction and operation and maintenance aspects of these Townships Establishment and development activities envisaged in future. Should the recommendations included in this report and the EMP be implemented the significance of the impacts can be reduced to reasonably acceptable standards and durations.
It is therefore recommended that these projects:
The Townships Establishment of 5 townships (Portions A-D and 6 – Extensions 3-6 and Ellis Park Eco Village) The construction of services infrastructure for the above mentioned townships
It is therefore recommended that the project receive Environmental Clearance, provided that the recommendations above, Generic EMP and the Specific EMP be implemented.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 10
Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 4 LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES ...... 12 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ...... 13 LIST OF APPENDICES ...... 14
1 INTRODUCTION ...... 15 1.1 BACKGROUND ...... 15 1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 17
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 19 2.1 NEED FOR THE TOWNSHIPS ...... 19 2.2 PROPOSED LAND USES AND LAYOUT FOR TOWNSHIPS ...... 19 2.2.1 INDUSTRIAL LAND USE ...... 21 2.2.2 RESIDENTIAL LAND USE ...... 22 2.2.3 MUNICIPAL SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 24
3 LEGISLATION ...... 27
4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ...... 31 4.1 THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 31 4.1.1 CLIMATE ...... 31 4.1.2 SOIL ...... 32 4.1.3 GROUND AND SURFACE WATER ...... 33 4.1.4 VEGETATION ...... 36 4.2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 41 4.2.1 HERITAGE (ARCHAEOLOGY) ...... 41 4.2.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH...... 41 4.2.3 LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES AND LAND USE ...... 41 4.2.4 RESETTLEMENT AND AFFORDABILITY ...... 43
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 11
4.2.5 TRAFFIC AND VISUAL IMPACTS ...... 44 4.2.6 THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 44 4.2.7 THE OKAKARARA TOWN COUNCIL ...... 44 5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION ...... 48
6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 51 6.1 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 51 6.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ...... 54 6.3 DISCUSSION ...... 66
7 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 69
8 REFERENCES ...... 72
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 12
LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES
Figure 1: Detailed layout of proposed land uses for the Townships Establishment within the Remainder of the Farm Okakarara Townlands No. 517 ...... 20 Figure 2: Average wind speed for 2012 recorded at weather station located on the Waterberg Plateau ...... 32 Figure 3: Average wind direction for 2012 recorded at weather station located on the Waterberg Plateau ...... 32 Figure 4: Borehole locations for 5 km radius around Okakarara (red dot) ...... 33 Figure 5: Stretch of the Omatako River north of the current CBD that has been degraded as a result of human activity ...... 34 Figure 6: Extent of riverine vegetation in relation to the proposed land use zonings in Portion D and the location of the sewage ponds ...... 35 Figure 7: Umbrella Thorn Tree (Acacia tortilis) ...... 37 Figure 8: Shepherd’s Tree (Boscia albitrunca) ...... 37 Figure 9: Camelthorn Tree (Acacia erioloba) ...... 37 Figure 10: Location of clusters of significant trees (light green) within Portions A and B ...... 40 Figure 11: Location of significant trees (red dots) within Portion 6 (approximate trunk size ≥200mm) ...... 40 Figure 12: Houses observed within the proposed area for Portion D ...... 42 Figure 13: Meeting held at the Town Council Hall in Okakarara ...... 49 Figure 14: Screening process to determine key issues ...... 52
Table 1: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portion D ...... 21 Table 2: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portions A, B and C ...... 23 Table 3: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portion 6 ...... 24 Table 4: Climate related sensitivities ...... 32 Table 5: Soil related sensitivities ...... 33 Table 6: Water related sensitivities ...... 36 Table 7: Number of measured trees by species ...... 38 Table 8: Vegetation related sensitivities ...... 39 Table 9: Main Sources of Income expressed as a percentage (NPC, 2004) ...... 42 Table 10: Summary of results from risk assessment survey (VeiinaTobias, 2010) ...... 43 Table 11: Summary of key socio-economic sensitivities ...... 46 Table 12: Summary of issues raised during the public consultation process ...... 50 Table 13: Definitions of each of the Criteria used to determine the significance of impacts ...... 53 Table 14: Definitions of the various significance ratings ...... 54 Table 15: Impact assessment of the proposed project ...... 55
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 13
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
BID Background Information Document
BIOTA Biodiversity Monitoring Transect Analysis in Africa
CBD Central Business District
CENORED Central Regional Electricity Distributor
CV Curriculum Vitae
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
GG Government Gazette
GN Government Notice
I&APs Interested and Affected Parties
MET Ministry of Environment and Tourism
MRLGHRD Ministry of Regional Local Government and Housing and Rural Development
NAMPAB Namibia Planning Advisory Board
NBC National Broadcasting Corporation
NHC National Heritage Council
NPC National Planning Commission
OTC Okakarara Town Council
PPP Public-Private Partnership
RA Roads Authority
SME Small and Medium Enterprise
VTC Vocational Training Centre
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 14
LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX A Curriculum Vitae: Stephanie van Zyl
APPENDIX B Hydrogeology Study
APPENDIX C Air Quality Study
APPENDIX D Letter to CENORED
APPENDIX E Letter to NamWater
APPENDIX F Minutes of meeting with transport engineer
APPENDIX G Stakeholders list
APPENDIX H Background Information Document
APPENDIX I Newspaper notices
APPENDIX J Minutes to community meeting
APPENDIX K Issues and Responses Trail
APPENDIX L Environmental Management Plan
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 15
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The Okakarara Town Council formed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Veiinatobias Organizational and Sustainable Development Planners (Pty) Ltd in 2010 in an effort to plan for the future development of the town of Okakarara. Part of this future planning includes the townships establishment of the following 5 townships, within the Remainder of the Farm Okakarara Townlands No. 517 (see Figure 1):
Portion A (to be known as Okakarara Extension 3); Portion B (to be known as Okakarara Extension 4); Portion C (to be known as Okakarara Extension 5); Portion D (to be known as Okakarara Extension 6); and Portion 6 (to be known as Ellis Park Eco Village).
The procedure regarding Township Establishment, in brief, is as follows: Township Establishment: Township Establishment is one of a An application to establish a township needs suite of town planning instruments to be submitted, along with a motivation used for future spatial planning. In particular Township Establishment is detailing the Need and Desirability of the a large scale form of subdivision of proposed township. The Need and land for urban use. Desirability application considers the following questions:
Need: Is this particular land use proposal necessary for this community at this point in time? Desirability: Does this land use proposal fit the current institutional, social, ecological and economic framework?
This application is submitted to the Ministry of Regional Local Government and Housing and Rural Development (MRLGHRD) who refers the application to the Namibia Planning Advisory Board (NAMPAB) for consideration.
According to the Environmental Management Act (2007) and its Regulations (2012) the following activities require an Environmental Clearance Certificate:
a) “the transmission and supply of electricity” (Section 1(b));
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 16
b) “Other forms of mining or extraction of any natural resources whether regulated by law or not.” (Section 3.2) (borrow pits for road construction); c) “the clearance of forest areas, deforestation, aforestation, timber harvesting or any other related activity that requires authorisation in terms of the Forest Act, 2001 (Act No. 12 of 2001) or any other law.” (Section 4) (Clearance of vegetation for the construction of infrastructure, and eventual clearance for buildings). d) “The rezoning of land from
a) residential use to industrial or commercial use;
b) light industrial use to heavy industrial use;
c) agricultural use to industrial use; and
d) use for nature conservation or zoned open space to any other land use.” (Section 5.1) (Even though the proposed rezoning does not quite fit this description, we consider the principle behind changes in land uses to be requiring EIA).
e) “The establishment of land resettlement schemes.” (Section 5.2) Since people are currently settled all over in Okakarara, several households need to be resettled in order to bring order to the town. f) “The construction of- (a) … water, … bulk supply pipelines; (b) public roads.” (Section 10.1).
Enviro Dynamics has been appointed to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and develop an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the proposed Townships Establishment. This Scoping Report is the culmination of what can be called the first phase of an EIA process. During this scoping phase, information is gathered concerning any potential impacts whether positive or negative in nature and their relative significance is determined. This document provides information regarding whether further investigation (i.e. a full EIA) is required or not. If all issues/impacts can be addressed without further investigation, this document will be submitted to the Directorate of Environmental Affairs (DEA) with an EMP. Sheldon Husselmann is the Trainee Environmental Assessment Practitioner who conducted the assessment under the supervision of Stephanie van Zyl who is a qualified and recognised Environmental Assessment Practitioner (Appendix A).
It is important to note that Enviro Dynamics has been appointed to assess the layout of proposed land uses (see Figure 1) as well as the construction of services infrastructure, but not the actual activities themselves (which may take place in future).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 17
1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE
The Terms of Reference for the proposed project is based on the requirements set out by the Environmental Management Act (2007) and its Regulations (February 2012). The process covered the following steps, which are reported on in this document as follows:
Provide a detailed description of the proposed activity (Section 2); Identify all legislation and guidelines that have reference to the proposed project (Section 3); Identify existing environmental (both bio-physical and socio-economic) conditions of the area in order to determine their environmental sensitivity (Section 4); Inform Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) and relevant authorities of the details of the proposed development and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to participate during the process (Section 5); Consider the potential environmental and social impacts of the development, and assess the significance of the identified impacts (Section 6). Outline management and mitigation measures in an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to minimize and/or mitigate potentially negative impacts.
The scope of work for this assessment includes the following:
An assessment of the proposed layouts (i.e. the proposed subdivision and the land uses). The actual activities for each erf are not to be considered, rather the collective land use implications are to be considered collectively; and The construction and operation of the internal infrastructure to the new erven. The construction and operation of bulk infrastructure to serve the new properties particularly the sewage treatment works will be considered in a separate assessment.
ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Owing to a lack of information some ground and surface water quality as well as air quality related impacts, identified during this scoping study, could not be confidently addressed. As a result the following desktop studies at scoping level were commissioned:
Hydrogeological study (Mr P Botha – Geo Pollution Technologies) (Appendix B) Air quality study (Dr M Zunckel – uMoya-NILU Consulting) (Appendix C)
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 18
Baseline tree survey (Mr J Hausiku – Enviro Dynamics)
The following section provides a detailed description of the proposed project and its components.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 19
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This section provides a detailed description of the proposed project. This includes an explanation of the proposed layout and some of the key land uses. The services infrastructure will also be described in this section
2.1 NEED FOR THE TOWNSHIPS
The rate of development in Okakarara has increased substantially during the years since Namibia’s independence. The largely informal expansion of the settlement since Namibia gained independence has seen the need for formal land use planning. This need initiated the drafting of a 20 year spatial development plan in 2010 under the then newly formed PPP. At the Okakarara Trade Fair, which took place in August 2012, this spatial plan was presented to the public and great interest was (and continues to be) shown by the public in the new developments that will take place in the town.
The Okakarara Town Council has sold all of its erven in Pamue, Okakarara Proper, Extensions 1 and 2. The limited nature of natural resources is becoming increasingly apparent and this is especially true for small, largely subsistence farming dependent communities like Okakarara. Hence the development of sustainable settlements is, and will increasingly become, more important.
There is a need for affordable low cost housing located in residential areas, which cater for the mobility needs of a community with a low car utilisation rate.
The Central Business District (CBD) of Okakarara is almost fully developed and the council has realised the need to plan for additional business erven. In addition the council has been approached by a number of investors requiring land for light industrial and business activities. Some of the potential developments include a solar power plant, manganese smelter, various agro-industrial activities and some manufacturing activities.
It is therefore a matter of some urgency that these townships be established.
2.2 PROPOSED LAND USES AND LAYOUT FOR TOWNSHIPS
The information contained in this section is largely based on the Need and Desirability applications submitted for the proposed townships to NAMPAB by Stubenrauch Planning Consultants. The five portions and their detailed layout and land use designations (see Figure 1) are explained below:
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 20
Figure 1: Detailed layout of proposed land uses for the Townships Establishment within the Remainder of the Farm Okakarara Townlands No. 517
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 21
2.2.1 INDUSTRIAL LAND USE
Portion D – Extension 6
Table 1 displays the expected number of erven per zoning.
Table 1: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portion D
TOTAL AREA (HA) ZONINGS NUMBER OF ERVEN
415 Heavy Industry 45
Light Industry 152
Business 81
Institutional 2
Local authority 5
Residential 3
A significant part of the concept for Portion D is to define a new entrance into the town. An existing gravel road, which runs parallel to the road route C22 (see Figure 1) will form the new business corridor and entrance to the CBD, being lined with new business erven.
It should be noted that the Okakarara Town Planning Scheme does not make a distinction between land for light and heavy industry.
A Public Open Space corridor has been designated for the length of the stretch of the Omatako River, which passes through the area. However the lower reaches (on the north-eastern edge of the town) of this river section pass through erven zoned “industrial”.
According to the Town Planning Scheme all erven zoned “Industrial” may as a “Primary Use” (the use for which land or buildings may be erected or used without any further consent) have “industrial buildings” constructed on them. An “industrial building” is defined as:
“a building where any person performs work in connection with any business, undertaking or institution, whether as an employer or employee, pupil or inmate of an institution, or otherwise, in any one or more of the following activities:
g) the making of any article or part of any article; h) the altering, repairing, renovating, testing, ornamenting, painting, spraying, polishing, finishing, cleaning, dyeing, washing, or breaking up of any article;
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 22
i) the adaptation for sale or use of any article; j) the sorting, assembling or packing (including washing or filling bottles or other containers) of any articles k) the construction, reconstruction, assembling, repairing or breaking up of vehicles or parts thereof (but excluding premises used for the purpose of housing vehicles where only minor adjustments are carried out); l) printing by letterpress, lithography, photogravure or other similar process, including any activity associated with the printing industry; m) the production and storage of gas in a holder of more than five hundred cubic metre (500 m³) storage capacity; n) the generation and supply of electricity; o) photographic work; p) any other activity added in terms of the Labour Act (Act 23 of 1992); q) any activity that is necessarily or ordinarily incidental to any activity referred to in subparagraphs (i) to (x), inclusive, if the premises on which it is carried on form part of or are adjacent to the premises on which the activity to which it is so incidental is carried on:
Provided that dwelling units, places of accommodation, restaurants or similar uses where food or drink is prepared mainly for consumption on the premises and any premises used temporarily and exclusively for the carrying on of any activity connected with the construction, alteration, renovation, repair or demolition of any building, bridge, road or irrigation work or similar works shall not be included in the definition of an "industrial building".
As a “Consent Use” (the use for which land or buildings may be erected or used only with the consent of the Council) “noxious industrial buildings” may be constructed on erven zoned “industrial”. A “noxious industrial building” according to the Town Planning Scheme is defined as, “a building designed or used for the purpose of carrying on any noxious or offensive trade or occupation...” This may include for example activities such as; entrail scraping and tripe boiling works, fertilizer works and depositing sites or other sites for the disposal or processing of domestic refuse, trade refuse, street refuse, sewage and night-soil.
2.2.2 RESIDENTIAL LAND USE
The Town Planning Scheme defines three zonings for residential land use – “Residential 1”, “Residential 2” and “General Residential”. Only “Dwelling Units” may be constructed on these erven at densities of 1:600m², 1:300m² and 1:200m² respectively.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 23
This means that only one “Dwelling Unit” may be constructed for every specified unit area (i.e. 600m², 300m² and 200m²)
According to the Town Planning Scheme a “Dwelling Unit” is defined as:
“a detached or semi-detached house, or a suite of rooms, which is designed as a dwelling for a single household or for one or more single persons consisting of mutually adjacent rooms with a kitchen and with at least a bathroom with toilet facilities and designed for occupation by a single household and, in the case of a detached or semi- detached house may include a second suite of rooms for a second household which may not exceed 50% of the size of the detached or semi-detached house, nor may it be held in separate ownership from the detached or semi-detached house; and a dwelling unit may include an outbuilding.”
Portions A, B and C – Extensions 3, 4 and 5
Table 2 displays the expected number of erven per zoning including the approximate erven size and the number of dwelling units per unit area for residential zonings.
Table 2: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portions A, B and C
TOTAL AREA (ha) ZONINGS ERVEN SIZE (m²) DENSITY
417 Residential 1(417 erven) 400-500 1:600m²
Gen. Residential (Number of erven yet to be 1:200 m² determined)
Institutional (9 erven)
The boundaries of the existing cemetery, which is located on the western end of Portion A, are yet to be determined.
Portion 6
Table 3 displays the expected number of erven per zoning including the approximate erven size and the number of dwelling units per unit area for residential zonings.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 24
Table 3: Expected number of erven per zoning for Portion 6
TOTAL AREA (ha) ZONINGS ERVEN SIZE (m²) DENSITY
308 Residential 1 (269 erven) 300-900 1:600 m²
Business (10 erven)
Gen. Residential (2 erven) 1:200 m²
Institutional (7 erven)
Local authority (4 erven)
Other (21 erven)
The grey water treatment plant (the proposed location of which is situated in the north- east section of Ellis Park) is located adjacent to residential erven separated by a road.
2.2.3 MUNICIPAL SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Portion D – Extension 6
The entrance from the west of the town will be redefined making use of an existing gravel road that runs parallel to the road route C22. This road will be tarred and have a width of 50m, which provides ample space for traffic islands. In addition it will ensure that the existing water pipeline falls within the road reserve and a wide enough street network for activities such as pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes and landscaping of the pavement areas. The rest of the street network within Portion D will consist of 40m streets. The Roads Authority (RA) will only permit one access point from the MR101 (C22) (from Otjiwarongo). This access point must be approximately 500m away from the existing Pamue access road. This access should strictly take the form of a T- Junction. No Traffic circles or traffic lights will be allowed on the C22. The RA is considering relocating the section of the MR0117 road running through the CBD to the section immediately north of Portions A and B. The RA is also considering deproclaiming the District Road DR3827, which will mean this road will become one of the internal streets of Okakarara. No access and hence no business erven will be permitted on the MR0115 road south.
According to a study commissioned by the PPP the state of the current sewage treatment facility (located within Portion D) is unsustainable and in need of upgrading. A concept design proposal for a new closed-system sewage treatment facility (which includes a biogas power generator) has been compiled (estimated cost N$37 million) and submitted to the Otjozondjupa Regional Council for consideration.
The proposed future power demands are expected to increase significantly especially in the case of increased industrial activity. This potential increase has not as yet been communicated to NamPower, however the Central Regional Electricity Distributor
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 25
(CENORED) has been informed (see Appendix D) and are aware of the potential increase in demand, which includes the following:
25MW for the above mentioned sewage treatment facility. This will be supplied by the biogas power generator fuelled by the sludge collected from human waste as well as the organic waste produced by nearby agro-industrial activities;
The estimated increase in power demands is 4-7MW over a period of the next 2 – 8 years.
Significant increases in water demand can be expected owing to projected industrial and residential expansion. The OTC expects the town to:
Triple its current demand within the next 3-5 years; and Expects a 10 fold increase in the current demand by the end of 2030.
NamWater currently supplies the town’s water needs and has been informed of potential/projected increases (see Appendix E). Future demands will probably be supplied (as is currently the case) via the main water transfer pipeline that runs from Rundu, southwards via Grootfontein and also passes through Okakarara.
Portions A, B and C – Extensions 3, 4 and 5
The road networks within this neighbourhood will vary in widths of 18m (internal streets) to slightly wider streets of 20m and finally to 40m roads on the edges of the development and on the activity corridors. Wide street networks on these major corridors will ensure the creation of parking space in front of the business buildings, for creation of bicycle and pedestrian lanes, as well as the creation of traffic islands within these networks which can be used for landscaping and beautification of the neighbourhood.
Access to municipal services will be obtained from the existing municipal services network of Okakarara (see section on municipal services for Portion D above).
Portion 6
Three major street corridors (east, middle and west) have been created with a width of 30m. These road corridors are the major roads entering into this development, but will also cater for linkages to future township establishments. The roads are wide enough to cater for bicycle lanes, normal traffic as well as pedestrian walkways. Secondary streets orientated in an east-west direction will have widths ranging from 20 to 25m and will serve the rest of the development.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 26
Access to municipal services will be obtained from the existing municipal services network of Okakarara as agreed with the Town Council of Okakarara.
Electricity will be supplied by a 22kV CENORED line, which runs parallel with the M0101 road. The power line is situated between the road and the Ellis Park development south of the road. In order to cater for the power line and its required servitude two Local Authority erven were provided in which the power line and the servitude will run. The servitude can be used for walkways next to the main road thereby also ensuring safety for pedestrians.
Water will be obtained from the current water reticulation network of Okakarara. A water pipeline running to the neighbourhood of Pamue is located north of the road route C22 and connections to this pipeline will be easily accessible. Water provision for the gardens, parks and the sport field will be sourced from the grey water discharges of the development. This grey water will be treated on-site at the development through its own grey water treatment system.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 27
3 LEGISLATION
The pursuit of sustainability is guided by a sound legislative framework. In this section relevant legal instruments as well as their relevant provisions have been surveyed. An explanation is provided regarding how these provisions apply to this project in particular.
THEME LEGISLATION RELEVANT PROVISIONS RELEVANCE TO PROJECT INSTRUMENT
The Namibian Constitution Article 16(1) guarantees all persons the right to property. It The right to property Constitution First Amendment Act 34 therefore provides everyone a right to acquire, own and of the residents to of 1998 dispose of property, alone or in association with others and to be relocated needs bequeath such property. to be respected “The State shall actively promote and maintain the welfare of and due the people by adopting policies that are aimed at maintaining compensation paid ecosystems, essential ecological processes and the biological for property lost. diversity of Namibia. It further promotes the sustainable Ecological utilisation of living natural resources basis for the benefit of all sustainability should Namibians, both present and future.” (Article 95(I)). inform and guide this Townships Establishment project.
Archaeology National Heritage Act 27 Section 48(1) states that “A person may apply to the (Heritage) Council Any heritage resources (e.g. of 2004 for a permit to carry out works or activities in relation to a protected human remains etc.) place or protected object” discovered would require a permit from the NHC for relocation.
Burial Place Ordinance Prohibits the desecration or disturbance of graves and regulates how Regulates the exhumation 27 of 1966 bodies may be unearthed or dug up. of graves.
Compensation Compensation Policy Explains situations that may give rise to compensation e.g. This document should inform where land is taken for township expansion or other public and guide the resettlement Guidelines for plan with its associated
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 28
THEME LEGISLATION RELEVANT PROVISIONS RELEVANCE TO PROJECT INSTRUMENT
Communal Land service sector developments; compensation. (applied with effect from Gives direction on how compensation shall be determined; April 2008) Helps affected land owners to choose and option they consider fair; and Is applicable in cases where an occupant of land within a proclaimed local authority boundary has been occupying the affected land in accordance with customary laws of the area.
Environmental Environmental Requires that projects with significant environmental impact are This Act and its regulations Management Act 7 of subject to an environmental assessment process (Section 27). should inform and guide this 2007 Requires for adequate public participation during the EIA process. environmental assessment process for interested and affected parties to voice their opinions about a project (Section 2(b-c)). According to Section 5(4) a person may not discard waste as defined in Section 5(1)(b) in any way other than at a disposal site declared by the Minister of Environment and Tourism or in a manner prescribed by the Minister. Details principles which are to guide all EIAs
EIA Regulations GN Details requirements for public consultation within a given 57/2007 (GG 3812) environmental assessment process (GN No 30 S21). Details the requirements for what should be included in a Scoping Report (GN No 30 S8) an EIA report (GN No 30 S15).
Forestry Forest Act 12 of 2001 Tree species and any vegetation within 100m from a The clearing of vegetation is watercourse may not be removed without a permit (S22(1)). prohibited (subject to a Provision for the protection of various plant species. permit) 100m either side of a river. Certain tree species occurring in the area are protected under this Act.
Nature Conservation Provision for the protection of various plant species. Certain tree species Ordinance 4 of 1975 occurring in the area are protected under this
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 29
THEME LEGISLATION RELEVANT PROVISIONS RELEVANCE TO PROJECT INSTRUMENT
ordinance.
Health and Labour Act 11 of 2007 Empowers the minister responsible for labour to publish All contractors involved in Safety regulations pertaining to health and safety of labourers (S135). the construction of the Details requirements regarding minimum wage and working services infrastructure for this conditions (S39-47). project are require to comply with this Act and its Health and Safety Details various requirements regarding health and safety of labourers. regulations. Regulations GN 156/1997 (GG 1617)
Public Health Act 36 of Section 119 states that “no person shall cause a nuisance or shall suffer Potential nuisances 1919 to exist on any land or premises owned or occupied by him or of which (whether dust during he is in charge any nuisance or other condition liable to be injurious or construction or noxious gas dangerous to health.” emissions associated with future industrial activity) should be considered during planning and construction phases and avoided.
Land use Town Planning Subdivision of land situated in any area to which an approved Town The given layout and Ordinance 18 of 1954 Planning Scheme applies must be consistent with that scheme (S31). proposed land uses must be consistent with the Okakarara Town Planning Scheme and the implications of the proposed land uses according to the scheme need to be understood.
Townships and Division of Details the functions of the Township Board including what they consider The proposed layout and Land Ordinance 11 of when receiving an application for Township Establishment (S3) land uses need to be 1963 informed by environmental factors such as water supply, soil etc as laid out in
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 30
THEME LEGISLATION RELEVANT PROVISIONS RELEVANCE TO PROJECT INSTRUMENT
Section 3.
Services and Road Ordinance 1972 Width of proclaimed roads and road reserve boundaries (S3.1) The limitations applicable on Infrastructure (Ordinance 17 0f 1972) Control of traffic on urban trunk and main roads (S27.1) RA proclaimed roads should inform the proposed layout Rails, tracks, bridges, wires, cables, subways or culverts across or and zonings where under proclaimed roads (S36.1) applicable. Infringements and obstructions on and interference with proclaimed roads. (S37.1) Distance from proclaimed roads at which fences are erected (S38)
Water Water Act 54 of 1956 The Water Resources Management Act 24 of 2004 is presently without A permit is required regulations; therefore the Water Act No 54 of 1956 is still in force: to dispose of A permit application in terms of Sections 21(1) and 21(2) of the domestic and Water Act is required for the disposal of industrial or domestic industrial waste waste water and effluent. water. Prohibits the pollution of underground and surface water bodies The protection of (S23(1)). ground and surface water resources Liability of clean up costs after closure/ abandonment of an should inform the activity (S23(2)). proposed layout Protection from surface and underground water pollution and zonings.
Provisions that have emerged as being of particular significance, owing to the nature of associated impacts, include those pertaining to water (protection of surface and ground sources) vegetation (protection of plant species) public health (prevention of nuisances, like air pollution, caused to citizens) and traffic (regulations pertaining to proclaimed roads).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 31
4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
Important in any assessment of potential future impacts resulting from a given project is an understanding of the existing (or baseline) conditions of the receiving environment. This section details these environmental conditions, which includes both the biophysical and social aspects.
4.1 THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Climatic, water, soil and vegetation aspects of the project area are described below.
4.1.1 CLIMATE
Okakarara receives summer rainfall with typical rainfall amounts ranging from 325 – 350mm per year. The broader area (on a regional scale) is characterised by sporadic and erratic rainfall season and droughts are considered common (Strohbach, et al., 2004).
Daily average temperatures for summer are approximately 32°C (maximum) and 17°C (minimum) (Strohbach, et al., 2004). Minimum temperatures during the coldest months range between 4 – 6°C (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009).
A monitoring station located at the Waterberg Plateau National Park, near Okakarara has been measuring wind data since September 2011. Wind speeds in the area are generally low with average speeds of less than 3 m/s (Figure 2) and maximum speeds rarely exceeding 6 m/s. The dominant directions are north-westerly and north-easterly and these conditions persist for approximately 10 months a year (Figure 3) (BIOTA Africa, 2013).
The atmospheric dispersion potential at Okakarara is expected to be effective for most hours in a given day for all months excluding June and July
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 32
Figure 3: Average wind direction for 2012 recorded Figure 2: Average wind speed for 2012 recorded at at weather station located on the Waterberg Plateau weather station located on the Waterberg Plateau Table 4: Climate related sensitivities
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Wind Prevailing The CBD and areas zoned Residential erven located downwind direction winds blow residential area located downwind of the area earmarked for heavy from the north- of the area earmarked for heavy industry (e.g. a tannery) may be west and industrial activity (e.g. a tannery). exposed poor air quality conditions. north-east. The CBD and areas zoned Residential erven located downwind residential located downwind of the of the proposed new sewage area for proposed new sewage treatment facility and agro-industrial treatment facility and agro-industrial activity may be exposed to odour activity nuisance impacts.
4.1.2 SOIL
The project area consists of a mosaic of soil types but Ferralic Arenosols dominant most of the area, (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009). The first part of the dominant soil name, “Ferralic”, provides information on the property of the soil and refers to the high content of combined oxides of iron and aluminum (sesquioxides) within the soil. The second name, which is the soil group name, reflects the conditions or processes that led to the soil’s formation. According to Mendelsohn, et al., (2009) “Arenosols” are formed from windblown sand and usually extend to a depth of at least one metre, with sand generally making up more than 70% of the soil. The rest of the soil usually consists of particulates of clay and silt. The sandy texture allows water to drain through the soil
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 33 rapidly, leaving very little moisture at depths to which most plant roots can reach. Few nutrients are retained in the porous sand and the loose structure of sand means that there is little run-off and water erosion. This loose structure however makes this soil susceptible to wind erosion (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009).
Table 5: Soil related sensitivities
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Soil The dominant soil type Construction related activities Increased dust creation. covering the project area has in a built up area a loose structure and is Sandy porous soil structure Groundwater pollution susceptible to wind erosion especially along the riverbed
4.1.3 GROUND AND SURFACE WATER
The project area has moderate groundwater potential (Christelis & Struckmeier, 2001) with 23 known boreholes (see Figure 4) located within a 5 km radius of the town (Geo Pollution Technologies, 2013). The majority of these boreholes (62%) have a water level of more than 50 metres below the surface. 58% of these boreholes produce drinkable water (Groups A-C). A recent study has revealed that the geological structures underlying the Omatako River form a preferential pathway for any interactions with the hydrogeology in the area (Geo Pollution Technologies, 2013). One implication of the latter is that any interaction between pollutants and the Omatako River may compromise groundwater sources.
Figure 4: Borehole locations for 5 km radius around Okakarara (red dot)
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 34
Figure 5: Stretch of the Omatako River north of the current CBD that has been degraded as a result of human activity The Omatako River forms part of the Okavango-Omatako water basin, which is one of the country’s 11 water management areas. This river drains in a north-easterly direction, into the Kavango Swamp. Two branches of this river meet due north of the existing CBD and run eastwards for about 1.5 km before reaching the town boundary (Figure 1). This river is mostly shallow and narrow, which are features consistent with the gradient of the river within the project area (approximately 2 m/km) which is fairly shallow. The stretch of this river, which passes through the town district, can be classed as degraded along most of its course (Figure 5). The banks are sparsely vegetated, with only large trees remaining and evidence of erosion and pollution (litter) was observed. The town’s sewage treatment facility consists of several evaporation ponds. These are located approximately 200 m north of the Omatako River (Figure 6).
Figure 6 displays the extent of the vegetation occurring along the banks of the Omatako River. This vegetation serves as an ecological corridor, which supports the essential functioning of the river and is protected by law. This vegetation extends approximately 13 m from the current river banks either side of the river.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 35
Figure 6: Extent of riverine vegetation in relation to the proposed land use zonings in Portion D and the location of the sewage ponds
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 36
Table 6: Water related sensitivities
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Groundwater Several boreholes near the Potentially significant pollution Soil and groundwater town of Okakarara are source located near contamination currently being utilised. preferential groundwater flow pathway
Surface The ephemeral Presence of a river in a Contamination of water Omatako River runs proposed heavy surface/ runoff water through the project industrial area area. Potential increase in Hardening of stormwater runoff in the surfaces near an direction of the river. existing river.
Hardening of surfaces near Increase in rate of stormwater Destruction of property an existing river. runoff and hence river velocity. and contamination of water resources as a Some industrial erven are Relatively flat result of flooding. located less than 200 m from topography and the Omatako River gradual drainage slopes. Industrial erven potentially located below 1:100 year flood line.
4.1.4 VEGETATION
The project area is located in the Thornbush (or Acacia tree and Shrub) Savanna biome of the Otjozondjupa Region. Although these regions receive more rain than the rest of the country, it is difficult to produce crops in them because the sand contains few nutrients and water percolates through them rapidly (Meike, et al., 2002). Consequently, the communities in the area mainly concentrate on livestock farming (National Forest Inventory, 2007).
Details of Plant Species
The Acacia Tree and Shrub Savanna biome in is typically characterised by large, open expanses of grasslands dotted with Acacia trees (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009). The proposed project area is dominated by typical xeromorphic Thornbush Savanna with dominant woody plants generally consisting of Acacia reficiens, Terminalia sericea, Boscia albitrunca, Grewia, Dichrostachys cinerea, Acacia erioloba (Figure 9) and Acacia mellifera (National Forest Inventory, 2007). Understory vegetation is relatively sparse, although ephemeral forbs are present following rain (Meike, et al., 2002).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 37
Figure 9: Camelthorn Tree (Acacia Figure 8: Shepherd’s Tree Figure 7: Umbrella Thorn erioloba) (Boscia albitrunca) Tree (Acacia tortilis)
Although humans have influenced the natural environment in Namibia for thousands of years, changes in land use practices over the last century have severely altered natural ecological processes (Meike, et al., 2002). A consequence of these ecological changes is the conversion of Savannas to dense, Acacia-dominated thickets with little grass cover, a process known as “bush encroachment” (Meike, et al., 2002). This has been observed during a site visit. Some native woody species such as Acacia mellifera, Acacia tortillis (Figure 7), and Dichrostachys cinerea are commonly found within the project area, while perennial grasses have been reduced through habitat disturbance (Meike, et al., 2002) to the extent that remnant patches of historic open Savanna habitat exist only where livestock grazing has been limited. This too has been observed (see Figure 5).
The Directorate of Forestry (DoF) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) in Namibia conducted a forest resource assessment in the Okakarara region in 2007. The following number of measured trees by species was recorded in their field survey within their study area of 116,808 ha:
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 38
Table 7: Number of measured trees by species
SPECIES TOTAL NO. OF % OF MEASURED
MEASURED TREES TREES
Acacia reficiens 110 31.4
Terminalia sericea 92 26.3
Boscia albitrunca 45 12.9
Acacia mellifera 29 8.3
Combretum collinum 29 8.3
Acacia erioloba 24 6.9
Combretum imberbe 7 2.0
Philenoptera nelsii 5 1.4
Acacia fleckii 4 1.1
Ziziphus mucronata 4 1.1
Acacia karroo 1 0.3
Table 7 indicates that the two dominant woody tree species in the Okakarara area is Acacia reficiens (31.4%) and Terminalia sericea (26.3%).
The Acacia reficiens (or the red umbrella-thorn) is predominantly found on plains and is regarded as a very aggressive invader, especially in disturbed places. The gum is edible and the barks and roots are used medicinally by the local community (Mannheimer and Curtis, 2009). The Acacia mellifera (8.3%) is also an aggressive invasive species and is of conservation concern because of its effect on other species due to encroachment. This was verified during the site visit. Terminalia sericea can grow up to 8m and is an attractive shade tree with silvery leaves and heavily browsed by game and cattle (Curtis and Mannheimer, 2005). The presence of the Boscia Albitrunca (Figure 8) (12.9%) also known as the Witgat or Shepherd’s tree is significant because according to Curtis and Mannheimer (2005) although it is widespread and hardy, it is heavily utilized by people. A large number of Shepherd’s Trees, pervasive throughout the town district were observed during a site visit. It should be noted that this species is protected by forestry legislation. Another species protected by forestry legislation is the Combretum imherbe (2.0%). Because of its religious importance it is protected locally (Curtis and Mannheimer, 2005). However, none were observed during a visit to the site, although this does not rule out their presence on site.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 39
Two tree surveys were conducted in order to map significant clusters of protected vegetation and mature trees within Portions A, B and 6. The first study was undertaken in 2012 for Portion 6 as part of a legislated town planning application the results of which can be seen in Figure 11. The trees surveyed had an approximate trunk size of 200 mm and bigger, however the species were not documented. The second tree survey was carried out on the 7th and the 8th of May 2013. High resolution aerial photographs were used to identify areas potentially containing significant clusters of trees. GPS co-ordinates for these locations were obtained using a Geographic Information System. A High Precision GPS was then used to go to these areas in order to evaluate the areas. The key focus was to find areas with significant clusters of protected species (mostly Boscia albitrunca) (see Figure 10). Co-ordinates were captured, using the High Precision GPS unit where significant numbers of such species were identified.
Table 8: Vegetation related sensitivities
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Restricted Relatively high species Trees, shrubs and bushes Loss of biodiversity. vegetation diversity in woodland within 100m from the river is Damage or adjacent to river protected under the destruction of Forestry Act (2001) protected Clusters of Shepherd’s trees Number of protected trees vegetation. located in Portions A and B. located on land zoned residential
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 40
Figure 11: Location of significant trees (red dots) within Portion 6 (approximate trunk size ≥200mm)
Figure 10: Location of clusters of significant trees (light green) within Portions A and B
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 41
4.2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
The proposed project is located in the Okakarara Constituency in the Otjozondjupa region. This constituency consist of the town of Okakarara and its surrounding communal farmlands.
This section of the report sets out to provide an overview of the social environment of the above mentioned region and constituency, emphasising some of the key land use activities in the project area. This will form the baseline against which potential issues and impacts will be identified and assessed. Consequently, only information relevant to this study will be highlighted.
4.2.1 HERITAGE (ARCHAEOLOGY)
The Battle of Ohamakari (known as the Battle of Waterberg among the Germans) (11 August 1904) was a significant in the German-Herero war (1904 – 1908). After being defeated in this battle those who survived fled west and were sealed off in the Kalahari by the German forces, where most of them died of thirst (Steinmetz & Hell, 2006). This event (and the war in general) is still very present in the public memory of the Herero people.
One formal cemetery exists along the eastern boundary of Portion A, however the boundaries of this cemetery still need to be surveyed. It should be noted that many informal/concealed burial sites may exist throughout the town district.
4.2.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH
The population size of the Otjozondjupa region has grown by 6.8% over the last decade, increasing from 135,384 people in 2001, to 142,400 people in 2011 (National Planning Commision, 2012). Similarly, the population of the Okakarara constituency has also grown over the same time period from 21 820 to 22 500 people (National Planning Commision, 2012). The majority of its population consist of males at 11,700 versus the 10,800 females residing in this constituency.
The town of Okakarara has an estimated population of 8000 as stated by the Chief Executive Officer of the Okakarara Town Council in an interview with NBC (NBC, 2012).
The construction of the proposed infrastructure will attract a relatively large number of construction workers to the project area, who do not reside in Okakarara.
4.2.3 LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES AND LAND USE
Livestock farming has for many years been the main livelihood in the communal areas, with limited crop farming activities being practised. This is also reflected in that it
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 42 constitutes one of the main land uses in the constituency. The main sources of income for the Okakarara constituency are summarised in Table 9
Table 9: Main Sources of Income expressed as a percentage (NPC, 2004)
MAIN SOURCE OF INCOME PERCENTAGE
Farming 46 Wages and Salaries 20 Cash Remittances 4 Business (non-farming) 10 Pension 13
As for Okakarara, since it is the main urban centre in its constituency, it is expected that its residents might be more reliant on wages and salaries than in communal areas. However, small scale livestock farming still constitutes an important source of income, as it is practised within the town boundaries.
As for housing, some of the houses are brick structures, while others have been constructed with non-standard materials. Traditional housing structures are also commonly found within the town boundaries (see Figure 12).
Currently, all the available industrial erven are fully developed. Hence, the Okakarara Town Council has reportedly been approached by developers in search for land for industrial and business activities.
Figure 12: Houses observed within the proposed area for Portion D
Okakarara also has a Vocational Training
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 43
Centre (VCT). This centre offers courses in office administration, information technology, bricklaying and plastering, clothing technology, automotive mechanics and food and beverage services.
4.2.4 RESETTLEMENT AND AFFORDABILITY
An important implication of the proposed project is the relocation of a number of residents in order to implement the proposed zonings for these Townships Establishment.
The Town Council aims to develop a sustainable neighbourhood for the ultra-low income households, for which it is hoped to secure funding from the European Commission in the form of grants. While the grants will be used cover a portion of the total cost per serviced erf and pre-approved plan, the new owners will be responsible for the housing loan repayments.
In the light of this VeiinaTobias (2010) conducted a survey among the residents to be relocated in order to determine the relative financial risk of relocation to a formally financed and serviced residential area. Some of the residents to be relocated are currently not paying for all the services (to which they have access) provided by the Town Council, even though they are required to. In some cases the services are accessed informally or even illegally.
A total of 456 informal households were surveyed in Okakarara classifying them into groups in terms of their ability to meet the loan repayment requirements. The minimum loan repayment requirement is N$226.00. The following table provides details taken from the risk assessment survey conducted by VeiinaTobias:
Table 10: Summary of results from risk assessment survey (VeiinaTobias, 2010)
LOAN REPAYMENT % MONTHLY ABILITY TO REPAY SOURCE OF INCOME AVERAGE INCOME LOAN PER MONTH
No-Risk (i.e. able to 21 N$500 to N$2,000 N$263 75 % employed repay) 25 % own business
Low Risk Group 22 N$300-N$500 N$307 43 % own business 27 % employed 30 % unemployed
Calculated Risk 9 N$300-N$500 N$150 41 % own business 22 % employed 37 % unemployed
Social welfare group 42 < N$300 N$56 82 % unemployed (i.e. (not selected) no income)
Old Age Group 6 N$500 N/A 100 % Social grants
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 44
(66years and older)
Only the no-risk, low-risk and calculated risk groups will qualify for the loans, and form part of the sustainable housing for ultra-low income groups project. The survey, however, did not take into consideration whether the residents will be able to afford payments for services provided by the town council, in addition to the loan repayments.
4.2.5 TRAFFIC AND VISUAL IMPACTS
Okakarara is located at the intersection of the C22 and C42. The majority of traffic occurs along the C22 west-bound, a tar road which links up to the B1 (and Otjiwarongo the nearest Town). The C42 (east-bound) and the C22 (south-bound) are both RA main roads, but are currently not tarred (i.e. gravel). These roads lead, most significantly, to Grootfontein and the Otjozondu Manganese Mine respectively. An increase in business and industrial activities may result in an increase in traffic especially that of heavy vehicles (i.e. trucks etc.). The advice of a transport engineer from Burmeister and Partners (Pty) Ltd was solicited (see Appendix F) and where possible was incorporated into the planning layout.
The project area displays little change in elevation (i.e. relatively flat). Okakarara is not currently a major tourist destination, however the C22 (east-bound) leads to the Waterberg Plateau National Park (a popular tourist destination). The town of Okakarara is visible from certain viewpoints on the eastern edge of the plateau.
4.2.6 THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
Since 2007 the Okakarara Trade Fair has become an important annual event for Okakarara residents and surrounding communal farmers. The Trade Fair provides many farmers with the opportunity to showcase their livestock, while ideas on how to optimise farming practices are also shared. Stalls exhibiting farming equipment as well as food stalls can also be found at these trade fairs.
In the years since its inception, the Trade Fair has given rise to the construction of a trade centre and Small-and-Medium Enterprises (SME) Park. The first phase of the SME Park has already been completed which includes restaurants, a car wash, a conference centre and some shops (Smith, 2012). In addition, there is also an office, which is responsible to promote SME’s within the constituency.
4.2.7 THE OKAKARARA TOWN COUNCIL
The Okakarara Town Council is the official administrative institution in Okakarara. According to a Performance Management Evaluation Report, prepared by Veiinatobias for the period June – December 2012, the Town Council is understaffed
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 45 and faces challenges regarding capacity. For example there is currently no manager for the Planning and Engineering Department (the Chief Executive Officer is acting in this position). This position will become increasingly more demanding should these townships be established.
Currently it is faced with a number of challenges, which are summarised below:
Unemployment: The unemployment rate for the town of Okakarara is in many instances referred to as high, however, no formal statistics are available to verify these statements or compare it to the national average (NBC, 2012). Need for low-cost Housing: some marketing has been done for the Ellis Park Eco- Village residential development (Portion 6). Many people have however complained that the cheapest available house (N$384,000 per unit) is too expensive (Smith, 2012). Hence, a demand for low-cost housing has been identified. Resettlement: in order to implement the proposed project (i.e. the establishment of these 4 townships) a number of houses and even some “cuca” shops might have to be relocated. This in turn will require a compensation and resettlement plan. Outstanding payments of water bills: many residents have defaulted in paying their water bills. The amount of outstanding payments currently amounts to approximately N$1 million, which poses a challenge to the town council as it only generates an income from the selling of erven and water (Smith, 2012). Institutional capacity: The Town Council is currently understaffed and additional pressure will be placed on the existing staff should the proposed townships be established.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 46
Table 11: Summary of key socio-economic sensitivities
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Population The size of the population in the Lack of serviced erven. Increased access to growth region, constituency and town of serviced residential erven. Okakarara has grown significantly over the last decade.
Economic Economic activities are Diversification of Stimulation and activities dominated by farming. economic activities. diversification of economic activities facilitated by serviced business and industrial erven.
Job Creation Okakarara has a high High unemployment Job creation during unemployment rate. rate. construction of services and facilitated by future economic activity.
A relatively large number of Potential for an increase Potential increase in the construction workers, not in risky sexual behaviour. spread of HIV/AIDS. resident in Okakarara, will reside in the town for the duration of construction.
Affordability Concerns have been Affordability of housing Increased financial raised that N$384,000 units and associated strain on the Town per housing unit within municipal services. Council. the Ellis Park Eco-Village The sustainability of is too expensive. the ultra-low Defaulting in paying income water bills is also households’ common. development may Only some people will be compromised. qualify for housing loans for the ultra-low income housing.
Land Use The Town Council needs Land use conflicts. Conflict regarding to resettle residents in resettlement plan. order to establish the Loss of property. proposed townships. Some of the land within the town boundaries is used for grazing of livestock.
Town Council The Town Council is currently Capacity of the Town Mismanagement of future understaffed and additional Council to perform development. demands will be placed on its administrative duties. capacity should the proposed townships be established.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 47
FEATURE DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT
Visual The town of Okakarara is visible The visual landscape (as Visual impacts Impact from certain viewpoints on the viewed from the eastern edge of the Waterberg plateau) may change Plateau National Park (a popular with the future tourist destination) development of the town of Okakarara
Traffic An increase in business and Lack of formal traffic Traffic congestion industrial activity will result in an assessment increase in traffic.
Nuisances Construction of services Serviced homes and Noise due to infrastructure and associated businesses will be increased people increase in traffic and noise will located near and vehicular be taking place in a construction sites. traffic and use of predominantly serviced urban machinery. area. Delay in municipal service provisions.
Archaeology Many informal/concealed burial Existence of Disturbance/desecration of sites may exist throughout the concealed/ heritage resources. town district. informal burial sites. Concealed human remains are protected by law (see Chapter 3).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 48
5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Public Consultation forms an important component of the Environmental Assessment process. It is defined in the EIA Regulations (2012), as a “process in which potential interested and affected parties are given an opportunity to comment on, or raise issues relevant to, specific matters” (S1). Section 21 of the Regulations details steps to be taken during a given public consultation process and these have been used in guiding our process.
Communication with stakeholders about this proposed development was facilitated through the following means:
The following is a list of key stakeholders that were identified for this project. Their contact details were added to a stakeholders list (Appendix G): o Representatives from various national government ministries (including Environment and Tourism, Land and Resettlement, MAWF, Health and Social Services and Works and Transport); o Representatives from the Regional and Constituency Councils; o Representatives from various state-owned enterprises (including NamPower, NamWater, Telecom, Namibia Training Authority and Roads Authority); o Representatives from the local Okakarara community (including local police, traditional authorities); and o Representatives from the private sector (including banks and potential investors) A Background Information Document (BID) was compiled that contained the information of the project (Appendix H). The BID was forwarded to all stakeholders. Notices were placed in the press, briefly explaining the development and its locality, inviting the public to register as stakeholders (Appendix I). Radio announcements were facilitated by the applicable constituency councillors, informing the public of the proposed project and inviting them to contact Enviro Dynamics for further information. All stakeholders were invited to attend one of two meetings – one held in Okakarara (5 March 2013) and the other held in Windhoek (6 March 2013).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 49
The meeting held in Okakarara, was well attended (Figure 13). A description of the project was presented and opportunity given for those present to give their comments and concerns. Those present actively engaged once the floor was open for discussion. Unfortunately the Windhoek meeting was only attended by representatives from the PPP and the project team (Enviro Dynamics and Stubenrauch Planning Consultants). The minutes for the Okakarara meeting can be viewed as (Appendix J).
Figure 13: Meeting held at the Town Council Hall in Okakarara
The following issues summary (Table 12) has been compiled based on the comments received throughout the public consultation process. These comments have been recorded in an Issues and Responses Trail (Appendix K). These issues as well as those identified in Chapter 4 are discussed in the following chapter.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 50
Table 12: Summary of issues raised during the public consultation process
SUMMARY OF ISSUES
THEME ISSUE
Economic Compensation for the loss of agricultural land. Relocation of livestock. Impact on homesteads due to resettlement. Lifestyle as farmers is very important. Low income people need to be accommodated properly. Job creation.
Health and Waste management concerns including both solid waste and sewage. Safety Potential air and water pollution due to development.
Infrastructure Cemetery has limited space for expansion due to proposed development. All Roads Authority (RA) proclaimed roads both in and outside urban areas including their road reserves (30m measured at right angles to the road centreline) are under the control of the RA. All proclaimed roads are building restriction roads and the restriction area extends 100m to either side, measured at right angles to the road centreline. Ecological Concerns regarding impacts on and conservation of natural vegetation.
Communication Clear communication needs to be promoted between relevant authorities and local community. Clarify nature of new property (free or to be paid for).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 51
6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
6.1 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The EIA Regulations require “a description of the significance of any significant effects, including cumulative effects, that may occur as a result of the undertaking of the activity”. In order to determine significance each of the potential impacts identified have been subjected to the following questions displayed graphically (steps 1 and 2 - Figure 14) and in tabular form (Table 13) below. These questions form the methodology for assessing the significance of the effects or impacts identified through this EIA process:
1. The first step is to screen out (set aside) all impacts which do not fall within the scope of this project and responsibility of the PPP;
2. The next step is to determine whether sufficient information exists to assess the potential impacts of those that remain. If insufficient information is available to assess (with a high degree of confidence) and recommend mitigation measures to address a given impact further investigation will be required. However, if sufficient information is available to assess (with a high degree of confidence) and recommend mitigation measures to address a given impact no further investigation will be required and the impact will be addressed in an EMP;
3. To fully understand the significance of each of the potential impacts, it is necessary to subject each to a range of assessment criteria. The application of these criteria, in determining the significance of potential impacts, uses a balanced combination of duration, extent, and intensity/magnitude, modified by probability, cumulative effects, and confidence. The definitions of each of the criteria are contained in Table 13; and
4. Finally based on the answers obtained after applying steps 1-3 a decision can be made regarding the significance of the impact based on three categories – low, medium or high (Table 14).
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 52
Does the issue fall within the scope of the project and the responsibility of the Public Private Partnership?
Figure 14: Screening process to determine key issues
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 53
Table 13: Definitions of each of the Criteria used to determine the significance of impacts
DESCRIPTION
Reviews the type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the relevant NATURE component of the environment and includes “what will be affected and how?”
Geographic area. Indicates whether the impact will be within a limited area (on EXTENT site where construction is to take place); local (limited to within 15km of the area); regional (limited to ~100km radius); national (limited to the coastline of Namibia); or international (extending beyond Namibia’s boarders).
Whether the impact will be temporary (during construction only), short term (1-5 DURATION years), medium term (5-10 years), long term (longer than 10 years, but will cease after operation) or permanent.
Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or innocuous INTENSITY and whether or not it exceeds set standards, and is described as none (no impact); low (where natural/ social environmental functions and processes are negligibly affected); medium (where the environment continues to function but in a noticeably modified manner); or high (where environmental functions and processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease and/or exceed legal standards/requirements).
Considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and is described as uncertain, PROBABILITY improbable (low likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), highly probable (most likely) or definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures).
Significance is given before and after mitigation. Low if the impact will not have SIGNIFICANCE an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in the project design, Medium if the impact could have an influence on the environment which will require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation (the route can be used, but with deviations or mitigation) High where it could have a “no-go” implication regardless of any possible mitigation (an alternative route should be used).
A statement of whether the impact is positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or STATUS OF THE IMPACT neutral. Indicate in each case who is likely to benefit and who is likely to bear the costs of each impact.
Is based on the availability of specialist knowledge and other information. DEGREE OF CONFIDENCE IN PREDICTIONS
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 54
Table 14: Definitions of the various significance ratings
SIGNIFICANCE RATING CRITERIA
Where the impact will have a negligible influence on the environment and no LOW modifications or mitigations are necessary for the given development description. This would be allocated to impacts of any severity/ magnitude, if at a local scale/ extent and of temporary duration/time.
Where the impact could have an influence on the environment, which will MEDIUM require modification of the development design and/or alternative mitigation. This would be allocated to impacts of moderate severity/magnitude, locally to regionally, and in the short term.
Where the impact could have a significant influence on the environment and, HIGH in the event of a negative impact the activity(ies) causing it, should not be permitted (i.e. there could be a ‘no-go’ implication for the development, regardless of any possible mitigation). This would be allocated to impacts of high magnitude, locally for longer than a month, and/or of high magnitude regionally and beyond.
6.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS
All impacts included in the Table 15 below fall within the scope of this project and responsibility of the PPP. By subjecting each of the potential impacts to the criteria stipulated above, it is possible to establish the significance of each. Impacts concerning water and air quality have been addressed in greater detail, in Appendices B and C respectively, owing to the nature of these environmental sensitivities.
A brief description of the mitigation measures is mentioned in Table 15 below but detailed descriptions of management actions are contained in the EMP (Appendix L).
Impacts with a “high” significance rating (which includes those requiring additional investigation) are discussed at the end of this section.
The process of assessing the significance of each of the possible impacts is contained in Table 15.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 55
Table 15: Impact assessment of the proposed project
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Increased dust Nuisances to Site Temporary Medium Probable Medium Low Regular dust Low generation neighbouring specific suppression residents
Groundwater Potentially viable Regional Temporary Medium Probable Medium Medium Implement stringent Low pollution groundwater waste source may be management polluted by measures construction activities
Pollution of Omatako River Regional Temporary Medium Probable Medium Medium Implement stringent Low Omatako River and may be polluted waste lower reaches of by construction management this river activities measures
Clearing of land Loss of mature Site Long-term Medium Highly High High Site layout Low may lead to and protected specific probable should be destruction of tree species due altered to protected to clearing of protect vegetation and loss land for significant of biodiversity. servitudes (road clusters of trees etc.) located along the south- eastern boundary of Portion B (Figure 10). Trees in the
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 56
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
areas adjacent to the roads to be constructed with a trunk width ≥150 mm should be avoided.
Job creation Temporary Local Temporary Medium Probable Medium Low Positive Appoint locals to do Medium creation of jobs the unskilled labour Positive during such as digging the construction trenches etc.
Potential increase The potential Local Long-term High Probable Medium High Recruit as Medium in the spread of increase in risky many HIV/AIDS. sexual behaviour construction associated with workers from non-local the local contract population. construction Implement labours may strict increase the movement local HIV/AIDS control infection rate. measures at the labour camp.
Loss of property The clearing of Site Permanent High Probable Medium Medium All livestock Low land for road specific need to be construction kept away from may lead to loss construction of property areas. (houses, Any affected
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 57
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
livestock). property needs to be accounted for and included in the resettlement and compensation plan.
Noise due to Noise Pollution Site Temporary Medium Probable Medium Low Construction and Low increased people, specific traffic be limited to traffic and use of normal working machinery hours.
Delay in municipal Disruption of Site Temporary Medium Probable Medium Medium Deviate route if Low service provisions services to specific crucial residents underground municipal service lines will collide with that of the trench dug.
Disturbance/desec Human remains Site Permanent Medium Probable Medium High The environmental Low ration of heritage may be specific health resources. disturbed during representative from services the Town Council infrastructure should oversee all construction excavation works done within the town boundary. The chance-find procedure laid out in the EMP should
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 58
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
be followed.
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Residential erven Residents in Local Long-term High Probable Low High (see Alternative Medium located downwind areas downwind Appendix siting of the area of the proposed C) downwind of earmarked for area for heavy Okakarara and heavy industrial industrial activity Portions A, B activity (e.g. a (e.g. a tannery) and C tannery) may be may be exposed Air quality exposed to to negative management exceedances of health impacts and emission health-based associated with control ambient air quality air pollution. initiatives guidelines should be included in each facility’s EMP and in the plant’s Standard Operating Procedures
Residential erven Residents in Local Long-term Minor Possible Low Low (see Include best Very low located downwind areas downwind Appendix available of the area of the proposed C) techniques in earmarked for area for both design proposed new industrial activity and sewage treatment and sewage management facility and agro- treatment facility and operation industrial activity may be exposed to minimise the may be exposed to to nuisance emission of air
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 59
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION odour nuisance impacts pollutants. impacts. associated with Construct air pollution. waste treatment facility to handle blood, bones, entrails etc.
Soil and Groundwater Local Long-term Medium Highly High Medium Only industries Low groundwater source and soil probable (see with organic/ contamination may be polluted Appendix B) biodegradable by future effluent may industrial be sited in activities Portion D Enforce strict waste management measures Regular maintenance and monitoring of sewage pipelines and leakages to detect and prevent water contamination.
Contamination of Omatako River Local Long-term Medium Highly High Medium Only industries Low surface/ runoff may be polluted probable (see with organic/ water by future agro- Appendix B) biodegradable industrial effluent may
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 60
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
activities be sited in Portion D Enforce strict waste management measures Divert uncontaminate d runoff Contaminated runoff should be captured and treated to sewage effluent standards.
Destruction of Likelihood of Local Permanent Medium Probable Medium High (see Determine Low property and flooding, with Appendix B) 1:100 year contamination of associated flood line water resources as destruction of Adjust layout so a result of flooding. property and as to ensure contamination that land of water sources, below 1:100 will increase with year flood line an increase in remains free of the rate of development. storm-water run- Implement off as result of sustainable hardening of urban drainage surfaces solutions like directing storm-
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 61
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
water to detention areas (swales) in the road reserve which contain grasses to remove contaminants.
Increased access Residents will be National Permanent High Definite High High positive Not necessary N/A to serviced erven provided with increased access to land and housing
Stimulation and Diversification of Local Long-term High Highly High High positive Not necessary N/A diversification of Okakarara’s probable economic activities economy will facilitated by provide serviced business increased and industrial erven access to wider variety of livelihood options
Job creation Jobs created as Regional Long-term High Probable Medium Medium Preference High positive facilitated by future a result of future positive regarding all future economic activity. economic recruitment should activity be given to locals facilitated by first. project
The sustainability of Some relocated Local Long-term Medium Probable Medium High Calculations need the ultra-low residents may to be carried out
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 62
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION income not be able to based on the data households’ afford the collected by development may monthly Veiinatobias to be compromised payments for determine what the and place strain on services. current affordability the Town council levels of the residents to be relocated. Services should be provided in line with this.
Conflict regarding Lack of Local Long-term High Probable Medium High A Resettlement and resettlement plan. participation in Compensation Plan decision making should be process and compiled. The plan transparency, should include at perceived least the following : injustice or unfair Those to be treatment, lack relocated need of ownership to be consulted could cause and the conflict implications of between town the terms of council and resettlement, residents including costs to be incurred clearly communicate Continuous and ongoing communicatio n should be
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 63
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
maintained between the town council and the residents to be relocated/reset tled and compensated up to the point of successful resettlement and compensation.
Mismanagement of Future Regional Permanent Medium Probable Medium Medium Employ Low future development qualified staff development. activities may be to perform tasks mismanaged required in owing to lack of vacant town institutional council capacity on the positions. part of the Town Finances should Council be managed prudently to ensure resources are available for projected development as well as operation and maintenance
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 64
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
costs Mitigation measures in EMP regarding new waste water treatment facility need to be adhered to.
Visual impacts Developments in Regional Permanent Medium Probable Medium Medium Guidelines should Low the town of be put in place to Okakarara may govern the visual become the and aesthetic focus in a specifications of landscape with both industrial and a different residential buildings character.
Traffic congestion Residents of Local Permanent Medium Probable Low Medium Advice of traffic Low Okakarara may engineer consulted experience (see Appendix F) traffic has been congestion incorporated where problems in possible. future Town Council to employ town engineer t.
Disturbance/desec Human remains Site Permanent Medium Probable Medium High The environmental Low ration of heritage may be specific health resources. disturbed during representative from extensive the Town Council
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 65
POTENTIAL STATUS/ EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT NATURE CONFIDENCE PRE- MITIGATION/ POST- MITIGATION ENHANCEMENT MITIGATION
trenching should oversee all associated with excavation works building done within the construction town boundary. The chance-find procedure laid out in the EMP should be followed.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 66
6.3 DISCUSSION
Having screened all potential impacts and having subjected those applicable to the criteria outlined in Table 13 the following points, regarding the impacts and their corresponding mitigation measures addressed in Table 15, need to be noted:
Destruction of protected vegetation and loss of biodiversity: The conditions within the project area are favourable for the growth of the Shepherd’s tree (a protected species) and this species abounds within the area. It is recognised that some trade-offs will need to be made when trying to balance ecological conservation with economic development and hence it is understandable that not all clusters of significant vegetation can be protected. The tree survey conducted identified a relatively large cluster of Shepherd’s trees along the south-eastern boundary of Portion B (see Figure 10). It was recommended that the planning layout should be adjusted to designate the majority (at least 75%) of this cluster to public open space to preserve these trees. The planning process has been running parallel to the EIA process and this recommendation has been incorporated into the planning layout. Potential increase in the local HIV/AIDS infection rate: This potential impact is of high significance owing to the destructive nature of the disease and the influx of people expected as a result of the new development in the town. However, mitigation measures can and will be put in place within the EMP (Appendix L) to ensure that any potential increase in risky sexual behaviour during the construction phase is minimised as far as possible. The disturbance of undiscovered graves: The unearthing of human remains is a sensitive issue. However, a chance find procedure should be outlined in the EMP and a responsible person should be appointed to ensure that any potential occurrences are dealt with in a responsible manner. Air quality impacts: The significance of the impact of potential heavy industrial activity on air quality is potentially high due to the expected emission rates, the nature of pollutants and the probability of exceedances of ambient guidelines occurring. However, the significance of this impact can be reduced to medium if the heavy industrial activities with inorganic/ non-biodegradable effluent streams (e.g. those similar to a tannery or manganese smelter) are moved at least 500 m south of proposed future residential development. This recommendation has been accepted and this provision has been included in the EMP. A waste treatment facility needs to be constructed to handle animal waste products like blood, bones, entrails etc., before any application for the carrying
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 67
out of a meat-works industrial activity (e.g. a piggery, abattoir etc.) is considered. Water quality impacts: Effluent streams need to be separated in order to ensure sustainability of industrial activity within Okakarara. Only activities with organic/ biodegradable effluent streams (e.g. agro-industrial activities) should be allowed within Portion D. Furthermore the proposed agro-industrial activities should not be sited south of the Omatako River, so as to prevent any potential transfer of effluent, with associated infrastructure damage and pollution risks, across the river. Unless the Town Council constructs its own chemical waste water treatment facility, activities with chemical-laden effluent streams should each treat their own effluent streams and ensure no interaction of such streams with ground or surface water. This adds support to the recommendation (in the paragraph above) to move all activities with inorganic/ non-biodegradable effluent streams to a location at least 500 m south of proposed future residential development. Currently no flood line study (neither for the 50 nor 100 year return period) has been conducted for the stretch of the Omatako River which runs through the Okakarara Townlands (particularly Portion D). It should be noted that industrial erven located adjacent to the Omatako River are thus potentially at risk of flooding. The Town Council should ensure that those to whom the erven in question are sold (if any) are informed of the potential flood risk. In addition the Town Council should include legally binding conditions as outlined in the EMP (see Appendix L) that ecologically sensitive engineering solutions (i.e. the use of buffer zones, increasing foundation heights of buildings near the river etc.) should be sought during the project design phase to safeguard property against potential flood risks. The river should not be canalised. Proposed new wastewater treatment facility and associated biogas power generator: Current sewage volumes are almost meeting the current capacity of the existing evaporation ponds and the proposed future residential and industrial expansion could well exceed this capacity. Hence, before the proposed townships receive Environmental Clearance from the DEA a new sewage treatment facility would need to be constructed to accommodate the future increase in sewage volumes from both future residential and industrial areas. Before any of the proposed agro-industrial activities commence the proposed biodigester, which it is envisaged will accommodate all the solid organic waste from these activities, needs to be constructed. In order to ensure the continued and efficient functioning of the biogas power generator (in the event that it is constructed), it is recommended that two separate biodigester units be constructed – the main biodigester for the effluent from the agro-industrial activities and a smaller unit for the residential effluent stream. The reason for this
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 68
is protect the main biodigester unit from any inorganic waste that may destroy the micro-organisms required to decompose the organic waste material. The resettlement and compensation plan: The resettlement of residents is a sensitive issue. There is currently insufficient evidence regarding the manner in which residents, identified for resettlement/relocation, were consulted (i.e. how they were contacted and invited to a consultation meeting; whether all those identified for resettlement were invited; what was presented at these consultations; what the responses of the attendees were etc.). This impact can however be addressed by compiling a Resettlement and Compensation Plan which should include as a minimum the following measures: o Those to be relocated need to be consulted and the implications of the terms of resettlement, including costs to be incurred, clearly communicate o Continuous and ongoing communication should be maintained between the town council and the residents to be resettled and compensated up to the point of successful resettlement and compensation This is essential to ensuring the sustainability of this project.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 69
7 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
The following negative impacts have been identified as those of high or medium significance. Mitigation measures have been devised and discussed above (Section 6) to address these so as to ensure a move toward more sustainable established townships. Those impacts with a less significant impact on the receiving environment will be addressed in the EMP (Appendix L). The next steps to be taken in terms of administrative and legal arrangements as well general planning preparations are as follows:
In an effort to streamline Environmental Assessment associated with future development activities within these 5 proposed townships, future development guidelines have been compiled as part of the EMP for these townships. This scoping report has identified and assessed the most significant impacts within these 5 townships at a strategic level and as such it is not necessary that all future development activities, within these townships should be subject to a scoping level assessment, or full EIA. Activities listed under the column “Permissible activities requiring approval for EMP from DEA” (e.g. premises for the storing or mixing of manure and abattoirs) within the “Development Guidelines” table within the EMP (Appendix L) should therefore only be subject to the following provisions of the EIA Regulations: o Section 8(j) which details the requirements for an EMP; o Section 18, which details the Environmental Commissioner’s decision; and o Sections 19 and 20, which detail provisions pertaining to the amendment and transfer of an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC). The activity specific EMPs, compiled for the aforementioned activities, should be submitted to the DEA for review and if deemed satisfactory receive an ECC for the particular activity. In addition the OTC should arrange that these EMPs are reviewed by DEA and issued with an Environmental Clearance Certificate valid for the regulated period of three years. The planning layout should be adjusted to designate the majority (at least 75%) of the cluster, located along the south-eastern boundary of Portion B (Figure 10) to public open space, so as to preserve these protected trees. This recommendation has carried out and the cluster in question has been incorporated into the current planning layout. The heavy industrial activities with inorganic/ non-biodegradable effluent streams (e.g. those similar to a tannery or manganese smelter) should be moved
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 70
at least 500 m south of proposed future residential development. This has been agreed upon and has been included as a requirement within the EMP. Currently no flood line study (neither for the 50 nor 100 year return period) has been conducted for the stretch of the Omatako River which runs through the Okakarara Townlands (particularly Portion D). The industrial erven located adjacent to the Omatako River are thus potentially at risk of flooding. The Town Council should ensure that those to whom the erven in question are sold (if any) are informed of the potential flood risk. In addition the Town Council should include legally binding conditions as outlined in the EMP (see Appendix L) that ecologically sensitive engineering solutions (i.e. the use of buffer zones, increasing foundation heights of buildings near the river etc.) should be sought during the project design phase to safeguard property against potential flood risks. The river should not be canalised. A new sewage treatment facility, including the associated biogas power generator, needs to be constructed to accommodate the future increase in sewage volumes and solid organic waste, respectively, from both future residential and industrial areas. In addition separate biodigester units should be constructed – the main biodigester for the effluent from the agro-industrial activities and a smaller unit for the residential effluent stream. A waste treatment facility needs to be constructed to handle animal waste products like blood, bones, entrails etc., before any application for the carrying out of a meat-works industrial activity (e.g. a piggery, abattoir etc.) is considered. The Okakarara Town Council needs to compile a Resettlement and Compensation Plan. Further consultations regarding the Resettlement and Compensation Plan need to take place before any resettlement takes place.
Regarding subsequent construction of services infrastructure and the eventual rolling out of forthcoming development activities:
Mitigation measures should be put in place within the EMP (Appendix L) to ensure that any potential increase in risky sexual behaviour, and associated increase in HIV/AIDS infection rates, during the construction phase is minimised as far as possible. A chance find procedure should be outlined in the EMP and a responsible person appointed to ensure that any potential unearthing of undiscovered graves is dealt with in a responsible manner. Effluent streams need to be separated in order to ensure sustainability of industrial activity within Okakarara. Only activities with organic/ biodegradable effluent streams (e.g. agro-industrial activities) should be allowed within Portion
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 71
D. Furthermore the proposed agro-industrial activities should not be sited south of the Omatako River, so as to prevent any potential transfer of effluent, with associated infrastructure damage and pollution risks, across the river. Unless the Town Council constructs its own chemical waste water treatment facility, activities with chemical-laden effluent streams should each treat their own effluent streams and ensure no interaction of such streams with ground or surface water.
It is concluded that most of the impacts identified during this Environmental Assessment can be addressed through the recommended mitigation and management actions for both the construction and operation and maintenance aspects of these Townships Establishment and development activities envisaged in future. Should the recommendations included in this report and the EMP be implemented the significance of the impacts can be reduced to reasonably acceptable standards and durations.
It is therefore recommended that these projects:
The Townships Establishment of 5 townships (Portions A-D and 6 – Extensions 3-6 and Ellis Park Eco Village) The construction of services infrastructure for the above mentioned townships receive Environmental Clearance, provided that the recommendations described above and the EMP are implemented.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014 72
8 REFERENCES
Africa, B., 2013. SASSCAL WeatherNet. [Online] Available at: http://www.biota-africa.org/weather/weatherstat_monthly_we.php [Accessed March 2013].
Christelis & Struckmeier , 2001. Groundwater in Namibia. 1st ed. Windhoek: John Meinert Printing.
Mendelsohn, J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. & Robertson, T., 2009. Atlas of Namibia. 3rd ed. Cape Town: Sunbird Publishers.
National Planning Commision, 2012. Namibia 2011 Population and Housing Census Preliminary Results, Windhoek: National Planning Commision.
NBC, 2012. 2012 Successful Year for the Okakarara Town Council, Windhoek: Nabia Broadcasting Corporation.
Smith, E., 2012. Okakarara Eco-Village Houses too expensive, Windhoek: Namibian Sun.
Steinmetz, G. & Hell, J., 2006. The Visual Archive of Colonialism: Germany and Namibia. Public Culture, 18(1), pp. 147-183.
Strohbach, B. J., Strohbach, M. & Kutuahuripa, M. H. D., 2004. A Reconnaissance Survey of the Landscapes, Soils and Vegetation of the Eastern Communal Areas (Otjiozondjupa and Omaheke Regions) Namibia, Windhoek: National Botanical Research Institute and Agro-Ecological Survey Programme.
Proposed Okakarara Townships Establishment Draft Scoping Report for Public Review August 2014