Of the Central Africa Backbone (CAB) Project – Gabon Component

Summary - Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) of the Central Africa Backbone (CAB) Project – Gabon Component

October 2019

1. Introduction

Gabon joined the CAB4 Gabon project in order to expand the geographical coverage and usage of high-bandwidth networks and to reduce the cost of communications services on its territory. In this regard, the Gabonese government has requested support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) in the form of supplementary financing to: (i) build 2185 km of priority fibre cable connections nationwide; and (ii) build a National Datacentre – CSIRT/SOC/PKI platform subdivided into two units, one in Franceville municipality (Haut Ogooué Province) and another in the Nkok Economic Zone (Ntoum municipality, Estuaire Province).

To curb the potential negative environmental and social impacts and outcomes of the project while optimizing its positive impacts and outcomes, it became necessary to conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). The objective of the ESIA was to prevent and judiciously manage any negative fallout from project implementation and to ensure compliance with Gabonese legislation and AfDB requirements.

This summary presents the key findings from the environmental and social impact assessment document prepared in August 2019.

Besides the introduction, it is divided into the following main sections: (i) project description; (ii) key environmental and social impacts, climate change-related risks and mitigation/enhancement measures and complementary initiatives; (iii) environmental and social monitoring programme; (iv) public consultations and dissemination of information; (v) institutional arrangements and capacity-building requirements; (vi) cost estimates; and (vii) implementation schedule and communication of information.

2. Project Description

2.1. Project Objectives

The project objective is to expand the geographical coverage and usage of high bandwidth networks and to reduce communication service costs within the national territory. The CAB - Gabon project is structured around two (2) components, namely: (i) Component A: Phase II of the Central Africa fibre-optic backbone (CAB - GABON); and (ii) Component B: National Datacentre and CSIRT/SOC/PKI Platform.

2.1.1. Component A: Phase II of the Central Africa Fibre-Optic Backbone (CAB - GABON)

Under this component, there are plans to deploy telecommunications infrastructure that is fully aligned with the Emerging Gabon Strategic Plan (PSGE). This will specifically entail installing and operating an optical fibre line (approximately 2000 km long) that also comprises active transmission equipment including energy, air-conditioning and environmental systems (Technical Centres).

2.1.1.1. Road Sections Concerned

The project scope covers the sections shown in the following table:

ID Starting point Midpoints End point Length (Km) 01 Ntoum Cocobeach 83 02 Yombi Junction Mandji and Ndougou Omboué 292 03 Omboué Port-Gentil 120 04 Mouila Mbadi Junction Ndendé 76 05 Mbadi Junction Moabi 63 06 Ndendé Tchibanga 88 07 Tchibanga Loubomo Junction Mayumba 109 08 Loubomo Junction Mougagara 50 09 Ndendé Doussala 48 10 Ndendé Lébamba 34 11 Lébamba M’bigou 85 12 M’bigou Mimongo 73 13 Mimongo Iboundji Junction Koulamoutou 167 14 Lastoursville Matsatsa Moanda 126 15 Okondja Bakwaka 132 16 Bakwaka Makokou 133 17 Makokou Ovan Koumameyong 147 18 Oyem Assock-medzang 37 19 Assok-Ngomo Junction Gabonville Minvoul 100 20 Minvoul Ebomane Junction Nkolmegoua 831 Junction 21 Minvoul Kom 20 22 Lalara Mevang Ndjolé 119 TOTAL (Km) 2185

Figure 1 : CAB-Gabon FO Cable Sections (Pre-site survey)

1 Section measured from Ebomane Junction 10 Km from Minvoul 3

2.1.1.2. Technical Centres

The technical centres are of different types. Their characteristics are described in the following table.

Type 1 TC – Concrete buildings

• Control room (Franceville) • Redundant air-conditioning • Energy system and batteries • Backup generator • Factor for batteries and air-conditioning: 1.25 • Spare parts storage • Allow space for the optical distribution frame (ODF) • Allow outdoor space for generator, pylon or future extension of the building • Allow space for transmission equipment cabinets - initial capacity and future capacity • Allow space for office, toilet, guard; • Allow space for co-location of operators. • Dimension 10mx10m = 100 m 2 Type 2 TC– Concrete buildings

• RAG connection to POP, via existing or future link to be determined • Redundant air-conditioning • Energy system and batteries • Backup generator • Factor for batteries and air-conditioning: 1.25 • No control room • No spare parts storage • Allow space for optical distribution frame (ODF) • Allow outdoor space for genset, pylon or future extension of the building • Allow space for transmission equipment cabinets - initial capacity and future capacity • Allow space for office, toilet, guard; • Allow space for co-location of operators. • Dimension 6mx6m = 50 m 2 Type 3 TC– Concrete buildings or Shelters

• Physical loop redundancy when possible or by derivation • Co-locate POP/TC • Redundant air-conditioning • Energy system and batteries • Backup generator • Factor for batteries and air-conditioning: 1.25 • No control room • No spare parts storage • Allow space for optical distribution frame (ODF) • Allow outdoor space for genset, pylon or future extension of the building • Allow space for transmission equipment cabinets - initial capacity and future capacity • Allow space for toilet, guard; • Allow space for co-location of operators. • Size 6mx6m = 36 m 2 Type 4 TC - Shelters (containers)

• Co-locate POP/TC • Redundant air-conditioning • Energy system and batteries • Backup generator • Factor for batteries & air-conditioning: 1.25

• No control room • No spare parts storage • Allow space for optical distribution frame (ODF) • Allow outdoor space for generator, pylon or future extension of the building • Allow space for transmission equipment cabinets - initial capacity and future capacity • Allow space for toilet, guard; • Allow space for co-location of operators. • Size 6mx6m = 36 m 2

2.1.1.3. Network Construction Methods

There are three main methods for building the civil engineering structures. The project, in conjunction with the technical services of ANINF, will determine the type of works and the method to be used and these will be specified in the works contract.

Manual Method

This method entails deploying teams of several hundred people to dig the trenches with shovels and picks. Although it has the advantage of employing local labour, it also has a number of drawbacks, namely:

• slow progress of works: a few hundred metres a day;

• difficulty obtaining the requisite breadth and depth (for better protection of the fibre-optic cable); and

• difficulties digging the trench in areas with hard soil.

Manual digging is slightly more cost-effective in countries where cheap labour is abundant. This is not the case in Gabon.

Mechanized Installation

This entails using excavators or backhoe loaders to lay conduits or a cable deep in the ground. It has many advantages, namely:

• faster installation;

• the possibility of digging a trench 1.10 metres deep, thus making it possible to bury the conduit approximately 1 metre below the surface; and

• a flat trench floor, which contributes to better quality work with very straight ducts (no minor undulations due to uneven trench floors) and hence better laying of the cable (longer sections, fewer splice boxes and consequently better performance).

Conventional Mechanized Installation

Excavators are used regardless of route relief. However, tree felling and brush clearing may be required prior to digging the trench.

It may be necessary to use a bulldozer in building a platform so as to have a flat surface, thus reducing trench floor undulations.

Laying of Fibre-Optic Cables at Watercourse Crossings

The fibre-optic cable will be passed through the conduits provided on each bridge.

To reduce any potentially negative impacts, the works will be executed, alternatively using any one of the three methods described. Specifically: (i) the manual method will be used systematically in towns and villages; and (ii) the mechanized and conventional mechanical methods will be used in the open country.

2.1.2. Component B: National Datacentre / CSIRT/SOC/PKI Platform

Under this component, the project intends to establish two datacentres in the Ntoum and Franceville municipalities. These will be buildings housing a number of digital systems (data computation, storage, and transfer equipment). The datacentres will be equipped with cooling and heat recovery systems as well as backup equipment: batteries, UPS and generators. They may host different technologies depending on the application needs; for instance, calculation servers for high-performance computing centres, storage arrays for datacentres or network equipment for telecom operator centres (like meet-me-rooms where all telecom operators connect). These datacentres will comprise the following four main elements: (i) an HQ power supply system, (ii) IT equipment, (iii) power backups, and (iv) a cooling system.

(i) HQ Power Supply System

This system comprises generators, inverters and equipment enabling the power grid to supply energy to the datacentre without causing any harm to the equipment. This system must therefore ensure a steady and uninterruptible supply of energy.

(ii) IT Equipment

A rack is a metal cabinet with standard dimensions, generally consisting of a space of 19'' (48.26 cm) for holding computer equipment (servers, storage arrays, network equipment ...).

(iii) Backup Power Supply System

This is a secondary network that supplies power in case of main grid failure. It is a must-have for the datacentre and should be capable of running 24/7.

(iv) Cooling System

A datacentre generates much heat and must be cooled to maintain an ideal operating temperature. Usually, it is considered that 1 IT kW = 1 kW of heat to be treated. In datacentre design, computer rooms are built on a raised technical platform to ensure, inter alia, the efficient circulation of hot and cold flows.

3. Legal and Institutional Framework

3.1. Legal Framework

The most relevant national instruments applicable to the CAB-Gabon project are:

• Law 007/2014 relating to environmental protection;

• Decree No. 53/PR/MEFEPEPN of 15 July 2005 governing environmental impact assessments;

• Decree No. 541/PR/MEFEPEPN of 15 July 2005 governing waste disposal;

• Decree No. 542/PR/MEFEPEPN of 15 July 2005 governing the discharge of certain products into surface water, groundwater and marine waters;

• Law No. 3/94 of 21 November 1994 relating to the Labour Code, as amended by Law No. 12/2000 of 12 October 2000;

• Law No. 0016101: Forestry Code of the Gabonese Republic;

• Law No. 015/2005: Code of Fisheries and Aquaculture;

• Law No. 3/94 of 21 November 1994: Labour Code, as amended by Law No. 12/2000 of 12 October 2000;

• Law No. 2/94 relating to the Protection of Cultural Property;

• Order No. 00198/MRS/E/PN/CENAP of 28 June 1979 determining the acceptable values of the elements to be considered in the assessment of wastewater pollution.

3.2. Institutional Framework

The environmental and social management of CAB-Gabon will mainly involve the following stakeholders

Strategic level Operational level Areas of involvement • ANINF • Supervision of implementation • Management of fiduciary and administrative aspects CAB Gabon Steering • Transmission of report to the African Development Bank Committee • Planning and coordination of project implementation • Environmental and social monitoring of works • Environmental and social supervision of works Ministry of Forestry and • Directorate General for • Validation of the ESIA Report, inspection and verification of Environment in charge of the Environment and Nature statutory compliance Climate Plan Protection (DGEPN) • Monitoring of environmental and social management • Transmission of monitoring report to ANINF • Authorizations for felling of trees at project sites and monitoring • Municipal Council Municipalities • Local technical services • Local development planning and management Government Departments • Quarter heads • Urban infrastructure maintenance and management concerned • Village Chiefs • Community information and sensitization • Village group heads • Canton Chiefs

In accordance with the African Development Bank Group procedures for environmental and social impact assessments, the project requires the development and implementation of an ESMP. Operational Safeguards 1, 2, 4, and 5 are triggered under this project.

4. Description of Baseline Environmental and Social Conditions

4.1. Project Area

Extended Project Area: It covers all provinces/communities directly affected by the socioeconomic fallout and environmental impacts of the project. The geographical scope of the indirect project area will initially include all villages bordering the fibre-optic cable corridor, followed by the provinces traversed by the project and subsequently the entire territory of Gabon.

Restricted Study Area or Project Right-of-Way: It covers a five-metre strip within which the project will be executed (the cable trench will have a maximum breadth of 50 cm). It lies within the right-of-way of the target road sections. This zone is directly impacted by construction works. From the ecological standpoint, various forms of land-use types (fields, plantations and fallows), relict plants, and watercourses within the right-of-way will be affected.

4.2. Physical Environment

The biophysical characteristics of the immediate project area environment are summarized in the following table:

Environmental Immediate Project Area Characteristics Component Gabon’s nine provinces have an equatorial climate. There are two (2) rainy seasons and two (2) dry seasons that alternate with each other. The average rainfall varies between Climate 1600 and 2100 mm per year. The nine provinces have a southern-type equatorial climate, hot and humid with a long rainy season (September to May) and a long dry season (June

Environmental Immediate Project Area Characteristics Component to August). Rainfall in the rainy seasons reaches 1,750 mm in the West, but gradually declines towards the East which is less hot and less humid. The temperature varies between 23°C and 30°C. The exceptional rainfall in this area could be a constraint to the project. The average altitude of the main urban centres traversed by the optical fibre route is around 600 metres. However, the plateau sinks to the south of the Woleu-Ntem Province, towards Relief the Ogooué valley and in Lalara where the altitude is merely 287 metres. The area has very rugged terrain (often very steep slopes) which can exacerbate the risk of erosion and gullying.

The Crystal Mountains and plateaux of the North-East that form part of the topography of Geology the right-of-way are of Precambrian formation. From a geological viewpoint, no tectonic risk has been identified. However, landslide risks have been identified on some sections.

The hydrographic network of the project route has numerous rivers. The optical fibre route currently consists of many water control structures in the form of concrete pipes and box culverts that cross natural watercourses or drain water from longitudinal gutters. The main Hydrography crossing facilities listed are located at watercourses. Only the crossing of smaller watercourses with their associated hydraulic structures (pipe and box culverts) may be a constraint to the project.

Protected areas No protected areas are affected within the direct project area. Flora and The fibre-optic cable right-of-way which lies within that of the route is occupied by vegetation herbaceous plants and some ferns that generally grow on the edges of the road shoulders. The proximity of rivers and wetlands accounts for the massive presence of oxytenanthera abyssinica (China bamboo) in the bamboo plantations. The following vegetation types are present in the area: grass savannah dominated by hypparrhenia diplandra; degraded secondary forests dominated by aucoumeaklaineana, musangacercropioides (umbrella tree), alchorneacordifolia, aframomumgiganteum, piptadeniastrum africanum (Dabémaà), albizia adianthifolia (Senna); fruit trees: oil palm, mango, African plum, avocado, papaya. The marshlands are also dominated by Cytosperma senegalensis and Nymphea lotus. No plant species found on the route is considered rare or threatened. There has been no recorded sensitivity of these plant species to the project is recorded. However, wetlands of heritage value (bamboo plantations) are found on roadsides in some places and measures will be taken to preserve them.

Wildlife The presence of the road, settlements and road maintenance works has forced most mammals into the forest. The species most frequently found within the right-of-way are those that can survive in anthropized environments. No sensitivity to the project is recorded.

The socioeconomic characteristics of the project area are summarized below. Components of the Characteristics of the Immediate Project Area Environment Nearly 774 villages with a total population of at least 173,574 inhabitants are Population/ human located within the immediate project area (along the roads). The section establishments targeted by the project lies within an area with low population density. No homes are located directly on the project route.

Components of the Characteristics of the Immediate Project Area Environment Outside the various towns, the population is entirely rural and engaged mainly in subsistence farming, subsistence artisanal fishing, hunting and Economic activities petty trading. There is much activity within the towns. The fibre-optic cable route will be reviewed as necessary to reduce its impact on property and other resources (fruit trees, plants etc.). There are no indigenous communities or archaeological sites within the immediate project area. However, some graves are located along the route. Cultural heritage The fibre-optic cable route will be reviewed as necessary to avoid any impact on graves.

5. Key Environmental and Social Impacts, Risks related to Climatic Change and Mitigation Measures

5.1. Negative Project Impacts during the Preparation and Construction Phases

Identification of Negative Impact Sources

The works will be executed in the field through the implementation of a number of actions (layout of the worksite and construction works). The key sources of potential negative impacts during the construction phase are:

o Vacation of the right-of-way (clearing to lay out the construction site, removal/demolition of facilities located within the direct right-of-way of the FO cable trench);

o Site layout (installation of equipment, materials and machinery, maintenance and servicing facilities, etc.);

o Presence of machinery (mainly excavators, trucks, mixers, etc.);

o Stripping, excavation and compaction works;

o Presence of the workforce (potential conflicts, risk of STIs/HIV/AIDS);

o Highway works (traffic disruption, loss of property, risk of accidents);

o Works in sensitive areas (disturbance of gravesites, proximity of work zones);

o Construction and/or rehabilitation works on the Technical Centres;

o Movement of vehicles and construction machinery;

o Trench excavation; and

o Backfilling of excavated areas.

5.1.1. Impact on Air Quality: Air Pollution

Analysis of the Problem: The construction works could raise dust through excavation and project vehicle and machinery movements, thus contributing to air pollution. Those most at- risk are construction workers and communities resident along the fibre-optic route.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Information and awareness-raising for the local communities; (ii) Mandatory wearing of dust masks by personnel for their protection; and (iii) Regular machinery maintenance following a clearly-defined schedule.

5.1.2. Impact on Water Resources

Impact on watercourses, rivers and drinking water points may be measured in terms of watercourse regime disturbance and water quality degradation.

Watercourse Disturbance

The project area has a very dense hydrographic network. During the works, the crossing of watercourses, swamps and other wetlands may sometimes require the temporary alteration or obstruction of these watercourses, with the result that their flow rate would be disrupted. However, it has emerged from interviews with ANINF authorities that the fibre-optic route will follow the road alignment, thereby avoiding watercourse flow-rate disruption if the fibre laying is done through notching on road bridges and other crossing structures. Additionally, if the works are carried out during the wet season, runoff could deposit excavated material in nearby watercourses.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Avoid depositing excavated material on watercourse beds; (ii) restore the natural water flow rate after works completion; and (iii) avoid depositing excavated material in drainage ditches or other runoff flow paths.

5.1.3. Impact on Soils (Component A only)

Soil Erosion (Soil Structure Modification)

Excavation, soil deposition and backfilling of the trenches could, sometimes, lead to soil structure disruption within the right-of-way. Clearing of the vegetation prior to excavation exposes the soil to erosion, thus increasing its vulnerability to leaching. The result is downstream sedimentation and siltation of rivers, or increased turbidity of their waters.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Excavate, install the ducts immediately and cover the trenches as soon as possible if the work is being done in the rainy season; (ii) conduct surveys and a geotechnical study in areas where outcrops have been noted; (iii) thoroughly tamp the earth during trench backfilling for greater stability; (iv) protect erosion zones (stone bunds, masonry embankments or revegetation) in steep-slope areas; (v) prefer manual (rather than mechanized) excavation in erosion areas; (vi) choose machinery and vehicles adapted to the terrain at project commencement; and (vii) institute a waste management plan.

5.1.4. Negative Impacts on Vegetation and Wildlife

Flora Destruction and Biodiversity Loss

The project traverses several ecosystem types with highly varied characteristics. In the forest zone, clearing the right-of-way for trenching will destroy the surrounding flora. However, this impact will be limited to the project's right-of-way and only some herbaceous plants and a few rare tall trees and bamboos found along the roads will be cleared. In contrast, the forest ecosystem could be destroyed during the demarcation of worksites and construction of workers’ camps along the route. The project does not traverse any protected area.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Limit clearing to the absolute minimum required; (ii) stick to the agreed right-of-way for the works; (iii) prohibit the felling of trees (lumber, firewood) and fires on worksites; (iv) prohibit the installation of workers’ camps in wooded areas; (v) contact forestry services if trees need to be felled (comply with forestry regulations); (vi) carry out compensatory reforestation; and (vii) prohibit poaching by project workers.

5.1.5. Negative Impacts on Properties and Socioeconomic Activities

Loss of Property and Socioeconomic Income Sources

In urban areas, the project could result in the destruction of private property (access ramps to homes, fences, etc.) and the disruption of economic activities within the right-of-way. A Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) has been prepared to address such loss of assets and sources of income.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Adopt options that reduce losses (manual work, deviations, trench widths, etc.); (ii) compensate all project-affected persons as per the RAP provisions; (iii) inform and sensitize the local communities; (iv) involve the local communities and administrative authorities; and (v) recruit the local workforce as a priority.

5.1.6. Impact on Public Health and Workers’ Health

STI and HIV/AIDS Infections

Risky sexual behaviour between project staff and women from the project area or from elsewhere may lead to STI and HIV infections if adequate measures are not taken. It could also lead to unwanted pregnancies.

Occupational Risks of Optical Fibre

Furthermore, during the handling of optical fibre, frequent and prolonged inhalation of these fibres by workers causes pulmonary diseases (fibrosis, cancer) as well as skin and respiratory allergies that vary in occurrence and severity depending on their physical and chemical characteristics. There are numerous types of fibre. The replacement of asbestos fibres (which have been proven to be carcinogenic) with artificial mineral fibres does not mean that there is zero risk. For instance, the handling of refractory ceramic fibres requires preventive measures similar to those applicable to asbestos.

Workers exposed to optical fibre risks are either those who produce the fibre, or the many more who use it (insulators, plasterers, roofers ...) or are exposed to it during maintenance or servicing activities (mechanics, heating engineers ...), without much awareness.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Sensitize workers and the local communities to STIs and HIV/AIDS; (ii) distribute condoms to workers; and (iii) wear suitable personal protective equipment (appropriate gloves, protective clothing, dust mask) in case of significant residual exposure.

5.1.7. Impact on Personal Safety

Accidents and Miscellaneous Risks

During the works, risks of accident or a fall may occur involving construction machinery, authorized or unauthorized persons on the site, project vehicles, the local population or animals. In most cases, these risks occur when safety measures are not observed.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Display on-site safety instructions; (ii) limit machinery speed; (iii) wear PPE (gloves, safety shoes); (iv) set up beacons and signs on the various sites; and (v) mark trenches and backfill them.

Impact on Free Movement of Goods and Persons

Disruption of the Movement of Goods and Persons

The movement of vehicles and pedestrians could temporarily be disrupted where the project line cuts across major towns. On the entire project section, the presence of construction machinery (trench excavators, etc.) will hinder traffic and mobility in general.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Demarcate the worksites; (ii) inform the population about the start of works and the areas concerned; (iii) observe the lead time for works; (iv) restrict the works to the agreed right-of-way ; (v) opt for manual rather than mechanized excavation; and (vi) rehabilitate/build access ramps to nearby dwellings.

5.1.8. Impact on Agricultural Activities (Component A only)

Degradation of Agricultural and Pastoral Land

The works will encroach on agricultural land along the project route. However, if the 10-metre right-of-way is maintained and if the machinery operators are well trained and monitored, there will be no encroachments into the target sections. In the event of impact on farm plots, the project shall pay compensations in accordance with the provisions of the RAP whose preparation is strongly recommended.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Compensate affected persons as per the arrangements to be pre-determined in the RAP; (ii) conduct awareness-raising for machinery operators and the local population; and (iii) rehabilitate and reforest worksites after completion.

5.1.9. Impact on Cultural Heritage (Component A only)

Degradation of Cultural Sites and Graves

No archaeological sites or cultural remains have been identified along the route. Investigations conducted in the various project localities confirm this observation. However, graves are found along some road sections. During the works, special care must be taken to avoid any conflicts. However, in case of chance discoveries of cultural relics, the work must be stopped and the competent administrative authority contacted for guidance.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Inform and educate workers on respect for local customs and practices; (ii) opt for manual excavation near grave sites; and (iii) stop work, circumscribe the area and notify the authorities in case of discovery.

5.1.11. Impacts on the Living Environments of Communities

Pollution and Nuisances to the Living Environment of Local Communities

During the works, uncontrolled dumping of construction waste (excavated earth, various residues, etc.) could degrade the immediate environment of the project site, particularly where the project line cuts across towns and villages.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Ensure proper waste management (collection, removal and disposal); and (ii) inform and sensitize staff and the local population.

5.1.12. Negative Impacts of SEEG Drinking Water Networks and Urban Road Network (Component A only)

SEEG Network Displacement and Roadway Demolition

Drinking water and electricity distribution networks were identified within the project right-of- way. Displacement of these utility networks could disrupt the drinking water supply system of local residents. Electric pole displacements are likely. During the works, roads will be demolished to reduce the loss of private property and income sources on the right-of-way.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Conduct drilling with SEEG to detect underground networks; (ii) sensitize the local communities; (iii) provide water tanks in the event of water network failure; and (iv) repair degraded roads and notify the services concerned.

5.1.13. Negative Impacts on Local Labour

Social Conflicts Between the Local Population and Project Workers

The arrival and residence of non-local labour within a locality could spark conflict with locals. As far as possible, the project should take measures to avoid this situation and particularly to avoid acts of vandalism on the site.

Mitigation/Improvement Measures: (i) Recruit primarily local labour for trenching; (ii) establish a conflict prevention and management mechanism; and (iii) inform and sensitize the local population.

5.2. Potential Negative Impacts during the Commissioning Phase

Identification of Impact Sources

During the commissioning phase, impact sources exclusively relate to operation and maintenance, monitoring and repair of the optical fibre and technical centres and concern momentary disruption of the living environment and nearby activities; etc. The risk of fibre breakage and theft or vandalism are also noteworthy.

5.2.1. Impact of the Operation of Technical Centres

Technical Centre Nuisances

The only major impact that could occur during the operation phase in the technical centres relates to the presence of generators. Their operation could significantly disturb the living environment of communities (excessive noise pollution), as well as fire risks associated with the storage and constant handling of diesel fuel.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: Installation of generators powered by renewable energy (solar), with a connection to a backup generator that turns on only in case of solar power system failure.

5.2.2. Impact on the Health and Safety of Workers and the Population

Disturbance of the Living Environment of the Local Population by the Works

During the works, uncontrolled waste disposal (deforestation, demolition and excavation waste) could degrade the living environment in various project towns and villages. The work will cause inconveniences in terms of pollution and nuisance (noise) or even accidents.

Furthermore, maintenance works will create health risks for maintenance staff, resulting from hazardous materials and waste, electric and magnetic fields, gas emissions and noise.

Hazardous Materials and Waste: Generally telecommunications operations do not require the use of substantial quantities of hazardous materials. However, the use of certain types of switching and transmission equipment may require the installation of backup power systems composed of (usually lead) batteries and a diesel generator. Operations and maintenance activities may also generate electronic waste (e.g. nickel-cadmium batteries, printed circuit boards from computers and other electronic equipment, and backup batteries). The use of backup generators and service vehicles can also result in the accumulation of used tires, oils and filters. Transformers may also contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) while cooling equipment may contain refrigerants.

Electromagnetic Fields: These are an invisible force emitted by and surrounding any electrical device. Despite the concerns harboured by the public and scientists about the potential adverse health effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields, there is no empirical evidence to justify the existence of such effects arising from exposure to electromagnetic fields normally generated by power transmission lines and equipment. Nonetheless, although the evidence is inconclusive, it is sufficient to warrant some concern.

Gas Emissions: Telecommunication project emissions mainly come from the operation of vehicles and the use of backup generators, cooling systems and firefighting equipment.

Noise Pollution: Backup generators are the main source of noise from telecommunications facilities.

Mitigation/Enhancement Measures: (i) Ensure proper waste management (collection, removal and disposal); (ii) inform and sensitize workers and the local population; and (iii) wear appropriate personal protective equipment (appropriate gloves, protective clothing, dust mask) in case of significant residual exposure.

Summary of Potential Negative Impacts During the Construction and Operation Phase

The significant negative environmental and social impacts summarized below will require the implementation of mitigation measures:

Environmental component Potential negative impacts

Preparatory and works phases Air pollution by particles and dust during works Biophysical environment Soil erosion Deforestation in rural areas Disturbance of watercourses Loss of property (frontage of nearby homes, fruit trees, plants) Disturbance, relocation of drinking water and electricity systems and roads Disruption of the mobility of goods and persons in project towns Human environment and Pollution of the living environment of the local communities (waste, socioeconomic activities noise) Conflicts between the local population and project staff Risk of accidents in workers’ camps and during construction Risks of degradation of graves along the roads Operation phase Biophysical environment Risk of erosion Pollution and nuisance during maintenance Human and socio-economic Risk of fibre breakage environment Risk of vandalism

5.3. Positive Environmental and Social Impacts of the Project

A general description of the major positive impacts of the project is presented below. These positive impacts need to be reinforced or "enhanced", particularly through local development measures, to ensure greater project ownership by local communities. Rehabilitation measures are proposed in the ESMP.

5.3.1. Positive Impacts during the Preparatory and Construction Phases

• Contribution to Job Creation

The digging and backfilling of trenches as well as the excavation and construction of interconnection chambers are essentially manual operations carried out in villages and towns. This is a temporary employment opportunity and thus a source of income for local youth during the works.

• Development of Women's Activities

The presence of project workers will stimulate some women-run activities such as catering and the selling of foodstuff and basic necessities. These activities will boost women's incomes thus helping to improve living conditions for them and their families.

• Ownership and Social Acceptance of the Project

The awareness-raising and information campaigns targeting local stakeholders, particularly the administrative authorities and the local population, will improve knowledge on the activities undertaken by these stakeholders. This will guarantee the proper execution of the project by preventing conflicts and administrative bottlenecks that could significantly slow down its implementation.

• Improvement of Local Expertise

The staff that will be mobilized during the works will receive training on fibre-optic laying techniques. This improved local expertise can be leveraged locally and in other territories.

5.3.2. Positive Impacts during the Operational Phase

The potential key positive impacts of the project are summarized in the following table.

Phase Positive impacts • Probable employment for the local population and SMEs during the works Construction • Intensification of economic and commercial activities around the site • Cost reduction due to access to information and communication technologies (ICT) • Services accessible to the general public and bridging of the digital divide • Improved access to internet services • Improvement of access equipment • Increased democratization of access to internet services

Operation • Creation of ICT-related jobs • Development of ICT services nationwide • Internet access for schools through the establishment of multimedia centres • Institution of digital administration in the civil service (simplification of administrative procedures for locals and companies as well as interconnection of public services) • Internet access for higher education, research, health and other sectors.

5.3. Residual Impacts Residual impacts are those resulting from the application of mitigation measures at the end of the project. They are all considered to be positive. 5.4. Accident Risk and Emergency Prevention Measures 5.4.1. Construction Phase Risks Accident Risks due to Movement of Construction Machinery and Equipment During construction, there will be accident risks due to the movement/displacement of construction machinery/equipment and the presence of poorly-protected or ill-used construction

17 material. There is also the risk of falling for all authorized and unauthorized persons on the worksite, especially in narrow and traffic-congested areas. Accident risks could also arise during transportation of building materials. Noise Pollution Risk This is risk resulting from exposure to highly noisy environments that could lead to irreversible hearing loss and health disorders (memory loss, fatigue ...). Manual Handling Risks

This is the risk of injury and, under certain conditions, occupational disease resulting from physical exertion, bruising, shocks, repetitive gestures and bad posture.

Risk of Accidents Resulting from a Fall or Collapse (people and objects)

This risk arises from worksite installations, working floors (particularly during bridge rehabilitation works), footbridges, scaffolding, etc. It is a risk of injury from falling objects kept in material storage, or the collapse of excavation walls, the breaking of a rope/support belt, etc.

Risk of Accidents Related to the Movement of Construction Machinery

Operation of the construction site, which is mainly composed of heavy machinery, comes with a risk of accidents, especially for workers and locals. It is a risk of injury resulting from a traffic accident within or outside the worksites.

Measures to prevent and mitigate these risks have been proposed in the ESMP, including collective and individual protection.

5.4.2. Risks during Fibre and Datacentre Operation Phase

Risk of Fibre-optic Cable Breakage

The risk of fibre breakage is attributable to the space occupancy system of local communities, which tend to occupy and build in the immediate vicinity of the road, right within the safety strip between the road and the building line. Yet, it is within this strip that the fibre will essentially be laid and if appropriate steps are not taken the local population could accidentally damage the optical fibre in the course of building their houses.

Risk of Theft and Vandalism

Acts of theft and vandalism may occur during deployment of the fibre-optic cable, in cases where local communities are neither involved in nor informed of and sensitized to the project or if they are not aware of the utility of the facilities. This risk could arise during the construction and commissioning of the facilities.

Soil Erosion Risk and Impact on the Fibre

The originally stable right-of-way of the fibre will eventually be eroded following removal of its vegetation cover. Accordingly, the bare soil will be exposed to erosion, resulting in topsoil

18 loss caused by rainy season runoff. This impact is much greater on erosion-sensitive areas such as slopes, valleys and depressions.

Soil Erosion Risks and Impact on the Data Centre

The originally stable data centre right-of-way will eventually be eroded following removal of its vegetation cover. Accordingly, the bare soil will be exposed to erosion, resulting in topsoil loss caused by rainy season runoff. This impact is much greater in erosion-sensitive areas such as slopes, valleys and depressions.

5.5. Climate Change The main climatic risks that could affect the project are: (i) water erosion due to increased rainfall; and (ii) wide temperature fluctuations. The adaptation option for the first risk is the adoption of a trench depth that is adapted to all the roads (generally exceeding one metre). Concerning the optical fibre used, the requirements are the same in physical and mechanical terms (insensitivity to various chemical and mechanical agents, mould resistance, temperature differentials, etc.). The second risk associated with fibre deterioration calls for, inter alia, the choice to use HDPE (rather than standard PVC) pipes on all routes in view of their better chemical-mechanical properties (non-corrosive; resistant to shock, creep, fissuring and abrasion, ductile, etc.) thus ensuring greater durability of the installed connections.

6. Environmental and Social Monitoring Programme

6.1. Monitoring

Environmental monitoring will serve to verify in the field, the accuracy of the assessment of certain impacts and the effectiveness of certain mitigation or compensation measures provided for by the ESIA, for which there is lingering uncertainty. The knowledge acquired through environmental monitoring will serve to correct the mitigation measures and possibly to revise certain environmental management measures taken by the promoter.

The "internal" monitoring of implementation will be the responsibility of the Project (which will appoint an expert to carry out the environmental and social function, but who will be supported by a consultant recruited by the project for the preparation and construction phase). The technical services of local councils will also have to participate in internal monitoring. The "external" monitoring of implementation (or environmental and social inspection) will be the responsibility of the DGEPN, which will ensure the regulatory compliance of implementation.

6.2. Environmental and Social Surveillance

It aims to ensure that the contractor fulfils its environmental protection commitments and obligations throughout the project and that the mitigation and enhancement measures are effectively implemented during the works. Furthermore, environmental surveillance is intended to curb inconveniences to natural and socioeconomic environments. Environmental and social surveillance will have to be conducted by the Control Mission (CM).

6.3. Supervision-Evaluation

Supervision is carried out by the ANINF Socio-Environmental Specialist and also by the AfDB Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialists as part of their supervision missions.

Evaluation is conducted by an independent consultant at the end of the works.

6.3. Reporting Arrangements

• Monthly or detailed periodic reports on ESMP implementation produced by the environmentalists of the works contractor;

• Periodic (monthly) ESIA implementation monitoring reports to be produced by the CM;

• Monthly implementation monitoring reports produced by the Project;

• Quarterly reports from DGEPN on project compliance;

• Semi-annual (or detailed) ESMP implementation monitoring reports produced by ANINF and transmitted to the AfDB.

6.5. Environmental and Social Monitoring Indicators

Indicators are parameters whose use provides quantitative or qualitative information on the environmental and social impacts and benefits of project activities. Monitoring of all biophysical and socioeconomic parameters is essential. However, to streamline the mechanism and prevent it from becoming a constraint on the project’s timeline, monitoring of the following key elements is suggested:

Environmental and Social Surveillance and Monitoring Framework

This table shows the monitoring indicators for each environmental and social component.

Monitoring Responsibility and period Indicators Means of verification element Surveillance Monitoring Project Number of persons Control sensitized Mission DGEPN/ANINF Air Number of workers wearing (PCM) PPE (during Visual inspection works) during field visits, Presence of solid and liquid surveys and mission waste from works executed PCM DGEPN/ANINF reports Water within bodies of water. (during

Turbidity of water bodies due works)

to erosion

Number of gullies and soil erosion points DGEPN/ANINF Presence of solid waste PCM Soils (materials) and liquid waste (during works)

(waste oil) from construction sites

Monitoring Responsibility and period Indicators Means of verification element Surveillance Monitoring Area deforested during works Area reforested post-project Vegetation/ Number of seizures of PCM DGEPN/ANINF wildlife poaching and illegal logging (during works) products Number of people sensitized Socioeconomic activities: Number of IEC sessions conducted Human Number of people affected and Staff and community PCM environment compensated DGEPN/ANINF surveys and mission Local authority Number of jobs created locally reports (during works) Number of project-related social conflicts Number of damaged sacred sites Hygiene and health/Pollution and nuisances: Number of companies PCM observing hygiene measures (during works) DGEPN/ANINF Presence of waste on the site Local authority Prevalence of STI/HIV/AIDS Number and type of complaints Construction site safety: Visual inspection Health, hygiene Availability of safety during field visits, and safety instructions in the event of an surveys and mission measures accident reports Number of workers complying with the wearing of PPE PCM Existence of appropriate Local DGEPN/ANINF signage community Level of respect for working (during works) hours Availability of first aid kits Effectiveness of the awareness programme for staff and local populations Number of accidents recorded

7. Public Consultation

7.1. Concerns and Suggestions

The meetings created an opportunity to gather information on the characteristics and social profiles of the areas concerned by the project. They also served as a mechanism for recording project stakeholders’ views, opinions, concerns, recommendations, and suggestions. Community meetings were held in each village concerned by the fibre-optic route in the presence of village chiefs and notables in most cases. The populations expressed their key concerns and expectations as well as their support for the project for development purposes. These consultations led to an analysis of the positions, interests and influences of the different stakeholders as well as the proposal of strategies for their involvement and participation in project implementation.

The following tables summarize the views, concerns and recommendations of the different stakeholder categories encountered during the institutional meetings and public consultations held in local communities.

Answers Provided to Address various Questions and Concerns Concerns of the Answers provided communities Whenever possible, efforts will be made to ensure that the project lies within Risk of destruction of property and the road right-of-way, without affecting the property of the population. crops

This is the foremost risk during the works. Accordingly, there will be emphasis on awareness-raising during the works; furthermore, to minimize the risk of Risk of trench accidents people falling, facilities will be provided for crossing the trenches. For cattle, livestock migration corridors will be identified.

Potential long-term negative project The project has no long-term environmental impacts. The main inconvenience impacts on the communities, will be observed during the works, particularly as regards the trenches. biodiversity and the environment

There are plans to install interconnection terminals (every two kilometres) along the fibre-optic route. Their precise locations have not yet been determined but will take into account the communities and areas to be covered. Interconnection of villages These terminals are not directly accessible to the population but telecommunications operators will connect to them in order to offer their services to the people. Trenching will be done using local labour to be recruited along the cable route Recruitment of local labour and in agreement with the managers of the contractor responsible for executing the project. The project is social in character given that it will boost the development of telecommunication means (telephone, internet, television, etc.) by providing a Social benefits that come with the multiplicity of community centres, access to digital communication tools, project greater access to telephone networks and in short, open up telecommunications access to the villages and promote distance education and telemedicine. It will be finalized after validation of the results of the technical execution study Final route of the fibre-optic cable to be conducted by the contractor. The presence of workers for the duration of the project will enable many Involvement of local women in the women to engage in various activities including catering. Furthermore, post- project project, they will be able to open public secretariats, cybercafés and telephone booths.

The project opens telecommunications access to various localities since it will Specific benefits that come with the enable the development of telecommunication means (telephone, internet, project television, etc.) by providing a multiplicity of community centres, access to digital communication tools, and greater access to telephone networks.

The target age will be the age of majority in Gabon so as to avoid sanctions What company will recruit the from UNICEF which is against the recruitment of child labour for gainful workers? Of what age group will they employment. Thus, youth who have reached the age of majority and who have be? proven skills will be recruited within the limit of available places.

Is the fibre being installed for the The objective of the fibre-optic project is to connect the entire country and government or for companies? Is also to ultimately connect Congo - Gabon - Cameroon. Optical fibre does not optical fibre like electricity where work like electricity. It is underground and only the big operators use it to each individual has a meter to improve the quality of services to their subscribers. In Gabon, it is not yet measure consumption? used by households.

Optical fibre which consists of glass or plastic and carries the information Radioactive effects of the passage of using light beams, is totally inert; at the current stage of knowledge, it has no the optical fibre impact in terms of radioactivity and human health. Impacts on watercourses during laying The optical fibre will be laid on the bridge (ducts provided on each bridge). of the optical fibre

The population made the following suggestions and recommendations: Summary of Recommendations and Suggestions

For local authorities • Connect municipalities and other major urban entities to broadband Internet; • Recruit local labour for the execution of project works; • Carry out site restoration after project works particularly roadways; • Choose options that avoid disturbing roadways in urban areas; • Build capacity in environmental and social management and project monitoring; • Build the capacity of municipal officials to better monitor project implementation; • Inform and sensitize the communities, particularly traders occupying the sites and the route; • Provide for compensation if the project is likely to affect private property; For Administrative authorities and technical services : • Inform communities, particularly traders, in collaboration with local authorities; • Involve the relevant technical services in awareness-raising as well as project implementation and monitoring; • Compensate project-affected persons; • Set up a steering and monitoring committee at département level where the technical services concerned are members (consultation and coordination).

7.2. Information and Public Consultation Procedure

For the preparation and implementation of the project, the following procedure is recommended to ensure adequate public information and consultation. The consultation tools and techniques must conform to an educational communication and mass communication approach.

7.2.1. Stages of the Procedure

The information and consultation procedure will be implemented through the following stages:

• A preliminary stage that entails preparation of an information and consultation file comprising this ESIA report and a description of the activities already identified (location, characteristics, etc.), which will be sent to the various local authorities for information;

• A preparatory stage for the works aimed at presenting the project and agreeing on the "rules of the game" between stakeholders, well before (and not during) implementation in order to allay concerns, reluctance, fears and demands; this first stage will take the form of a "launching forum" or information and contact meetings bringing together all stakeholders (municipalities, technical services, associations and local resident groups, etc). At this meeting the following will be presented: (i) the planned works and implementation schedule; (ii) the worksite installation and heavy intervention areas; (iii) the environmental and social management plan; and (iv) the type of collaboration expected from the population. Furthermore, these forums should lead to a consensus on the responsibilities of the various partners, the formulation of reciprocal commitments, and the creation of a permanent dialogue and consultation framework.

• Worksite establishment and works execution stage: At the end of the first stage which entails getting acquainted with all the stakeholders and the nature of the works, a consultation and exchange phase will follow under the ESMP.

The ESMP does advocate periodic meetings with local authorities and community representatives (as part of the quarterly awareness campaigns), to examine the problems encountered, the solutions provided or to be provided, and the measures to be taken to avoid slippages. Information of the population on decisions and actions taken and/or in case of slippage will be organized locally after each major follow-up meeting.

During such meetings, the use of pedagogical tools is recommended for better communication of the information on the progress of works and the nature the difficulties encountered, the likely resultant dangers/disruptions to the environment, the economic activities and/or the health of the population, the means provided for under the ESMP to avert or mitigate them, etc.

• Project closure and "commissioning" phase planning stage: Once the works have been completed, a meeting must be held with local stakeholders to review the first phase of the ESMP and to plan the commissioning phase together with the population.

7.2.2. Redress and Conflict Management Mechanisms

Communities and individuals who feel aggrieved by the CAB project will be able to lodge complaints with the project authorities.

To this end, complaints or claims may be (i) drafted and addressed to mayors of the municipalities (in urban areas) or to canton chiefs (in rural areas); (ii) included on a list of grievances that will be drawn up for this purpose and made available to the public permanently in each canton (rural area) and each municipality (urban areas) traversed by the project.

Mayors and canton chiefs shall forward received complaints to the CAB Project Coordination and ensure that such complaints are reviewed promptly to address project-related concerns.

The project specialist in charge of monitoring ESMP implementation will establish a complaints monitoring and archiving system to ensure that the situation is monitored right up to the final resolution of the dispute. This specialist will maintain a record of the registration dates, reference numbers and resolution dates of the complaints as well as the entity before which the complaints were resolved.

7.2.3. Information Dissemination and Publication

In terms of public dissemination of information, the summary of this assessment will be made available to the local communities traversed by the project for consultation by the public and local civil society organizations in an accessible location and in a format and language understandable to them. Furthermore, information will be disseminated to the public through the media such as newspapers, the press and radio broadcasts in national and local languages to all stakeholders.

After validation by the Gabonese Government and AfDB, this Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report will be published on the ANINF website. After public consultation, it will also be available at the local administration concerned (DGEPN at national and provincial level). It will then be published on the AfDB website.

8. Environmental and Social Management Framework of the Project

The environmental and social management of CAB-Gabon will mainly involve the following stakeholders:

Strategic level Operational level Areas of involvement

• ANINF • Supervision of implementation • Management of fiduciary and administrative aspects • Transmission of report to the African Development • CAB Gabon Steering Bank Committee • Planning and coordination of project

implementation • Environmental and social monitoring of works • Environmental and social supervision of works • Ministry of Forestry • Directorate General for • Validation of the ESIA Report, inspection and and the Environment Environment and Nature control of statutory compliance in charge of the Protection (DGEPN) • Monitoring of environmental and social Climate Plan management • Transmission of monitoring report to ANINF • Authorizations for the felling of trees on project sites and monitoring • Municipal council

• Municipalities • Local technical services • Local development planning and management • Government • Quarter heads Departments • Urban infrastructure maintenance and management • Village chiefs concerned • Community Information and sensitization • Village group heads • Canton chiefs

8.1. Capacity Analysis and Capacity-Building Needs

The Directorate General for the Environment and Nature Protection (DGEPN) has specialists in environmental and social safeguards, but the material resources for monitoring are relatively limited. The project will support this directorate. DGEPN will assist the project on two levels, namely: (i) verification of contractor ESMPs and the monitoring plan for control firms; and (ii) monitoring of works execution.

In the departments and local communities crossed by the project, environmental and social capacity-building will be organized for decentralized technical and municipal services in preparation for their participation in the local monitoring of works.

At ANINF, there is an environmental and social safeguards specialist. However, further capacity-building of ANINF is required in environmental and social supervision of works, including the hiring of a part-time consultant to provide support.

In addition to State monitoring, it is important for the project to approach DGEPN for all CAB Gabon activities. This assistance, which is also one of the sovereign missions of the DGEPN, should, from the outset, establish a baseline situation that will serve as the dashboard for setting the "rules of the environmental and social game" prior to the works. To this end, the project may request for a Focal Point within the DGEPN and formalize a collaboration protocol, which will define the support and capacity-building arrangements.

8.2. Capacity-Building, Information and Sensitization Measures (Components A and B)

Interviews conducted with the various actors involved in ESMP implementation have revealed that it is essential to institute a capacity-building, information and awareness programme which will enable them to perform their tasks properly.

Capacity-Building, Information and Awareness Action Targeted Actions Responsible Cost Actors Information /Awareness campaigns on the project • Information on the route and right-of-way of the works, duration of the works Included Local • Awareness-raising on environmental and social ANINF in the communities safeguards, works monitoring, communication and ESMP awareness-raising • Supervision of facilities • Conflict prevention and management Information /Awareness campaigns on the project Included Communities • Information on the route and right-of-way of the ANINF / works, duration of the works in the residing near Contractor • Information on health and safety during the works Contractor the worksites • Awareness-raising on behaviours to be avoided (theft Agreement and vandalism) Training and awareness-raising on health and safety at work concerning: • Task and care-related safety risks Included Company • Personal protective equipment and the operation of Contractor in the cost Personnel machinery of the • Application of best practice measures during the service works • Respect for local mores and customs during the works Included Support for “external” environmental and social ANINF DGEPN in the monitoring ESMP Environmental Support for "internal " monitoring and environmental and Included Specialist ANINF social supervision in the ANINF ESMP

8.3. Protection of Technical Centre Sites

The promoter (ANINF) plans to acquire sites in the municipalities and villages covered for the construction of the technical centres and datacentres. These lands will be located within the public property of the State. In this regard, the mayors of the municipalities, the provincial governors and the Provincial Planning and Cadastre Services handle all the subsidiary administrative formalities and make available to the project the land titles and all the other requisite administrative documents. At the current stage of the site allocation process, ANINF has already initiated concrete actions to secure the sites. These actions will continue until formal titles are obtained. The table below recapitulates each scenario, as well as future actions leading to the award of these sites to the project.

Target sites Context and actions to be Implementation status Recommended future actions implemented Optical fibre - The optical fibre is laid on Governors of provinces - Engage social entrepreneurs cable route public land. The route is defined and prefects are sensitized who will conduct the awareness such that it does not encroach and officially contacted to / information activities on any private property. relay the information to - Demarcate the route to avoid - Conduct information / the population encroaching on any private awareness campaigns property. Technical Official request for the 33 Requests sent to the land Ongoing follow-up until all 33 Centre sites targeted plots submitted to the registry services title deeds have been obtained provincial land registry services Two of the 33 sites have (ANUTTC). already been officially Site survey and formalization of handed over. the transfer of plots by ANUTTC Franceville This site belongs to the Ministry Supervisory Minister ANINF must formalize in Datacentre site in charge of digital economy, verbally informed during writing the official request to the project sponsor. Official meetings. make this site available for the request from ANINF to its project supervisory Minister to provide this site for the construction of the Datacentre. Nkok This site must be officially Notification of the ANINF must formalize in Economic acquired by the Ministry in Administrative Authority writing the official request for Zone charge of Digital Economy at a of the Nkok Economic the acquisition of this site for the Datacentre site price to be set by the Zone about the intention to project Administrative Authority of the acquire the targeted site Nkok Economic Zone. - Send an official site acquisition request to the Administrative Authority of the Nkok Economic Zone.

9. ESMP Implementation Cost Estimates

7.1. Cost of Information and Sensitization Measures

Before, during and after the works, a public information and awareness campaign must be conducted on the nature and scope of the works as well as the risk of accidents and STIs. The Project is expected to carry out public information, awareness and consultation activities targeting local communities and stakeholders.

The awareness sessions will lead to the recruitment by ANINF of nine Social Entrepreneurs (SEs); i.e., one per province. The gross monthly fee of an SE is CFAF 1,500,000. SEs will be recruited for 24 months overall. They will organize their activities by involving the authorities of the local administrative and decentralized units concerned (Governor, Prefect, Mayor, District Head, Canton Chief, Head of Village Grouping, Village Chief). Awareness-raising activities (posters, brochures, flyers, banners, meetings, refreshments, radio broadcasts, etc.) will require the allocation of a fixed budget per province of USD 36 million, or one million per month over four months. In total, a provision of CFAF 360,000,000 is proposed to conduct these information and sensitization campaigns.

7.2. Cost of Capacity-Building and Assistance Measures

For project implementation, a consultant environmentalist will be recruited to support ANINF in the environmental and social duties. This consultant will be recruited for 24 months and paid a monthly fee of CFAF 1,800,000. This amounts to a provision of CFAF 43,200,000. Additionally, provision should be made for DGEPN’s assistance to the project in the preparation of bidding and control documents, as well as ESMP monitoring under a Memorandum of Understanding, estimated at CFAF 12,000,000, or one million per month over a 12- month period in total.

Recruitment of a Consultant Environmentalist to Support ANINF

ANINF has a Health and Safety Environment Officer who is not yet familiar with environmental and social safeguards but who is also in charge of ongoing projects. Under this project, a consultant will be hired for a period of 24 months to monitor the performance of environmental and social indicators and ensure the inclusion of environmental and social issues in project activities.

DGEPN Assistance

The project will support the DGEPN in implementation and control: Support in the assessment and validation of the Environmental and Social Enterprise Management Plans of Contractors (PGES - E) and Monitoring Plans of Control Firms.

7.3. Cost of Surveillance and Monitoring/Evaluation Measures

Monitoring officers (DGEPN) must have the wherewithal to properly monitor ESMP implementation during construction. The budget recommended above for DGEPN’s technical assistance will also be used for monitoring. At the end of the works, an independent consultant will evaluate the environmental and social management of the project, an activity provisioned at CFAF 25,000,000

ESMP Cost Estimates ACTIVITY ACTIVITY UNIT QUANTITY UNIT TOTAL CODE DESCRIPTION COST COST I Awareness / information

Social entrepreneurs Man-month 216 1 500 000 324 000 000

Awareness activities Package 1 36 000 000 36 000 000 Subtotal 1 360 000 000 II Support for the environmental and social functions at ANINF Consultant on environmental and social Man-month 24 1 800 000 43 200 000 safeguards Subtotal 2 43 200 000 III Technical support of DGEPN

Technical assistance, mission expenses Package 12 1 000 000 12 000 000 Subtotal 3 12 000 000 IV Environmental surveillance, monitoring/evaluation Final project evaluation Package 1 25 000 000 25 000 000

ACTIVITY ACTIVITY UNIT QUANTITY UNIT TOTAL CODE DESCRIPTION COST COST Subtotal 4 25 000 000 Subtotal (1 + 2 + 3 + 4) 490 200 000 Contingencies (25%) 122 550 000 GRAND TOTAL 562 750 000

The total cost of the ESMP is CFAF 562 750 000

7.4. ESMP Implementation Schedule

In terms of schedule, the Gabonese Government and the African Development Bank will first have to approve this ESIA. The socio-environmental awareness, monitoring and surveillance operations will entail carrying out the activities defined in the ESMP. The following table gives the indicative timetable for implementing key activities whose costs have been estimated in the ESMP.

Table: ESMP Implementation Milestones Description Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

Quarters Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 ESIA Approval x Loan effectiveness x Awareness/ information campaigns x x x x x x x x x x x x Support for the environmental and social functions at ANINF x x x x x x x x (recruitment of the specialist to perform the functions) Technical support to DGEPN x x x x x x Social and environmental monitoring and surveillance x x x x x x x x x x x x Evaluation of ESMP implementation x

Conclusion

This summary of the environmental and social impact assessment report reveals that the project to install and operate approximately 2000 km of optical fibre cable as well as the construction of two data centres that also include active transmission equipment is completely feasible from the environmental and social standpoints.

The above assertion is backed by the following two arguments:

- The project will be implemented along existing roads and on host sites with no valued ecological heritage. The Technical Centres and Datacentres will be built on identified sites with no flora or fauna species of high ecological value that could undermine project implementation.

- The positive impacts of the project far outweigh its negative impacts, the most glaring of which can be mitigated through feasible measures at reasonable cost. Implementation of the environmental and social management plan requires financing of CFAF 562 750 000 (five hundred and sixty-two million seven hundred and fifty thousand).

The impacts identified are not likely to jeopardize implementation of the project. ESMP implementation will definitely ensure sustainable development for future generations.

Contacts: Mr. Gaston MINTSA-OWOULAWOULA, National Backbone Officer Gabon-ANINF: [email protected] Mr. Samatar OMAR ELMI, Task Manager, African Development Bank: [email protected]