Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF LAROPI-UMI BRIDGE ACROSS RIVER NILE, CONNECTING ADJUMANI AND MOYO DISTRICTS

Prepared by:

Uganda National Roads Authority The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS) Directorate of Network Planning and Engineering

Initial Draft Report: March 2021 Final Report: June 2021

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Document Control

Developer: Project No:

Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA)

Report Title: Date of submission: Environmental and Social Impact Statement for Proposed …………………………... Construction of Laropi-Umi Bridge Across River Nile, Connecting Adjumani And Moyo Districts

Preparation of this report has been undertaken under Distribution: UNRA terms of reference, abiding by the UNRA Environment and Social Safeguards Policy, ESIA Official Checklist, IUCN Considerations and Operational Safeguards of the African Development Bank. UNRA Public accepts no responsibility or legal liability arising from the unauthorized use by third parties of data or professional Confidential opinions herein contained. Reviewed Date Revision Description Originator

UNRA

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

ESIA Team Name Qualification &Role Signature Patrick I ESIA Team leader Kamanda MSc EP&M(APUS-USA), BSc [Chem], (MUK), PGDEM(RVB), PGDE(MUK), IEMA(UK), IAIA, EAAIA, (EA), UAIA(UG) Brian R EHS Expert Karugaba Occupational Safety and Health Expert MSc. Natural Resources (Sustainable Environment Management-UK), BSc Conservation Biology (Mak), PGD Project Planning & Mgt (UMI), Cert. NEBOSH Lukwago Biodiversity specialist Wilber Msc. Environmental Economics; MSc. Environment and natural Resource; BSc. Forestry, Nature Uganda, UAIA (UG), Herpetological society

Richard Environment safeguard specialist Osalia MSc. Environment and natural Resource, Bachelor of Urban planning (MUK) Certified EIA practitioner

Contributing specialists Matovu Benard - Terrestrial ecologist (Flora and fauna) Ninsiima Juliet - Sociologist Okello Brenda - Sociologist Janate Awor - Sociologist Dismas Ongwen - Physical cultural resources specialist Kayongo Barbara - Air, Noise, and Vibration specialist Katumba Godfrey - Water quality analyst Edward Jjuko - Social Development specialist Carolyn Natuhwera - Environment Management Systems Specialist Hilda Atwine - Community Health and Safety Expert

Contributing Government Agencies

Directorate of Water Resources Management, - Water Quality assessment Ministry of Water and Environment

Department of Museums and Monuments, -- Physical Cultural Resource Assessments Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife Antiquities

Department of Occupational Safety and Health, - Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

…. At the existing ferry, travellers make long queues and wait for several hours before they can cross from one side of the river to another. This poses considerable challenges associated with delays of the high traffic volumes and associated delays in accessing goods and services from either side of the river. Under unavoidable circumstances, road users have to seek alternative connective routes through Gulu, Arua and Yumbe which is 420km, hence an urgency for a more sustainable option…….

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Laropi ferry docking at Umi landing site in Adjumani District

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

TABLE OF CONTENT ACRONYMS...... xvi EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... xvii 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Project Justification ...... 1 1.3 The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) ...... 2 1.3.1 Justification for the ESIA...... 2 1.3.2 Aim of the ESIA ...... 2 1.3.3 Specific objectives of the ESIA ...... 2 1.3.4 ESIA Process ...... 2 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 5 2.1 Location and Nature of the project ...... 5 2.2 Geometry of Proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge and access routes ...... 6 2.3 Bridge component ...... 6 2.4 Pre-construction activities ...... 7 2.4.1 Material surveys and testing ...... 7 2.4.2 Environmental and Social Impact assessments and Resettlement Action Planning ...... 8 2.5 Construction activities ...... 8 2.5.1 Project mobilization, site set-up, and temporary facilities ...... 8 2.5.2 Construction of a Temporary Bridge ...... 8 2.5.3 Construction of Permanent Bridge ...... 10 2.6 Post construction activities...... 16 2.6.1 Decommission of project associated facilities and environmental restoration ...... 16 2.6.2 Operation of the project ...... 16 3 INSTITUTIONAL, POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 17 3.1 Safeguard Policies of African Development Bank ...... 17 3.2 National Policy Framework ...... 19 3.2.1 Draft National Environment Management Policy, 2014 ...... 19 3.2.2 National Environmental Health Policy, 2005 ...... 20 3.2.3 National Policy for Conservation and Management of Wetlands, 1995 ...... 20 3.2.4 Wildlife Policy, 2014 ...... 20 3.2.5 National Water Policy, 1999 ...... 21 3.2.6 Uganda’s Vision 2040 ...... 21 3.2.7 National Development Plan III 2020/2021-2024/2025 ...... 21 3.2.8 Gender Policy, 2007 ...... 21 3.2.9 National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based violence, 2016...... 22 3.2.10 National Policy for Older Persons, 2009 ...... 22 v | P a g e The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.2.11 National Policy on Disability, 2006 ...... 22 3.2.12 National Orphans and other Vulnerable Children’s Policy, 2004 ...... 22 3.2.13 National Youth Policy, 2001 ...... 23 3.2.14 Uganda National Culture Policy, 2006 ...... 23 3.2.15 National Equal Opportunities Policy, 2006 ...... 23 3.2.16 National Child Labour Policy, 2007 ...... 23 3.2.17 National HIV/AIDS and the World of Work Policy, 2007 ...... 24 3.2.18 The National Tourism Policy, 2002 ...... 24 3.2.19 Ministry of Works & Transport Policies (Gender, HIV/AIDS, OHS) 2008 ...... 24 3.2.20 National Land Policy, 2013 ...... 25 3.2.21 National Climate Change Policy, 2015 ...... 25 3.2.22 The National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based Violence (GBV), 2016 ...... 25 3.2.23 UNRA Environment and Social Safeguards Policy, 2016 ...... 26 3.2.24 The UNRA Land Acquisition and Resettlement Management System (LARMS), 2019 ...... 26 3.3 The Legislative Framework ...... 26 3.3.1 Constitution of Republic of Uganda, 1995 ...... 26 3.3.2 National Environment Act, No.5, 2019 ...... 26 3.3.3 Local Government Act, Cap 243 ...... 27 3.3.4 Land Act, Cap 227 ...... 27 3.3.5 Land Acquisition Act, Cap 226 ...... 27 3.3.6 Roads Act, 2019 ...... 27 3.3.7 Water Act, Cap 152 ...... 28 3.3.8 Mining Act, 9/2003 ...... 28 3.3.9 Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2006 ...... 28 3.3.10 Workers’ Compensation Act, Cap 225 ...... 29 3.3.11 Uganda Wildlife Act, Cap 200, 2019 ...... 29 3.3.12 Petroleum (Refining, Conversion, Transmission and Midstream Storage) Act, 2013 ...... 30 3.3.13 National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, 2003 ...... 30 3.3.14 Physical Planning Act, 2010 ...... 30 3.3.15 Tobacco Control Act, 2015 ...... 30 3.3.16 Explosives Act, Cap 298 ...... 30 3.3.17 Public Health Act, cap 281 ...... 31 3.3.18 Children’s Act, Cap 59 ...... 31 3.3.19 NSSF Act, Cap 222 ...... 31 3.3.20 Historical Monuments Act, Cap 46 ...... 31 3.3.21 Immigrations Act, Cap 63 ...... 32 3.3.22 Public Holiday Act ...... 32 3.3.23 Rivers Act, Cap 357 ...... 32

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.3.24 Fish Act Cap, 197 ...... 32 3.3.25 Traditional ruler’s Act, Cap 247 ...... 32 3.3.26 Traffic Act, 2002 ...... 33 3.3.27 Employment Act, 2006 ...... 33 3.4 Regulatory Framework ...... 33 3.4.1 The National Environment (Environmental and Social Assessment) Regulations, S.I No.143 of 2020 33 3.4.2 National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations S.I. No. 49 of 2020, ...... 33 3.4.3 National Environment (Wetlands, Riverbanks and lakeshores Management) regulation S.I No. 2/2000 34 3.4.4 The National Environment (Standards for Discharge of Effluent into water or land) Regulations, 2020 34 3.4.5 National Environment (Control of Smoking in Public Places) Regulations, 2004 ...... 36 3.4.6 National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations, 2003 ...... 36 3.4.7 Draft National Air Quality Standards, 2006 ...... 36 3.4.8 Water Resources Regulations, 1998 ...... 37 3.4.9 National Environment (Audit) Regulation, 2020 ...... 37 3.5 International Conventions and/or Agreements to which Uganda is Party ...... 37 3.5.1 The Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-Boundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal ...... 37 3.5.2 Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, 2001 ...... 38 3.5.3 The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) ...... 38 3.5.4 The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) ...... 38 3.5.5 The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) ... 39 3.5.6 The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 1971 ...... 39 3.5.7 African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, 1982 ...... 39 3.5.8 The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (UNFCCC), 1992 ...... 39 3.5.9 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, 2003 ...... 39 3.5.10 International Convention on Economical Social and Cultural Rights ...... 40 3.5.11 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory species of Wild animals ...... 40 3.5.12 Convention on Protection of Migrant Workers ...... 40 3.5.13 Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women ...... 40 3.5.14 United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols and Declarations on Children ...... 40 3.5.15 The UN Conventions on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2008 ...... 41 3.5.16 World Heritage Conventions ...... 41 3.6 Institutional Framework ...... 42 3.6.1 Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT) ...... 42 3.6.2 Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) ...... 42 3.6.3 Ministry of Water and Environment (MoWE) ...... 42

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.6.4 National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) ...... 43 3.6.5 Ministry of Gender Labour & Social Development ...... 43 3.6.6 Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries ...... 43 3.6.7 Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines ...... 44 3.7 Ministry of Local Government Local ...... 44 3.8 Required Licenses and Permits ...... 44 4 ESIA STUDY METHODS ...... 45 4.1 Literature review ...... 45 4.2 Physical Environment Assessments ...... 45 4.2.1 Air quality assessments ...... 45 4.2.2 Noise/ Sound, Humidity and Temperature Assessment ...... 46 4.2.3 Vibration assessment ...... 46 4.2.4 Water quality assessments ...... 47 4.2.5 Bathymetric Measurements at Ferry Landing Sites ...... 47 4.3 Biological environment assessment ...... 47 4.3.1 Vegetation Survey Methods ...... 47 4.3.2 Fauna survey Methods ...... 48 4.4 Socio-economic assessment ...... 49 4.4.1 Socio-economic survey ...... 49 4.4.2 Physical Cultural Resources surveys ...... 49 4.5 Methods for Stakeholder Engagement and Consultations ...... 50 4.5.1 Key Informant Interviews ...... 50 4.5.2 Consultative meetings ...... 50 4.5.3 Focus Group Discussion ...... 50 4.5.4 Structured interviews ...... 50 4.6 Methods for Impact Assessment and Analysis ...... 50 4.6.1 Impact assessment ...... 50 4.6.2 Impact analysis ...... 51 4.7 Public Disclosure ...... 51 5 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE ...... 52 5.1 Physical Environment ...... 52 5.1.1 Climate ...... 52 5.1.2 Climate Change ...... 52 5.1.3 Geology, Soils, and Ground Water yield ...... 53 5.1.4 Hydrology ...... 55 5.1.5 Ground water and Water Quality ...... 57 5.1.6 Magnetic Field Radiation ...... 59 5.1.7 Vibration level assessment ...... 60

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

5.1.8 Noise ...... 60 5.1.9 Particulate Matter...... 61 5.1.10 Air quality ...... 62 5.1.11 Temperature...... 62 5.2 Biological environment ...... 63 5.2.1 Vegetation ...... 63 5.2.2 Mammal diversity ...... 69 5.2.3 Avifauna ...... 71 5.2.4 Herptiles ...... 72 5.2.5 Fish species records in the project area ...... 73 5.3 Cultural and Socio-Economic Baseline...... 74 5.3.1 Political and Administrative units ...... 74 5.3.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the project area ...... 74 5.3.3 Means of transport for the households in the project area ...... 78 5.3.4 Current travel patterns ...... 79 5.3.5 Livelihoods ...... 80 5.3.1 Health services ...... 81 5.3.2 Housing ...... 82 5.3.3 Access to water ...... 82 5.3.4 Sanitation ...... 83 5.3.5 Waste Disposal ...... 84 5.3.6 Energy sources ...... 84 5.3.7 Women and Gender ...... 84 5.3.8 Migration Status and Years spent in the Project Area ...... 86 5.3.9 Livelihoods...... 87 5.3.10 Welfare Indicators ...... 89 5.3.11 Health Conditions ...... 90 5.3.12 Land Ownership ...... 91 5.3.13 Existence of Vulnerable Groups in Households ...... 93 5.3.14 HIV/AIDS ...... 94 5.3.15 Cultural resources ...... 96 6 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND CONSULTATION ...... 98 6.1 Introduction ...... 98 6.2 Objectives of Stakeholder Engagement and consultation ...... 98 6.3 Principles of Stakeholder Engagements ...... 98 6.4 Categories of Stakeholders ...... 98 6.5 Preparatory activities for stakeholder engagements ...... 99 6.6 Methods of engagements and consultations ...... 99

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

6.8 Outcome of the Stakeholder Engagement Process ...... 102 7 ANALYSIS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES ...... 107 7.1 No-project alternative (no bridge at Laropi/Umi) ...... 107 7.2 Project Scenario (constructing the bridge at Laropi/Umi) ...... 108 7.2.1 Route options ...... 108 7.2.2 Bridge Structure Options ...... 110 8 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION, ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION ...... 113 8.1 Overview ...... 113 8.2 Positive Impacts analysis and enhancement measures...... 115 8.2.1 Employment opportunities ...... 115 8.2.2 Improved connectivity across the Nile ...... 115 8.2.3 Enhancement of socioeconomic development in the region ...... 116 8.2.4 Creation of business opportunities ...... 116 8.3 Negative Impacts Analysis and Mitigation Measures ...... 117 8.3.1 Pre-Construction Phase Impacts...... 117 8.3.2 Construction Phase Impacts ...... 118 8.3.3 Operational phase ...... 132 8.4 Cumulative impacts ...... 134 9 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PLAN (ESMMP) ...... 135 9.1 Overview of ESMMP ...... 135 9.2 Objectives of the ESMMP ...... 135 9.3 Monitoring ...... 135 9.4 Responsibilities ...... 136 9.4.1 UNRA (Project Developer) ...... 136 9.4.2 Project Supervision Consultant ...... 136 9.4.3 Contractor(s) ...... 136 9.4.4 Development partners ...... 137 9.4.5 NEMA ...... 137 9.5 Detailed ESMMP ...... 138 9.6 Organizational Set-Up and ESMP Implementation Mechanisms ...... 154 9.6.1 Set up of Environmental and Social Safeguards Management ...... 154 9.6.2 Management of environmental and social safeguards in the proposed project ...... 154 9.6.3 Operational challenges ...... 155 9.6.4 DESS Capacity Building Needs under the Project ...... 156 9.7 Integration of Environmental and Social Aspects into Procurement Process ...... 157 9.7.1 Bidding...... 157 9.7.2 Bill of Quantities (BoQs) ...... 157 9.7.3 Safeguards Clauses ...... 157

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

9.7.4 Staffing ...... 157 9.7.5 ESMP Monitoring and Reporting ...... 157 9.7.6 Project Reporting Commitments ...... 158 9.7.7 Decommissioning and restoration of disturbed areas ...... 158 9.8 Contractor/ UNRA Management Plans ...... 158 9.8.1 Occupational health and safety plan ...... 159 9.8.2 Security management plan ...... 159 9.8.3 Influx management plan ...... 159 9.8.4 Labour management plan ...... 160 9.8.5 Biodiversity management plan ...... 160 9.8.6 HIV/AIDS and gender management plan ...... 160 9.8.7 Traffic and road safety Management plan ...... 161 9.9 Grievance Redress Mechanism...... 161 9.9.1 Purpose and Objectives of GRM...... 161 9.9.2 Sources of Grievances ...... 162 9.9.3 GRM Principles ...... 162 9.10 Monitoring against the ESMMP ...... 166 9.11 Auditing and Review ...... 167 9.12 Proposed Complementary Initiatives ...... 168 9.12.1 Agriculturally based initiatives ...... 168 9.12.2 Businesses based initiatives ...... 169 9.12.3 Landing site based initiatives ...... 169 9.12.4 Construction of a cold room for fresh fish storage with fish vending stalls ...... 169 9.12.5 Proposed Budget for Financing Complimentary Initiatives ...... 170 10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 171 References ...... 172 Appendices ...... 174 Appendix 1: Plant Species Recorded in the Project Area ...... 174 Appendix 2: Avifauna Recorded in the Project Area ...... 180 Appendix 3: Results of Water Quality Assessments for Proposed Laropi Bridge ...... 182 APPENDIX 4: Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) ...... 184 APPENDIX 5: Screening Forms Potential Environmental and Social, Health and Safety Risks ...... 193 APPENDIX 6: Content of the Scoping Report ...... 195 Appendix 7: Security and Emergency Response Plan ...... 196 Appendix 8: Record of Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations ...... 212

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

List of Figures

Figure 1: Summary of the EIA process (EIA Reference Manual; UNEP, 2002) ...... 4 Figure 2: A google image showing the location of proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge project: proposed Bridge alignment and existing national roads ...... 5 Figure 3: Longitudinal view of the proposed bridge ...... 6 Figure 4: Cross-sectional view of the proposed bridge ...... 7 Figure 5: Bridge Approach Cross Section ...... 7 Figure 6: Heavy Drilling Machine driving steel casing in the ground ...... 9 Figure 7: Illustration of temporary bridge construction using steel casting and a jetty ...... 9 Figure 8: Typical setting of a temporary bridge support structure for Permanent Bridge construction ...... 10 Figure 9: Typical Re-Bar Cage showing steel bars inside steel metal casing ...... 13 Figure 10: Pile/pier below ground/river/swamp bed ...... 14 Figure 11: Typical drawing of an abutment ...... 15 Figure 12: Laying of the bridge deck ...... 15 Figure 13: Bathymetric measurements of R. Nile using prism pole ...... 47 Figure 14: Soils of the project area ...... 54 Figure 15: Soil type of the Laropi catchment area ...... 55 Figure 16: Nile Catchment Extent at the Laropi Bridge ...... 56 Figure 17: Map of Northern Western Uganda with proposed Laropi Bridge crossing in blue. Water quality sampling sites for surface and ground water are marked with yellow place marks ...... 58 Figure 18: Growth form of plant species encountered within project corridor ...... 64 Figure 19: Transitions from Open waters to Cyperus- Echinochloa-Leersia riparian habitats, unto dense riparian forest habitat ...... 65 Figure 20: Transitions from Open waters to Cyperus-Leersia-Accacia riparian wetlands, unto dense Combretum-dominated woodlands ...... 65 Figure 21: Mosaic of short-wooded grassland with rocky outcrops ...... 66 Figure 22: Open waters and Riparian Leersia -Cperus wetlands ...... 66 Figure 23: Accaica-Hpetheria wooded grassland ...... 66 Figure 24: Mosaic of Short grassland, scattered trees, and built-up area Laraopi subcounty ...... 66 Figure 25: Ecotone of Cyperus dominated wetland and Riparian forest edges in Umi ...... 66 Figure 26: Bushed Fallow lands and settlement in Laropi ...... 66 Figure 27: Hypertheria-Acccaia – wooded savannah grassland land ...... 67 Figure 28: Crop farming and agroforestry ...... 67 Figure 29: Borassus- Kigeria-Bridelia Riverine Forest section ...... 67 Figure 30: Open waters, Leesiar-Cyperus- Acacia Riparian ecotone ...... 67 Figure 31: Eurphobia-antialis- Papyrus moisac ...... 67 Figure 32: Herbecous-grassland mosaic (Grasses and forbs) ...... 67 Figure 33: Wooded Bushland and Thicket ...... 68 Figure 34: Tectonia-taminaria section of laropi Local forest reserve ...... 68 Figure 35: Grassland- woodland mosaic ...... 68 Figure 36: Flooded Shrubland- Cyperus Wetland mosaic ...... 68 Figure 37: Intact wetlands within the project area ...... 69 Figure 38:Olive baboons in Umi village ...... 70 Figure 39: Fecal material of Bushbuck ...... 70 Figure 40: Depiction of mammal behaviour - Faecal material of Bush duiker, slender mongooses, African civet and Rock hyrax ...... 71 Figure 41:Nile Distichodus ...... 74 Figure 42: Tilapia and Nile perch Fish ...... 74 Figure 43: Age Groups within the Project area ...... 75 Figure 44: Literacy levels within the project area ...... 76 Figure 45: level of Education currently attended by household members ...... 77 Figure 46 : canoe approaching the Umi landing site ...... 79 Figure 47: Laropi Ferry carrying passengers and veichle (Courtsy of Vision Group) ...... 79 xii | P a g e The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 48: Cassave garden. A common crop in the project area ...... 80 Figure 49: Women at Umi ferry landing site engaging in various small business enterprises ...... 81 Figure 50: Typical grass thatched house ...... 82 Figure 51: Typical semi-permanent structure in the project area ...... 82 Figure 52: Main source of water for drinking ...... 83 Figure 53: Shallow borehole in the project area ...... 83 Figure 54: Gravity water pipe ...... 83 Figure 55: Some involved in fish business ...... 85 Figure 56: Most important source of earnings for households in the past 12 months ...... 88 Figure 57: Type of Enterprises within the project area ...... 88 Figure 58: Small business enterprises at Umi Ferry Landing ...... 89 Figure 59: Sources of assistances during difficult times ...... 90 60: Typical solar panels for trapping solar energy. A common characteristic in the area ...... 92 Figure 61: Bundles of Firewood. A major source of fuel in the region ...... 93 Figure 62: Ways through which HIV/AIDS is transmitted ...... 95 Figure 63: Sources of information on HIV/AIDS ...... 95 Figure 64: Awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention ...... 96 Figure 65: Gorotto of Eve Maria at one of the rocks in the project area at coordinates 3o32’28.834”N and 31o48’41.21”4E ...... 97 Figure 66: The Rock near Umi site at GPS coordinate 3o32’16.268”N and 31o48’44.580”E ...... 97 Figure 67: Engagements with Adjumani district, Sub counties, and Local council personnel...... 100 Figure 68: Focus group discussions at Laropi ferry landing site ...... 100 Figure 69: Key informant interview with Adjumani LCV chairperson ...... 101 Figure 70:Typical hydrocarbon spills on water during ferry operations ...... 107 Figure 71: Route options ...... 110 Figure 72:Steel-concrete composite bridge ...... 111 Figure 73: Deck arch bridge ...... 111 Figure 74: The superstructure design is based on prestressed I-beams ...... 112

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

List of Tables

Table 1: Key Geometric parameters consider for Laropi/Umi Bridge ...... 6 Table 2: Summary Operational Safeguards and how they relate to the Project ...... 18 Table 3: Standards for general chemicals and micro-biological discharge ...... 34 Table 4: Standards for inorganic substances effluent discharge Effluent requirements are for direct discharge into surface water, land or sewer ...... 34 Tabl1e 5: Standards for organic substances effluent discharge ...... 35 Table 6: Permissible Noise Levels ...... 36 Table 7: National air quality standards ...... 37 Table 8: List of permits and licenses required ...... 44 Table 9:Maximum permissible noise levels relevant to project ...... 46 Table 10: A quantitative format for ranking impacts based on parameters summarized as magnitude and sensitivity ...... 51 Table 11: Water quality assessments and their acceptable levels ...... 58 Table 12: Readings for Magnetic Field Radiation in Laropi Project area ...... 59 Table 13: Readings for Vibration: Acceleration (m/s²)...... 60 Table 14: Measurements of Noise level, dB(A) ...... 61 Table 15: Readings for Particulate matter measured ...... 61 Table 16: Baseline air quality ...... 62 Table 17 : Readings for Air temperature using Dry Thermometer, Wet Bulb thermometer and Globe thermometer ...... 63 Table 18:Distribution of recorded plant species per family ...... 64 Table 19: Small mammals recorded in the project area ...... 69 Table 20 : Other mammal species in recorded in the project area ...... 70 Table 21: Numbers of species in various categories of habitat classifications and various conservation status categories ...... 72 Table 22: Reptiles recordered in the project area ad their various conservation status categories ...... 72 Table 23: Amphibaibs recordered in the project area ad their various conservation status categories ...... 73 Table 24 Fish species recorded from the project area ...... 73 Table 25: Administrative structure of the project area ...... 74 Table 26: Population of the project area ...... 75 Table 27:Ability of households to read and write in any language ...... 76 Table 28 : Distance to school ...... 77 Table 29: Marrital status of the population ...... 78 Table 30: Means of transport for the households ...... 78 Table 31: Type of Enterprises ...... 81 Table 32: Health facilitiees in Laropi ...... 81 Table 33: Type of toilet facility ...... 84 Table 34: Presence of Hand Washing facility ...... 84 Table 35: Years spent in the project area ...... 87 Table 36 Table: Sources of Incomes ...... 87 Table 37: First level of consultations ...... 90 Table 38 Land ownership ...... 91 Table 39: Type of toilet facility ...... 91 Table 40: Having a Hand Washing facility ...... 91 Table 41: Table: Common method of solid waste disposal ...... 92 Table 42: Source of Energy for lighting ...... 92 Table 43: Source of energy for cooking ...... 93 Table 44: Households with vulnerable groups ...... 94 Table 45: Categories of stakeholders ...... 99 Table 46: Summary issues, concerns and fears from consultations...... 102 Table 47: Definition of impacts ...... 113 Table 48: A quantitative format for ranking impacts based on parameters summarized as magnitude and sensitivity...... 114 Table 49: Rating of impact parameters to guide professional judgment ...... 114 Table 50: cumulative impacts ...... 134 Table 51: Detailed Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan (ESMMP) ...... 138 xiv | P a g e The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Table 52: Types of Grievances and examples ...... 162 Table 53: Screening and categorization criteria ...... 164 Table 54: Grievances Process Flow ...... 164

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

ACRONYMS

AfDB - African Development Bank CAC - Criteria Air Contaminants C-ESMP - Construction – Environmental and Social Management Plan CBD - Convention on Biological Diversity CITES - Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora CR - Critically Endangered DWRM - Water Resources and Management EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EN - Endangered ESIA - Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESIP - Environment and Social Implementation Plan ESMMP - Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan GPS - Geographical Positioning System HIV - Human Immune Virus IFC - International Finance Corporation ISS - Integrated Safeguards System IUCN - International Union for the Conservation of Nature NEMA - National Environmental Management Authority NGOs - Non-Governmental Organizations OSs - Operational Safegurads RAP - Resettlement Action Plan ToRs - Terms of Reference TSP - Total Suspended Particulate UNEP - United Nations Environment Program UNESCO - United Nations, Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNRA - Uganda National Roads Authority UTM - Universal Transverse Marketer UWA - Uganda Wildlife Authority VES - Visual Encounter Surveys VOC - Volatile Organic Carbon VU - Vulnerable WBGT - Wet Bulb-Globe Temperature Index WCS - Wildlife Conservation Society URDM - Uganda Road Geometric Design Manual, 2010

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background

This is an Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for the proposed construction of a bridge – Laropi/Umi Bridge – across the Nile, connecting Adjumani and Moyo districts at Umi and Laropi respectively. Currently, a ferry under the management of Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) facilitates crossing at this section of the river. The Bridge will link Atiak-Laropi road (66km) which is currently under development, and Laropi-Moyo-Afoji (37km) which is proposed for development to bituminous standard, to enhance road transport in the region.

Bridge construction activities, on a major water body like the Nile, are associated with significant environmental and social impacts. The National Environment Act No. 5 of 2019, in its Schedule 5, requires a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for similar projects prior to their implementation. Similarly, the Integrated Safeguards System (ISS) of African Development Bank (AfDB) present Operational Safeguards (OSs) which require assessment of environment, climate change and social risks and impacts as early as possible in the project cycle. The ESIA process determines the potential environmental and social impacts of the proposed development and define measures to avoid, minimize, mitigate or offset the impacts. This is aimed at promoting growth that is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

Project Justification Development of the Laropi/Umi Bridge was identified under the National Development Plan III (NDP III) among the infrastructure required to facilitate connectivity across the River Nile in order to enhance improved household incomes and quality of life in the region. Therefore, the proposed project will provide a permanent and more sustainable connection between Adjumani and Moyo in west Nile region and to parts of South Sudan and Democratic Republic Congo. Currently, people must make long queues and wait for several minutes or hours before they can cross from one side of the river to another. This poses considerable challenges associated with delays and lost time by the people waiting to cross. Considering the high volume of traffic that cross the Nile at Laropi/Umi, and occasional breakdown of the ferry causing interruption in travel times, there is overwhelming demand for a bridge.

Project Description The proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge will be located at geographical coordinates 3°32'39.33"N, 31°48'48.04"E and 3°33'8.03"N, 31°48'45.54"E at the point where the Atiak-Laropi-Moyo national road intersects with the River Nile at the boundary of Moyo and Adjumani Districts. The project involves construction of a bridge of 7m carriage width, 2m shoulders, 2m walkway and standard Paved Class II approach roads of 7m carriageway. The project activities include construction of temporary bridge. The temporary bridge shall be erected using steel across the river. It serves as a platform for constructing the permanent bridge and also transporting materials across the river. The permanent bridge is made of piles driven into the riverbed, abutments on either side of the river and a bridge deck. Construction activities for a permanent bridge follow a water tight watertight system to prevent contamination of the river with wastewater, mud, and concrete among others. Following the completion of the permanent bridge, the temporary bridge will be decommissioned and all steel removed from the river following a clear decommissioning plan while observing Occupational Health and Safety Standards.

The ESIA Process It is a statutory requirement by Uganda Government laws (National Environment Act 2019) that development projects that are deemed to bear significant environmental and social risks and impacts

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

undertake comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) (Sections 3 (5b), 5 (i), 110). The main objective of this study was to conduct an ESIA for the planned construction of the Laropi/Umi across the Nile with an aim of recommending mitigation measures for the negative impacts and enhancing the positive ones. The AfDB under its Integrated Safeguards System (ISS) and subsequent Operational Safeguards (OSs) and specifically under OS1 requires that an ESIA is carried out to identify, analyse and mitigate (avoid, minimize, reduce, mitigate, compensate) potential environmental and social impacts associated with projects they support and deemed to carry significant environmental and social risks and impacts. The ESIA study included a desktop study, field investigations and data collection, stakeholder identification and engagement, impact assessment and mitigation measure development.

Key Baseline Features Annual rainfall of the project area is predominantly bimodal in distribution with long rains (March–May) and short rains (September–November) account for approximately 40 and 25 % of annual rainfall respectively. Annual mean temperature ranges from 19ºC to 36ºC. The soils are largely hydromorphic characterised by undifferentiated river alluvium dominated by grey and yellow sandy clays. The hydrology of the R. Nile at Laropi is influenced by the three major lake catchments i.e. Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert.

Assessment of water quality determined that dissolved oxygen was within acceptable range, while Reactive Phosphates (PO4-P) averaged at 0.07mg/l, Nitrates (NO3-N) averaged at 0.1mg/l, Total Nitrogen (TON-N) at 0.2mg/l and total phosphates at 0.21mg/. Other water chemistry parameters including sulphates, chlorides, bicarbonates and magnesium and calcium were found within acceptable ambient values and were almost constant throughout the river channel. Noise assessment determined that the average day time readings per location ranged from 29.5 dB(A) to 66.8dB(A) and 29.9dB(A) to 69.2dB(A) for minimum and maximum sound levels respectively due to low activity in the area. Similarly, levels of Hydrogen Sulfide, Nitrogen Dioxide and Methane were determined to be very low, below detection levels of the equipment used.

Biological diversity in the area includes Cyperus papyrus, Typha spp, Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth), Acacia spp, Eucalyptus spp, Kigeria africana, Azadirachta indica, Borassus aethiopum, Ficus abutilifolia, Senna spectabilis, Tamarindus indica, Tectona grandis, Acacia spp, Combretum spp, among others. In addition, Field observations, stakeholder consultation and literature indicated that there are 76 species of birds in the project area. Some of the avifauna include Actophilornis Africana, Amblyospiza albifrons, Bostrychia hagedash, Cisticola chiniana, Cisticola juncidis, Pycnonotus barbatus, Spermestes cucullata, Uraeginthus bengalus and Tchagra senegalus among others. Herptiles including Agama agama, Trachylepis striata and Trachylepis maculilabris among others. Fish species Oreochromis spp., Protopterus spp., and Lates niloticus among others. No species of conservation concern was recorded in the project area. None of the encountered species was of conservation concern according to IUCN Redlist of species.

The assessment noted that that the projected area is dominated by males. Pacara sub county has a higher population of 17,205 compared to Laropi sub county at 10,510. Majority of this population is young and of school going age. Road transport is the major mode of transport, while motorcycle and bicycle provide the easiest means of transport. More so, it was noted that subsistence agriculture is the major source of livelihood. Crop farming and animal husbandry are the major backbone of the economy in the region. Business enterprises include retail shops, fuel venting and bars among others. There are health facilities at the level of Health Centre III and IIs which provide medical services before referrals can be made to either Gulu or Arua regional Referral Hospitals. The status of housing in the project are permanent, semi-permanent and temporary. Shallow wells/boreholes are the main sources of water for domestic use and are complimented by the gravity water system. Solar is most commonly

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

used source of energy for lighting used by about 60% of the population in the project area, while fuelwood provides the main source of energy for cooking.

It was noted that women are responsible for the payment of school fees for school going children, provision of food, medical care and generally taking care of the welfare of household members. In addition, women engage in petty trade, brewing and other activities to sustain the wellbeing of their household members. Gender Based Violence, Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, and Violence Against Children were also noted to be vices in the area. The assessment determined that heart diseases and hypertension are the among the leading causes of vulnerability. The most prominent cultural resource in the project area is the grotto of Ave-Maria which is in Umi at about 800m from the ferry landing. Others include rocks which the communities believe to contain spirits.

Key Impacts and Risks Positive impacts associated with construction of the Laropi/Umi bridge are significant and they include improved connectivity in the region, accessibility, reduced public transport costs, shorter travel times, and improved road safety, improved access to health services, improved local economies and induced development. These are coupled with immediate benefits of both direct and indirect employment opportunities on the project.

The Resettlement Action Plan prepared alongside this ESIA, sets out the extent of land to be acquired for the Right of Way and properties to be affected. Both commercial and residential structures will either be demolished or partially affected especially in Laropi trading centre. Other land-take impacts are associated with project support facilities such as campsites and gravel borrow areas from which the contractor will temporarily operate. The sensitivity of this impact is ranked as high on account of cost of replacement and attachment to properties. More so, there is anticipated loss of livelihood by the enterprises currently operating from the ferry landing sites. When equitable compensation is provided to restore livelihoods and property of affected households, residual impacts of involuntary resettlement will be of low or moderate significance. It is equally important, the RAP to include provisions on GBV and sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) risk mitigation as these usually relate to compensation and livelihoods, specific reporting lines for these issues.

Construction of the bridge and associated approach roads will require gravel and rock for different purposes (aggregate, concrete products base material etc.). Some secondary impacts of stone blasting and quarrying such as injury or death caused by fly rock are irreversible. Damage to dwellings near quarries would be a considerable social impact in rural poor communities. Unless a firm contractual commitment is made by the contractor, sensitivity of this impact is taken to be High. All stone quarry sites will be subjected to a standalone ESIA by contractors while borrow pits will undertake an appropriate level of Environment and Social Assessment as required by the National Environment Act, No 5 of 2019. It should be a contractual requirement for the contractor to design material source area restoration plans in the Contractor’s Environment and Social Management Plan. No potential construction material source areas shall be sited near an ecologically or socially sensitive area i.e. not close to wetlands, cultural heritage areas, schools, health facilities and administrative centers. Contracts shall not be closed without borrow site restoration to the satisfaction of NEMA and District Local Governments.

Dust nuisance will mainly become topical in very dry periods and wherever clearance, earthworks, material transport or construction takes place in the vicinity of public places such as schools and health centres. Dust generation can adversely affect the health and safety of construction workers at the site. The impact will be moderate. The pollution in localized places and working zones may affect the health of workers and any nearby people or sensitive receptors within 50m. Overall, the impact of air pollution during construction will be moderate for receptors within 200-300m and low for receptors located more

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

than 500m from the approach roads. Dust reduction is anticipated to be addressed by routinely sprinkling water during construction. Some of the measures include speed control by having in place such as humps, dust screens at areas across sections with schools, sensitization of both communities and workers, use of appropriate PPE (e.g. respirators) etc. The Contractor will undertake monitoring of particulate matter both at the major sources (blasting areas and crusher units etc.) as well as at the receptors especially homes and schools etc. This is critical to check on the levels to which the workers and public are exposed to.

The potential noise related issues during construction of the project is disturbance to sensitive receptors like schools, health centers and residential areas. The level of noise exposure and associated risks for the health and well-being of the workforce will depend on the individual workplace and type of equipment used. The noise level will be major for construction workers and those receptors within less than 50m from the construction site and moderate for those living 100-200m away. Due to the high noise levels of construction machinery, the personnel operating the machines and the workers stationed close to the machines will be prone to exposure of high levels of noise. Workers at risk are those who will be exposed to it for up to 8-10 hours daily at work.

Construction of the approach roads and upgrading the road through Laropi town will require widening of the carriageway and this will necessitate relocation of service lines causing temporary disruption of service delivery to clients including commercial enterprises. This could translate into financial losses to utility companies and their clients depending on when the services are reconnected. It is established that, there are a number of boreholes/shallow wells along the road alignment within the project area. These will involve relocation and it is suggested that, UNRA will engage a sub-contractor to undertake relocation of these facilities. Timely execution of relocation programs will eliminate inherent delays likely to be caused from such processes if not well executed. These are important sources of domestic water serving communities in this water stressed region especially during the dry season.

The approach road from Laropi crosses a local forest reserve that is currently a plantation forest holding mainly exotic tree species, especially Eucalyptus spp. Much as the forest is degraded, road construction may lead to loss of trees across the forest, but which will only be limited to a few meters. The influx of male workers into the project area may increase the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission. The concentration of young males in worker’s camps may lead to illicit and unsafe sexual behavior that may push up infection rates in the local areas. However, since most of the labour force will be below 40 years and residents, it is expected that behavioral change will help stabilize the infection rate. However, should infections occur due to lapses in awareness, impact magnitude is high. It is equally noted that, there will likely be risks of SEA, sexually harassment (SH) and GBV that are bound to happen as a result of the labor influx. In addition, labour influx into this project area could be a potential source of conflict between workers and the local population.

Occupational health and safety risks in the project can be high largely because of the number of workers expected on the bridge project coupled with e common reluctance of contractors to enforce health and safety compliance as well, their reluctance to commit resources towards safety at work. If not well addressed, sometimes, instances of fatalities arise in the sites. Near schools, heavy earth moving equipment might attract inquisitive children to construction sites. Besides being a safety risk, noise and dust from road construction activities and equipment might temporarily disrupt school activities. If due caution is not taken by drivers, haulage trucks and road construction equipment might be an accident risk to school children and further cause distraction.

The project area once experienced armed conflict and no doubt, it was confronted with the threat posed by landmines and explosive hazards, which include unexploded or abandoned ordnance including Explosive Remains of War (ERW) as well as Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Specifically, with reference to unexploded ordinances (UXOs), the region went through UNDP De- xx | P a g e The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

mining programme which was started in 2006 up to 2012 and the areas were cleared of landmines to the extent possible. There are Specialized Engineering Units within the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) at the Battalion levels in the Districts who are well equipped to handle any instances of UXOs during project implementation.

Soil erosion is expected, especially as a result of vegetation loss and movement of heavy machinery on bare soils. In addition, poor disposal of spoil could propel the risk further. There is potential risk of localized soil erosion around the proposed site resulting into siltation of the river, and contamination of the aquatic environment. As such, there is potential disruption of the breeding grounds for fish and other aquatic fauna.

Management and Monitoring of Impacts and Risks The ESMP provides a summary of activities, their related potential impacts and the corresponding recommended mitigation measures to be carried out during the pre-construction, construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the Project. It details active remedial and mitigation measures to be continuously carried out to prevent or minimize impacts on the bio-physical and socio- cultural environments as well as to promote occupational safety and health of employees. It also seeks to identify the various institutional responsibilities to manage the environmental aspect of the Project as well as the cost involved.

The Contractor will be required to prepare standalone safeguards management plans as part of the Contractor’s Environment and Social Management Plan (C-ESMP)/Environmental and Social Implementation Plan (ESIP). Reference should always be made to the C-ESMP/ESIP as the overarching document that contains general Control Statements for management of various impacts such as air quality, solid waste, and hazardous materials, water quality and ecosystems, noise and vibration control, erosion control, waste excavation and disposal and occupational health and safety, sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, traffic, labour force, grievance redress and so on. In addition to the Management Plans, the Contractor should prepare Method Statements for specific activities such as earthworks and submit for the Supervision Engineer’s review and comments before commencement of works. If the Engineer notifies the Contractor that a specific method statement has failed to provide adequate mitigations, such a statement should be revised and approved by the Client/UNRA/or their representative – Supervision Consultant.

Several statutory and contractual approvals and licenses will be required before commencement of certain construction activities. Securing of approvals requires preparation of the relevant documentation and/or payment of fees. This needs to be done during mobilization to ensure that all approvals are secured in a timely manner to avoid construction delays. It is important to ensure that all materials (sand and aggregates) are sourced from quarries, borrow pits and sand mines approved by NEMA and compliant with environmental laws. Permits for water abstraction and construction on surface water will be obtained during the mobilization period. Where relocation of utilities is to occur, the contractor will obtain permission from relevant service providers during the mobilization period to avoid delays. For all new materials sites to be opened up and operated by the Project, NEMA approval must be secured while all existing sites should undertake/provide proof of having valid approvals and/or having environmental compliance agreements with NEMA.

Routine inspections will be carried out to cover all aspects of environmental and social management on the site. Either a standalone Monthly Environment Report shall be prepared, or safeguards shall be sufficiently covered in the Contractor’s Monthly Progress Report in fulfilment of the Contractor’s contractual reporting obligations. The report will highlight different activities undertaken to manage environmental and social aspects of the project in line with contract specifications, laws, standards, policies, and plans of Uganda and AfDB ISS. UNRA will take the responsibility to fulfil the requirements

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

for conduct of periodic environmental and social audit in line with the National Environment Act 2019. Implementation of ESMP activities will be approved by UNRA and safeguards compliance will be one of the bases for payment. Final payment for the contractor shall be tagged to successful restoration of all disturbed areas and clean-up of all construction sites.

The Uganda National Roads Authority has on behalf of Government of Uganda committed to provide human and financial resources to implement several safeguards issues. UNRA will hold all project implementers accountable for putting in place adequate material measures and actions to mitigate the Project’s potential environmental and social risks and impacts. UNRA is currently reviewing and updating its Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) and this will be critical to guide project implementation.

The overall implementation and monitoring of the ESIA/ESMP for the road project is the responsibility of UNRA through its Directorate of Network Planning and Engineering and specifically, the Department of Environmental and Social Safeguards (DESS). DESS is headed by a Head of Department whose other staff include 5 Specialists (3No. Social Development Specialists and 2No. Environmental Specialists). In addition, there is a pool of five Technical Assistants (3No. Environmental Specialists and 2No. Social Development Specialists) and these are provided through technical assistance programmes by AfDB and World Bank financed projects. Furthermore, DESS has 5No. Junior Safeguards officers and 6No. Environmental and Social Safeguards Trainees. UNRA currently faces some operational constraints that require attention to adequately manage the growing number of roads and bridges projects which are estimated at 40 on-going road projects spread all-over the country and about 63 road projects under different stages of preparation (including bridges on various roads throughout the country).

Complementatry initiatives

Complementary initiatives have been determined following a process of meaningful stakeholder consultation and engagement. The ESIA team engaged stakeholders including the community and district authorities of Moyo and Adjumani which revealed that agriculture and fishing constitute significant sources of livelihoods for the communities within the project area. As such, the proposed initiatives are geared towards enhancing farmers’ skills so that their productivity can be improved. This is envisaged to be done through provision of agricultural inputs, farmer training and value chain addition. More so, training aimed at enhancing financial literacy, improvement of vocational skills and provision of equipment have been proposed. Further consultations have been carried out during the Resettlement Action Plan to ensure that the proposed initiatives are implementable. The estimate cost of UDS $ 364,000 has determined to facilitate implementation of the proposed complementary initiatives during the construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge.

Conclusion and Recommendations The construction of proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge is anticipated to provide a permanent and much more sustainable and dependable connection between Adjumani and Moyo districts, thus facilitating connection in the region. This will enhance the socioeconomic development of the region and attract the development of other related infrastructure and transboundary business opportunities. The proposal provides a solution to the current challenges associated with use and maintenance of Laraopi ferry whose size is incapable of handling the anticipated increase in traffic following the upgrading of Atiak-Laropi road.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

measures to enhance positive impacts associated with the proposed project at different levels in its cycle. A costed ESMMP has been developed to guide development of the ESIP or C-ESMP to guide the construction/project implementation phase. The ESIA has further determined that that the residual negative impacts are of low significance.

The ESIA team recommends that the proposed project is implemented in close consultation with the leadership of the area, the district authorities and the government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, including NEMA and Ministry of Water and Environment.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background The shortest route-connectivity between West-Nile and Northern Uganda lies across River Nile, specifically from Umi to Laropi in Adjumani and Moyo Districts respectively. Currently, this crossing is facilitated by Laropi ferry under the management of Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). The aforementioned ferry is in good condition, and only operates during day, between 7:00am and 7:00pm for safety and security reasons. During breakdown and routine maintenance, the ferry services are not duely available thus causing travel disruptions. UNRA whose mandate is to develop and maintain the national road network is proposing to build a bridge across the Nile at Laropi/Umi, connecting Adjumani and Moyo Districts.

The Laropi/Umi Bridge will link Atiak-Laropi Road (66km) which is currently under development, and Laropi-Moyo-Afoji Road (37km) which is proposed for upgrade to bituminous standard. Road is the most dominant mode of transport in Uganda, carrying over 96 percent of passenger and freight traffic (National Development Plan III). Comprising of 144,785 km of national roads, District roads, urban roads and community access, the road network provides connectivity and access to all parts of the country and is the only means of access to rural communities. The national roads, currently make up 25 percent of the road network in the country but carry over 80 percent of the total road traffic (Styles and Trigona, 2018). Additionally, there are numerous links in the regional and sub-regional networks with poor quality roads and bridges. Therefore, construction and maintenance of bridges across water bodies to enhance connectivity and further reduce travel time is important for socio-economic transformation of Uganda.

African Development Bank (AfDB) has considered financing the construction of the Laropi/Umi bridge. Bridge construction activities, on a major water body like the Nile, are associated with significant environmental and social impacts. The National Environment Act No. 5 of 2019, in its Schedule 5, requires a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for similar projects prior to their implementation. Similarly, the Integrated Safeguards System (ISS) of AfDB present Operational Safeguards (OSs) which require assessment of environment, climate change and social risks and impacts as early as possible in the project cycle.

1.2 Project Justification

Due to its limited operational time, occassional breakdowns and routine maintenance, the Laropi ferry that connects Adjumani and Moyo Districts is not reliable. At the existing ferry, travellers make long

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

queues and wait for several hours before they can cross from one side of the river to another. This poses considerable challenges associated with delays of the high traffic volumes and associated delays in accessing goods and services from either side of the river. Under unavoidable circumstances, road users have to seek alternative connective routes through Gulu, Arua and Yumbe which is 420km, hence an urgency for a more sustainable option.

The development of the Laropi/Umi Bridge was identified under NDP III among the infrastructure required to facilitate connectivity for improved household incomes and quality of life. The National Development Plan III (NDP III) 2020/2021-2024/2025 developed under the theme “Sustainable Industrialization for inclusive growth, employment and wealth creation”, placed integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services among the development drivers.

1.3 The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)

1.3.1 Justification for the ESIA

This ESIA was carried out to comply with the legal requirements of Uganda particularly the National Environment Act (NEA) 2019, and the African Development Bank Operational Safeguards as a prerequisite for obtaining project financing. Where as the NEA is silent on whether “Major Bridges” qualify for a full ESIA, the Larop-Umi Bridge was considered for a full ESIA because the Nile is a major river, a sensitive wetland system that doubles as a transboundary resource. Additionally, the Laropi- Umi link has been served by a ferry and is being considered for a permanent connection through a bridge thus the need to evaluate the two alternatives.

1.3.2 Aim of the ESIA

The ESIA provides an opportunity to determine potential negative and positive impacts of the project. It further provides opportunities to mitigate negative impacts, while enhancing the positive ones. More so, ESIA provides avenues to enable meaningful stakeholder consultations thus facilitating project social acceptability.

1.3.3 Specific objectives of the ESIA

The specific objectives of the ESIA include:

i) To identify and assess potential environmental and social impacts and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies (avoid, minimize, restore and compensate); ii) To identify and analyse project alternatives with a view of avoiding and minimizing adverse impacts and risks, and to optimize the benefits to socio-economic development and other development activities in the region; iii) To undertake meaningful consultations with relevant stakeholders including potentially affected persons, government agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), private sector and the public in order to design and implement an inclusive project; iv) Prepare an Environmental and Social Management Plan that details required mitigation and monitoring actions.

1.3.4 ESIA Process

According to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Reference Manual (UNEP, 2002), the EIA process is summarized in Figure 1.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

a) Screening: the proposed project for constructing Laropi/Umi bridge was screened to determine the level of assessment required, its significant impacts on the environmental and social aspects, and existing opportunities. The Screening also analysed the possibilities to avoid impacts or develop mitigation measures. For such projects as detailed ESIA is mandatory since it is listed under the fifth Schedule of the National Environment Act 2019.

b) Scoping: following confirmation that the proposed project required a detailed ESIA, Scoping was carried out as the first step in the ESIA process to determine the scope of work to be undertaken in assessing the likely environmental and social impacts of the proposed development. In this regard, a site reconnaissance was conducted in the project area. This was followed by a scoping exercise, which identified the potential significant impacts that required detailed assessment while eliminating the insignificant ones. Consultative meetings were also held with various stakeholders, including local communities and officials of Adjumani and Moyo district, to determine the issues of most importance for consideration during detailed assessment. Analysis of alternatives to be considered was also done.

The Scoping exercise resulted into development of a comprehensive Terms of Reference (TOR) for ESIA and was submitted to NEMA for review and consideration. The approved ToR guided the detailed ESIA.

c) Impact analysis, mitigation and impact management: basing on information from the scoping exercise and TORs for ESIA, a detailed environmental and social impact study was carried out. It involved literature review, collection of primary and secondary baseline data and meaningful stakeholder consultations. Potential impacts were analysed and possible mitigation measures developed for proper management of impacts. This Report will be submitted to NEMA for review and consideration.

d) Decision-making: Based on the findings of the ESIA, NEMA will make a decision on the proposed Laropi/Umi bridge development in consultation with the relevant stakeholders.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 1: Summary of the EIA process (EIA Reference Manual; UNEP, 2002)

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Location and Nature of the project

The proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge is located at geographical coordinates 3°32'39.33"N, 31°48'48.04"E and 3°33'8.03"N, 31°48'45.54"E connecting Moyo to Adjumani Districts (Figure 2); at the point where the Atiak-Laropi-Moyo national road intersects with the River Nile. The Atiak-Laropi and Laropi-Moyo roads are currently connected by a UNRA operated ferry across the R. Nile.

The general setting of the area is characterised by hydromorphic soils with undifferentiated river alluvium dominated by grey and yellow sandy clays. Wooded bushlands and rocky outcrops are common on the Eastern bank of the river. Permanent wetlands with a variety of vegetation particularly Cyperus papyrus occupy the river banks, open grasslands, bushlands and thicket, wooded bushlands and Wooded Grassland are common in the area. The hydrology of the Nile at Laropi is influenced by the three major catchments including Lakes Victoria, Kyoga and Albert.

Figure 2: A google image showing the location of proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge project: proposed Bridge alignment and existing national roads

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

2.2 Geometry of Proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge and access routes

The geometric parameters for the proposed Bridge are shown in Table 1

Table 1: Key Geometric parameters consider for Laropi/Umi Bridge No. Particulars Details A Bridge Approaches i Length (km) 1.5 (2) ii Carriageway Width (m) 7.0 iii Shoulders (m) 2.0 iv Cross fall; carriageway and shoulders (%) 2.5 v Right of Way (m) 50 B Bridge Section i Length (km) 1.1 ii Carriageway Width (m) 7.0 iii Shoulders (m) 2 iv Walkway (m) 2 v Cross fall; carriageway, shoulders and parking (%) 2.5 vi Right of Way (m) 7.0 vii Minimum vertical clearance (m) 6 viii Cross fall; carriageway, shoulders and parking (%) 2

2.3 Bridge component

The longitudinal view and cross-sectional view of the proposed bridge are shown in Figures 3 and 4 respectively.

Figure 3: Longitudinal view of the proposed bridge

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 4: Cross-sectional view of the proposed bridge

Cross Section for Bridge approach The design cross-section was determined from the considerations of URDM (2010) which defines the minimum cross section elements for various Road Design Classes. Whereas the manual specifies 6.0m carriageway width for Paved Class II roads, 7.0m carriageway has been adopted for the Project access roads. This is in line with UNRA’s minimum design guidelines for National Roads. The cross-section for the approach roads is presented in Figure 5.

Figure 5: Bridge Approach Cross Section

2.4 Pre-construction activities

2.4.1 Material surveys and testing

Required boreholes were drilled using a portable drilling rig (XY-200) at selected locations. The rig cutting bits of 90- and 110-mm diameters were anticipated to be used to bore through strata, consisting of different soil types and layers, silt and gravel, to recover disturbed and undisturbed soil samples at various depths. The Drilling machine used usually consists of rods of known length onto which core barrel for recovering soil samples and SPT mould are attached. Other components include the driving engine to drive the rods into the ground and SPT hammer among others. Recovered soil samples shall be taken for further examination. The samples extracted from the subsurface were packed in core boxes for visual examination and logged into the Borehole logs.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

2.4.2 Environmental and Social Impact assessments and Resettlement Action Planning

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and Resettlement Action Planning are critical pre- construction activities. The two processes were followed to enable development of a suitable design for the project and appropriate management of the potential impacts. The processes included meaningful stakeholder consultation, socioeconomic studies, vulnerability assessments and biodiversity studies. These studies aimed at developing a project that is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

2.5 Construction activities

2.5.1 Project mobilization, site set-up, and temporary facilities

It involves sourcing for the required labour and equipment, preparation of appropriate project camps to accommodate workers, offices and equipment. Establishment of material sources requires undertaking appropriate assessment such ESIA and RAP for Project support infrastructure. Other activities include establishment of quarries, installation of crusher plant and concrete mixing plant, water souring and installation, construction of domestic waste and sewer waste facilities for the camps.

Important to note is that ESIAs for Project Associated Facilities such as Quarries, camps and gravel borrow areas among others are yet to be undertaken since the precise locations for these facilities are yet to be determined. However, a screening form in Appendix 5 will be used, in reference to the National Environment No.5 of 2019 to determine the extent of Environmental and Social Assessment Required. In case a full ESIA is required, like is the case with quarries, a scoping exercise will be undertaken to develop a TOR for carrying out an ESIA. The Appendix 6 presents the content of the Scoping Report. Under no circumstances shall siting for Project Associated Facilities be in or near environmentally and socially sensitive areas.

2.5.2 Construction of a Temporary Bridge

Construction of a temporary bridge is a key step towards building permanent bridge. On completion of the temporary bridge design, bridge development program will be established, and material and equipment mobilized. The temporary bridge shall be erected using steel across the river. It shall function as a platform for construction of pile foundation and material transport across the river. Construction of this temporary bridge involves steel pipe pile driving, using the vibratory hammer in turn into the pile, using crane cooperate assembly bailey beam on-site, and installing bridge deck beam system after the bailey is put in place. Steel pile working and welding of the bridge will be followed by baily beam installations. Auto crane setting is the next step in construction followed by deck installation.

Substructure

a) Pile driving: The steel pipe pile will be inserted into the earth using DZ90 vibration hammer sequentially. The pile will then be lifted with crawler crane then sent down the pile location. After aimed piling, crawler crane hoist hydraulic hammer, hydraulic chuck clamp steel pipe piles, will be checked to confirm that the pile is perpendicular to the horizontal direction. The steel is setup to ensure that the pile in the process of hammering always stay vertical.

Once the Pile has met the requirements, the hammer is stared to drive the pile into the swamp soil. In case the steel pipe pile that has been driven into the design elevation and penetration is still more than the requirements, it means that there is poorer, soil bearing capacity and does not meet the requirements. In order to ensure the capacity of the pile, it needs to be driven until penetration complies with the requirements (Figure 6).

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed a) DDD Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

b) Steel pipe piles reinforce connection : After bridge pier has been erected, completing the steel pipe pile in vertical and horizontal by welding cross channel with the dimension 150mmx150mm(δ=6mm) is the next step. Each pipe is connected into a whole to ensure lateral stability and to prevent the differential settlement. Each support steel (profile steel) and steel pipe pile joint are connected using full welding to ensure the quality of the weld.

c) Cap beam: After steel pipe pile work is finished, the driving band (dimension is Figure 6: Heavy Drilling Machine driving steel casing in the 10mm*600mm*600mm) will be welded ground with the steel pipe pile top for each

pier, then install cap beam on the driving band. The cap beam is made from two double irons (2I28b). Finally welding steel pipe pile and driving band and cap beam to become whole (Figure 7).

d) Bridge installation: Bailey girder will be assembled by pins within the camp empty spaces, with pad sleepers under it. The bridge has six rows two group of bailey beam. Two groups of bailey beam are connected by a support frame. The space of 6 rows of bailey beam is 2*0.45m+3.365m+2*0.45m. All bolt and nut will be connected by truss tightly. The dowel in place will be inserted with insurance. After each span bridge assembling is completed, all of them will be installed by a crawler crane (Figure 8). Figure 7: Illustration of temporary bridge construction using steel casting and a jetty

Quality assurance: Method statements will be submitted for approval to the Supervision Consultant to ensure conformity with the requirements and specifications. The contractor’s laboratory will be furnished with necessary testing equipment. The laboratory shall monitor the procedure of all construction works through the material tests and inspection, and provide useful data for quality control and performance improvement.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

2.5.2.1 Safety guidelines to be considered during the construction of a temporary bridge

During construction of the temporary bridge, it is important that safety rules are established and followed according to the World Bank Environmental Health Safety guidelines, UNRA’S Environment and Social Safeguards Policy. Operations should maintain all the safety requirements including;

i). Site safety induction; ii). Safety trainings; iii). Risk assessments; iv). Provision of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE); v). Only trained and skilled operators and drivers should be employed; vi). Traffic Management plan should be developed and implemented.

In addition, all measures recommended in this ESIA, including the Environmental and social management plan, Emergency Response and Rescue Plan, Waste Management Plan, and HSE management plan among others, should be adhered to. Appropriate technology should be applied to prevent spillage of wastewater into the river and routine and regular monitoring of the operations will be required throughout the project life.

Decommissioning of the temporary bridge should be done following an approved decommissioning plan approved by NEMA and the supervision Engineer. The process should be in such a way to avoid and minimise potential pollution risks.

Figure 8: Typical setting of a temporary bridge support structure for Permanent Bridge construction

2.5.3 Construction of Permanent Bridge

2.5.3.1 Pile Foundation

Construction of the pile foundation will include the following:

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

a) Steel Pile Casting Pile casing has the ability to guide the drill, control the pile position, isolate the groundwater seepage, prevent the entrance collapse, raise the static pressure of the water in the hole and tighten the steel reinforcement cage. Therefore, it shall be buried properly. Pile foundation casing shall be formed by steel plate of 8mm thickness and 2m length; welded in-site vertical deviation shall not exceed 1/100. Double-weld with groove joints shall be applied and all joint shall be in a line to ensure no deformations.

Pile foundation on land shall use the method named dig-and-bury. The pile casing must reach into the soil at least 2.0m deep. The surroundings shall be compacted clay and 0.20m higher above the ground level. Casting of pile foundation on mainline bridge island platform shall use the same method.

The same requirement for land area is demanded 2m deep into power clay layer to ensure no leakage at the bottom of the casing. The vibration hammer method shall be applied in water areas, with a protective ring at the top of the casting to reduce damage during hammering. Depth in earth shall be determined by the geological conditions.

Diagonal protective pile shall be set up before the bury of the casting is carried out in accordance with the center of the engineer's setting out. Leading pile shall be well-protected. After the bury of the casting, survey engineer shall retest the pile center as well as examine the verticality and the degree of the bottom side deformation before the next step. b) Installation and debugging of the drill The drilling holes will be checked prior to installation of the drill. Furthermore, it will be necessary to survey the pile casing coordinates to hoist the drill to the right position. Rod and drill shall be checked for deformations. They will be numbered and their lengths measured. This information will be put on the rod and drill. c) Mud preparation and circulation The project will use original soil for making mud. Prior to the drilling, the mud circulate system shall be set by connecting pipe and mud pool in order to enhance the output efficiency. The performance index plays an important role in drilling efficiency. Water slurry and red clay additive shall be mixed in required proportions to enhance the performance index.

The mud in the hole and at the outlet of the circulation pool shall be checked and the performance index shall be adjusted accordingly to meet the specification. Overflowed mud will be recycled and put into the circulation pool. For the waste mud, the overflow shall be put into the waste-dealing pool for processing prior to discharge in accordance with National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations 1999, in order to minimise the risk of environmental pollution. d) Abrasion drill Once the drill is positioned and the center of the drill checked, the drilling shall start. The drill frame shall continually be checked to ensure that it is firm. In addition, water and electricity shall be checked. The hole will be constructed in accordance with the design specifications and at the minimum, it shall conform to the following:

i) Whatever method is applied for drill, drilling point shall be always precise. Drilling shall be in slow motion at the beginning and accelerated to full speed until the head of the drill is fully underground;

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

ii) Circulation drilling shall adopt decompressed method. The main crane will bear the weight of the rig while the hole bottom will bear the pressure which is less than 80 percent of the added weight of the rod, awl and press cake to avoid non-vertical, expanded or shrunk holes;

iii) The drilling will be a non-stop process and the records shall be kept correctly;

iv) ln case the drill stops for dislodging earth, or any other factors causing stoppage, a specified water level shall be kept within the hole to ensure that the density and viscosity of the slurry is maintained;

v) There will be continuous mud test to ensure quality. Continuous testing of mud will guide on the changes of the layers. This will help to verify the section column after the formation of the pile foundation. Out-dimension shall be the dimension of reinforcement cage of the drilling pile plus dimension of the drill head. e) Hole cleaning The hole shall be cleaned to the designed level and approved by the Supervision Consultant. The deposits and mud thickness shall meet the requirements for installing reinforcement cage by multi- cycling and cleaning the mud.

i) Method for hole cleaning such as slurry replacing, slurry pumping, dislodging, air compressor shooting, mortar replacing among others may be used. In either of the methods, measures will be taken to ensure that water head within the hole is prevented from crushing. ii) In addition, the sample of slurry shall be withdrawn from the bottom of the hole to conduct performance factor test. Test results shall comply with the specification on slurry after hole cleaning and before grouting underwater concrete. iii) In no way shall deepening the hole replace hole cleaning. f) Re-bar Cage The reinforcement cages will be processed part by part, and then transported to the site once qualified and connected. These will then be put down into the holes by cranes. Sampling inspection for end reinforcement cage will check for rust, greasy dirt and welding slag on the surface. The reinforcement skeleton shall be round and the rigidity shall meet the construction requirements. Once completed and hole qualified, installation of the reinforcement cage by auto crane will commence. This is illustrated in Figure 9.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 9: Typical Re-Bar Cage showing steel bars inside steel metal casing g) The second time hole cleaning After putting the reinforcement cage and installing the pipe for pouring concrete, the thickness of the deposit shall be measured. If its thickness is not qualified, second time cleaning will be done. The process will include separation and cleaning of the mud by concrete pouring pipe, the cleaned mud will be sent to the hole again and cycled until the performance index meets the requirements. h) Underwater concrete placing i). Two concrete mixing plants shall be set up for the proposed project. ii). Performance of underwater concrete: C25 underwater concrete shall be used with Cement type 425. C20 shall be used for land pile foundation with cement type 425. Initial setting time shall be no earlier than 2.5h and strength grade shall be more than 425 well-graded medium sand shall be adopted for fine aggregate. iii). Based on distance and condition for works, underwater concrete grouting shall adopt pumping machine by means of trailer pump or dumping into hopper from concrete tanker or pumping into hopper from concrete pumper. iv). Concrete mixture shall be of good workability. No isolation or bleeding shall be spotted during transportation and grouting. Enough mobility shall be kept during grouting. v). The suitable steel conduit shall be used for underwater concrete grouting. Test for watertight bearing and joint tensile shall be conducted before application. In no way shall the test be performed by pneumatic pressure. Water pressure for watertight test shall not be less than 1.3 times that of water within the hole, nor 1.3 times of the maximum internal pressure that of conduit wall and weld joint for grouting. vi). Bladder or basketball shall be used as watertight plug when adopting concrete bottom seal grouting (1-2cm less than inner dimension of the conduit). The method is named plug removing. In this method, bladder is fixed at the bottom of the funnel or the top of the conduit, sealed with a cap plate at the opening. The cap is tied to a hook by a wire to a crane. For the first batch of concrete, it is reasonable to lift the cap to a certain height to open it before dropping concrete.

The pouring process shall be recorded, the raised level of the concrete and the pipe buried depth will be measured and recorded for every single truck concrete finished (the pipe buried depth will be controlled between 2-6m), the level above the top of the pile will also be controlled to between 60- 120cm. Typial outcome of the underwater placing process is illustrated in Figure 10.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 10: Pile/pier below ground/river/swamp bed i) Conformity inspection of completed piles/piers Before tie beam and cushion cap are built, low strain, dynamic ICSI and ultrasonic test shall be adopted to determine the quality of the completed pile. No-Damage Method approved by the Supervision Consultant shall be adopted to test every completed pile. Installation of sonic test tube on completed pile shall be in accordance with the design and requirement of the specification.

2.5.3.2 Construction of the abutment

The process for constructing an abutment (Figure 11) shall include the following activities: a) Welding and wire-tie of the reinforced bars The construction method of abutment (or pier) is the same as that of the pile foundation. Main bars of abutment shall be connected by welding, then wire-tied the horizontal stirrup on site. The wire-tie of bars for abutment (or pier) shall be coordinated with pouring concrete. The bars shall be arranged with different length on the first layer in order to meet the requirement for the bar joint on the same section and further offset the joint of horizontal bars from inside to outside and from top to bottom. An appropriate amount of grouting mortar cushion blocks for reinforced bar-frame in the different heights shall be wire-tied to maintain a clear depth of protection cover. b) Form production and installation The steel forms with large surface shall be adopted and designed by the Contractor on site. The forms shall be installed for the abutment body by means of manpower after the completion of welding bars and wire-tie. Furthermore, the form-release compound shall be applied on the inner side of the forms and the joints shall be sealed with sponges to prevent leakage. The exterior face of bridge abutment and column forms shall be back-supported with square timber and stabilized with crossing reinforced bars to ensure the strength and rigidity of the forms. Steel pipe scaffold with bowl type coupler will be used for supporting brackets of abutment shaft, which means there shall be no connection between forms and the brackets. Support frame will be firmly installed from the vertical and horizontal face to resist accidental knock and shock. Bearing part of frame shall be placed on a reliable foundation. The verticality, evenness and supporting system of forms will be double checked after the completion of form installation. c) Pouring and vibrating concrete

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Concrete shall be poured as soon as the completion of forms and reinforced bars are tested. The concrete shall be transported to site from mixing plant through tank trucks. Pouring of the concrete to forms will be by means of crane and swinging hopper. The pouring and casting of bearing platform will utilise the method of leveled layering. The vibrator will be inserted as soon as possible, then slowly pull out of the concrete to avert generating the void within it. Effort will be made to avoid the touch with forms, reinforced bars and embedded parts while performing vibrator. Over vibration or under vibration will be strictly prohibited to ensure that the surface of concrete is smooth and internal and external of it is solid and esthetical. d) Concrete curing, form removal and backfill The concrete shall be cured by watering continuously and covering with synthetic fabrics after it has set. After obtaining the desired concrete strength, the curing process will be stopped. Forms shall then be removed the abutment base is demoulded and the abutment backfilled with murram and compacted.

Figure 11: Typical drawing of an abutment

2.5.3.3 Laying of the Bridge Deck The last step shall be laying of the pavement on the bridge deck, connecting the two abutments (Figure 12). The bridge will then be connected with access roads on both sides. Following the completion of this process, a roadway pavement shall be constructed and appropriate road furniture, including lights and guarders installed.

Figure 12: Laying of the bridge deck

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

2.6 Post construction activities

2.6.1 Decommission of project associated facilities and environmental restoration

All project associate facilities (project support structures) including the temporary bridge, quarries, borrow areas, temporary camps and accesses or detours among others will be decommissioned after use. Decommissioning Plans of respective structures shall be prepared, in consultation with stakeholders and communicated to NEMA for approval in compliance with the legal requirements. Care shall be taken to ensure that negative environmental and social impacts are avoided during decommissioning. Where negative impacts cannot be avoided appropriate measures will be implemented to manage and mitigate them. Furthermore, measures to restore all disturbed areas will be developed and implemented in consultation with the NEMA and other key stakeholders in compliance with the national laws and OSs of AfDB.

2.6.2 Operation of the project

This shall mainly involve routine and periodic maintenance of the bridge and the approach roads to ensure optimization of the project. Routine maintenance works shall include cleaning the bridge, cleaning the drainage, repairs of any broken road furniture and pothole patching among others. The periodic maintenance works shall include re-sealing, re-painting of markings, among other activities. Other post-construction activities shall include enforcement of relevant control requirements like speed control and axle-load monitoring in accordance with Ugandan laws and policies to enhance safety and sustainability of the project.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3 INSTITUTIONAL, POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK 3.0 INSTITUTIONAL, POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK

This section sets out the institutional, legislative, regulatory, policy and framework in which the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge project was planned. It discusses policy, legal and institutional framework within which the ESIA was conducted.

3.1 Safeguard Policies of African Development Bank

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) presented an Integrated Safeguards System (ISS), as a cornerstone of its strategy to promote growth that is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable. The ISS notes that environmental and social sustainability is key to economic growth and poverty reduction in Africa. The Bank’s Strategy further emphasizes the need to assist regional member countries in their efforts to promote growth and development while enhancing environmental sustainability and social justice. In doing so, the Bank obliges the project to adopt and implement Operational Safeguards, from the ISS (AfDB, 2013).

Furthermore, the Bank requires that project evaluation meets host country’s guidelines and the provisions stipulated in the Operational Safeguards (OS), in order to achieve Environmental and Social Sustainability. Safeguards are a powerful tool for identifying risks, reducing development costs and improving project sustainability, thus benefiting affected communities and helping to preserve the environment. The ISS not only promotes best practices in these areas but also encourages greater transparency and accountability.

The Bank’s ISS has adopted five (5) OSs and requires that borrowers/clients comply with these Safeguards’ requirements during the projet cycle.

The Operational Safeguards of the Bank are:

(i) Operational Safeguard 1 (OS1): Environmental and Social Assessment (ii) Operational Safeguard 2 (OS2): Involuntary resettlement land acquisition, population displacement and compensation (iii) Operational Safeguard 3 (OS3): Biodiversity and ecosystem services (iv) Operational Safeguard 4 (OS4): Pollution prevention and control, hazardous materials and resource efficiency (v) Operational Safeguard 5 (OS5): Labour conditions, health and safety

The proposed project has been evaluated against these OSs to determine their implications as presented in Table 2.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Table 2: Summary Operational Safeguards and how they relate to the Project S/N Operational Safeguards Relevance to the Project

OS1: Environmental and Social This ESIA was guided by this Safeguards with an objective Assessment of defining the receiving environment, the proposed project activities and the design in order to predict potential impacts This Safeguard gives guidance to the overall such that opportunities to avoid, mitigate and offset negative process of ESIA and in essence sets the impacts are determined while enhancing the positive scope of the ESIA process for AfDB funded impacts. projects including project categorization based on the receiving environment, its level of Important to note is that ESIAs for Project Associated sensitivity and nature of potential impacts. Facilities such as Quarries, camps and gravel borrow areas among others are yet to be undertaken since the precise locations for these facilities are yet to be determined. However, a screening form in Appendix 5 will be used, in reference to the National Environment No.5 of 2019 to determine the extent of Environmental and Social Assessment Required. In case a full ESIA is required, like is the case with quarries, a scoping exercise will be undertaken to develop a TOR for carrying out an ESIA. The Appendix 6 presents the content of the Scoping Report.

Following procurement of a Works Contractor, and before commencemet of works, locations for the facilities will be confirmed and respective ESIA undertaken in compliance with the standards under this Safeguard. Under no circumstances shall siting for Project Associated Facilities be in or near environmentally and socially sensitive areas.

OS2: Involuntary resettlement land acquisition, population displacement and compensation

This Safeguard makes provisions for ensuring Since the proposed project will involve construction of the that in the process of acquiring land for the bridge and associate approach roads will lead to project, the affected persons are not left displacement of people and change of land uses especially worse-off than before the project. It seeks to where there are business communities and agricultural ensure that when people are to be displaced, activities leading to potential loss of livelihoods. Therefore, they are treated fairly, equitably, and in a this OS has been triggered. socially and culturally sensitive manner; that they receive compensation and resettlement A Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) has been prepared assistance so that their standards of living, following a meanginful stakeholder consultative process as income-earning capacity, production levels guided by this OS. The RAP outlines measures to avoid and and overall means of livelihood are improved; minise adverse impacts during the process of land and that they share in the benefits of the acquisition and involuntary resettlement. project.

OS3: Biodiversity and ecosystem services The proposed construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge project and approach roads is a greenfield project. However, the The relevance of this OS is in the need to proposed site has no biological species of international conserve biological diversity and the importance. Therefore, it has limited impacts to trigger this respective habitats. OS. Nonetheless, the development of Project Associated Facilities to support implementation of the project will observe provisions of this OS such that biological diversity and the respective habitats are as much as possible conserved.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

S/N Operational Safeguards Relevance to the Project

OS4: Pollution prevention and control, The relevance of this OS to the proposed project is reflected hazardous materials and resource in the Construction phase where there will be a need for efficiency environment management systems designed for:  Air emissions This Operational Safeguard outlines the main  Greenhouse gas emissions pollution prevention and control requirements  Hazardous waste management for borrowers to achieve high environmental  Noise pollution quality performance.  Cumulative impacts associated with pollutants  Emergence preparedness and response  Resource efficiency especially choice of construction materials

The OS has guided development of mitigation measures to prevent and control pollution and enhance resource efficiency among others. Importantly also, as part of the Environmental and Social Implementation Plan ESIP which the Works Contractor will be required to developed, fresh Environmental baseline will be collected to guide development of appropriate Management Plans for Pollution prevention and control, Occupational Health and Safety, Waste Management among others for the approval of the Supervising Consultant.

Preparation of these key project plans will be guided by this OS.

OS5: Labour conditions, health and safety This OS is triggered because a lot of labour will be required during the construction phase, to implement the project. This OS requires Protection of workers’ rights; Establish, maintain, and improve the The provisions of OS5 will be enforced in tandem with employee– employer relationship; Promote national labour and safety provisions as stipulated in the compliance with national legal requirements Employment Act, Labour Act and Public Health Act as per and provide supplemental due diligence Uganda’s legislation. requirements where national laws are silent or inconsistent with the OS; Align Bank Key in the provisions will be providing equal opportunity, requirements with the ILO Core Labor collective bargaining and mass retrenchment. Standards, and the UNICEF Convention on the Rights of the Child, where national laws do This OS shall be used in conjunction with the above- not provide equivalent protection; Protect the mentioned national legislation to further enhance workers’ workforce from inequality, social exclusion, conditions, protect their rights, and to avoid their abuse and child labour, and forced labour; Establish exploitation. requirements to provide safe and healthy working conditions.

3.2 National Policy Framework

3.2.1 Draft National Environment Management Policy, 2014

The overall policy goal of the Policy is sustainable development which maintains and promotes environmental quality and resource productivity for socio-economic transforamationthe promote sustainable economic and social development, mindful of the needs of future generations. Under the key principles, its stated there in that full environmental and social costs and Benefits foregone as aresult of environmental damange od degradation should be incorporated in public and private sector

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

planning and minimised where possible. The policy calls for integration of environmental concerns into development policies, plans and projects at national, district and local levels, using ESIA as one of the vital tools. Thus, the policy requires that projects or policies likely to have significant adverse environmental and social impacts to undertake an ESIA before their implementation. This ESIA have been carried in full compliance with the provisions of this policy and has ensured that aspects for environmental and social sustainability are integrated in the project cycle.

Relevance: The policy provides guidance on how projects (such as the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge development) likely to have significant adverse ecological or social impacts should undertake an ESIA before their implementation.

3.2.2 National Environmental Health Policy, 2005

The main objective of this policy is to create an enabling environment for the achievement and maintenance of healthy living conditions in rural and urban areas. It actively promotes and supports the adoption of a national sanitation, ensure that an environmental health community at national and local government level is suitably skilled and equipped to meet current environmental health challenges.

Relevance: Significant adverse sanitation challenges especially in river banks of the Nile are likely to rise due to construction works. The proposed project involves construction of access roads, disposal of waste and pollutants hence the requirement for observation of this policy.

3.2.3 National Policy for Conservation and Management of Wetlands, 1995

The overall aim of this policy is to promote the conservation of Uganda’s wetlands in order to sustain their ecological and socio-economic functions for the present and future wellbeing of the people. It aims at curtailing loss of wetland resources and ensuring that benefits from wetlands are equitably distributed to all people of Uganda. The policy specifically calls for application of environmental impact assessment procedures on all activities to be carried out in a wetland to ensure that the development in wetlands are well planned and managed

Relevance: The project transverses wetlands and flood plains along River Nile. Therefore, project management should ensure that construction and operation activities do not lead to a decline of wetland productivity.

3.2.4 Wildlife Policy, 2014

The main objective of this Policy is to conserve wildlife resources of Uganda in a manner that contributes to the sustainable development of the nation and the well-being of its people. With specific objectives of: i. Promoting sustainable management of Uganda’s wildlife Protected Areas, sustainably manage wildlife populations in and outside Protected Areas. ii. Promoting sustainable and equitable utilization of wildlife resources as a viable form of land use for national economic development. iii. Effectively mitigate human wildlife conflicts. iv. Promoting wildlife research and training. v. Promoting conservation education and awareness across the nation. vi. To ensure net positive impacts of exploration and development of extractive industries and other forms of development in wildlife conservation areas. vii. To effectively combat wildlife related crime and to promote and support local, regional and global partnerships for conservation of wildlife.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Relevance: The project area falls within areas of unique consisting of wetlands and rocky areas in Savannah woodlands. The project should promote sustainable management of wildlife habitats as well as avoid/minimise/mitigate impacts on protected area.

3.2.5 National Water Policy, 1999

The objective of this policy is to provide guidance on development and management of the water resources in Uganda in an integrated and sustainable manner, so as to secure and provide water of adequate quantity and quality for all social and economic needs, with full participation of all stakeholders and mindful of the needs of future generations.

Relevance: The project area has prominent water bodies of National importance specifically the Albert Nile. Sound measures shall be devised to avoid/minimise/mitigate the impact of construction on these water bodies.

3.2.6 Uganda’s Vision 2040

The Uganda Vision 2040 aims at transforming Uganda from its present Least Developed Country (LDC) status to, a competitive and upper middle-income country by 2040. Road infrastructure is identified as one of the priority economic growth drivers to enhance the quality of life as it facilitates movement of goods and services and general industrialization process among others. The proposed bridge development provides a permanent connectivity between Adjumani and Moyo in west Nile region and to parts of South Sudan and Democratic Republic Congo. This is anticipated to enhance trade and boost socioeconomic growth in the region.

Relevance: The proposed laropi-Umi Bridge will link the West Nile Region to Northern Uganda hence proving a more sustainable connectivity to enhance trada and socio-economic transformation in the region.

3.2.7 National Development Plan III 2020/2021-2024/2025

The National Development Plan III (NDP III) 2020/2021-2024/2025 developed under the theme “Sustainable Industrialization for inclusive growth, employment and wealth creation”, placed integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services among the development drivers. Development of the Laropi/Umi Bridge was identified under NDP III among the infrastructure required to facilitate connectivity for improved household incomes and quality of life.

Relevance: Proposed project meets the objectives of National Development Plan III 2020/2021- 2024/2025

3.2.8 Gender Policy, 2007

The Goal is to achieve gender equality and women’s empowerment as an integral part of Uganda’s socio-economic development. The purpose of the Uganda gender policy is to establish a clear framework for identification, implementation and coordination of interventions designed to achieve gender equality and Women’s empowerment in Uganda. The policy is a guide to all stakeholders in planning, resource allocation, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of programmes with a gender perspective.

Relevance: Planning for gender equality shall be integrated into pre-construction, construction and post construction activities. The project developer shall ensure that gender specific needs are well articulated and implemented to avoid and minimize socio-economic impacts.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.2.9 National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based violence, 2016

The policy seeks to promote, prevent and respond and end impunity of gender-based violation in the country. The highest prevalence of gender-based violence is among women aged between 15 and 45; and generally, involves sexual violence.

Relevance: The proposed project shall have specific policy on eliminating of gender-based violence throughout project phases. In addition, the project will be required to work with community members, police, teachers, parents and all stakeholders to specifically address gender issues.

3.2.10 National Policy for Older Persons, 2009

The policy seeks to achieve equal treatment, social inclusion and empowerment of older persons. The values of the policy are:

i. Equity. Fairness, fair play, impartiality and justice in the distribution of benefits and responsibilities in society. ii. Respect. Views, opinions and rights of older persons will be upheld while they are also expected to exhibit high sense of self- respect. Commitment. The willingness to work hard and give all the energy and time to meet the vision. iii. Accountability. All stakeholders are expected to fulfill their obligations towards one another. iv. Equality. All older persons will be accorded same opportunity and rights as other individuals.

Relevance: All project affected persons above 65 years shall be incorporated in the compensation process and shall be treated with equity and respect.

3.2.11 National Policy on Disability, 2006

The vision of the policy is a society where people with disabilities (PWDs) fully participate in all spheres of development. The mission is to provide a framework to the empowerment of PWDs in the development process.

Relevance: The project shall ensure participation of PWDs in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation for all the project phases.

3.2.12 National Orphans and other Vulnerable Children’s Policy, 2004

The vision of the policy is a society where all orphans and other vulnerable children live to their full potential and their rights and aspirations are fulfilled. The mission of the policy is to provide a framework for the enjoyment of the rights and fulfilment of responsibilities of the orphans and other vulnerable children.

The policy objectives are: i. To ensure that the legal, policy, and institutional framework for child protection is developed and strengthened at all levels. ii. To ensure that orphans, vulnerable children and their families access basic essential services package. National Orphans and other vulnerable children Policy iii. To ensure that resources for interventions that benefit orphans and other vulnerable children are mobilized and efficiently utilized. and iv. To ensure that the capacity of duty-bearers for orphans and other vulnerable children to provide essential services is enhanced.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.2.13 National Youth Policy, 2001

The goal is to provide an appropriate framework for enabling youth to develop social, economic, cultural and political skills so as to enhance their participation in the overall development process and improve their quality of life.

The objectives of the policy are; i. To initiate, strengthen and streamline all programmes and services targeting the youth. ii. To promote social and economic empowerment of the youth. iii. To build capacity and provide relevant training and information to the stakeholders. iv. To promote growth in the development of the youth through actions that protect empower and prepare them for adulthood. v. To provide psycho-social support and other services to youth in conflict situations, difficult circumstances and to the disadvantaged groups. vi. To increase youth involvement in decision--making, leadership, community based and other development programmes. vii. To mobilise resources for youth programmes and projects at all levels.

Relevance: The project should include all youth in all phases of the project execution, including planning, construction and operations. Priority for employment should be given to youth from the project area.

3.2.14 Uganda National Culture Policy, 2006

The Policy provides a framework for the promotion of culture for development and complies with international and regional instruments on culture. The core principles underlying the Policy are; Promoting Unity in Diversity, respecting one another’s’ culture, ensuring social inclusion (Children, youth, women, PWDs, elderly, People living with HIV/AIDS and indigenous minorities), promoting cultural change, promoting environmental protection and strengthening partnerships.

Relevance: The project shall ensure harmony with efforts to promote and enhance the contribution of culture to community empowerment.

3.2.15 National Equal Opportunities Policy, 2006

The National Equal Opportunities Policy provides a framework for re-dressing imbalances, which exist against marginalized groups while promoting equality and fairness for all, with a goal of. Providing avenues where individuals and groups’ potentials are put to maximum use by availing equal opportunities and affirmative action.

Relevance: construction comes along with a lot of opportunities including service delivery, trainings and employment. The project will avail equal opportunities and affirmative action.

3.2.16 National Child Labour Policy, 2007

The overall objective of the policy is to guide and promote sustainable actions aimed at the progressive elimination of child labour starting with the worst forms. The vision of the policy is a society free of exploitative child labour in which all working children enjoy their right to childhood, education, dignity and the full development of their potential.

Relevance: The project shall actively participate in efforts to eliminate child labour during pre- construction, construction and post construction.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

3.2.17 National HIV/AIDS and the World of Work Policy, 2007

The goal of this National policy is to provide a framework for prevention of further spread of HIV and mitigation of the socio-economic impact of the epidemic within the world of work in Uganda. The policy recognises HIV/AIDS as a workplace issue, which should be treated like any other serious illnesses / conditions in the workplace. It emphasizes the importance of promoting and protecting human rights, participation of people living with HIV/AIDS, gender equality as well as prevention, care, support and treatment as the major tools to be used in addressing the impact of HIV/AIDS in the world of work. It guides the overall response to HIV/AIDS in the world of work in Uganda.

Relevance: The project shall endaover to promote human rights, participation of people living with HIV/AIDS, gender equality as well as prevention, care, support and treatment as the major tools to be used in addressing the impact of HIV/AIDS on the project.

3.2.18 The National Tourism Policy, 2002

This policy is aimed at ensuring that tourism is a medium for poverty reduction. The development of Laropi/Umi bridge has potential to enhance or stimulate tourism in the region. The proposed Bridge lies within an area endowed with considerable gorgeous landscape and wildlife.

Relevance: Appropriate management and monitoring plans shall be put in place to mitigate adverse impacts and also enhance positive benefits of the project to any tourism activities throughout all stages of the project.

3.2.19 Ministry of Works & Transport Policies (Gender, HIV/AIDS, OHS) 2008

The Ministry of Works and Transport developed sectoral policies to mainstream Gender, HIV/AIDS and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in the sector.

a) Gender policy Overall objective of this Policy is to strengthen contribution of roads to poverty eradication through providing an enabling environment where women and men participate in, and benefit from developments in the sub-sector in an equitable manner. The purpose of the Policy is to institutionalize a gender perspective in road institutions and their operational and regulatory frameworks. The specific objectives of the Gender Policy are to: (i) Promote gender-responsive sub-sector policies, programmes and plans; (ii) Promote gender-responsive service delivery; (iii) Enhance equality of opportunities between women/girls and men/boys in the sub- sector; (iv) Commit adequate resources to gender-responsive activities in the sub-sector; and (v) Strengthen capacities of sub-sector institutions, partners and service providers to mainstream gender.

b) HIV/AIDS Policy MoWT developed the HIV/AIDS policy for the road sector based on the premise that whereas some road sector activities have been proved to be major conduits for transmission of HIV/AIDS, others directly and indirectly contribute to the fight against the pandemic. For instance, good roads and transport services can be used to enhance access to HIV/AIDS prevention services and care. On the other hand, some sector activities and good road networks have proved to be a good conduit for

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increased spread of the pandemic and examples include prostitution associated with long-distance truck drivers and road construction works.

The goal of this is to guide mainstreaming of HIV/AIDS activities so as to reduce prevalence of HIV infection, provide care and support to infected and affected persons and to mitigate effects of HIV/AIDS in the sub-sector. Specific objectives of the policy are to:

(i) Reduce vulnerability and risk of HIV transmission in the roads sub-sector; (ii) Mitigate effects of HIV/AIDS in the roads sub-sector; and (iii) Improve road sector's capacity to respond to HIV/AIDS pandemic.

c) OHS Policy The policy seeks to: (i) Provide and maintain a healthy working environment. (ii) Institutionalize OHS in the road-sector policies, programmes and plans. (iii) Promote efficient road safety management practices. (iv) Contribute towards safeguarding the physical environment.

UNRA will ensure adequate plans for management of the risks associated with gender, HIV/AIDS and OHS are developed prior to project construction, and implemented in accordance with the requirements of this policy.

3.2.20 National Land Policy, 2013

The Policy is in tandem with the provisions of Uganda’s Constitution which empowers the Central and local Governments to acquire land in public interest provided the acquisition is necessary for public use or is in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health and is subject to prompt payment of a fair and adequate compensation, prior to the taking of possession or acquisition of the property.

Relevance: Construction of the bridge and the approach roads to the bridge will require acquisition of land from landowners. In accordance to the provisions in this policy, resettlement action plan will provide measures to ensure the affect landowners are compensated. 3.2.15

3.2.21 National Climate Change Policy, 2015

The overarching objective of this multi-sector national climate change policy is to ensure that stakeholders, including the transport sector, address climate change. This is because the predicted impacts of climate change threaten people and their livelihoods. Moreso, Uganda's vital transport infrastructure such as roads and bridges are also threatened by the predicted changes in climate. In order to adapt to climate change, transport plans and infrastructure management must reflect climate predictions.

Relevance: Construction of the bridge and the approach roads needs to adapt climate resilient designs that can mitigate impacts arising from increased peak flows and floods.

3.2.22 The National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based Violence (GBV), 2016

The policy provides a framework for the implementation of comprehensive GBV prevention measures and provision of multi-sectoral support services for survivors. Under these provisions, the project will

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be required to prepare a gender action plan to support the project workers and the community during project implementation.

Relevance: the general environment and social management system for the project shall include: anti-sexual harassment policy, workers code of conduct, anti-retaliation policy among others.

3.2.23 UNRA Environment and Social Safeguards Policy, 2016

The UNRA Environment and Social Safeguards Policy was approved in March 2016. The policy statements include; Assessment and management of Environmental and Social impacts, Occupational and community Health and Safety, Gender, Vulnerable people, HIV/AIDs awareness and prevention, Stakeholder engagement and disclosure of information, Grievance redress mechanism, Labour and working conditions, sensitive ecosystems and sustainable management of environment, Climate change, Land acquisition and involuntary resettlement and Cultural resources.

Relevance: All the provisions of the Policy will be observed and implemented throughout the project cycle.

3.2.24 The UNRA Land Acquisition and Resettlement Management System (LARMS), 2019

The LARMS lays down the procedures and standards for land acquisition for UNRA projects. It provides for meaningful stakeholder consultations and engagement, fair, adequate and timely compensation prior to expropriation of land.

Relevance: The land acquisition process for the proposed project shall be in compliance with standards of LARMS.

3.3 The Legislative Framework

3.3.1 Constitution of Republic of Uganda, 1995

The Constitution is the supreme law of Uganda and it provides for protection of the environment. It provides for: i. Promotion of sustainable development and public awareness on the need to manage land, air, water resources in a balanced and sustainable manner for the present and future generations. ii. Take possible measures to prevent or minimize damage and destruction to land, air and water resources resulting from pollution or other causes. iii. Promote the rational use of natural resources so as to safeguard and project bio-diversity of Uganda.

Under Article 39, the Constitution guarantees the right of every Ugandan to a clean and healthy environment. The constitution therefore, requires that the project to be implemented without endangering human health and the environment.

3.3.2 National Environment Act, No.5, 2019

This is the key legislation that provides the landscape for environmental management for Uganda. The Act provides for the management of the environment for sustainable development. Schedule 5 of the Act lists projects for which Environmental and social Social impact Impact assessment Assessment is mandatory. Where as the Act is silent on whether Major Bridges qualify for a full ESIA, the Larop-Umi Bridge was considered for a full ESIA because the Nile is a major river which doubles as a

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

transboundary resource; also the Laropi-Umi bridge has been served by a ferry and the link is being considered for a permanent connection through a bridge thus the need to evaluate the two alternatives.

Relevance: This ESIA has been carried out in compliance with this Act. In addition, appropriate assessments shall be undertaken for all project support structures during the implementation phase.

3.3.3 Local Government Act, Cap 243

Local Governments Act, 1997 establishes a form of government based on district as the main unit of administration. Districts are given legislative and planning powers under this Act. (Sections 36- 45) They are also enjoined to plan for conservation of the environment within their local areas. District Environmental Committees established under section 15 of the National Environment Act Cap 153 are supposed to guide district authorities in that regard.

Relevance: The project management should plan closely with the Local government to ensure mutual understanding and fruitful achievements.

3.3.4 Land Act, Cap 227

Part III Sections 43, 44 and 45 addresses the utilization of land in accordance with the Various Statutes and Acts of environmental concern, which include; the Forest Act, The Mining Act, The National Environment Act, and The Water Act. In addition, section 45 addresses the control of environmentally sensitive areas. Besides relevant environmental sections of the Land Act, 1998 (Sections 42, 43, 44, 45, 70, 71, and 72) specific attention will be taken of section 40 of the Land Act which deals with Conditions on Transfer of Land by family.

Subsection (1) states that No person shall enter into any contract for or actually sell the land on which that person usually lives with a spouse or dependent children of the age of 18 or above except with prior written consent of either the spouse or the children. The developer should seek to enter into mutual agreement with the occupier or owner of the land upon payment of compensation.

Relevance: This Act applies to land acquisition process for access roads to the proposed Bridge construction.

3.3.5 Land Acquisition Act, Cap 226

This Act makes provision for the procedures and methods of compulsory acquisition of land for public purposes whether for temporary or permanent use. The Act requires that adequate, fair and prompt compensation is paid before taking possession of land and property. Dispute arising from the compensation to be paid should be referred to the court for decision if the Land Tribunal cannot handle.

Relevance: All land acquisitions for access roads and auxillary facilities regarding this project will be guided by this Act.

3.3.6 Roads Act, 2019

The Act empowers the Minister of Works and Transport to provide for different widths for road reserves for the different classes of public roads. In addition, the Act designates road authorities responsible for construction, alteration, rehabilitation, maintenance, protection and supervision of roads. UNRA is responsible for the development and maintenance of the national road network. It further provides that acquisition of land, excavation and taking of materials required for road construction be done in

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accordance with the Constitution. It also creates offences including destroying roads, obstruction and interference on roads such as the improper erection of billboards among others.

Relevance: The proposed project will link two National Roads that is Laropi-Afogi and Atiak- Laropi. Additionally, the proposed bridge construction has two approaching roads. Construction should be undertaken while observing Standard road reserve requirements as stipulated by this Act.

3.3.7 Water Act, Cap 152

The objective of the Act is to enable equitable and sustainable management, use, and protection of water resources of Uganda through supervision and coordination of public and private activities that may impact water quantity and quality. Section 18 requires that before constructing or operation of any water works, a person should obtain a permit from Water Resources Management Directorate (WRMD). Construction is herein defined to include alteration and improvement of bridges.

The Act also aims to control pollution of water resources (Sections 20 and 31). The foregoing notwithstanding, Section 19 provides that subject to guidelines established by the Minister from time to time, the Director (of water resources management) may exempt a public authority or a class of persons or works from requirements in Section 18 on such conditions as he or she may deem fit. Since this decision is reached upon evaluation of an application submitted to the Directorate, Section 19 does not automatically preclude works by public agencies from applying for permits prescribed by this Act.

Relevance: This Act will specifically be applicable to two aspects of the proposed road project: i. Water abstraction for road construction and camp use ii. Activities associated with construction of the bridge acrossRiver Nile.

3.3.8 Mining Act, 9/2003

Several auxiliary activities are associated with road construction and include stone quarrying and borrow materials extraction. Such activities especially stone quarrying involves excavations or working where any operations are connected with mining including erections and appliance used in connection with such operations. These activities, therefore, are a subject of this Act. Requirements under Part XI for the Protection of the environment under the Act are therefore, relevant. Such requirements include Environmental Impact Assessment and Audits and Environmental standards for the prevention and minimization of pollution of the environment and waste management. Under section 110 (2b) gives guidance on restoration activities.

It provides that the environmental restoration plan shall include a detailed timetable for accomplishment of each major step to be carried out under the restoration plan which may include reinstatement, levelling, re-vegetation, reforesting and contouring of disturbed land, the filling in, sealing, or fencing off of excavations, shafts and tunnels.

Relevance: The project should ensure that relevant assessment/ studies are conducted for all auxiliary sites and will be restored basing on the guidance on restoration activities.

3.3.9 Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2006

The Act provides for the prevention and protection of persons at all workplaces from injuries, diseases, death and damage to property. The OSH Act covers not just the ‘factory’ but also any workplace where persons are employed and its provisions extend not just to employees but to the self-employed and any

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other persons that may be legitimately present in the workplace who may be exposed to injury or disease. Employers must provide for the protection of workers from adverse weather, provision of a clean and healthy work environment, sanitary conveniences, washing facilities, First Aid and facilities for meals. The Act provides for safe access to the workplaces and safe work practices. In Section 95, the Act requires employers to take preventive measures including administrative and technical actions to prevent or reduce contamination of working environment.

Section 96 requires provision of material safety datasheets (MSDS) containing essential information regarding identity of chemicals, their hazards, safety precautions and emergency procedures. In section 97 an employer is required to ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals are labelled and appropriate chemical data sheets are available in the workplace.

Relevance: This law clearly applies to occupational health and fire safety risks associated with management of fuel at storage sites, camp operations and bitumen.

3.3.10 Workers’ Compensation Act, Cap 225

This Act shall apply to all employment within Uganda. and shall apply to workers employed by or under the Government of Uganda in the same way and to the same extent as if the employer were a private person, but the Act shall not apply to active members of the armed forces of Uganda. If personal injury by accident arises out of and in the course of a worker’s employment, the injured worker’s employer shall be liable to pay compensation in accordance with this Act. The employer shall not be liable in respect of an injury which does not either result in permanent incapacity or incapacitate the worker for at least three consecutive days from earning full wages at the work at which he or she was employed.

Relevance: This law should be applied in case of any injuries arising to any of the workers in the due course of construction activities.

3.3.11 Uganda Wildlife Act, Cap 200, 2019

The main objective of the Uganda Wildlife Act, Cap 200, is to protect wildlife resources and enable derivation of benefits. The Act provides for, inter alia, the sustainable management of wildlife, and establishes the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) as the body mandated with the co-ordination, monitoring and supervision of wildlife management. It does so in partnership with neighbouring communities and stakeholders. It was established as a result of a merger between the Uganda National Parks and the Game Department.

Wildlife is defined by the Act to mean any wild plant or wild animal or species native to Uganda and includes wild animals that migrate through Uganda. Specifically, UWA is responsible for the management of all National Parks, Wildlife Reserves, and Wildlife Sanctuaries and also provides guidance for Community Wildlife Areas. UWA is also mandated in consultation with NEMA to carry out audits and monitoring of projects likely to affect wildlife.

Relevance: Of specific relevance to future potential development projects in the area are: Section 15 (1) & (2): requires that any developer desiring to undertake any project which may have significant impact on any wildlife species or community undertakes an ESIA in accordance with the National Environment Act.

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3.3.12 Petroleum (Refining, Conversion, Transmission and Midstream Storage) Act, 2013

The Act enables the development of refining, gas conversion, pipelines, transmission pipelines and midstream storage. Under Section 3 of the Act, a licensee and any person who exercises or performs functions, duties or powers under the Act in relation to midstream operations is required to take into account and comply with environmental principles as prescribed by the National Environment Act and other applicable laws.

Relevance: The proposed project requires a fuel storage facility to run the machinery and equipment.

3.3.13 National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, 2003

This Act provides for the protection of forests through the creation of forest reserves in which human activity is strictly controlled. It seeks to control commercial harvesting of forest products through the use of licenses and promotes afforestation.

Relevance: The project will promote tree planting in the proximities of the access roads as a measure to mitigate climate change.

3.3.14 Physical Planning Act, 2010

The infrastructural developments are likely to traverse areas of special characteristics. The areas have special physical, social economic and development potential and considerations. Section 3 of the Physical Planning Act 2010 declares the whole country a planning area and brings it under the planning control. Provisions under the Act will have to be invoked by the mandated institutions to control developments in urban and rural areas in the proximities of the proposed Bridge and access routes to control unplanned developments.

Relevance: The project designs will incorporate the long-term district plans.

3.3.15 Tobacco Control Act, 2015

Under Section 11, the Act guarantees every person to a tobacco smoke free environment. A person smoking a tobacco product is obliged to ensure that another person is not exposed to tobacco smoke. Section 12 prohibits smoking in public places, work places and means of public transport. Under Section 13, smokers are prohibited from smoking in outdoor space that is:- i. Within 50 meters of a public place. ii. 50 meters of any window, door or any intake mechanism of a public pace including places of service or consumption of food or drink. and iii. Designated not smoking area.

Relevance: It is also a requirement that persons responsible for premises where smoking is prohibited display in a conspicuous place clear and prominent notices in a language commonly used in the area, that smoking is prohibited.

3.3.16 Explosives Act, Cap 298

The state owns all the rights to importation and storage of quarrying explosives and exercises this right through The Explosives Act (Cap 309 of the Laws of Uganda). It is mandatory for quarry operators to comply with this law. This Act regulates use and management of explosives for civil purposes. Under this Act, explosives are kept at a site approved by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) and can only

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be transported to the blast site under Police escort. Charging of explosives and blasting are carried out under Police supervision.

Relevance: For stone quarrying where explosives will be used, provisions of this Act will be relevant to this project.

3.3.17 Public Health Act, cap 281

This Act aims at avoiding pollution of environmental resources that support health and livelihoods of communities. The Act gives local administrative units authority (Section 103) to prevent pollution of watercourses in interest of public good.

Relevance: This Act will not only be relevant in regard to the main watercourse (River Nile) but also land where workers camps, equipment yards and quarries will be located.

3.3.18 Children’s Act, Cap 59

Consolidates the laws relating to children and provides inter alia for the care, protection and maintenance of children. Establishes a family and children court, Section 8 prohibits the employment or engagement of children in any activity that may be harmful to his or her health, education or mental, physical or moral development.

Relevance: During execution of the project, no persons of age under 18 years will be engaged in any of the project activities.

3.3.19 NSSF Act, Cap 222

The National Social Security Fund is a mandatory pure defined contribution provident fund which pays lump sums at retirement. The contribution rate to NSSF is 15% shared at 5% and 10% between the employee and employer respectively. The scheme was created by the National Social Security Fund Act (Cap 222) Laws of Uganda and its core objective is to protect formal employees against uncertainties of social and economic life.

Relevance: All permanent employees should be subject to NSSF registration

3.3.20 Historical Monuments Act, Cap 46

This Act provides for the preservation and protection of historical monuments and objects of archaeological, paleontological, ethnographical and traditional interest. The historical monuments act, Cap 46 gives mandate to the Department of Museums and Monuments in the ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquites to collect document and preserve cultural relics that have values to the community, the nation and the international community. Sections 10 and 11 of the Act provide for conservators of antiquities to maintain and inspect and preserved or protected objects. Regarding chance findings, clause 17-11 of the general specification of Road and Bridge Works of 2005 require the contractor to immediately notify the Engineer evidence of possible scientific historical, pre-historical or acheological data, giving the location data and nature of findings.

A Chance Finds Procedure shall be adopted and implemented in case of any Chance Finds during the works on the project. This will involve reporting to the Department of Museums and Monuments for advice and any other necessary action. The Act provides for the preservation and protection of historical monuments and objects of archaeological, paleontological, ethnographical, and traditional interest. Under this Act the Minister responsible may cause any of the aforesaid objects to be declared as

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preserved objects. The Act prohibits any person from carrying out activities on or in relation to any object declared to be preserved or protected. Section 10 of this Act spells out the procedures and requirement to declare and inspect newly discovered sites that may have archaeological, paleontological, ethnographical, historical and traditional significance for purposes of protection.

Relevance: All cultural sites within the project area should be preserved during execution of the road project. Additionally, a chance find procedure shall be developed and implemented during execution of the project.

3.3.21 Immigrations Act, Cap 63

An Act to consolidate and amend the law regulating immigration into Uganda and for other purposes incidental to and connected therewith. All foreign (non-Ugandan) employees and workers connected with this project should seek clearance from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda before engaging into any project activities.

Relevance: Bridge works will attract expatriate experience from forein countries. All foreign (non-Ugandan) employees and workers connected with this project should seek clearance from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda.

3.3.22 Public Holiday Act

The days specified in the Schedule to this Act are declared to be public holidays, which, subject to this Act, shall in every year be kept and observed as public holidays throughout Uganda. All public holidays will be observed

3.3.23 Rivers Act, Cap 357

Section 4 of this Act requires that any dredging in a river be licensed. It states that it shall not be lawful to dredge in any river without a license from the Minister. Section 6(1) stipulates that the Regulations set forth in the Third Schedule of this Act shall be endorsed on every license to dredge.

Relevance: The proponent should acquire the dredging license before the implementation of the proposed Bridge project and all river related activities should be carried in accordance with the provisions of this Act.

3.3.24 Fish Act Cap, 197

The Act makes provisions for the control of fishing, the conservation of fish and related matters. Section 7 provides that any person who, without the written permission of the chief fisheries officer, uses or possesses for the purpose of using any poison, noxious substance, explosive, lamp, light, flare, torch or electrical device for the capturing, killing or injuring of any fish or for rendering any fish more easily captured commits an offence against this Act.

Relevance: The activities pertaining to Bridge construction along River Nile should be carried out in line with the provisions stipulated in Act.

3.3.25 Traditional ruler’s Act, Cap 247

Under the Reinstitution of Traditional Rulers statute of 1993, confirmed by the constitution of Uganda in 1995, kings and chiefdom were given right to own their cultural property. In the area of the project,

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chiefs are recognized and they are the custodians of cultural sites and traditional belief systems hence key stakeholders in that regard.

3.3.26 Traffic Act, 2002

The traffic Act 2002 consolidates law relating to traffic on all public roads. The Act also prohibits encroachment on and damage to roads including road reserves.

Relevance: During the construction phase of the project, temporary road signs shall be installed following an approved traffic management plan. Upon completion of the project, appropriate road furniture including traffic signage shall be installed and the right of way protected from encroachment.

3.3.27 Employment Act, 2006

The Act defines the relationship between employers and employees. It is the umbrella law that governs labour management in Uganda. The Act provides clear terms and conditions of employment including; appointments, contracts, leave management, remunerations, conflict resolution among others. The Act empowers the district labour officers to undertake labour inspections and prosecute any offences related to non-compliance to the labour laws of Uganda.

Relevance: The project shall develop and implement a comprehensive Labor Management Plan in consultation with the district labour offices of Adjumani and Moyo.

3.4 Regulatory Framework

3.4.1 The National Environment (Environmental and Social Assessment) Regulations, S.I No.143 of 2020

The regulations provide a framework within which ESIAs for projects are undertaken. It also emphasises that an environmental and social impact study for relevant projects be undertaken in accordance with section 113 of the National Environment Act and Schedule 5 of the same Act. The regulations emphasise the adoption of the mitigation hierarchy during project planning. The regulations also introduce penalties for noncompliance to the Act.

Relevance: This ESIA has been prepared in compliance with these regulations.

3.4.2 National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations S.I. No. 49 of 2020,

These regulations categorise the different types of waste including hazardous waste. The regulations provide that only licensed handlers can collect, store, transport and dispose of hazardous waste. An adequate waste management plan for the project shall be developed and implemented in conformance with these regulations. More so, a licensed handler shall be procured to handle any hazardous waste generated by the project activities. The practises emphasised under these regulations are aimed at preventing the contamination of water, air, soil and other components of the environment.

Relevance: the regulations promote cleaner production methods that enable the recovery and reuse of wastes, reclamation and recycling. Further the regulations would influence management of solid waste at workers’ camps, equipment yards and road construction site.

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3.4.3 National Environment (Wetlands, Riverbanks and lakeshores Management) regulation S.I No. 2/2000

These regulations provide principles for sustainable use and conservation of wetlands, and riverbanks. The regulations provide for; Mandatory ESIA for all major activities on riverbanks and lakeshores, and Development and implementation of measures to prevent soil erosion, siltation and water pollution. This ESIA has been undertaken in compliance with these regulations and the required mitigations for prevention of soil erosion, silting shall be developed and implemented. A soil erosion control plan shall be developed and implemented during construction of the bridge.

Relevance: These regulations are important considering the major river of Albert Nile

3.4.4 The National Environment (Standards for Discharge of Effluent into water or land) Regulations, 2020

These regulations require that a permit is acquired before a developer discharges waste water into water bodies or on land. Maximum permissible levels for discharge of waste have been provided under Schedules 2, 3 and 4 of these regulations as shown in Tables 3, 4 and 5.

Table 3: Standards for general chemicals and micro-biological discharge No. Parameter or Pollutant Unit Maximum Permissible Limit 1 Temperature increase oC ≤5 2 Odour Not detectable 3 Color TCU 50 4 pH Units 5.0-8.5 5 Electrical Conductivity µS/cm 1000 6 Total Dissolved Solids mg/L 750 7 Total Suspended Solids mg/L 50 8 Biological Oxygen Demand (Unfiltered) mg/L 50 9 Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/L 70 10 Cyanide (Free) mg/L 0.1 11 Cyanide (AD) mg/L 0.5 12 Cyanide (Total) mg/L 0.1 13 Nitrogen (Total) mg/L 10 14 Nitrogen (Ammonia) mg/L 10 15 Nitrogen (Nitrates) mg/L 10 16 Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen mg/L 10 17 Phosphorus (Total) mg/L 5 18 Sulphates mg/L 500 19 Chlorides mg/L 250 20 Chlorine (Residual) mg/L 0.2 21 Total Coliforms CFU/100ml 400 22 Fluorides mg/L 2 23 Sulphides mg/L 1 24 Urea mg/L 1

Table 4: Standards for inorganic substances effluent discharge Effluent requirements are for direct discharge into surface water, land or sewer

No. Parameter or Pollutant Unit Maximum Permissible Limit 1 Aluminium mg/L 0.5 2 Antimony mg/L 0.5 3 Arsenic mg/L 0.1 4 Barium mg/L 10 5 Beryllium mg/L 0.1 6 Cadmium mg/L 0.01 Calcium mg/L 100

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No. Parameter or Pollutant Unit Maximum Permissible Limit 7 Chromium (Hexavalent) mg/L 0.05 8 Chromium (Total) mg/L 0.5 9 Cobalt mg/L 0.1 10 Copper mg/L 0.5 11 Iron (Total) mg/L 3.5 12 Lead mg/L 0.1 13 Magnesium mg/L 100 14 Manganese mg/L 1 15 Mercury mg/L 0.01 16 Nickel mg/L 0.5 17 Selenium mg/L 0.02 18 Silver mg/L 0.5 19 Tin mg/L 2 20 Total Metal mg/L 10 21 Vanadium CFU/100ml 1 22 Zinc mg/L 2

Tabl1e 5: Standards for organic substances effluent discharge

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

The regulations require that facilities to install pollution control equipment for onsite management of effluent before it can be discharged into water or land. In compliance with these regulations, the project will develop a Waste Management Plan and will provide for installation of appropriate equipment and measures for effluent management including monitoring of effluent.

3.4.5 National Environment (Control of Smoking in Public Places) Regulations, 2004

Regulations require that public smoking be avoided. Second-hand smoke (SHS) is a complex mixture of more than 4,800 chemical compounds, including 69 known carcinogens. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that, exposure to tobacco smoke causes disease, disability and death. According WHO, SHS is a human carcinogen for which there is no “safe” exposure level. The construction site is considered place and thus smoking shall be prohibited at all times.

Relevance: these regulations should apply to areas communally used by construction workers such as site offices, eating areas in camps and workers transport vehicles. Requirements of these regulations should be fulfilled to avoid exposure of workers to tobacco SHS and attendant health risks.

3.4.6 National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations, 2003

Part III Section 8 (1) requires machinery operators, to use the best practicable means to ensure that the emission of noise does not exceed the permissible noise levels. The regulations require that persons to be exposed to occupational noise exceeding 85 dBA for 8 hours should be provided with requisite ear protection. The regulatory noise limits at construction sites are presented Table 6.

Table 6: Permissible Noise Levels Facility Noise limits dB(A) (Leq) Day* Night* Construction 75 65 Time frame: Day 6.00 a.m -10.00 p.m.; Night 10.00 p.m. - 6.00 a.m. Source: The National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations, 2003.

Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shall be given to all workers and especially those in areas where noise generation could exceed the permissible levels. In addition, regular maintenance of equipment including machinery shall be undertaken throughout the project. As a requirement, generators shall be installed with silencers to minimise emission of noise.

3.4.7 Draft National Air Quality Standards, 2006

Considering that construction equipment and machinery are powered by diesel/ gasoline engines, pollutants such as CO2, NOx, SOx, VOC and particulates are expected to be emitted. The draft national air quality standards provide the regulatory limits for these emissions as in Table 7. These standards shall be observed at worksites including equipment yards and workers’ camps to ensure minimal impact on local air quality.

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Table 7: National air quality standards Pollutants Averaging time for ambient air Standard for ambient air Carbon dioxide (CO2) 8 hr 9.0 ppm Carbon monoxide (CO) 8 hr 9.0 ppm Hydrocarbons 24 hr 5 mgm-3 Nitrogen oxides (NOx) 24 hr 1-year arithmetic mean 0.10 ppm Smoke Not to exceed 5 minutes in Ringlemann scale No.2 or any one hour 40% observed at 6m or more Soot 24 hr 500 μg/Nm-3 Sulphur dioxide (SO2) 24 hr 0.15 ppm Sulphur trioxide (SO3) 24 hr 200 μg/Nm-3

Note: ppm = parts per million; “N” in μg/Nm-3 connotes normal atmospheric conditions of pressure and temperature (25oC and 1 atmosphere).

Relevance: These standards shall be important at worksites, quarries, equipment yards and workers’ camps to ensure minimal impact on local air quality.

3.4.8 Water Resources Regulations, 1998

The regulations apply to motorized water abstraction from boreholes or surface watercourses or diverting, impounding or using more than 400 cubic meters of water within a period of 24 hours. Part II, Regulation 3 requires a water permit for operation of motorized water pump from a borehole or waterway. Under Regulation 6, application for permit may be granted on conditions of projected availability of water in the area, existing and projected quality of water in the area and any adverse effect which the facility may cause among other considerations. As such, the project shall acquire water abstraction permits in compliance with these regulations.

Relevance: The contactor should abide by provisions of this law in regard to drilling and operation of a borehole proposed at the workers camp and abstraction of water to be used for construction.

3.4.9 National Environment (Audit) Regulation, 2020

Schedule 3 to these Regulations provide projects for which an annual environmental compliance audit must be carried out by the respective developer. The regulations also provide for voluntary compliance audits for projects not listed in Schedule 3. All projects listed in Schedule 5 of National Environment Act are among those listed in Schedule 3 of the Regulations and require a mandatory annual environmental compliance audit.

Relevance: Following approval of the ESIA by NEMA, the proposed project will undergo mandatory annual environmental compliance audit.

3.5 International Conventions and/or Agreements to which Uganda is Party

3.5.1 The Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-Boundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal The Basel Convention is a global treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from risks posed by hazardous wastes and their transboundary movement. The treaty was adopted in 1989, came into force in 1992 and Uganda acceded to it on 11th March 1999. The overall goal of the Basel Convention is to protect, by strictly controlling, human health and the environment against the adverse effects which may result from the generation, transboundary movement and management of hazardous

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and other wastes. When hazardous wastes are dumped indiscriminately, spilled accidentally or managed improperly, they can cause severe health problems, or even death, and poison water and land for decades.

All chemicals used in road constructions will be managed in accordance to this convention

3.5.2 Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, 2001

The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The Convention was adopted in May 2001 and entered into force in May 2004. Uganda acceded to the convention on the 20th July 2004. Its aim is to eliminate the intentional production and use of POPs and minimize releases from unintentional production of POPs, such as dioxins and furans, which are produced by incomplete combustion. It deals specifically with chemical management and in particular with POPs, PCBs and dioxides. The objective of this convention is to protect human health and the environment. Parties are required to take action on an initial group of 12 specified chemicals in addition to the nine new specified chemicals within this convention.

3.5.3 The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)

This was adopted by the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM) in February 2006. It is a global voluntary strategy. SAICM was adopted by a consensus of Environment Ministers, Health Ministers and other delegates from more than one hundred governments participating in the ICCM in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The conference was organized by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

It is a non-legally binding policy framework that aims to facilitate the elimination and reduction of risks of chemicals throughout their life-cycle. It is an international chemicals regulation that has made some significant steps forward, moving from regulating specific problems to addressing generic issues including governance.

3.5.4 The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Uganda signed the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1992 and ratified it in 1993. The CBD requires Contracting Parties to conserve their biological diversity and promote sustainable use of biological resources. Of specific relevance to future development projects in the area is Article 14 of the CBD which requires its Contracting Parties to introduce appropriate procedures for ESIA of proposals that might have effects on biological diversity, and to provide mechanisms for taking the biodiversity impacts of programmes and policies into account. Emphasis is given to in situ conservation in Protected Areas where rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems, recovery of threatened species, and protection of natural habitats and maintenance of viable populations of species in natural surroundings is carried out (CBD, Article 8).

Therefore, as part of the decision-making process, the ESIA outcomes will need to be considered in the context of the responsibility of the Ugandan government to protect and conserve threatened species and natural habitats.

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3.5.5 The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

CITES recognises that there exist many endangered species whose vulnerability is increased due to trade. The convention’s main aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

3.5.6 The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 1971

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar Convention) is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. Uganda is a Contracting Party to the Ramsar Convention.

The Albert Nile where the Laropi/umi bridge is to be constructed originates from the Delta Wetland System covering 17,293 ha has been designated a Ramsar site (Ramsar site no. 1640). The Ramsar site stretches from the top of Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile flows through a rock cleft 6 m wide, to the delta at its confluence with Lake Albert. As part of the decision-making process, the ESIA outcomes giving impact ratings and mitigation measures relevant to the Ramsar site will need to be considered in the context of the Ugandan government’s responsibilities to the Ramsar Convention as a contracting party.

3.5.7 African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, 1982

The African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (Organization of African Unity - OAU) notes that soil, water, flora and fauna constitute valuable capital, and that these are currently under threat. The convention notes that these resources have economic, nutritional, scientific, educational, cultural and aesthetic value. The main principle of the convention is that measures necessary to ensure conservation, utilization and development of these resources are undertaken in accordance with scientific principles and with due regard to the best interests of the people.

3.5.8 The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (UNFCCC), 1992

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international environmental treaty negotiated at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992, then entered into force on 21 March 1994. UNFCCC has 197 parties as of December 2015 of which Uganda is a member. Its sister Rio Conventions are the UN Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention to Combat Desertification. Preventing “dangerous” human interference with the climate system is the ultimate aim of the UNFCCC.

Therefore, all bridge works should maintain the ecological integrity of the habitat by avoiding activities that could enhance climate change especially massive tree cutting.

3.5.9 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, 2003

Unlike other UNESCO conventions, this convention begins with stating its purposes, which are to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage to ensure respect for the tangible cultural heritage of the communities, groups and individuals concerned to raise awareness at the local, national and international levels of the importance of the intangible cultural heritage, and of ensuring mutual appreciation thereof; to provide for international cooperation and assistance.

All intangible cultural and values within the project area will be respected during construction works

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3.5.10 International Convention on Economical Social and Cultural Rights

The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) is a multilateral treaty (of which Uganda is a member) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 16 December 1966, and in force from 3 January 1976. It commits its parties to work toward the granting of economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR) to the Non-Self-Governing and Trust Territories and individuals, including labour rights and the right to health, the right to education, and the right to an adequate standard of living. As of 2015, the Covenant has 164 parties

3.5.11 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory species of Wild animals

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals aims at conserving terrestrial, marine and avian migratory species throughout their range. It is an inter-governmental treaty, concluded under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme, concerned with the conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale.

There is a possibility of reacording migratory bird species within the project area in the due course of construction activities, because the project area lies in a possible migratory route to Murchion Falls National Park in the South. All habitats within Laropi/Umi will be protected through sound mitigation measures.

3.5.12 Convention on Protection of Migrant Workers

The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families is a United Nations multilateral treaty governing the protection of migrant workers and families. Signed on 18 December 1990, it entered into force on 1 July 2003 after the threshold of 20 ratifying States was reached in March 2003. The Committee on Migrant Workers (CMW) monitors implementation of the convention, and is one of the seven UN-linked human rights treaty bodies.

Implementing Contractors of this project may have foreign workers whose rights need to be protected. Additionally, the project area is charactised by numerous refugee settlements who might work on the project.

3.5.13 Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty adopted in 1979 by the United Nations General Assembly. Described as an international bill of rights for women, it was instituted on 3 September 1981 and has been ratified by 189 states including Uganda.

Article 1 defines discrimination against women as; any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural, civil or any other field. Therefore, all forms of discrimination against women during implementation of all road project activities shall be condemned.

3.5.14 United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols and Declarations on Children

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (commonly abbreviated as the CRC or UNCRC) is a human rights treaty which sets out the civil, political, economic, social, health

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and cultural rights of children. The Convention defines a child as any human being under the age of eighteen, unless the age of majority is attained earlier under national legislation.

Two optional protocols were adopted on 25 May 2000. The First Optional Protocol restricts the involvement of children in military conflicts, and the Second Optional Protocol prohibits the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. Both protocols have been ratified by more than 160 states including Uganda.

3.5.15 The UN Conventions on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2008

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is an international human rights treaty of the United Nations intended to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Parties to the Convention are required to promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law. The Convention has served as the major catalyst in the global movement from viewing persons with disabilities as objects of charity, medical treatment and social protection towards viewing them as full and equal members of society, with human rights. It is also the only UN human rights instrument with an explicit sustainable development dimension. The Convention was the first human rights treaty of the third millennium.

3.5.16 World Heritage Conventions

3.5.16.1 International Human Rights Instruments

Uganda is signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and therefore has a moral obligation to advance the Rights spelt therein. Under Article 17 of the UDHR, everyone has the right to own property alone as well as in association with others and no one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his property. This includes cultural property. In addition, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which it ratified in 1987, binds Uganda. Article 27 of UDHR and Article 15 of ICESCR recognize everyone’s right to freely participate in cultural life.

3.5.16.2 The UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972)

Uganda is a signatory to the Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1987 and is thus obliged among other things, to:

i. Ensure the identification, protection, conservation, preservation and transmission to future generations of the cultural and natural heritage (Article 4). ii. Ensure that effective and active measures are taken for the protection, conservation and preservation of the cultural and natural heritage situated on its territory, each State Party to this Convention shall endeavour, in so far as possible, and as appropriate for each country (Article 4). and iii. Adopt a general policy which aims to give the cultural and natural heritage a function in the life of the community and to integrate the protection of that heritage into comprehensive planning programmes.

3.5.16.3 World Bank Operational Policy on Physical Cultural Resources, OP4.11

i. It defines Physical Cultural Resources as movable or immovable objects, sites, structures, groups of structures, and natural features and landscapes that have archaeological, paleontological, historical, architectural, religious, aesthetic, or other cultural significance.

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ii. Physical cultural resources may be located in urban or rural settings, and may be above or below ground, or under water. iii. Their cultural interest may be at the local, provincial or national level, or within the international community. iv. Physical cultural resources are important as sources of valuable scientific and historical information, as assets for economic and social development, and as integral parts of a people’s cultural identity and practices.

3.5.16.4 The UNESCO convention for safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage, 2003

The UNESCO convention for safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage 2003 recognizes the importance of intangible cultural heritage as a mainspring of humanity and a guarantee for sustainable development. The communities, cultural groups, individuals play important role in the production, safeguarding, maintenance and recreation of the intangible heritage thus helping to enrich cultural diversity and human creativity.

3.5.16.5 International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standard 8: Cultural Heritage

The requirements of this Performance Standard 8 on a project’s use of cultural heritage are based in part on standards set by the Convention on Biological Diversity. The objectives of Standard 8 are to protect cultural heritage from the adverse impacts of project activities and support its preservation and to promote the equitable sharing of benefits from the use of cultural heritage

3.6 Institutional Framework

3.6.1 Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT)

MoWT is responsible for policy formulation in the transport sector in Uganda and therefore sets standards in the sector. Among the policies is the Gender Policy whose objective is to strengthen contribution of roads to poverty eradication through providing an enabling environment where women and men participate in, and benefit from, developments in the sub-sector in an equitable manner.

3.6.2 Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA)

UNRA was established by The Uganda National Authority Act, No. 15 of 2006 and became operational on 1st July 2008. The mandate of UNRA is to develop and maintain national road system, advise Government on general roads policy and contribute to addressing transport concerns. In this project UNRA is both a developer and lead agency. As a lead agency, UNRA manages national roads infrastructure and is responsible for mitigation of impacts associated with road development. As a developer on the other hand, UNRA is required to comply with national environmental laws including undertaking ESIA for project.

3.6.3 Ministry of Water and Environment (MoWE)

Through its technical arm (Water Resources Management Directorate - WRMD), MoWE has a responsibility to regulate quality and quantity of water resources in the country. The Directorate is responsible for the full range of integrated water resources management (IWRM) activities including monitoring, assessing, planning, allocating and regulating water resources. Specifically, the Water Resources Planning Department is responsible for water regulation through issuance of permits for water abstraction and wastewater discharge. The Wetlands Management Department in this Ministry is responsible for monitoring of wetland conservation in Uganda including projects through wetlands of

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conservation value. The MoWE will be instrument in monitoring to ensure that the project is in full compliance with the relevant laws and requirements.

3.6.4 National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA)

The National Environmental Act provides for the establishment of NEMA as the principal agency responsible for coordination, monitoring and supervision of environmental management activities. NEMA is under the Ministry of Water and Environment (MoWE) but has a cross- sectoral mandate to oversee the conduct of ESIAs through issuance of ESIA guidelines, regulations and registration of practitioners. It reviews and approves environmental and social impact statements (ESISs) in consultation with relevant lead agencies.

NEMA works with District Environment Officers and local environment committees at local government levels who also undertake inspection, monitoring and enforce compliance with the laws. In Government ministries, NEMA works with Environmental Liaison Units to ensure that they effectively incorporate environmental issues in their activities, policies and programs. NEMA will play a monitoring and regulatory role this project.

3.6.5 Ministry of Gender Labour & Social Development

The Ministry has the overall mandate to mobilize and empower communities to harness their potential through Skills Developments, labor productivity and Cultural Growth for Sustainable and Gender Responsive Development of all Ugandan citizens. MGLSD works through its Directorate of Gender and Community Development, Department of Gender and Women Affairs, Department of Culture and Family Affairs, Department of Community Development, Directorate of Social Protection (Specifically the Department of Youth and Children Affairs, Department of Disability and Elderly, and Department of Equity and Rights.

The Ministry promotes cultural growth, non- formal skills development, labour productivity and gender responsive development, while focusing on reducing vulnerability associated to being or becoming poor. In addition, the Ministry rectifies imbalances to eliminate discrimination and inequalities against any individual or group of persons and takes affirmative action in favour of the marginalised.

The Ministry works with other stakeholders including the National Women’s Council, National Youth Council, National Council for Children, and National Council for Disability, Industrial Court and the Equal Opportunities Commission. These councils are also decentralized from the district to the sub-county levels. Non-state actors include the Civil Society Organizations (NGOs and Faith Based Organisations), Cultural institutions and Development Partners.

The Ministry will supervise the project to ensure Gender aspects, child protection and workers health and safety, among others are adhered to.

3.6.6 Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) through the Fisheries Department is responsible for promoting sustainable management of fish and fisheries resources in Uganda. Given that construction on water may compromise the quality of the acquatic ecosystem to support fish breeding and fish stocks, MAAIF will play a key monitoring role.

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3.6.7 Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines Geological survey and mines is a directorate under ministry of Energy and Mineral Development whose mandate is to control all forms of mining in Uganda through the Mining Act. Stone quarrying, sand mining and gravel excavation are key to providing materials for construction of the proposed Bridge. Quarrying and sand mining shall require an appropriate mining licence issued by the Department.

3.7 Ministry of Local Government Local The Ministry of Local Government (MOLG) is a cabinet-level government ministry responsible for the "creation, supervision and guidance of sustainable, efficient and effective service delivery in the decentralized system of governance. The ministry is responsible for the harmonization and support of all local government functions, to cause positive socio-economic transformation of Uganda".

District and Local Council administration of Adjumni and Moyo will be vital in implementation of the project by mobilizing political goodwill and sensitizing communities. In addition, the Department of Community Services, Department of Public Health, Department of Natural Resources of respective districts shall

3.8 Required Licenses and Permits Development of the proposed Bridge project will require a number of licenses, consents and permits from relevant authorities. Table 8 presents some of the required permits.

Table 8: List of permits and licenses required S/N Permit Issuing agency Responsibility 1 ESIA Approval Certificate for the Project NEMA UNRA 2 ESIA Approval certificates for Project NEMA Contractor Associated Facilities 3 Water abstraction permit Water Resources Management Contractor Directorate, (WRMD) 4 Wastewater/Effluent discharge permit DWRM & NEMA Contractor 5 License for storage, transportation and NEMA Contractor disposal of hazardous waste 6 Permit to construct a bridge across rivers. Water Resources Management Contractor Directorate, (WRMD) 7 Magazine license (explosives) Ministry of Internal Affairs Contractor 8 Blasters License Ministry of Internal Affairs Contractor 9 Workplace Registration Permit for worker’s Ministry of Gender, Labor and Contractor Camp and Quarry sites. Social Development, OSH

10 Certification of Lifting equipment Ministry of Gender and Social Contractor development 11 Approval of layout and physical plans for Districts, Municipal councils Contractor campsites 12 Work permits for foreign workers Ministry of Internal Affairs Contractor 13 Fuel storage and dispensing permit Ministry of Energy and Mineral Contractor Development 14 Wetland User Permit NEMA UNRA 15 Dredging Permit Ministry of Water and Environment Contractor

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4.0 ESIA METHODOLOGY4 ESIA STUDY METHODS

Various methods were used to collect data for the preparation of the ESIA for Laropi/Umi bridge. This chapter describes the different methods employed.

4.1 Literature review

District Development Plans for Moyo and Adjumani Districts, and subcounty development plans for Pachala and Laropi subcounties were reviewed. These provided useful information for the baseline conditions of the project area. In addition, relevant guidelines, policies and laws that guide environment Impact Assessment in Uganda were reviewed. The Intgrated Safeguards System of the African

Development Bank with its associated Operational Safeguards were reviewed to ensure that the assement is in line with the set standards. Relevant international conventions where Uganda is party were also reviewed. Other literature included UNRA’s internal safeguards standards and literature on biodiversity of the area. A full list of literature that was reviewed is provided in the reference section.

4.2 Physical Environment Assessments

4.2.1 Air quality assessments

This assessment focused on the Criteria Air Contaminants (CAC) and Greenhouse Gases which reflect the project emissions of concern with respect to environmental health. Major sources of outdoor air emmissions in the project area are from vehicular traffic activities. Different air pollutants that were assessed include;

i) Particulate Matter (PM), including total suspended particulate (TSP). Inhalable particulate matter (PM10) and Sulphur dioxide (SO2); ii) Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) iii) Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) iv) Carbon Monoxide (CO) v) Greenhouse Gases: Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4). vi) Volatile Organic Carbon (VOC)

MX6 Multi-Gas Monitor Industrial Equipment was used to measure air quality parameters. Air quality measurements were taken on the selected sections of the proposed bridge location. The principle involved in Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) sampling method is that the particles are filtered from known volume of an air sample by a suction apparatus (Lazer Particle Counter). The results of concentration of particulate matter are displayed on the screen and recorded.

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4.2.2 Noise/ Sound, Humidity and Temperature Assessment

Noise pollution contaminants are generally waving that interfere with naturally occurring waves of a similar type in the same environment. However, noise pollution is defined as unwanted sound or sound that is loud or unpleasant. Sounds are considered noise pollution if they adversely affect wildlife, human activity or are capable of damaging physical structures on a regular basis.

The sound level was measured by Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter Type: 4 in one Digital Sound Level Meter, Model CEM DT 8820 (range 35 – 130 dBA) for noise, (-20 – 750oC) for temperature, (25% - 95%) relative humidity. The meter is equipped with the three frequency-weighing networks (A, B and C) that are used to estimate the response characteristic of the ear at various sound levels and frequency distribution of noise over the audible spectrum. The (A) frequency-weighing approximates the response characteristics of the ear for levels below (55dB). The (B) frequency weighing approximates the response characteristics of the ear for levels between (55 and 85) dB and the (C) frequency weighing approximates the response characteristics of the ear for levels above 85dB.

It consists of the following main features: i). The Sensor or Microphone: The sensor is a high precision electrode condenser microphone, which must be protected from physical abuse, dirt, oil, water or ingress of any other such substance. ii). The Control Panel: The control panel comprises of the: Recorder for the maximum level of sound, and minimum level of sound, Range selector, Auto and manual rest switches, Hold on max and min level iii). The Range Selector: These switches can be used for selecting the relevant range of the sound level.

Sound assessment procedure The charged sound level meter was adjusted for slow time response. The sound levels were measured at different sites with maximum and minimum recordings taken for the particular site and respective average sound levels calculated as the final readings. Readings were taken at several points along each of the proposed selected locations. Data obtained from baseline noise monitoring was processed and is presented according to the analysis below. The noise levels were compared with the minimum and maximum noise levels shown in table 9.

Table 9:Maximum permissible noise levels relevant to project Facility Noise limited B (A) (Leq) Day Night Operation of the facility 75 65 Residential buildings 50 35 Mixed residential (with some commercial and entertainment) 55 45 Time frame: Day – 6.00 a.m -10.00 pm. Night: 10.00 p.m. – 6.00 a.m. The time frame takes into consideration human activity.

4.2.3 Vibration assessment

Vibration often presents a threat to people and wildlife in the areas where it is above the recommended threshhold. The sources of vibration can be transport and construction equipment among others. To determine the baseline vibration levels in the project area, the PCE-VM 5000 vibration meter was used. The acceptable vibration levels include values of total vibration in their gross (cm/s) and relative (dB) and values of speed through the most developed in practice frequency spectrum (> 355 Hz), which include 6 octaves of frequency bands. Each octave band has their own permissible values of the average-squared wave velocity or amplitude induced by the operating mechanisms and machinery.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

4.2.4 Water quality assessments

Water samples were taken along Albert Nile in the close proximities of the proposed Bridge site both up and Down Stream. Some parameters were tested onsite while others were tested for in the laboratory. The water quality samples were collected in 1.5 liters plastic sampling bottles and delivered to Directorate of Water Resources and Management (DWRM) Laboratories in Entebbe for analysis. Several characteristics of water were assessed, and these included physical characteristics (temperature, color, light, sediment suspended in the water), chemical characteristics (dissolved oxygen, acidity (pH), salinity, nutrients and other contaminants) and biological characteristics (bacteria and algae).

4.2.5 Bathymetric Measurements at Ferry Landing Sites

The bathymetry of the river was picked using a total station to target a prism held on a pole on a boat at a point on the river to get the Northing & Easting, and a graduated pole dipped into the water at that point to get the depth (Figure 13). However, at the point of fastest current the depth reading wasn’t determined accurately (due to dangers caused by the high-water velocity). River depth close to the middle of the river was estimated to be more than 9m.

. Figure 13: Bathymetric measurements of R. Nile using prism pole

4.3 Biological environment assessment

4.3.1 Vegetation Survey Methods

Langdale-Brown et al. (1964) vegetation map was used to examine the range of vegetation types that covered the project area more than 50 years ago to account for land use changes. Site specific vegetation descriptions and classifications were determined based on species dominance and floral features such as; grass, herb, shrub, tree and land coverage at each selected sampling site.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Quadrant sampling A quadrant sampling unit of (25 x 25) meters for woodlands & forest; (10 x 10) m for swampy & marshy vegetation; thickets and Bushy vegetation was adopted. Plant species were assessed using the DAFOR scale where; D=Dominant, A=Abundant, F=Frequent, O=Occasional & R=Rare. Tree size classes were also determined through random sampling of selected habitats along the roads. The tree size classes ranged from (˂ 10cm), (10-25cm), (25-40cm), (40-55cm) and (˃55cm) with size classes assigned scores of 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 respectively. Plant species of conservation concern and invasive species encountered were recorded, geo- referenced and their habitats noted. Photographic records of the vegetation types and ecologically sensitive features were taken. Ecologically sensitive features were noted, and their geographical coordinates were taken. Photographic records of the vegetation types/ habitats were taken

4.3.2 Fauna survey Methods

(a) Mammals Transect surveys were used to sample Large and Medium sized mammal species diversity in project area. This involved setting out well laid transects perpendicular to the access roads of the proposed Bridge; and parallel to the Riverbanks. Three transects (each of length 1km) on each side of the river were mapped out using GPS. These were 500m apart. Along each transects, purposeful searches and record of any live encounter for any mammal species and/or their spoor (Tracks, signs, faecal, roosts, etc.) were done.

(b) Small Mammals For Unique species such as bats and rodents, searches for any existing roosts was done in their potential habitats. Ultrasound acoustic echolocation recording for majorly insectivorous bats was be done to augment bat surveys. Ultrasound echolocation call detectors used included: SM4, and AR150 bat call detectors, with associated Binary Acoustic Technology “Spectra III” ultrasound real-time digital scanning software. Recorded bats echolocation bat calls were analyzed using Kaleidoscope pro version 4.5.0, with auto-identifier for bats. For Rodents and shrews, non-destructive sampling was executed using baited Sherman traps, set out in a random pattern along each of the access roads to the bridge alignment. A total of 40 traps were used on either side of the river, including ecotone zones. These were alternated every after two days (after spending two trap nights) to maximize capture. In addition, opportunistic searches for Rodent spoor especially burrows and feeding signs were done to maximize records. Captured individuals were identified and later released.

(c) Birds Birds are among the easiest of animals to census. They are often brightly colored, highly vocal at certain times of the year and relatively easy to see (Sutherland,2006). Given the heterogenous nature of the ecosystem in the project area, a combination of both Transect method and Listing method, as described by Sutherland (2006) were used to survey birds in the project area. The Proposed access roads were used as the transects, and these were walked on foot by the observers. The observers listed all the birds seen and heard along the respective transects. The frequency of occurrence termed the ‘reporting rate’ by Harrison et al. (1997) was taken as the measure of relative abundance for the species. Field guidebooks were used to augment the identification process of Birds in the field.

(d) Herptiles Given the modified and semi-natural nature of potential herptile habitats in the project area, both reptiles and amphibians were surveyed using Visual Encounter Surveys as recommended by (Zweifel, 1955). This is a rapid biodiversity-assessment method. Surveys were done along proposed access roads to the Bridge, on either side of the River during day time (8 am to 3 pm) and in the night (6:30 pm to 8pm).

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Surveys included purposeful searches on the ground, along streams, in the leaf litter, on the trees, thickets, and grasslands.

(e) Fish Worldwide, fish are the most abundant, widespread and diverse group of vertebrates, comprising about 22,000 species with a dazzling variety of form, size and habits. To exploit this profusion of potential food, humans have devised a wide array of gears to capture fish. Ecologists rely heavily on modified forms of these methods to census fish populations, since fish are often difficult to observe in their natural habitat (Sutherland,2006). Therefore, selection of sampling technique depended on the prevailing habitat features in the project area. Notwithstanding, Bankside counts (as described by Sutherland, 2006), was employed to sample fish in the project area, along the river. This method involved dividing the stretch of water into contiguous but non-overlapping sections. The sections were small enough that all fish could be counted from a single vantage point.

The use of landmarks on the shore helped in delimiting the sections. Observers, wearing polarizing sunglasses, to reduce glare, and dull-colored clothes, moved slowly to the vantage point and concealed themselves behind riparian vegetation. Once in position, the observers waited motionless for at least 5 min, to minimize the effects of disturbance, before identifying and counting. For fish in open waters, gillnet method was used with help of local fishermen.

4.4 Socio-economic assessment

4.4.1 Socio-economic survey

Data collection was undertaken at household level as well as in communities/settlements and other social aggregations. The approach taken to collect and gather data relevant for completing this ESIA were as follows:

i. Document and literature review; involving detailed study of existing, related and relevant documents, case studies, reports, manuals and policies. ii. Data collection (primary and secondary) at subcounty and district level. iii. Selection of a representative sample population for which a quantitative and qualitative assessment was done. iv. Field survey using structured and semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, participant observations and focus group discussions. v. Assessment and analysis of field findings. vi. Stakeholder consultation and additional data collection (informant interviews, focus group discussions etc). vii. Analysis of identified impacts and determination of their severity and significance.

4.4.2 Physical Cultural Resources surveys

Paleontological and Archaeological surveys Archaeological surveys were done to examine the earth’s surface for sites and archaeological record such as artefacts, eco-facts and features for example stone and bone tools, metallurgical implements, potsherds and others, bones, skeletons and storage pits, fire places (hearths), house foundations or even rock paintings and engravings on cave walls or boulders (Humphreys, 1986).

Test excavations To determine the cultural history of the area, test pit excavations were carried out.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Ethnographic surveys Consultations with communities and other stakeholders were done so as to understand some interpretations on some sites as they regarded to be custodians of our recent past histories. Among those consulted were District leaders, cultural and religious leaders.

Community oral interviews Interviews were carried out to identify sites of cultural heritage importance. Focus Group Discussions and Individual Interviews with community members of the affected areas were conducted to obtain information about the cultural heritage resources and their significance. Stakeholders guided the survey team to some of the heritage sites and gave recommendations regarding the proposed development.

4.5 Methods for Stakeholder Engagement and Consultations

Meaningful stakeholder engagements and consultations were carried through meetings project affected persons, officials of the relevant sub counties and districts, and government Ministries, Departments and Agencies. The method for engagement and consultations included Key informant interviews, consultative meetings, focus group discussions and structured interviews.

4.5.1 Key Informant Interviews

Key informant interviews were conducted to gather information from communities, key officials in MDAs Districts and Sub-counties. Additionally, information was also sought from religious, opinion leaders and other community members based on their knowledge on subjects of interest. Categories of Key Informants included the Chief Administrative Officers, LCV Chairpersons, District Natural Resources Officers, District Environment Officers, District Community Development Officers, District Land Officers, District Engineers, District Physical Planners and District Water Officers.

4.5.2 Consultative meetings

Consultative meetings were organized and attended by different categories of people that included political leaders, technical teams and representatives of special groups including people with disabilities, the youth and people living with HIV/AIDS among others.

4.5.3 Focus Group Discussion

This technique involved a small group of respondents (usually 6-10 respondents) who were interviewed together in a common location. The interviewer led the discussion and ensured that every person had an opportunity to respond. Focus group discussions were held with women, business owners including boda bodas.

4.5.4 Structured interviews

Primary data was collected by interviewing members of the sample population. The structured interview method was used to collect household data with the aid of a structured questionnaire.

4.6 Methods for Impact Assessment and Analysis

4.6.1 Impact assessment

The pre-construction, construction and operation phases of the proposed bridge are anticipated to have potentially significant negative impacts especially on the biophysical environment. Whereas positive impacts should be enhanced, negative impacts should be avoided mitigated or eliminated. During establishment of impact significance, several impact parameters were evaluated using matrix method

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

(as described in chapter 8). The impact parameters that were assessed include Type, Timing, extent, certainty, duration, and magnitude and receptor sensitivity.

Where; Timing : time frame (phase) at which an impact occurs within a project area Duration : the period of persistence of an impact on receiving environment Extent : area of occurrence/influence by the impact on the subject environment Magnitude : the strength of the impact on the environment Certainty : the likelihood of occurrence of an impact Significance : the overall change brought in the environment Sensitivity : Level of change on the receptor environment

4.6.2 Impact analysis

Significance of an impact depends on magnitude and sensitivity. Magnitude is the strength of an impact on the receiving environment, while severity is extent of damage that an impact could cause on the receiving environment. The significance of impacts associated with the proposed project project were analyzed using Matrix method (Leopold et al, 1971 & HA, 2008). Following the analysis of impacts, professional judgment was applied as recommended in the EIA guidelines (Canter, 1996, Morris & Therivel, 2001) and an appropriate rank was assigned to each impact in different phases of the project as guided by Table 10.

Table 10: A quantitative format for ranking impacts based on parameters summarized as magnitude and sensitivity Sensitivity Significance Very low Low Medium High 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Very low 1 Negligible Minor Minor Minor 2 4 6 8 Low 2 Minor Minor Moderate Moderate 3 6 9 12 Medium 3

Magnitude Minor Moderate Moderate Moderate 4 8 12 16 High 4 Minor Moderate Moderate Severe

Rating of impact parameters to guide professional judgment Symbol No minor Low Moderate High Very High No M=Magnitude 0 2 4 6 8 10 0 P=Probability 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 E= Extent 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 S=Significance < 30 40-50 > 60

Where, D=DURATION: (0 to 1 years) –1. (2 to 5 years) –2. (5 to 15 years) –3. (> 15 years) – 4. Or permanent – 5, And S= (E+D+M) P

4.7 Public Disclosure

This ESIS will be disclosed to the public at the UNRA website. In addition, hardcopies of the report will be submitted for disclosure at the Sub-counties and Districts of the project area.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

5 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE

5.0 ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE

This baseline information is established from verifiable data such as geology and soils, Climate, topography among others; intermediate data such as vegetation conditions, fauna distribution among others; and other additional data; about tourism, occupation, employment, and Safety. This baseline information also identified the prevailing ecological challenges in the project area as well as monitoring indictors alongside the proposed Bridge development.

5.1 Physical Environment

5.1.1 Climate

Rainfall: Annual rainfall is predominantly bimodal in distribution, with two distinct rainy seasons driven by the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Long rains (March–May) and short rains (September–November) account for approximately 40 and 25 % of annual rainfall respectively. The latter rainfalls are particularly inﬂuenced by the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). The annual rainfall varies between 750 mm to 1500 mm, with peak rainfall usually experienced in May and a long dry season experienced from December to March.

Temperature and humidity: The annual mean temperature ranges from 19ºC to 36ºC. Whereas the area has humidity levels of over 80% in most months, this reduces to below 50% during the dry season afternoons especially from December to February. (source: Adjumani district statistical Abstract report, 2012).

5.1.2 Climate Change

Uganda is vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change. It is a threat to its fragile ecosystems, people’s livelihoods and ultimately the national economic development efforts (MWE,2021). Models of future impacts of climate change agree on an increase of mean annual temperature of 1–3.1°C by the 2060s and 1.4–4.9°C by the 2090s. There is a broad consensus that annual rainfall will increase by about 7 to 11 percent in the 2090s (Beyene, et.al., 2010). Potential imapcts of climate change are

52 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani ssocited with an increased lack of reliability in water availability, even if total precipitation increases: The obvious current impacts in the project area include the following:

 Domestic water shortage: Climate change is disrupting weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events, unpredictable water availability, exacerbating water scarcity and contaminating water supplies. Such impacts have drastically affected the quantity and quality of water needed by communities along Laropi-Moyo-Afogi to survive. Several water sources especially shallow wells and spring wells in the area have either dried up due to the dry season or contaminated by livestock. Some of the available community boreholes are also broken down and require repair.

 Displacement of people due to Severe flooding along the Nile: On 09 November 2020, local media reported flooding from the Albert Nile river had prompted evacuations in Obongi, Moyo and Adjuman Districts. Quoting local officials, media in Uganda reported that, as of 16 November of the same year, more than 23,000 residents of the region had been displaced from their homes as the sub-region experiences severe flooding caused by rising River Nile waters. Almost all structures within the proximities of Nile river were distroyed.

 Distruption of transport services due to severe flooding along the Nile: Fllooding disrupts the only existing route connectivity along the River Nile, connecting Adjumani in Northern Uganda to Moyo in West Nile, through Laropi-Umi Ferry crossing. This comes as a result of destruction of ferry docking sites hence limiting ferry operations. In addition, ferry support facilities such as the waiting shed, toilet facilities and offices often flood, thus constraining ferry operations and risking outbreak of diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

5.1.3 Geology, Soils, and Ground Water yield

In the Nile valley, recent sediments have been deposited on top of the Basement rocks. These generally comprise clayey alluvium. North of the Nile, the topography is more broken because of the presence of a north-south trending ridge of resistant, altered sediments and granite (quartzite, marble, schist, gneiss). The project area soils were formed as a result of geological and weathering processes. The geology comprises granites and gneisses all the way to the Nile River. They are mainly hydromorphic soils characterised by undifferentiated river alluvium dominated by grey and yellow sandy clays (Figure 14). The soils are considered fertile and of medium to high productivity, with Ofua sub-county in Adjumani reported to have the richest soils.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 14: Soils of the project area

The Upper Nile Basin is underlain primarily by deeply weathered crystalline rock aquifer systems that have evolved through long-term, tectonically driven cycles of deep weathering and erosion. Groundwater occurs within unconsolidated regoliths or “saprolite” and, below this, in fractured bedrock, known as “saprock”. Bulk transmissivities of the saprolite and saprock aquifers are generally low (1–20m) and ﬁeld estimates of the speciﬁc yield of the saprolite, the primary source of groundwater storage in these aquifer systems, are 2% based on pumping tests with tracers and magnetic resonance sounding experiments. Borehole yields are highly variable but generally low (0.5-20 m3h- 1) yet are of critical importance to the provision of safe drinking water. Figure 15 illustrates the spatial distribution of soil type within the Laropi catchment.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 15: Soil type of the Laropi catchment area

5.1.4 Hydrology

The hydrology of the R. Nile at Laropi is influenced by the three major lake catchments (Figure 16) i.e. Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert. The section below presents a brief of the geomorphological characteristics of the three major lake catchments and their influence on the drainage patterns of the Nile.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 16: Nile Catchment Extent at the Laropi Bridge

Lake Victoria Lake Victoria is the second largest fresh-water lake in the world, covering an area of 68 000 km2 shared between the three riparian countries of Uganda (43%), Tanzania (51%), and Kenya (6%). Despite its enormous area, it is a shallow lake with a mean depth of 40m and maximum depth of 80m the DEM-derived catchment area of Lake Victoria is approximately 263 000 km².

Hydrologically, lake input is dominated by direct rainfall (84% of total input); the remainder derived primarily from river inflows while direct groundwater inflow (< 1 %) is negligible (Owor et al., 2011). Approximately 25 major rivers flow into Lake Victoria; the Kagera River, is the largest river input which contributes 30 % of total river inflows. Lake Victoria outflows to Lake Kyoga occurs at Jinja through the Victoria Nile (Shamsudduha et al 2017, Mohammed, 2015).

Lake Kyoga Lake Kyoga covers an area of 6270 km², with a catchment of 75 000 km². The lake is formed by a shallow drowned valley, with its outlet blocked by damming or tectonic tilting, and thus has a dendritic shape (Ollier and Clayton, 1981; Lofﬂer, 2004). The average depth of the lake varies between 3.5m to 4.5m. The lake only reaches a maximum depth of 7 m, and most of the swamp is covered by water lilies and floating vegetation islands that drift between a number of small permanent islands. While numerous rivers flow into the lake such as the Mpologoma, Awoja, Omunyal, Abalang, Olweny, Sezibwa and Enget, only a fraction of their water reaches the lake due to the evapotranspirative losses from the fringe swamp areas surrounding the lake. The annual water balance of the lake is predominantly governed by the discharge from the Victoria Nile (Shamsudduha et al 2017, Mohammed, 2015).

Lake Albert Lake Albert covers an area of 5400km², with a maximum depth of 51m and a surface elevation of 619m a.m.s.l. The catchment drains an area of 37,000km² and receives an estimate annual 56 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani precipitation of 1100mm, with an evaporation loss of approximately 1300mm. Lake Albert discharges about 25 x 109 m³ per year into the Sudd wetland of Sudan through the Nile, where much of this discharge, as well as input precipitation over the Sudd is lost by evaporation, transpiration and seepage. The outflows from the swamps are only about half of the inflows, with very little seasonal variation (Shamsudduha et al 2017, Mohammed, 2015).

In the hydrological context, the site topography drives the area runoff into the river. River levels correlate with the rainfall pattern with more discharge recorded during the rainy season. The proposed site is on Albert Nile and water levels of the Nile would directly impact the design of the bridge. Moving Mash within the river cross-section slows down flow and temporarily alters the hydrological features including creating a wetland hydrology cycle when the banks of the river expand following seasonal inundation. The river banks are still being covered and protected by natural mash that minimise bank erosion and provide stability of the river banks. Construction activities are expected to cause alteration to river hydrology. River protection measures shall be employed to ensure that the banks are protected to continue providing the filtering function of water before the run off flows into the river.

5.1.5 Ground water and Water Quality

Ground water Direct infiltration from rainfall and runoff, enhanced by the potential reverse flow from the river to ground water, recharges the area ground water system. Water abstraction to meet public and private needs accounts for ground water depletion. Along the Albert Nile, ground water discharges to the river and therefore ground water is mainly lost through this cycle. Use of ground water for domestic water supply along the Albert Nile has increased significantly driven by the need to meet demand by the rising population in the area caused by the refuge influx. Within 5km of the project site, the population in this area meets its water needs through surface water abstraction from River Nile and a few hand pumps constructed to provide potable water.

To determine the quality of the ground water, samples were taken at Borehole at Pakoma village, a Borehole at Laropi Secondary School in Laropi subcounty, Moyo district and a borehole at Ara village in Adjumani district. All the sources were within 5kms of the proposed project. The ground water quality close to the proposed development site was found to be of good quality despite the higher levels of fluoride (3.3.mg/l) and Total Iron (0.88mg/l) at Umi borehole in Ara village Pachara Sub County (see map for location for the sampling points). The alignment of the proposed project does not directly affect any of these boreholes. The project activities are not however, presents limited to no impacts to the area ground water resource.

Water quality analysis Extensive sampling across the river for the proposed Laropi Bridge and comparison with historical Albert Nile monitoring data was undertaken to establish water quality baseline conditions prior to the proposed major development. Samples were also taken from Cala stream in Laropi Sub County, the stream channels most of the runoff from Laropi and delivers to the Nile and therefore it is a major indicator of the runoff quality in the area. Surface water samples were collected by the surface grab method while sub-surface samples were collected using the Van Dorn sampler. The sampling sites and coordinates are presented in the map (Figure 17). Detailed results for water quality assessments are provided in the certificate of analysis in (Appendix 3).

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 17: Map of Northern Western Uganda with proposed Laropi Bridge crossing in blue. Water quality sampling sites for surface and ground water are marked with yellow place marks

Water quality assessment objectives include parameters in Table 11with the acceptable thresholds.

Table 11: Water quality assessments and their acceptable levels Parameter Objective Offensive Odour Not to be present Visible foam, oil scum, litter Not to be present Dissolved Oxygen Not less than 2.0 mg/L for 90% of samples (DO) within 2 m of the riverbed

Temperature Change due to human activity not to exceed 2 oC Total suspended solids Not to raise the ambient level by 30% caused by human activity Unionised Ammonia (UIA) Annual mean not to exceed 0.021 mg/L as unionised form

Nutrients (PO4, NO3, NO2) Shall not cause excessive algal growth Total Inorganic Annual mean depth-averaged inorganic nitrogen not to exceed 0.4 mg/L Nitrogen (TIN) Toxic substances including heavy metals, Should not attain such levels as to produce significant toxic, hydrocarbons, oils. carcinogenic, mutagenic or teratogenic effects in humans, fish or any other aquatic organisms

Dissolved oxygen for all the samples taken was within the water quality objective of being 2mg/l which is essential to maintain a minimum hypoxic condition in the water column below which aquatic fauna may not survive. It was evident that the middle of the river was more oxygenated

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani than the banks as dead mash washed ashore or degenerating bank vegetation consumed oxygen during the decay processes.

Nutrient levels (Phosphate, Nitrates and Nitrites) were within acceptable ambient level that would not lead to eutrophication of the river system. Reactive Phosphates (PO4-P) averaged at 0.07mg/l, Nitrates (NO3-N) averaged at 0.1mg/l, Total Nitrogen (TON-N) at 0.2mg/l and total phosphates at 0.21mg/l (Appendix 3). Baseline water quality assessment of the water column did not find much variation between the surface water and the bottom water and across the depth of the sampling for the parameters measured. The potential cause of such an observation could be related to the river flow and well mixing of the water column for the great depth of the river.

Assessment of presence of heavy metals and trace element contamination at the proposed Laropi bridge, either from natural occurrence as may be related to the hydrogeology of the area, or anthropogenic activities such as waste management was undertaken. No elevation in metal concentration was discovered as most of the concentrations encountered were within acceptable ambient values (Appendix 3). The water quality baseline assessment further screened the water for volatile organic compounds by deploying a coupled mobile Gas chromatography/Mass spectrometer. The organic assessment was to establish the baseline of volatile organic compounds that would be attributed to leakage of petroleum-based fuels and oils from local boat engines prior to the construction of the bridge (Appendix 3).

Other water chemistry parameters including sulphates, chlorides, bicarbonates and magnesium and calcium were found within acceptable ambient values and were almost constant throughout the river channel. The water carbonate cycle is balanced as seen with the consistence in the pH data. The development of Laropi/Umi brige with the approach roads shall require deliberate measures to protect both the surface and ground water. Regular monitoring shall be undertaken and reported to directorate of water resources development, MWE. The water quality analysis results shall be archived to form basis for future assessments and monitoring during and after bridge construction.

5.1.6 Magnetic Field Radiation

Nonionizing radiation includes a spectrum of ultraviolet light (UV), visible light, infrared (IR), microwave (MW), Radio Frequency (RF) and Extremely Low Frequency (ELF). Electron magnetic fields radiations are transferred through electric and magnetic fields as flow of electricity. The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) has set 200 µT (200,000 nT) as the exposure limit to magnetic fields. For Chronic exposure, the limit is set at 0.4 µT (400 nT) (Table 12).

Table 12: Readings for Magnetic Field Radiation in Laropi Project area Name of Site GPS nT Freq Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152 0392690 157 R < 2 kHz Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152 0392762 260 R < 2 kHz On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N 27 R < 2 kHz Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N 14 R < 2 kHz End point offshore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N 16 R < 2 kHz Pakoma East End point Offshore 36N 368538E 392867N 11 R < 2 kHz Logubu Village Offshore 36N 369337E 393881N 30 50/60 Hz Lalopi trading center Offshore 36N 368942E 393623N 32 50/60 Hz

Table 12 shows that majority 75% (n=6) of the sampled points had Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) in the frequency range of R < 2 kHz, below the exposure limit of 200,000 nT set by ICNIRP as the exposure limit to low frequent magnetic fields. During construction of the project, regular monitoring

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani shall be undertaken to ensure that magnetic field radiation is within the permissible levels to protect the health of workers and communities.

5.1.7 Vibration level assessment

Vibration is the mechanical oscillations of an object about an equilibrium point. Vibration effects are dependent on the intensity of the oscillations and nature of structure or object in which it is transmitted. Such vibrations can affect both physical structures and human health depending on proximity to the source. In the United Kingdom, the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 specify daily exposure levels as follows.  For hand-arm vibration (HAV), the daily ELV is 5 m/s² and the daily EAV is 2.5 m/s².  For whole-body vibration (WBV), the daily ELV is 1.15 m/s² and the daily EAV is 0.5 m/s².

An offshore vibration assessment was taken along selected sampling points and readings are detailed in Table 13.

Table 13: Readings for Vibration: Acceleration (m/s²) Vibration: Acceleration (m/s2) Channel 1 Channel 2 Name of Site Coordinates Min Max Min Max Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152 0392690 0 0 0 0 Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152 0392762 0 0 0 0 On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N End point offshore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N Pakoma East End point Offshore 36N 368538E 392867N 0 0 0 0 Logubu Village Offshore 36N 369337E 393881N 0 0 0 0 Lalopi trading center Offshore 36N 368942E 393623N 0 0 0 0

From table 13, it is indicated that sampled points had offshore readings being less than the equipment detection limit at 0 as the minimum level for acceleration for this respective equipment. Some construction activities are likely to present risks associated with vibration especially compacting and material excavations. Measures shall be devised to protect the workers most susceptible to vibration by providing appropriate PPE. Continuous monitoring will also be undertaken against these baseline conditions.

5.1.8 Noise

Unregulated or uncontrolled noise often interrupts performance or communication thus predisposing a person to a risk of accidents, injuries, dangerous occurrences, stress, anxiety, illnesses such as noise induced hearing loss (which could be permanent or temporary loss), tinnitus and physical damage among others. Onset of outcomes due to exposure (effects) are dependent on the threshold, time of exposure to the noise, biological, physical and emotional factors surrounding the person at risk. Baseline assessment results for noise taken in the selected sampled points are tabulated in Table 14.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 14: Measurements of Noise level, dB(A) Noise Level Name of Site Coordinates dBA min dBA max Ave dBA Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152 0392690 66.8 69.225 68.0125 Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152 0392762 56.175 69.2 62.6875 On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N 32.9 42.8 37.85 Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N 29.5 29.9 29.7 End point offshore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N 29.9 30.6 30.25 Pakoma East End point Offshore 36N 368538E 392867N 30.1 31.4 30.75 Logubu Village Off shore 36N 369337E 393881N 31.2 31.8 31.5 Lalopi trading center Offshore 36N 368942E 393623N 45.5 52.6 49.05

Baseline assessment indicate that, the average day time readings per location ranged from 29.5 dB(A) to 66.8dB(A) and 29.9dB(A) to 69.2dB(A) for minimum and maximum sound levels respectively. Due to the limited activity in proposed Lalopi Bridge project area, majority 75% (n=6) of sampled points had their average sound levels below daytime threshold level of 55 dB(A) for mixed locations with commercial and residential activities. Construction activities are associated with noise generation and will increase the noise levels within the project area. Measures shall be incorporated in the environment management plans and implemented to ensure the noise does not cause adverse impacts to the workers and the surrounding communities.

5.1.9 Particulate Matter

Construction and operational activities usually generate Particulate matter of granule sizes PM10 and PM2.5 that may get logged into the respiratory tract once inhaled. During this baseline assessment, average particles in a cubic volume of air were detected through filter sizes of 0.3 µm filter, 0.5 µm filter and 5 µm filter and results of their concentration levels are presented in Table 15.

Table 15: Readings for Particulate matter measured Particulate matter measured (µg/m3)

Name of Site Coordinates 0.3 µm filter 0.5 µm filter 5 µm filter Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152E 0392690 5.3E-04 5.56E-05 2.92E-07 Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152E 0392762 1.0E-03 5.00E-04 1.37E-06 On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N 9.16E-04 1.27E-04 2.11E-06 Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N 5.09E-04 6.17E-05 1.258E-06 End point off shore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N 5.63E-04 7.47E-05 1.85E-06 Pakoma East End point Off shore 36N 368538E 392867N 6.05E-04 7.99E-05 2.02E-06 Logubu Village Off shore 36N 369337E 393881N 6.41E-04 8.01E-05 7.51E-07 Lalopi trading center Off shore 36N 368942E 393623N 7.16E-04 1.36E-04 1.33E-05

From this baseline assessment, it is indicated that within the project area, low particulate matter of respirable granule sizes was detected of which none exceeded the standard as set by WHO. It is important to note that, exposure to fine particles can cause short-term health effects such as eye, nose, throat and lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. Exposure to fine particles can also affect lung function and worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. World Health Organization (WHO) air quality guidelines (2005) give the following upper limits for particles in ambient air for maintenance of good human health: PM2.5 - 10 µg/m3 annual mean & 25 µg/m3 24-hour mean; and PM10 - 20 µg/m3 annual mean & 50 µg/m3 24-hour mean. During construction and operation phases, it is anticipated that there will be an increase in particulate matter of respirable granule size. Detailed measurement quantifying the concentration in µg/m3 units shall

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani be continually done. The environment and social management plans shall include measures for dust abatement to safeguard workers and communities against dangers associated with dust emissions.

5.1.10 Air quality

The UK Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the following standards; Nitrogen

Dioxide (NO2) 5 ppm ceiling limit (a level that should not be exceeded during any part of the work experience), Carbon monoxide (CO) 50 ppm Permissible Exposure Limit (the maximum amount or concentration of a chemical that a worker may be exposed to) for 8 hours, Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) 20 ppm ceiling limit and 1000 ppm for methane (CH4).

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic compounds characterized by their tendency to evaporate easily at room temperature. The category includes many specific toxic substances, such as benzene, butadiene, hexane, toluene, xylene, and many others. OSHA adopted a Permissible Exposure Level (PEL) of 0.75 ppm and an action level of 0.5 ppm for VOCs. Results from the Baseline assessment for air quality are presented in table 16.

Table 16: Baseline air quality ppm

Name of Site Coordinates NO2 H2S CO CO2 VOC CH4 Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152 0392690 0 0 0 431 0 0 Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152 E0392762 0 0 0 410 0 0 On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N 0 0 0 492 0 0 Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N 0 0 0 500 0 0 End point offshore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N 0 0 0 498 0 0 Pakoma East End point Off shore 36N 368538E 392867N 0 0 0 563 0 0 Logubu Village Off shore 36N 369337E 393881N 0 0 0 479 0 0 Lalopi trading center Off shore 36N 368942E 393623N 0 0 6 503 0.4 0

From the baseline assessment results in table 5-6, it is indicative that all sampled sites had levels of Hydrogen Sulfide, Nitrogen Dioxide and Methane being less than the detection limit at 0 as the minimum level for this equipment. However, though levels of at the VOCs, Carbonmonoxide and Carbondioxide were detected, none was above the PEL. This is attributed to the limited number of potential sources within the project. It is anticipated that the gaseous emission levels will increase during construction and operation of the bridge. Regular monitoring will be undertaken, and appropriate measures adopted to ensure the emissions are kept to the permissible levels.

5.1.11 Temperature

High or low temperatures tend to affect persons differently as determined by the varying mechanisms for accumulation. However, if not regulated these physical parameters such as temperature can result in injuries, disease, reduced productivity, death, and high equipment maintenance costs.

The Wet Bulb-Globe Temperature Index (WBGT) was used to establish environmental factors of heat stress namely temperature and relative humidity during this baseline assessment. According to ISO 7243: Hot Environments—Estimation of Heat Stress on Working Man, Based on the WBGT-Index (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) [ISO 1989], WBGT exposure limits for acclimatized workers is set at 33°C Resting, 30 °C Light activity, 28 °C Moderate activity, 25 °C Heavy activity and 23 °C Very heavy activity. Readings were taken at Air (dry) bulb temperature (DB), Natural Wet Bulb temperature (WB) and Dew/Globe thermometer temperature (GT) as presented in Table 17.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 17 : Readings for Air temperature using Dry Thermometer, Wet Bulb thermometer and Globe thermometer Dry Air Dew Point WBT WBGT Name of Site Coordinates Temp 0C Temp 0C Temp 0C Temp 0C Current Ferry Waiting Shade 36N 0368152 0392690 33.7 23.15 25.6 25.92 Along access Road Main Entrance / exit 36N 0368152 0392762 33.95 23.15 25.9 26.155 On water starting point on shore 36N 368320E 392178N 36.95 21.7 25.6 25.955 Middle Point on water on shore 36N 368719E 392449N 36.95 21.7 25.75 26.06 End point offshore (Pakopa East Village) 36N 368593E 392576N 37.55 21.4 25.55 25.92 Pakoma East End point Offshore 36N 368538E 392867N 33.2 23.1 24.8 25.3 Logubu Village Offshore 36N 369337E 393881N 30.9 22.55 24.7 24.89 Lalopi trading center Offshore 36N 368942E 393623N 31.05 21.7 24.25 24.42

Construction activities often involve different activities that demand varying amounts energy depending on a person’s metabolic activity. The higher the metabolic activity and heavy tasks being performed the higher the level of body exhaustion if appropriate control measures are not instituted. From the baseline assessment results in table 17, it is evident that majority 75% (n=6) of the sampled points had readings above the threshold of WBGT exposure limits of 25 °C for heavy activities. To mitigate the impacts that may arise from working and long periods exposure to high temperatures, the project shall develop measures to minimize risk of worker-exposure to high temperature.

5.2 Biological environment

5.2.1 Vegetation

The project area is endowed with considerable vegetation cover. Permanent wetlands with a variety of vegetation particularly papyrus occupy the banks of River Nile. Outside the river section, the vegetation cover comprises of open grasslands, bushlands and thicket, and wooded bushlands. Rocky outcrops are also a common characterist of the project area.

5.2.1.1 Vegetation species diversity and distribution

Out of 20 plots sampled during vegetation survey of the proposed project, a total of 321 species of plants in 221 genera and 65 families were recorded. The high number of plant species within this corridor is attributed to the extensive swamp vegetation with permanent, semi-permanent and seasonally flooded swampy patches and savannah vegetation which supports high diversity in vegetation assemblages given the associated landscape turnover. On top of the above the vegetation in this area is semi-natural and intact with less human activities. Therefore, the landscape setting and vegetation assemblages contributed to the high number of plant species within the proposed link corridor.

5.2.1.2 Distribution of species by family

Out of 321 plant species recorded within the project corridor, 57 species belong to family Fabaceae (leguminous plants), 32 species belong to Poaceae (grass family), 30 species belong to Asteracae family, 19 species belong to Acanthaceae, 16 species belong to family Euphorbiaceae and 12 species belong to family Cyperaceae as indicated in Table 18. In terms of abundance, family cyperaceae and poaceae had the highest number of abundant species especially within the 1.1km swampy stretches.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Table 18:Distribution of recorded plant species per family Family Number of Family Number of Family Number of species species species Acanthaceae 15 Clusiaceae 1 Orobanchaceae 1 Amaranthaceae 5 Commelinaceae 6 Passifloraceae 1 Amaryllidaceae 1 Convolvulaceae 9 Phyllanthaceae 5 Anacardiaceae 3 Cucurbitaceae 8 Poaceae 32 Annonaceae 2 Cyperaceae 12 Polygonaceae 1 Anthericaceae 1 Dioscoreaceae 2 Ranunculaceae 1 Apiaceae 2 Ebenaceae 2 Rhamnaceae 2 Apocynaceae 6 Euphorbiaceae 16 Rubiaceae 9 Araceae 2 Fabaceae 51 Rutaceae 4 Araliaceae 1 Flacourtaceae 2 Salicaceae 1 Arecaceae 1 Hymenocardiaceae 1 Salviniaceae 1 Aristolochiaceae 1 Lamiaceae 6 Sapindaceae 6 Asparagaceae 1 Malvaceae 14 Solanaceae 3 Asteraceae 30 Melastomataceae 3 Talinaceae 1 Azollaceae 1 Moraceae 5 Thelypteridaceae 1 Basseraceae 1 Myrsinaceae 1 Tiliaceae 1 Bignoniaceae 3 Myrtaceae 3 Ulmaceae 1 Boractinaceae 1 Nympheaceae 1 Verbenaceae 6 Canellaceae 1 Ochnaceae 1 Vitaceae 8 Capparaceae 3 Olacaceae 1 Zingiberaceae 1

Celestraceae 2 Oleaceae 2

Combretaceae 7 Opiliaceae 1

5.2.1.3 Distribution of growth forms The site yielded 120 herbaceous plants, 69 shrub species, 32 tree species, 42 herbaceous climbers and 39 graminoids as provided in Figure 18. The highest number of herbaceous plant species recorded within the project corridor was due to extensive swampy grassland and open savannas, and the varying serial stages of succession exhibited by natural habitats encountered along the project area.

140 120 120 100 80 69 60 42 40 32 32 14 20 12 0 Grass Herb Herbaceous Sedge Shrub Tree Woody Climber Climber

Figure 18: Growth form of plant species encountered within project corridor

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Vegetation defines habitat types and in the proposed project area, common habitat types and vegetation assemblages observed include Cyperus- Echinochloa-Leersia- riparian grassland, Acacia- Kigelia-Albizia riverine wooded bushlands, Acacia-Capparis-Ficus abutilifolia dense bushlands and Accacia- combretum-Tamarindus wooded grasslands. Both riverbanks on either side of Adjumani and Moyo have similar vegetation assemblages. However, the habitats in Laropi were much more modified by anthropogenic factors than the ones in Umi (Figures 19 to 36).

Vegetation of Umi Vegetation of Laropi

Figure 19: Transitions from Open waters to Cyperus- Echinochloa- Leersia riparian habitats, unto dense riparian forest habitat Figure 20: Transitions from Open waters to Cyperus-Leersia- Accacia riparian wetlands, unto dense Combretum-dominated woodlands

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Vegetation of Umi Vegetation of Laropi

Figure 22: Open waters and Riparian Leersia -Cperus Figure 21: Mosaic of short-wooded grassland with rocky outcrops wetlands

Figure 23: Accaica-Hpetheria wooded grassland Figure 24: Mosaic of Short grassland, scattered trees, and built-up area Laraopi subcounty

Figure 25: Ecotone of Cyperus dominated wetland and Riparian Figure 26: Bushed Fallow lands and settlement in Laropi forest edges in Umi

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Vegetation of Umi Vegetation of Laropi

Figure 28: Crop farming and agroforestry Figure 27: Hypertheria-Acccaia – wooded savannah grassland land

Figure 29: Borassus- Kigeria-Bridelia Riverine Forest section Figure 30: Open waters, Leesiar-Cyperus- Acacia Riparian ecotone

Figure 31: Eurphobia-antialis- Papyrus moisac Figure 32: Herbecous-grassland mosaic (Grasses and forbs)

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Vegetation of Umi Vegetation of Laropi

Figure 33: Wooded Bushland and Thicket Figure 34: Tectonia-taminaria section of laropi Local forest reserve

Figure 35: Grassland- woodland mosaic Figure 36: Flooded Shrubland- Cyperus Wetland mosaic

5.2.1.4 Threatened species and species of conservation concern

No species of conservation of concern at global and National level as per WCS 2016 and IUCN 2018. However, several trees of Tamarindus indica and Melicia excelsa reserved under National Forestry and Tree Planting Regulation 2016 was encountered within the project corridor but outside the direct foot print. These trees require protection against any form of disturbance.

i) Invasive species Five noxious plant species were encountered within the project corridor and these include Lantana camara, Mimosa pigra, Ricinus communis, and Salvinia morest, and Eichhornia crassipes. These species were reported as invasive under global invasive species list (Cronk & Fuller 2001, Global Invasive Species Programme, 2003) due to their ability to suppress herbaceous plants and their high dispersive power and regenerating potential engineered by varying magnitudes of disturbances within natural and modified community.

Mimosa pigra was encountered only in moist vegetation. While implementing earth works, the contractor and developer should devise means of controlling the spread of such invasive plant species. Mechanical methods such as uprooting and burning of identified invasive alien species should be employed to truncate its growth and existence within the project corridor.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani ii) Sensitive habitats/sites along the project corridor A site is considered sensitive when it contains fragile watershed, riparian community, rare species and threatened species of plants and animals. Therefore, the fact that River Nile and associated wetlands (Figure 37) is a riparian community and it hosts a number of wetlands macrophytes and wetland animals; it fulfills the criterion specified for critical habitat. Therefore, it requires consented efforts to protect and conserve the ecological functions, integrity and services provided thereof. Construction works should aim at avoiding clearance of large stretches of this fragile ecosystem in order to promote its conservation and protection.

Figure 37: Intact wetlands within the project area

5.2.2 Mammal diversity

5.2.3.2 Small mammals All recorded 11 small mammal species were physically encountered within the project area. These belong to 2 Order, 3 Families and 7 genera (Table 19). The Order Rodentia was the most abundant Order associated with 2 families; Sciuridae and Muridae. The success of this group is in part attributed to its adaptability to new food sources and habitats. All encountered individuals are of Least Concern regarding IUCN Redlist of species.

Table 19: Small mammals recorded in the project area No Order Family species Common Name IUCN 1 Rodentia Sciuridae Xerus erythropus Striped Ground Squirrel LC 2 Rodentia Sciuridae Xerus rutilus Unstriped Ground Squirrel LC 3 Rodentia Muridae Arvicanthus niloticus African Grass Rat LC 4 Rodentia Muridae Lemniscomys striatus Striped Grass Mouse LC 5 Rodentia Muridae Lophuromys sikapusi Rusty-bellied brush-furred rat LC 6 Rodentia Muridae mastomys natalensis Natal Multimammate Mouse LC 7 Rodentia Muridae Praomys jacksonii Jackson's Soft-furred Mouse LC Eulipotyphla Soricidae LC 8 Crocedura olivieri Eulipotyphla Soricidae LC 9 Crocedura nigrofusca Eulipotyphla Soricidae LC 10 Crocedura luna Eulipotyphla Soricidae LC 11 Crocedura dolichura 69 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

5.2.3.3 Other mammals in project area

The project area has significantly low concentration of large to medium-sized mammals. The ESIA recorded 15 species of other mammals in the project area belonging to 5 Orders and 15 genera (Table 20), some of the mammals and evidence of existence of others is presented in Figures 38 to 40. Olive Baboons (Papio Anubis) and Vervet monkies are some of the dominant mammal species in the project area.

Table 20 : Other mammal species in recorded in the project area # Common Name Scientific name Conservation status Order Frequency of (IUCN 2019) occurrence 1 Olive Baboon Papio anubis Least concern Primates 13 2 Vervet Monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus Least concern Primates 23 3 Rock Hyrax Procavia capensis Least concern Hyracoidea 2 4 Bushbuck Tragelaphus sylvaticus Least concern Cetartiodactyla 1 5 Bush Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Least concern Cetartiodactyla 2

6 Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibious Vulnerable Cetartiodactyla 7 Marsh/Water Atilax paludinosus Least concern Carnivora 2 mangoose 8 Slender mangoose Galerella sanguinea Least concern Carnivora 1 9 Straw coloured fruit Eidolon helvum Least concern chiroptera 31 bat 10 Yellow-bellied Scotophilus dingani Least conscern chiroptera 1 house bat 11 Yellow-winged Bat Lavia frons Least concern chiroptera 2 12 Lander's Rhinolophus Landeri Least concern chiroptera 1 Horseshoe bat 13 Noak's leavf-nosed Hipposideros ruber Least concern chiroptera 2 bat 14 African Clawless Aonyx capensis Least concern chiroptera 1 otter 15 African civet Civettictis civetta Least concern Carnivora 1

Figure 39: Fecal material of Bushbuck Figure 38:Olive baboons in Umi village

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 40: Depiction of mammal behaviour - Faecal material of Bush duiker, slender mongooses, African civet and Rock hyrax

5.2.3.4 Mammals of conservation concern All mammal species, except Hippopotamus amphibius identified in the project area are not rare, threatened or endangered according to the IUCN Red List Category of 2010. Where as Hippopotamus amphibious is globally vulnerable, its population is considered stable according to IUCN Red List Version 2020-3 of Threatened Species.

5.2.3 Avifauna

Avifuana are sensitive indicators of the health of the environment and stability, reflecting trends in other biodiversity, being responsive to change and high in food chain (Birdlife international). Field observations, stakeholder consultation and literature indicated that there are 76 species of birds in the project area. Some of the avifauna include Actophilornis Africana, Amblyospiza albifrons, Bostrychia hagedash, Circaetus pectoralis, Cisticola chiniana, Cisticola juncidis, Pycnonotus barbatus, Plocepasser superciliosus, Spermestes cucullata, Uraeginthus bengalus and Tchagra senegalus among others. No birds of conservation concern recorded. A full list of the bird species recorded during ESIA is presented in Appendix 2.

Birds were classified according their different habitat preferences and conservation status classification. A summary is presented in Table 21.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 21: Numbers of species in various categories of habitat classifications and various conservation status categories Target species No.Spp

Forest specialists FF Forest generalist F Tree species f 12

Wetland specialists W 9 Wetland visitor w 4 Grassland specialists G 6 Aerial feeder Ae 3 Woodland Af 3 Habitat generalists Gen 33

Ecological feature Ecological Migrants Palearctic P Afrotropical A 2 Red-list Species Critically G-CR

Endangered G-EN Near- threatened G-NT Vulnerable G-VU

Globally

a Endangered R-EN Vulnerable R-Vu Near- threatened R-NT Regional responsibility R-RR Regionally Ugandab Endangered U-EN Vulnerable U-VU Near- threatened U-NT Non-Red-list Species Least concern LC 76 aBennun et al. 1996, bWCS 2016

5.2.4 Herptiles

5.2.3.5 Reptiles A total of 14 reptile species were recorded along the project area, these belonged to 8 families, 13 genera and 3 Orders namely; Chelonii, Serpentes, and Sauria of class Reptilia (Table 22).

Table 22: Reptiles recordered in the project area ad their various conservation status categories Order Family species Common Name IUCN Chelonii Pelomedusidae Pelomedusa subrufa Marsh terrapin NE Chamaeleonidae Chamaeleo gracilis Gracile Chameleon NE Sauria Gekkonidae Hemidactylus mabouia Tropical House Gecko NE

Gekkonidae Lygodactylus gutturalis Chevron-throated Gecko NE

Scincidae Trachylepis maculilabris Speckle-lipped Skink NE Scincidae Trachylepis striata Common Striped Skink NE Varanidae Varanus niloticus Nile Monitor NE Agamidae Agama agama Orange Head Agama LC Colubridae Dispholidus typus Boomslang NE Serpentes Colubridae Grayia tholloni Thollon's Water-snake NE Elapidae Naja melanoleuca Water Cobra NE

Colubridae Psammophis mossambicus Grass Hissing Snake NE Colubridae Natriciteres olivacea Olive Marsh Snake LC

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Order Family species Common Name IUCN Pythonidae Python regius African Royal Python LC 3 9 14

5.2.3.6 Amphibians From this study, a total of only 8 amphibian species were recorded, belonging to Order Anura, 5 families and 7 genera (Table 23). This is relatively a low amphibian diversity considering the biodiversity potential of the project area; this could be attributed to the extreme dry conditions that limit amphibian activity along the raiver. All the encountered amphibian species were of least concern regarding IUCN Redlist of species. Most frogs were confined along rivers and wetlands, these included; Amietia angolensis and Hoplobatrachus occipitalis. The family Hyperolidae had the highest number of species due to the Cyperus properties of most riverbanks.

Table 23: Amphibaibs recordered in the project area ad their various conservation status categories Order Family Species Common Name IUCN Anura Hyperoliidae Afrixalus fulvovittatus Banded Banana Frog LC Anura Pyxicephalidae Amietia angolensis Angola River Frog LC Anura Bufonidae Amietophrynus regularis Common African toad LC Anura Dicroglossidae Hoplobatrachus occipitalis Crowned bullfrog LC Anura Hyperoliidae Hyperolius acuticeps LC Anura Hyperoliidae Hyperolius cinnamomeoventris Cinnamon-bellied Reed Frog LC Anura Ranidae Ptychadena anchietae Ridged Grass Frog LC Anura Ranidae Ptychadena mascareniensis Mascarene Grass Frog LC

5.2.5 Fish species records in the project area

Eleven species of fish were recorded in the project area during field surveys for ESIA (Table 24). They include Tilapia, Nile perch and Nile Distichodus among others (Table 10 and Figures 41 & 42). Consultations with stakeholders revealed that there a variety of fish in the Nile within the project area which are exploited by poor fishing methods and destruction of breeding grounds. Consultations further revealed that Tilapia and Nile Perch are the most common Fish species in the project area.

Table 24 Fish species recorded from the project area Species Common name 1 Oreochromis spp. Tilapia 2 Labeo spp. carps 3 Distichodus spp. Nile Distichodus 4 Citharinus spp. Lutefishes 5 Bagrus spp. Bagrid catfishes 6 Clarias spp. Airbreathing catfishes 7 Momyrus spp. Freshwater Elephantfishes 8 Protopterus spp. Lungfishes 9 Lates niloticus Nile perch 10 Alestes spp. African Characidae 11 Barbus spp. Ray-finned fish

73 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 41:Nile Distichodus Figure 42: Tilapia and Nile perch Fish

5.3 Cultural and Socio-Economic Baseline

5.3.1 Political and Administrative units

Uganda has a decentralized form of governance where the central government devolves a number of state functions to the district local governments. Districts are further divided into counties, sub- counties, parishes, and villages. Each level has elected area councils locally referred to as local councils (LCs). The local council structure comprises of LC V at the district level with sub counties below it. The sub-county is politically headed by the LCIII chairperson with Parishes under sub- counties. Parishes are headed by the L.C II below who are LCI at the village level.

Administratively at LCV level, the elected Chairpersons lead the local government political structure (comprising of elected councilors) while the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) heads the civil service or technical staff. In addition, every district has a Resident District Commissioner who represents the President’s office at the district level. At LCIII level, there exist a Sub-County Chiefs who heads the technocrats while the elected LCIII Chairman leads the elected councilors. Below sub-counties are parishes which are headed by Parish Chiefs and the LCII Chairperson while LCI Chairpersons lead villages assisted by committees personally selected by them.

The project connects two districts of Adjumani and Moyo with corresponding sub-counties and villages expounded on in Table 25.

Table 25: Administrative structure of the project area District Adjumani Moyo Sub-County Pacara Laropi Parish Umi Laropi Village (LC1) Umin Laropi ferry

5.3.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the project area

5.3.2.1 Population size and age groups

The population within the project area is growing at a relatively high rate with an average household size ranging between 5 and 6 individuals (UBOS, 2014). Moyo District had a population of 137,489, of which 67,937 were males and 69,552 were females according to the 2014 population census. Moyo district population growth rate between 1991 and 2002 was 7.69 percent per annum and the growth rate between 2002 and 2014 was -2.9 percent per annum. For Adjumani District, the 2002 national census estimated the district population at about 202,300 people, of whom 49.6% were male and 50.4% were female. The annual district population growth rate has been determined to be 6.5%,

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani between 2002 and 2012. It is estimated that the population of Adjumani District in 2019 was approximately 234,300. The development plans of the sub-counties traversed by the project indicate that there are more women than me as shown in Table 26. The socio-economic survey covered 30% of the total population the the two sub counties. The survey revealed that a greater number (40.1%) of the population were between the age of 5-18 years as shown in Figure 43 below.

Table 26: Population of the project area Sub county Households Males females Pacara 2,959 8,373 8,832 Laropi 2,351 4,367 6,169 Total 5,310 12,740 15,001

Bellow 5yrs 15% 26yrs and above 29%

5 to 18yrs 19 to 25yrs 40% 16%

Figure 43: Age Groups within the Project area

5.3.2.2 Education and Literacy levels

The education and sports sectorimplements the education policy of the districts inline with the government policy of promoting equity, access, quality enhancement improvement and retention in the education system. Adjumani and Moyo district however, are characterized by low completion rates at both primary and secondary levels. The average literacy of the population in the District aged 10 years and above is 65.0% which is below the National average of 70.0% (UBOS, 2014). Generally, the literacy rate among the urban population is higher at 77.0% than the rural population at 64.0% but all these are below the National average for rural and urban at 88.0%. However, there exists disparity in literacy rates between males and females which are 78.0% and 53.0% respectively (UBOS, 2014). Within the project area, the literacy levels were quite high with over 70%of household members able to read and write. However, majority of the population have not attained formal education (56%) as shown in Figure 44.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Vocational / diploma /… University level 5%

Ordinary level 12%

Uneducated Primary seven 56% 25%

Figure 44: Literacy levels within the project area

(a) Early marriages and Girl-Child Education

Prevalence of early marriage remains pervasive with regional disparities: on average one in two Ugandan women was married before turning 18 (Plate 10), up to two in three women in the East Central, Mid-Eastern and West Nile and Northern sub-regions. Early marriage is widely accepted, but only for girls: while many communities believe that men should be married later (UNDP 2014). Limited access to post-primary schools and livelihoods expose adolescent girls to risks of child marriage and prompt recourse to survival sex; increasing vulnerability to sexual and other forms of exploitation and abuse (UNHCR, 2019).

The Girl-Child education in the districts is low particularly in the upper classes (P6 &P7) with about 18% enrolled completing the primary education circle. This is attributed to negative attitudes of parents towards educating the girl-child, low value for girl-child education in the community, economic gains from early marriages, heavy domestic chores for the girl- child, child labor and defilement. However, girls have benefitted more under the Universal Primary Education (UPE) program (DDP Adjumani, 2016)

(b) Ability of households to read and write in any language

The ssessment determined that almost 50% of the household members can easily read and write in any local language as illustrated in table 27.

Table 27:Ability of households to read and write in any language Ability to read and write Percentage Easily 47.8 With difficulty 27.3 Not at all 22.4 Don’t know 2.5 Total 100

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Of the household members currently at school, a majority (75%) are in primary school while 21.4% are in secondary schools. Only 2.4% and 1.2% are in Advanced level and vocational training respectively. Figure 45 shows grade currently attended by household members.

Advanced level Vocational/diplom 3% a/certificate 1%

Ordinary level 21%

Primary level 75%

Figure 45: level of Education currently attended by household members

(d) Distance to school

The biggest percentage of school going household members 49.5% travel less than 1 Km to access school while 44.4% travel between 1 and 5 Km to access school. Only 6.1% of school going household members travel for more than 5 Km to access school. Table 28 shows the distance to school travelled by school going household members. The study noted that due to the perceived short distance to school, many learners commute from home, leaving them exposed and vulnerable to challenges on their commute.

Table 28 : Distance to school Distance Percentage Less than 1km 49.5 1 to 5km 44.4 above 5Km 6.1 Total 100

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 5.3.2.3 Marriages and Marrital status

Most of the household heads within the project area are in monogamous marriages (48.3%) and about 35% have never been married before as shown in Table 29.

Table 29: Marrital status of the population Characteristics % Marital status of the household Heads Never married / single 35 Married monogamous 48.3 Marrieed polygamous 3.0 Divorced / separated 7.1 Widow / widower 9.6 100

5.3.2.4 Religion and tribes

The census 2002 shows, the Roman Catholic Church is the most dominant religious denomination in the districts constituting 82.5% of the population. Other denominations include Anglican Church 8%, Islam 5.6% and the Pentecostal Church 1.8%. Sevenday Adventists and others etc. combined made up to 2.2% (UBOS, 2002). However, the practices and beliefs associated with Christianity are super imposed on traditional religious practices of the Madi, which are very popular in the district of Adjumani, such as mixing of catholic and traditional rituals in marriage and funeral ceremonies. Traditional religious beliefs are centred on worship of clan ancestors. The population in the project are is predominantly Catholic (96%) and moselems are 4%. The majority of the population in the project area belong to the Lugbara tribe (96%) in Moyo District and Madi (4%) in Adjumani.

5.3.3 Means of transport for the households in the project area

The major mode of transport in the project area is road transport whereby 85.7% of respondents indicated having a means of transport. These included; a vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle or canoe or boat (Figure 46). Within the project area, 34.3% of owned a bicycle, 31.4% had a motorcycle, 11.4% had a boat/canoe while 8.6% owned a motor vehicle. 14.3% of the households did not have any mode of transport. This is elaborated in table 30.

Table 30: Means of transport for the households No Means of transport Percent of responses 1 Motor vehicle 8.6 2 Motorcycle 31.4 3 Bicycle 34.3 4 Boat /canoe 11.4 5 None 14.3 6 Total 100

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 46 : canoe approaching the Umi landing site

5.3.4 Current travel patterns

While the local community members have other modes of transport other than water transport, the ferry services form a crucial part of the transport network in the area connecting Moyo to Adjumani districts. The use of ferry services is charactised by traffic congestation at the waiting area, long waiting time, long queues at registration desks, loading time and sometimes the ferry reaching maximum loading capacity (Figure 47); leaving other intended users stranded. It should also be noted that the ferry services follow a specific schedule starting at 7am to 7pm, therefore all travellers must adjust their travel programs to fit in the schedule. Due to high demand for ferry services coupled with limited capacity, sometimes the operators must give first priority to some categories of users including; buses, trucks with perishable goods, politicians and ambulances leaving other categories of users stranded.

Figure 47: Laropi Ferry carrying passengers and veichle (Courtsy of Vision Group)

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 5.3.5 Livelihoods

5.3.5.1 Major sources of income

Within the project area, an overwhelming majority of the population derives their livelihood from subsistence agriculture (89.2%). Subsistence agriculture and animal husbandry are the major backbone of the economy in the region. Common crops grown within the project area include cassava (Figure 48), sweet potatoes, millet, pigeon peas, maize, sesame, sorghum and vegetables among others. Livestock kept are cattle, goats, pigs and poultry on small scale, grazing land has been reducing competing with other land uses, especially crop cultivation. The predominant fruit trees are mangoes which are currently surviving periodic wild fire, but with surprisingly high yields every season.

Figure 48: Cassave garden. A common crop in the project area

A small percentage (4%) indicated to derive their major income from enterprises and 6% from wage employment. Other insignificant sources of income in the project area include transfers and other benefits, incomes derived from sale of assets and property income which is mainly from rent obtained from land and buildings.

Majority of the surveyed households (60%) reported that they have at least a member with access to a regular source of income which signifies economic security. Of these, 60% indicated that, they have one member with access to regular income: most likely a spouse. Only a few have two members (13.3%) with regular income while a slightly bigger proportion have more than two members (26.7%), who could be children. This shows that majority of population of the project area have stable incomes.

5.3.5.2 Enterprises

The Socio-economic survey noted that there are a number of enterprises at the current ferry landing sites (Figure 49). Most of these enterprises are women operated. They are run informally and their main customer are waiting ferry passengers. Therefore, they are highly dependent on the ferry operations for their livelihood. While construction of the bridge is likely to introduce new opportunities in the project area, the replacement of ferry operations with a bridge will take away all their customers for these enterprises thus greatly affecting their economic viability. Nearly all affected enterprises do more than one business as indicated in the table 31.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 31: Type of Enterprises Type of Enterprise Percent of cases Retail shop 29.0 Hotel/eating place 39.5 Fuel vending points 5.3 Bar 23.7 Fish stalls 29.0 Others 29.0 Total

Figure 49: Women at Umi ferry landing site engaging in various small business enterprises

5.3.1 Health services

Availability of health facilities There are a number of health facilities in the project area. Both government health facilities are at the subcountty and parish levels. For instance, in Laropi, primary health services are offered in 3 health centers; one (1) health center III and two (2) health center IIs (Table 32). Private providers were also noted to operate in the area.

Table 32: Health facilitiees in Laropi S/No Parish Name of Health Center 1. Laropi Laropi Health Center III 2. Panyanga Panyanga Health Center II 3. Gbalala Gbalala Health Center II

Disease prevalence and type of illness More than half of the survey population (52.2%) reported to have had at least one member of their families suffering from a particular illness. However, in the reported cases of illnesses, malaria (100%) stood out as the most common type of disease in the area. Others include as skin diseases (16.67%), Diarrhoea (8.33%) and typhoid (8.33%). Given that malaria is the most prevalent disease in the project

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani area, during the construction phase, it will be important not exacerbate this situation by leaving open borrow pits which could serve as a breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Health Seeking Behaviors While private health service providers are available in the project area, the study noted that majority (66.7%) of the population seek health care services from government facilities. It was reported that people travel between 0-5km distances to access health services. Walked to access the existing health facilities is between 0-5Kms (75%).

5.3.2 Housing

The status of housing in the project are permanent, semi-permanent and temporary (Figures 50 and 51). Permanent structures are mainly located in trading centres while the semi-permanent and temporary houses are in rural. It was noted that there are challenges of dependence on natural resources such as Papyrus for construction materials.

Figure 50: Typical grass thatched house Figure 51: Typical semi-permanent structure in the project area

5.3.3 Access to water

Access to improved water supply (i.e. piped, infrastructure-based water) across the country is estimated to be 71% and 67% in urban and rural areas, respectively. Of these, only 26% of the urban population is estimated to have piped water on premises, and less so within informal settlements (MWE, 2016). Improved access to health care facilities and safe drinking water are critical pre requisites for socio-economic development. These reveal the quality of the human resource and in essence the level of investment undertaken or required by a community.

Shallow wells/boreholes (Figure 53) are the main sources of water for domestic use. These are complimented by the gravity water system in the area (Figure 54). A number of shallow wells and gravity water pipes were noted in the project area. The survey determined that among the population in the eproject area, 64% have access to piped water either in form of private yard taps (32%) or as 82 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani public stand posts (32%). Only a few households (28%) collect water from boreholes and open sources (4%) (Figure 52).

Open source Other 4% 4%

Borehole 28%

Public stand post 32%

Private Yard tap 32%

Figure 52: Main source of water for drinking

Figure 53: Shallow borehole in the project area Figure 54: Gravity water pipe

5.3.4 Sanitation Latrine coverage at the household level is generally high with most households having access to either their own private covered pit latrines (52%), uncovered pit latrines without slab (44%) or uncovered pit latrines with a slab (4%). However, survey noted that about 44% households had uncovered pit latrines without a slab which did not meet the Criteria of an acceptable latrine. Relatedly, the survey revealed that more than half of the surveyed households (56%) had hand washing facilities. However, 20% of these only had water but without soap while close to half of the surveyed households did not have any hand washing facility at their toilets during the time of the survey. This is further illustrated in Tables 33 and 34.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 33: Type of toilet facility Type of toilet facility Percentage Covered Pit Latrine (private) 52 Uncovered Pit Latrine with a slab 4 Uncovered Pit Latrine without slab 44 Total 100

Table 34: Presence of Hand Washing facility Hand washing facility Percentage No hand washing facility 44 Yes, with water and no soap 20 Yes, with water and soap 36 Total 100

5.3.5 Waste Disposal

Despite the increasing population, particularly in Laropi trading centre and the associated increase in waste generation, the project area lacks designated wast management services. The most common solid waste management practice in the area is pitting (76%), followed by burning (16%) while the least is heaping (8%) in undesignated open spaces.

5.3.6 Energy sources

Energy for Lighting Solar is most commonly used source of energy for lighting used by about 60% of the population in the project area. These solar connections are typically low capacity and are used primarily to provide lighting and charge mobile devices. The rest of the population households use recharge lamps/batteries (32%) and paraffin lanterns (8%).

Source of Energy for Cooking Fuelwood is the major source of energy for cooking in the project area. The study determined that more than a half (56%) of the population use firewood, while 40% use charcoal and about 4% use paraffin.

5.3.7 Women and Gender

In line with UNRA’s gender equity strategy, a gender analysis was conducted during preparation for this ESIA through gender disaggregated FGDs using the three gender frameworks namely; i. Activity Profile, 2) ii. Access and Control profile and, iii. The influencing factors.

The purpose of this gender analysis was to understand the dominant development problems, existing opportunities and the implication of accessibility limitations to control over economic resources for women and men. This was premised on the assumption that, the greater the gender inequality in project communities, the higher the possibility that women will be in a weak position to share project benefits. The outcome of the gender analysis provides measures to ensure that women and men receive equitable project benefits and share equitably in the related livelihood support programs.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Gender socio-economic characteristics

Gender division of labour The population in the project area is of three types; the rural population, the business communities and the population at the landing sites. The gender analysis identified specific roles for men and women in the project area and ssessed the current gender division of labour, access to, and control over resources. The assessment found complex gender dynamics associated with productive roles, reproductive and access and control of productive resources.

Productive roles Based on a set of questions in the gender analysis tool, it was established that, both women and men in project area get involved in productive activities although their involvement varies in many ways. At Laropi and Umi ferry crossing, the female-dominated productive activities are largely landing site- related that include; Fish vending (buying and selling of fish), operating small makeshift restaurants, operating kiosks (general merchandise), road side stalls that sell food stuffs such mandazi, fried cassava yellow bananas etc) Figure 55. It was further established that landing site fish vending and eating places business were exclusively owned and run by women.

Figure 55: Some involved in fish business

This implies that if the project affects the landing sites business, women will be the most affected. Other than landing site activities, women were involved in the central market business, mat making from papyrus and production of local brew.

The male- dominated activities in the project area include fishing, sale of fish immediately after fishing but not on stalls, boat transportation (transporting people and goods), and hawking and boda- boda business. Other than landing site activities, men were involved in stone quarrying activities. Earnings obtained from these activities are largely spent on drinking and on other women/prostitutes by a vast majority of men leaving the women to bear the household burdens.

Furthermore, it was established that there are activities in which both men and women participate. These include; farming (especially cultivating sweet potatoes, beans and rearing of livestock), papyrus related activities (crafts making value chain) although this was more prominent in the rural set up. In the urban setting, both men and women were involved in businesses of different types and sizes. Both men and women were members of savings groups /financial groups and could access credit on their 85 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani own. This implies that, both men and women have access and control opportunities over economic resources within their households.

The reproductive roles From the gender analysis, both men and women participated in paying school fees for the children although the women were more likely to spend higher on school fees. Regarding reproductive roles, almost all activities relating to care and maintenance of households and childcare which include washing, cooking, taking care of the children and taking care of the sick are performed by women and girl children. The burden of family care carried by women was further empasised during Focus Group Discussions (FGD). It was noted that women are responsible for the payment of school fees for school going children, provision of food, medical care and generally taking care of the welfare of household members. As earlier noted, it is women that engage in petty trade, brewing and other activities to sustain the wellbeing of their household members. This implies that the project adverse impacts on livelihoods will significantly affect not only the women, but the entire welfare and livelihood of the households.

Gender based Violence Gender-based violence is violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience gender-based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls. Gender Based Violence (GBV) is a universal reality existing in all societies regardless of income, class, and culture. An estimated one in three women worldwide has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime. About 87.5% of the respondents indicated not to know any cases of physical fights at household level. However, 12.5% of the respondents reported knowledge of existence of physical fights at household level. This in itself is an indicator that GBV exists in the project area and will need targeted programs to combat it.

Violence against Children It was established that cases of violence against children were common in the districts of Adjumani and Moyo. The prevalent forms of child abuse included; child neglect, early marriages, early marriages, forced marriages, child parents, defilement, sexual exploitation, child labour, school drop outs. These have resulted into social deviants who engage in child-to-child sex, drug and substance abuse, assault and malicious damage to properties. The perceived increase in violence against children has been attributed to household poverty, vulnerability characterized by households headed by widows, single parents, child parents, persons infected and affected by HIVD/AIDS, polygamous households, households headed by the elderly, households headed by disabled persons, households that lost their economic assets due to deprivation, displacement, and social exclusion as well as children living with very busy and also lazy parents who have little/less time for care and guidance.

The community-based services departments and Police in the districts supported by some Non- government organizations like CEFORD and AVAC are making efforts to protect children against these forms of violence. Their interventions include re-settling children who have run out of homes, facilitating rehabilitation of juvenile offenders and equipping out of school children with vocational skills among others.

5.3.8 Migration Status and Years spent in the Project Area

Findings from the survey revealed that, majority of the respondents (76%) were born within the affected villages, followed by those who in another district (12%). Very few (8%) reported to have been born in another district with only one indicating to have been born in the affected sub-county. Regarding duration of stay, an overwhelming majority of the PAPs (92%) have spent more than 10 years with only a few (8%) who have spent between 5 to 10 years in the area. During the detailed

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani assessment after the design review, it will be important to identify appropriate resettlement options for the affected persons to ensure that, traumatic cases that require people to leave their ancestral homes are minimized.

Table 35: Years spent in the project area Years spent in this location Percentage 5 to 10 years 8 More than 10 years 92 Total 100

5.3.9 Livelihoods

5.3.9.1 Incomes Within the project area, an overwhelming majority of the PAPs reported to be deriving their income from subsistence agriculture (96%). In equal proportions, only a few PAPs get income from enterprises (6%) and from employment (6%). Other insignificant sources of income in the project area include transfers and other benefits, incomes derived from sale of assets and property income which is mainly from rent got from land or buildings as illustrated in the table 36.

Table 36 Table: Sources of Incomes Percent of percent of Sources of Income responses cases Property income (rent from land, buildings, etc.) 2.5 4 Current transfers and other benefits (pensions, insurance, Remittances and assistance received from others) 5 8 Income from sale of assets excluding livestock 2.5 4 Income from employment (salary/wage) 15 24 Income from Enterprises (Household/None-Household based) 15 24 Income from Subsistence Activities (crop/livestock farming) 60 96 Total 100 160 (Multiple responses allowed)

The findings presented in the above table are consistent to the results generated from a separate question which sought to understand the most important sources of earnings for households in the past 12 months. It was established that, 76% of the affected households’ earnings were derived from subsistence farming which is not surprising because the project area is largely rural. This is further illustrated in Figue 56.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Wage employment Other 4% 12%

Commercial farming 8%

Subsistence farming 76%

Figure 56: Most important source of earnings for households in the past 12 months

5.3.9.2 Enterprises

Although not located in the footprint of the proposed bridge and therefore not directly affected, there are 38 enterprises that operate within the project zone of influence, most of which are informal. These enterprises operate from the current landing sites of the ferry in Umi on the side of Adjumani district and Laropi on the side of Moyo (Figure 58). The main customers for these enterprises are the ferry passengers; thus, all of them are highly dependent on the ferry operations. Therefore, although the construction of the bridge is likely to introduce new opportunities in the project area, the replacement of ferry operations with a bridge will take away all their customers which will greatly affect the economic viability of these enterprises. Most of the enterprises operate informally and at a small scale. For that reason, a big number of them do not employ permanent workers that are paid on a monthly basis. Thirty-four (34) enterprises are individually owned while the other 4 are owned as partnerships. Nearly all affected enterprises do more than one business as indicated in Figure 57.

Others 29

Fish stalls 29

Bar 23.7

Petro station 5.3

Hotel/eating place 39.5

Retail shop 29

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

Figure 57: Type of Enterprises within the project area

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 58: Small business enterprises at Umi Ferry Landing

5.3.10 Welfare Indicators

5.3.10.1 Households with members having regular sources of income Majority of the affected households (60%) reported that they have at least a member with access to a regular source of income which signifies economic security. Of these, majority (60%) indicated that, they have one member with access to regular income: most likely a spouse. Only a few have two members (13.3%) with regular income while a slightly bigger proportion have more than two (26.7%), who could be children. This shows that majority of households are not economically badly off.

Other welfare indicators are also good. For instance, those that have at least two sets of clothes are 98%, households with every child having a blanket are 57% while those with every member having one pair of shoes are 88%. However, although the other percentages of those without these items are small, households with these indicators are potentially vulnerable. During the update of this ESIA, these households shall be assessed in detail and come up with recommendations on other appropriate measures to support them.

5.3.10.2 Household Source of social assistance during difficult times Majority (68%) of the households get social assistance mainly from extended family members and relatives. This means that even with resettlement, these households will still access the assistance. A significant proportion (64%) reported to be getting their social assistance from neighbors. Relatedly, a big percentage (60) indicated that, they have a friend they feel at ease to talk to about personal life in and around the community (Figure 59). These are likely to face challenges since they are not able to maintain social ties with their neighbors and friends particularly if they resettle in faraway locations.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani cases 80 68 64 70 60 60 50 40 30 24 20 12 10 0 Extended Neighbours Friends Village Others family/relatives SACCO/Group (specify…….)

Figure 59: Sources of assistances during difficult times

A few (24%) with village SACCO / group as a source of social support will also be affected. Social assistance is a form of social capital, which will be greatly affected by the project as people leave their networks behind. Before project implementation, physically displaced households that receive social support from neighbors, friends in and around the community and village SACCOs / groups shall be identified and equip them with social network rebuilding strategies in their new locations.

5.3.11 Health Conditions

5.3.11.1 Disease prevalence and type of illness. More than half of the affected households (52.2%) reported to have had at least one member of their families suffering from a particular illness. However, in the reported cases of illnesses, malaria (100%) stood out as the most common type of disease suffered by the affected households although a few but rather insignificant diseases were also mentioned such as skin diseases (16.67%), Diarrhoea (8.33%) and typhoid (8.33%). Therefore, given that malaria is the most rampant disease in the project area, during the construction phase, it will be important not exacerbate situation this by leaving open borrow pits which could serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Secondly, affected communities will require sensitization against the dangers of drinking unboiled water to eradicate reported cases of diarrhea and typhoid.

5.3.11.2 Health Seeking Behaviors As indicated in Table 37, majority (66.7%) of the affected households seek primary health care services from mainly two health service outlets namely, government health Centre (66.7%), and pharmacy / drug shops / clinics. For most of the affected households, the average distance PAPs have to walk to access the existing health facilities is between 0-5Kms (75%). Only a few households (25%) reported to be moving more than 5kms to access health services.

Table 37: First level of consultations Consultations Percentage Bought from pharmacy/drug shop/clinic 16.7 Gov’t Health Centre 83.4 Total 100

The results above regarding people’s health seeking behaviours seem to suggest that PAPs have good access to health services in their area which they are likely to lose.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

5.3.12 Land Ownership

Uganda recognises formal and informal land ownership rights. Formal land tenure in the project area includes customary, freehold, leasehold and public land as defined in Uganda’s 1995 Constitution and governed under the Land Act (1998). From the social economic survey, the most common type of land ownership in this area is customary (72%; customary owner 44% and co-customary owners 28%), a type of land ownership that is not governed by written law but by rules generally accepted as binding and authoritative by the class of persons to which it applies (in other words, “customary regime is not governed by written law”). A few people own free hold tenure (28%), whereby the previously customary land transforms into registered land in perpetuity. The results are presented in the table 38 below.

Table 38 Land ownership Ownership status Percentage Customary Owner / co-customary owners 72 Free hold / Owner (Title holder) 28 Total 100

5.3.12.1 Availability of Toilet facility

Latrine coverage at the household level is generally high with most households having access to either their own private covered pit latrines (52%), uncovered pit latrines without slab (44%) or uncovered pit latrines with a slab (4%), (Table 39). However, we take note of the 44% households with uncovered pit latrines without a slab. These do not meet the criteria of an acceptable latrine. Therefore, during the implementation phase, the concerned local governments shall be involved in sensitisation of community members on the need to construct not only latrines that meet the required standards but also on the need to construct public toilet facilities that are currently lacking within the project area to meet the anticipated that is expected to come with the increase in population due to influx of labour.

Table 39: Type of toilet facility Type of toilet facility Percentage Covered Pit Latrine (private) 52 Uncovered Pit Latrine with a slab 4 Uncovered Pit Latrine without slab 44 Total 100

The socio-economic survey also revealed that, more than half of the affected households (56%) had hand washing facilities. However, 20% of these only had water but without soap while close to half of the affected households did not have any hand washing facility at their toilets during the time of the survey. This is further illustrated in Table 40.

Table 40: Having a Hand Washing facility Hand washing facility Percentage No hand washing facility 44 Yes, with water and no soap 20 Yes, with water and soap 36 Total 100

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Additionally, despite the rapidly increasing population sizes particularly in Logubu South village due to its location on the periphery of Laropi trading centre and the resultant amount of refuse produced at the household level, the project area still lacks designated dumping sites. The commonest solid waste practice in the area is pitting (76%), followed by burning (16%) while the least is heaping (8%), Table 41.

Table 41: Table: Common method of solid waste disposal Common method of solid waste disposal Percentage Burning 16 Heap 8 Pit 76 Total 100

5.3.12.2 Source of Energy for Lighting Solar is most commonly used source of energy for lighting with 60% of the households within the right of way having solar connected to their houses (Figure 60). These solar connections are typically low capacity and are used primarily to power lights and charge mobile devices. The rest of the affected households use recharge lamps / batteries (32%) and paraffin (8%) as indicated in table 42.

Table 42: Source of Energy for lighting Source of energy for lighting Percentage Paraffin (Tadooba) 8 Recharge lamps/batteries 32 Solar 60 Total 100

60: Typical solar panels for trapping solar energy. A common characteristic in the area

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 5.3.12.3 Source of Energy for Cooking

Regarding source of energy for cooking, more than a half (56%) of the households use firewood (Figure 61) for cooking (Table 43) followed by charcoal (40%) and only 4% use paraffin stove.

Table 43: Source of energy for cooking Source of energy for cooking Percentage Charcoal 40 Firewood 56 Paraffin stove 4 Total 100

Figure 61: Bundles of Firewood. A major source of fuel in the region

5.3.13 Existence of Vulnerable Groups in Households

Vulnerable groups in the context of displacement are groups of people who by nature of their status may be made more vulnerable by the displacement process. Characteristically, vulnerable groups usually have very few productive assets, they are easily affected even by external shocks and risks (such as resettlement) and have low resilience capability. Vulnerable groups may include people living below the poverty line, the landless, the elderly, women- and children-headed households, ethnic minorities, natural resource dependent communities or other displaced persons who may not be protected through national land compensation laws. Cognizant of the need to identify these groups and required measures to support them through the land access and resettlement process, a question was included in the survey tool on the existence of vulnerable persons in a home. The survey results reveal that, 6/25 (24%) of the physically displaced household heads are chronically ill. Other household members from physically displaced households with chronic illnesses are 5 (20%). Although these numbers may look small, it will be important to identify these households and give them appropriate extra support they need during resettlement. The number and types of chronic illnesses of the physically displaced households are provided in Table 44.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 44: Households with vulnerable groups Chronic illnesses Household head Other household members Heart diseases 3 (12%) 3 (12%) Pressure 3 (12%) 2 (8%)

Disabilities Type of disabilities Lame 1 (4%) 3 (12%) Deaf or dump 1 (4%) 0

The two different types of illnesses displayed in the above table that physically displaced household heads are suffering from are heart diseases (12%) and pressure (12%). These will require a lot of support from the project to ensure that they resettle well to avoid worsening their health conditions particularly those who are likely to lose their ancestral homes and cultural property such as graves.

In addition, 2 physically displaced household heads (1 lame and 1 deaf and dump) and 3 other household members have disabilities. Therefore, its paramount that the associated detailed RAP considers the assessment for all physically displaced households with regard to their potential vulnerability in a more holistic manner and identify all existing vulnerable groups beyond chronic illnesses and physical disability. Arising from this detailed assessment, a separate report regarding their vulnerability shall be prepared containing tailored packages for each household to ensure that they are able to cope with the land access and resettlement process.

5.3.14 HIV/AIDS People working in road constructions either on short or long –term contracts are increasingly being considered as a “high risk population” because they spend weeks and sometimes months away from their families and homes. Sooner or later, they will satisfy their sexual needs “on the road.” Clearly, this makes them an important risk group for the transmission of HIV/AIDS. Therefore, the socio- economic survey included a set of questions on HIV/AIDS to assess the potential risk of exposure to HIV/AIDS during the bridge and access roads construction phase. The questions were also intended to assess the level of awareness as a foundation for future prevention programs. Findings show that, generally the knowledge level of the PAPs regarding HIV/AIDS transmission is high on certain aspects and low on others. For instance, all the PAPs know that, HIV/AIDS is mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse with an infected person (100%), a big proportion is aware about HIV transmission through infected needles and syringes (64%) and mother to child transmission (56%). PAPs demonstrated low knowledge on HIV/AIDS transmission particularly in regard to blood transmission (20%) and other modes (8%) as indicate in Figure 62. The assessment determined that Infectious Disease Institute (IDI) is providing voluntary HIV/AIDS testing and counselling services in the area in addition to the existing government interventions at the Health centres IIIs. Some of the identified predisposing practises included involvement in drug and alcohol abuse, early marriages and misconstrued cultural beliefs about use of condoms.

94 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Others 3% Blood transfusion 8%

Sexual intercourse with an infected person Mother to child 40% 23%

Infected needles and syringes 26%

Figure 62: Ways through which HIV/AIDS is transmitted

5.3.14.1 Sources of information on HIV The Figure 63 below shows the different sources of information related to HIV/AIDS among PAPs in the project area. The major source of information for HIV/AIDS related information has been the radio (68%), followed by friends (60%). Other sources of information such as the family, peers, religious leaders, political leaders, teachers, traditional leaders notice boards, television and IEC materials have not been fully exploited to disseminate information as very few people reported to have received HIV/AIDS information from them.

80 68 70 60 60

40 32 30 24 24 24 24 20 16 8 10 4 4 0

Figure 63: Sources of information on HIV/AIDS

95 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 5.3.14.2 HIV/AIDS Prevention

PAPs knowledge level on HIV/AIDS prevention is very high. A very significant proportion (76%) of the PAPs knew that, HIV can be prevented through abstinence, condom use (72%), being faithful to one sexual partner (68%) and avoiding use of sharp objects (60%) as presented in the Figure 64.

Avoid use of Abstinence sharp objects 27% 22%

Being faith to one sexual partner 25% Use of a condom 26%

Figure 64: Awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention

5.3.15 Cultural resources

The prominent cultural resource in the project area is the grotto of Ave-Maria (Figure 65). It is located about 800m from the Umi Ferry Landing. People of the catholic faith pray at this site, and have maintained the place for a number of years. Engagements with the community and its leadership revealed that the gorotto was erected to prevent the rampant road accidents on the road at the time. The preferred alignment for the proposed bridge does not affect this monument. However, the project shall need to make effort to have it protected and conserved in consultation with the local leaders.

Moreso, in the rocky terrain of Adjumani as one approaches Umi landing site is believed to host supernatural spirits. The local communities in the area, especially the Madi come here for rituals against ills in their land. Figure 66 shows typical rocks believed to have spirits in the project area.

96 The Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS), 2021

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 66: The Rock near Umi site at GPS coordinate 3o32’16.268”N and 31o48’44.580”E

Figure 65: Gorotto of Eve Maria at one of the rocks in the project area at coordinates 3o32’28.834”N and 31o48’41.21”4E

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

6 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND CONSULTATION

6.1 Introduction

The ESIA for the proposed Laropi/ Umi Bridge and the associated approach roads was prepared in consultations with key stakeholders and project affected persons in compliance with national requirements, AfDB’s OSs and UNRA guidelines that require for meaningful stakeholder engagement consultation following a stakeholder engagement plan (SEP) attached as appendix 4. This chapter therefore presents details of the meaningful stakeholder engagement and consultation that were undertaken.

6.2 Objectives of Stakeholder Engagement and consultation

The objectives of the Stakeholder Engagement and consultations for proposed bridge and approach roads were; i. To disclose the information about the project, generate good understanding and enhance project acceptability ii. To discuss the potential risks, impacts and opportunities associated with the proposed project and propose management measures. iii. Understand stakeholders’ expectations of the project and manage them during project design, implementation and operation;

Establishing socio-economic baseline to support characterization of potential impacts in order to determine impact significance.

6.3 Principles of Stakeholder Engagements

The stakeholder engagement and consultations that were undertaken during preparation of this ESIA weere guided by the following principles; i. The engagements were free of external manipulation or coercion and intimidation; ii. There was prior communication and seeking consent with the stakeholders. Engagements were undertaken within the agreed time at the convenience of the parties engaged or consulted; iii. The engagements were enabled by provision of relevant, understandable, and accessible information, in a language best understood by the stakeholders.

6.4 Categories of Stakeholders

A stakeholder mapping and analysis process was undertaken to determine the stakeholders who hold power, influence and interest in the project. Basing on this, a Stakeholder Engagement plan was developed to guide engagements. This ESIA was carried out in close consultation with different stakeholders at different levels. At national level, relevant Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) were consulted. A series of consultative meetings were also held with a number of stakeholders in the two districts of Adjumani and Moyo, Sub counties and in local communities. Other stakeholder consultations were held with business groups at the landing sites, groups/ associations, government Agencies and institutions in the project area as summarized in Table 45.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Table 45: Categories of stakeholders District Sub- County Communities Adjumani district Pachara sub county Community members in Arra central village stakeholders; stakeholders Business community at Umi landing site Political and technical teams Moyo district stakeholders; Laropi Town Council Community members in Logubu South Political and technical stakeholders Business community at Laropi landing site teams Association of Boat owners

Women and youth groups

6.5 Preparatory activities for stakeholder engagements

The field activities were preceded by a preparatory/mobilization plan for the inclusion and consultation with all the key stakeholders. The program for engagement and consultations with all project stakeholders were developed in consultation with the local leadership in the two districts. The ESIA team collaborated with the District Community Development Officers (DCDOs) and the sub-county Community Development Officers to identify notify and mobilize district and local stakeholders. These included political leaders, technical teams, and representatives of women, youth, people with disabilities and business community. The planned consultative meetings were publicized by means of invitation letters to various local government institutions and follow up phone calls. Community meetings were confirmed indicating the dates and venues.

6.6 Methods of engagements and consultations

An attempt was made to ensure that all relevant stakeholders were fairly represented and consulted considering issues of leadership positions, gender, age, and physical abilities. To this effect, different methodologies were adopted and used during these consultations ranging from formal consultative meetings with District, Sub County and community stakeholders, Focus Group Discussion (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and informal group discussions in the project communities. Stakeholders were facilitated to give their views, concerns and fears about the proposed project. There were question and answer sessions to elicit more information and to provide more clarification on some issues raised by stakeholders.

Putting into consideration issues of gender, age, business orientation and physical disabilities, gender profiling was integral in stakeholder engagements for purposes of getting information on women, men, girls and boys in terms of their division of labour, roles and responsibilities, access to, and control over, resources, and their relative condition and position in society. To this effect, separate Focus Group discussions were conducted with men and separate ones with women and other vulnerable groups. The separate FDGs with men and women served to create enabling conditions for their participation and to ensure that they freely express their concerns and discuss more freely.

It was also appreciated that some people were more informed on socio-economic aspects of the project area. To this effect, Key Informant Interviews were conducted with different categories of people. Figures 67 to 69 show photographs taken during stakeholder engagement and consultation sessions and more have been presented in Appendix 8.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 67: Engagements with Adjumani district, Sub counties, and Local council personnel

Figure 68: Focus group discussions at Laropi ferry landing site

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 69: Key informant interview with Adjumani LCV chairperson

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 6.8 Outcome of the Stakeholder Engagement Process

Stakeholder engaged raised a number of issues, concerns and fears as presented in the table 46 while the details of the recordings and list of attendance sheets is attached in Appedix 8.

Table 46: Summary issues, concerns and fears from consultations.

Subject/ Theme Issue/Concern Stakeholders Response/ Proposed Who Raised The Mitigation Issue/Concern Alignment Harmonization of on- Officials of Moyo Harmonisation of Engineering between Bridge going road works and Adjumani designs of both the Bridge and and existing roads from Moyo - Laropi District Local Atiak – Laropi road at this section Atiak to connect to Governments will be done to enable seamless the proposed bridge between the two projects. Town roads Construction of town Moyo district and Funding for construction of town roads in Laropi. Laropi Town roads will be sourced Council Compensation Compensation of Moyo, Adjumani All assets affected by the project affected assets and districts, Laropi will be compensated sources of livelihood Town council and Compensation for land will be communities of based on prevailing market Laropi and Umi. values and will made following Determination of approval by Chief Government compensation rates valuer

Duration of Vacation District compensation rates shall notification following apply for developments on land compensation including crops and trees

Fear of inadequate The law provides for vacation compensation to notification of 3-6 months and enable the PAPs corresponding disturbance replace their allowances of 30% and 15% property. respectively

Delayed Delay of Moyo district and Construction of Atiak–Laropi commencement of construction of Laropi Town section has started and the proposed Moyo -Atiak road Council financing for both Laropi- Moyo project brought doubt about Afogi and bridge is being the proposed sourced construction of the Bridge

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Subject/ Theme Issue/Concern Stakeholders Response/ Proposed Who Raised The Mitigation Issue/Concern Beneficiaries of Construction of All District officials Feasibility to determine the most the Bridge Laropi bridge was of Moyo and suitable bridge considering the perceived to provide Adjumani international perspectives international connectivity to Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo to Central African Republic. The design of the Bridge to take into consideration international perspective. The community want The team is still in process of to know the exact carrying out feasibility studies date when the for the RAP and ESIA. This will bridge would start help generate the funds to and what the support the construction pf the duration of the bridge. project is. Concern fish The bridge could be Officials from Studies have been undertaken breeding sites constructed on the Moyo district Local to identify breeding sites that breeding places Government shall be avoided during /areas. UNRA construction. should consult with ministry of Fisheries for technical guidance. Cultural heritage There are sites of Communities at Adequate engagements will be cultural importance Arra central village conducted with the custodian of along the proposed the said physical Cultural approach road from Resources to establish the facts Umi. They include about them and act accordingly. caves, rocks and Gorotto of Eve Maria Accommodation of The bridge design to Officials of Moyo, The design has considered canoes and boats provide for canoes Adjumani districts, vertical clearance of 6m and this on the river and boats to sail Laropi Town should be adequate for canoes under the bridge council and and boats to sail under the communities of bridge Laropi and Umi.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Subject/ Theme Issue/Concern Stakeholders Response/ Proposed Who Raised The Mitigation Issue/Concern Water quality and There was concern Ministry of Water Adequate management plan for quantity on how the water and Environment proper management of project body will be and District activities shall be implemented protected and also officials of Moyo to protect quality and quantity of ensure the quality and Adjumani. water and quantities of water are not tempered with. Destruction of Loss of natural The District Tree planting and grassing will natural vegetation vegetation cover officials of be done as part of restoration during project Adjumani and processes implementation Moyo UNRA also has a Green Right Possibility of tree of Way (GROW) program for planting after project planting trees along all paved completion. roads Loss of livelihoods The construction of Officials of Moyo, Project will develop and the bridge will lead to Adjumani districts, implement livelihood Restoration loss businesses at Laropi Town of plan to address these the ferry landing council and concerns. sites because the business ferry will no longer be communities of operational leading Laropi and Umi to loss of livelihoods landing sites of people working at the ferry landing sites Social ills Fears that workers Community The project will engage an NSP may destabilize members in to carry out sensitization for families especially Laropi/ Umi workers and communities to women leaving their mitigate such ills. husband and men abandoning their families HIV/AIDs Risk of increased Ministry Gender, The project will engage an NSP prevalence spread of HIV/AIDS labour and Social to carry out workers and in the project area development. community sensitization, due labour influx Officials of Moyo, Voluntary Counselling and Adjumani districts, testing, Referrals condom Laropi Town distribution among others to council and mitigate the risk. business communities of Laropi and Umi landing sites

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Subject/ Theme Issue/Concern Stakeholders Response/ Proposed Who Raised The Mitigation Issue/Concern Cross-cultural Contractor’s workers Officials of Moyo, Adequate sensitization will be sexual fathering children Adjumani districts, conducted for both community relationships with community Laropi Town members and the project members and council and workforce to mitigate against leaving them behind business this issue. after project communities of completion Laropi and Umi landing sites Job opportunities Failure to employ Officials of Moyo, UNRA encourages recruitment local people from Adjumani districts, from the project area to enhance Moyo and Adjumani Laropi Town project benefits in the area. on the project council and business communities of Laropi and Umi landing sites Management of The elderly , People Stakeholders of UNRA pays keen attention to vulnerable PAPs with Disabilities, Moyo, Adjumani vulnerable PAPS on proposed orphans, Child- districts, Laropi project Vulnerability assessment headed households Town council and has been undertaken and and the sick in the business strategies for special assistance ROW may find it communities of to vulnerable groups were difficult to manage Laropi and Umi incorporated in the RAP. compensation landing sites money hence inability in livelihood restoration Ownership of UNRA has got Officials of Moyo, The structures will remain property at ferry property at the Adjumani districts, property of the Government of landing sites landing site with Laropi Town Uganda structures currently council housing ferry staff which will no longer be required upon completion of the bridge. Who will take over management of the structures Rocks in people's If the road Stakeholders of Acquisition of land including that land construction affects Adjumani district which contains rocks will follow the rocks, will the and Arra central the law. rocks be village compensated

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Subject/ Theme Issue/Concern Stakeholders Response/ Proposed Who Raised The Mitigation Issue/Concern School dropout Potential risks of Officials of Moyo, The project will conduct increased school Adjumani districts, continuous sensitisation in drop outs as a Laropi Town schools and communities to result of girls being council and raise awareness and mitigate lured by the workers business such risks. and the boys communities of looking for petty jobs Laropi and Umi on the project. landing sites Pressure on social Influx of project District officials; Project will have own services services workers is MoGLSD. for its workers. associated with additional pressure on existing social services such as health, security, utilities among others. Security Officials Adjumani The bridge like any other any The river is a barrier districts. strategic government installation, moving bad shall have permanent security elements. from Uganda Peoples’ Defence Construction of the Force (UPDF). bridge may facilitate easy movement of bad elements from neighbouring countries to cause insecurity.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

7 ANALYSIS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES

This section presents several project alternatives with respect to the functioning of the ecosystem /natural environment and socio-economic resources with-or-without the project, or, with-or-without the implementation of the measures of this ESIA.

7.1 No-project alternative (no bridge at Laropi/Umi)

In “a without project scenario” the existing ferry remains functional connecting Adjumani to Moyo and operating from 6am to 7pm. The vegetation will not be cleared and there will be no ecological interruptions that come along with proposed bridge works. Regarding the status quo, the travel patterns remain, the business operations around the ferry landing sites will not be disrupted. No households will be relocated and the cultural sites at Umi shall not be tampered with. Furthermore, utility/service lines shall not be tampered with as well as the current social set up of the project area.

Considering the increased traffic on the road, the ferry will not be adequate to meet the increased demand. This is evident from the long waiting times, some travelers getting stranded when the ferry leaves them or is full to capacity. Additionally, during regular mechanical maintenances, the ferry pause operations leading to interruption in travels due to unanticipated downtime. The situation worsens when the ferry breaks down for an unpredictable period of time. Furthermore, the use of hydrocarbons such as oils pause the risks of spillage resulting into pollution of the river affecting aquatic ecosystems (Figure 70).

Figure 70:Typical hydrocarbon spills on water during ferry operations

The No Project alternative therefore provides an unsustainable connection between Adjumani and Moyo districts thus retarding social economic transformation within in the region over time due to challenges associated with the existing ferry.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 7.2 Project Scenario (constructing the bridge at Laropi/Umi)

In order to improve connectivity within the project area, a reliable road infrastructure is a pre-requisite. Therefore, the construction of Atiak-Laropi and Laropi-Moyo-Afogi roads within the region will support social economic growth through an improved road network. The proposed Laropi/Umi bridge would provide a seamless connection for the aforementioned roads linking the regions of West Nile and Acholi. The ferry facility is inadequate to handle the anticipated increment in traffic following the upgrading of Ataik Laropi road and the planned upgrade of Laropi-Moyo-Afogi road hence the need for a more sustainable permanent and reliable connectivity (the bridge).

Nonetheless, bridge construction activities are associated with a number of adverse environmental and social impacts. The construction of Laropi/Umi is likely to come along with multiple environmental consequences on aquatic, terrestrial and community life during the construction phase. Following proper environmental and social planning such impacts are identified and appropriate measures to avoid, minimise or offset them are implemented using adequate technologies.

7.2.1 Route options

Selection of the site for the proposed bridge was pre-determined by the presence of two traditional approaching roads, that is, Atiak-Umi and Laropi-Moyo-Afoji roads that end at either sides of the Nile, and only connected by a ferry crossing. However, the section of the actual site for bridge alignment was based on a comparative analysis of four project Route Options described in Figure 71. The alternatives were subjected to engineering designs, environmental and social studies, biodiversity assessments, socioeconomic surveys and meaningful stakeholder consultations among others.

Route Option 1 This alignment diverts, to the right, off the Atiak - Laropi road at about 1km from the Umi ferry landing. It approaches the River at a perpendicular angle about 250m downstream of the ferry landing at Umi, allowing clear visibility of the bridge and therefore enhancing road safety. This alternative provides a firm ground for the bridge on the southern bank, of the river, due to the existing stable rocks. The alignment avoids the Gorotto of Ave Maria among other sites of cultural importance. In addition, this option gives good horizontal clearance of over 200m from the pylon of high voltage electricity transmission line. From the southern bank, the bridge spans to the northern bank over a papyrus wetland. Establishing a stable support base for the proposed bridge on the northern bank would amount to a multitude of environmental impacts especially on the ecology of aquatic life in the wetland. It crosses Laropi local forest reserve and a number of community agricultural fields. The alignment crosses a temporary stream before curving to bypass the trading centre of Laropi Town Council and joining the Laropi - Moyo - Afoji road. This option allows for minimising social risks of constructing through the trading centre and further allows for the trading centre to grow towards the left hand side where there is good terrain for construction. Nonetheless, bypassing a trading centre is associated with loss of business opportunities and could lead to collapsing of the trading centre. Route Option 2 Just like Route Option 1, the proposed alignment diverts to the right, off the Atiak - Laropi - Afoji road at about 1km from the Umi ferry landing. It approaches the River at a perpendicular angle about 250m downstream of the ferry landing at Umi, allowing clear visibility of the bridge and therefore enhancing road safety. It provides a firm ground for the bridge on the southern bank of the river, due to the existing stable rocks. The alignment avoids the Gorotto among other sites of cultural importance. In addition, this option gives good horizontal clearance of over 200m from the pylon of high voltage electricity transmission line.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani From the southern bank, the bridge spans to the northern bank over a papyrus wetland. Establishing a stable support base for the proposed bridge on the northern bank would amount to a number of environmental impacts especially on the aquatic ecology of the wetland. It crosses Laropi local forest reserve and a number of community agricultural fields as is the case with Option 1. It approaches Laropi trading centre through the existing Atiak - Laropi - Afoji road. This option poses risks associated with demolition of some of the structures in the trading centre to pave way for enhancing road safety aspects. However, it provides for an opportunity for stimulating socioeconomic activities in the trading centre since road construction is associated with induced/new traffic in an area. Route Option 3 The third option is approximately 250m downstream of the existing approach road at Umi, just like options 1 and 2. This alternative provides a firm ground for the bridge on the southern bank, of the river, due to the existing stable rocks. From the southern bank, the bridge spans to the ferry landing site at Laropi. It avoids the Gorotto among other sites of cultural importance. In addition, this option gives good horizontal clearance of over 200m from the pylon of high voltage electricity transmission line. In addition, it diverts off the sites of cultural significance and further allows for a clear visibility of the bridge since it is perpendicular to the river flow. The alignment ties properly with the alignment of the Atiak-Laropi road whose upgrading is already ongoing. However, it joins the approach from Laropi trading centre at the edge of Laropi local forest reserve. Route Option 4 The alignment follows the existing road at Umi and spans over the Nile following the Ferry Route up to Laropi Ferry Landing. Both banks of the river are clear of vegetation owing to the current socioeconomic activities. However, it poses engineering challenges of road safety as the site is a floodplain and would require considerable elevation of the bridge. In addition, construction of the approach road on Umi side of the river would result in displacement of the Gorotto of Ave Maria among other sites of cultural importance in the project area. In addition, there is a metallic pylon of high voltage electricity transmission line about 20m away from this potential alignment. Across the river, at Laropi, the alignment joins the existing Laropi-Moyo-Afoji road whose development is anticipated to commence in the near future. This option presents immediate impacts associated with displacement of business communities at the landing sites to pave way for commencement of construction works. Furthermore, the alignment joins the approach from Laropi trading centre at the edge of Laropi local forest reserve just like Route Option 3. As noted the option ties properly with the alignment of the Atiak-Laropi road whose upgrading is already ongoing. In addition, the option provides an opportunity to minimise the project impact on local aesthetics since it largely follows an existing route.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 71: Route options

Preferred Route Option The assessment determined that all options pose significant risks to the environmental and social setting of the project area. However, following a comparative assessment of the different potential Route Options, Option 2 was preferred due to its combination of opportunities with respect to road safety, socioeconomic growth of Laropi trading centre, minimum impact on cultural heritage and the electricity transmission pylons.

7.2.2 Bridge Structure Options

Option A: Steel-concrete composite bridge

Beam theory shows that the I-shaped section (Figure 72) is a very efficient form for carrying both bending and shears loads in the plane of the web. On the other hand, the I-shaped section has a reduced resistance in the transverse direction, and is also inefficient in carrying torsion. When I-girders are assembled with longitudinal and transverse stiffeners and cross frames, the entire structure reacts as a box girder.

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Figure 72:Steel-concrete composite bridge

Option B: Deck arch bridge

Option B considered for the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge is a deck arch bridge (Figure 73). This solution is when the bridge deck is located above the arch’s crown. The deck arch is also known as a true or perfect arch. The deck arch bridge, theoretically, is one in which only a compressive force acts at the centroid of each element of the arch. It is actually impossible to have a true arch bridge except for one loading condition. The arch bridge is usually subject to multiple loadings (dead load, live load, temperature, etc.) which will produce bending moment stresses in the arch rib that are generally small compared with the axial compressive stress. The main structure is composed by two planes of vertical arch-ribs and by composite I-girder beam for deck. The bridge is accomplished with a reinforced concrete slab.

Figure 73: Deck arch bridge

Option C: Prestressed Steel-concrete composite bridge

The prestressed Steel-concrete composite bridge is an I-shaped section with multiple piers a cross the river (Figure 74). Regarding the design life of 100years, these extra support structures (piers) provide very efficient form for carrying both bending and shears loads in the plane of the web. On the other hand, the I-shaped section has a reduced resistance in the transverse direction, and is also inefficient in carrying torsion. When I-girders are assembled with longitudinal and transverse stiffeners and cross frames, the entire structure reacts as a box girder.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Figure 74: The superstructure design is based on prestressed I-beams

The preferred bridge structure for the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge is option C (Prestressed Steel- concrete composite bridge).

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8 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION, ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION

8.1 Overview

Potential impacts of the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge are analysed in this chapter. Impact analysis involves identification of an impact and all its parameters on environment and determination of its significance. Biophysical and social-economic impacts associated with the project vary with project phases (pre-construction, construction, and operational phases).

Definition of impacts For the proposed Bridge development, potential positive and negative impacts were identified for the Pre-construction, Construction, and Operational phases; and have been defined as shown in Table 47.

Table 47: Definition of impacts Impact type Impact description - Impacts resulting from incremental effects of other previous, existing or Cumulative future projects. - Are directly caused by a specific action as the primary effects. Direct - Occur at the same time and location as the action. - Reasonably foreseeable and caused by a project but occur at a different time Indirect or place. Irreversible - Impacts cannot be completely reversed. Long-term - Impacts would persist for many years or decades. Medium-term - Impacts could last a few years - Reduce socio-economic welfare of people, Negative - Reduce quality of existing environment, - Enhance socio-economic welfare e.g. employment, Positive - Increase quality of existing environment. Reversible - Impacts can be completely reversed. Short-term - Impacts last only a short duration probably a few days or months. (Extracted from: UNEP, Environmental Impact Assessment Training Resource Manual, 2002)

Impacts of the same/different nature may differ in several parameters including, timing, duration, extent, magnitude, certainty, significance, where; Timing : time frame (phase) at which an impact occurs within a project area Duration : the period of persistence of an impact on receiving environment Extent : area of occurrence/influence by the impact on the subject environment Magnitude : the strength of the impact on the environment Certainty : the likelihood of occurrence of an impact Significance : the overall change brought in the environment Sensitivity : Level of change on the receptor environment

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Impact analysis The significance of impacts associated with the proposed bridge project was analyzed using Matrix method (Leopold et al, 1971 & HA, 2008) and later subjected to professional judgment (Canter, 1996, Morris & Therivel, 2001), during the project cycle including pre-construction (Tables 48 and 49).

Table 48: A quantitative format for ranking impacts based on parameters summarized as magnitude and sensitivity.

Sensitivity Significance Very low Low Medium High 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Very low 1 Negligible Minor Minor Minor 2 4 6 8 Low 2 Minor Minor Moderate Moderate 3 6 9 12 Medium 3

Magnitude Minor Moderate Moderate Moderate 4 8 12 16 High 4 Minor Moderate Moderate Severe

Table 49: Rating of impact parameters to guide professional judgment

Symbol No minor Low Moderate High Very No High M=Magnitude 0 2 4 6 8 10 0 P=Probability 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 E= Extent 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 S=Significance < 30 40-50 > 60

Where, D=DURATION: (0 to 1 years) –1. (2 to 5 years) –2. (5 to 15 years) –3. (> 15 years) – 4. Or permanent – 5 And S= (E+D+M) P

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 8.2 Positive Impacts analysis and enhancement measures

8.2.1 Employment opportunities

It is anticipated that the project will provide direct employment opportunities for about 250 unskilled and skilled personnel throughout the project cycle. It is expected that the majority of the workers will be Ugandans. This will highly contribute to a reduction in unemployment and boost people’s incomes in the project area.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Direct, Communities 4 2 6 5 60 Positive

The enhancement measures Measures will be implemeneted inline with OS5: Labour conditions, health and safety of the African Development Bank. This OS requires Protection of workers’ rights; Establish, maintain, and improve the employee– employer relationship; The provisions of OS5 will be enforced in tandem with national labour and safety provisions as stipulated in the Employment Act, Labour Act and Public Health Act as per Uganda’s legislation. Among specific enhancement measures that will be implemented include;

i) To promote local content, semi-skilled and unskilled labour shall be sourced from within the project area. This is in conformance with Local content policy; ii) Involvement of Local leaders in the recruitment process to ensure fair and full participation of the local people; iii) Provision and honouring of contracts to all project workers; iv) Ensure gender equity in employment v) Ensure a safe working environment for all workers; vi) Development and implementation of a workers’ code of conduct; vii) Provision of security by working with Police, Army and local authorities.

8.2.2 Improved connectivity across the Nile

A bridge between Adjumani and Moyo will provide improved means of transport in the west Nile region, through ensuring reliable connectivity across the Nile. This solves the current challenges experienced by different travellers at the ferry crossing due to ferry crossing schedule and its unreliability especially during the time of its servicing.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Direct, General public 5 5 10 5 100 Positive

Enhancement measures for this positive impact include:

i) Regular maintenance of the bridge and provision of security at this installation; ii) Management of traffic within the project area; iii) Publisizing the existence of the bridge to potential users iv) Undertake road safety campaigns.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 8.2.3 Enhancement of socioeconomic development in the region

The proposed bridge will facilitate crossing the Nile thereby connecting the West Nile to Acholi region as well as to South Sudan and DRC. Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 2 5 6 5 65 public positive

In order to enhance this impact,

i) The bridge will be installed in consideration of the social and environmental settings of the area. ii) Routine and periodic maintenance will ensure that the bridge is available for use throughout its design life.

8.2.4 Creation of business opportunities

During construction, there is stimulation of businesses in markets especially the ones involved in vending food stuffs near the proposed sites for workers’ camps, equipment yards, etc. Additionally, the land is always rented from community members to set up temporary workers’ camps, equipment yards, borrow areas, quarries. Owners of land on which these facilities will be erected will earn a rental income upon negotiations with contractors. Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Direct, 4 Communities 3 6 5 65 positive

Among the enhancement measures are:

i) Ensure proper acquisition or rental of facilities from land owners with proper documentation to avoid grievances. ii) Adequate, fair, and prompt payments for the landowners; iii) Conduct safety awareness regarding construction activities; iv) Community sensitization on business opportunities due to influx of workers in their area v) Ensure equal opportunities to promote women participation

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 8.3 Negative Impacts Analysis and Mitigation Measures

8.3.1 Pre-Construction Phase Impacts 8.3.1.1 Increased human activity Pre-Construction activities include; feasibility studies, engineering designs, ESIA studies, Resettlemnt Action Planning and mobilization by the contractor. The ESIA activities provide a roadmap for environmental and social planning. Mobilization involves preparations prior to starting works. It includes acquiring equipment, planning and preparing for their storage, setting up campsites, offices and recruitment of workers. The major activity of environmental concern during pre-construction is location and construction of auxiliary facilities. The assessment of this impact is as below;

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 4 1 4 5 45 environment negative

The Location of camps in local habitats and social setups, designing camps with inadequate amenities and construction impacts make this impact significant. However, NEMA approvals shall be secured for associated auxiliary project facilities such as quarry material sources, gravel sources (borrow areas) and the proposed project campsite.

Mitigation measures

All ESIAs for auxillary facilities will guided by AfDB’s OS1: Environmental and Social Assessment through definition of the receiving environment, the proposed project activities and the design in order to predict potential impacts such that opportunities to avoid, mitigate and offset negative impacts are determined while enhancing the positive impacts. Aditionallty, mitigation measures of impacts associated with increased human activities during pre-construction will include;

i) Locating project associated facilities like camps away from pristine and any sensitive habitats, and away from busy community settings; ii) Designing the camps with adequate amenities for project workers; iii) Continuous meaningful stakeholder engagements especially with District leadership, and others.

8.3.1.2 Land Acquisition

The Right of way for the Laropi/Umi approach roads will be between 30 and 50m. This implies that community members settled along the proposed approach roads shall be displaced to give way for this development. By implication, some households will lose structure including houses and farmlands. Considering that subsistence agriculture is the major source of livelihoods for the rural communities in the project area, this will have major negative impact. The anticipated loss of property, land and crops was the main concern of the Project Affected Persons.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Land and Direct, business 5 5 6 5 80 negative owners

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Mitigation measures:

All land aquistaion processes shall be implemeneted in line with by AfDB’s OS2: Involuntary resettlement land acquisition, population displacement and compensation. This Safeguard makes provisions for ensuring that in the process of acquiring land for the project, the affected persons are not left worse-off than before the project. It seeks to ensure that when people are to be displaced, they are treated fairly, equitably, and in a socially and culturally sensitive manner; that they receive compensation and resettlement assistance so that their standards of living, income-earning capacity, production levels and overall means of livelihood are improved; and that they share in the benefits of the project. Impacts associated with involuntary resettlement land acquisition shall be mitigated as follows; i. Adequate, fair, and prompt compensation and resettlement of PAPs should be done before project construction activities commence. ii. Timely communication to PAPs on schedules of project activities should be done to enable them adjust their livelihoods plans. iii. Meaningful stakeholder engagements should be held with the PAPs throughout the process of land acquisition. iv. The PAPs should be given adequate vacation notification in accordance with the national legal requirements. v. The RAP should define mechanisms that are responsive to the extent possible to the prevailing needs of the beneficiaries/PAPs.

The residual impact will be very minimal after implementation of the mitigation measures.

8.3.2 Construction Phase Impacts

8.3.2.1 Habitat modification and loss There will be vegetation clearance to set the site for earthworks and subsequent excavations during construction. The project area has considerable pristine and semi-natural environment with considerable biodiversity. Vegetation clearance is also associated with habitat fragmentation and loss in Carbon sinks since plants serve a tremendous role on carbondioxide absorption.

The impact significance is very high as assessed below. Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Direct, Vegetation 4 5 6 5 75 negative

Mitigation measures

All habitats should be protected according to the guidance of AfDB’s OS3: Biodiversity and ecosystem services. The relevance of this OS is in the need to conserve biological diversity and the respective habitats. Among the specific mitigation actions should include;

i) Minimising and restricting Vegetation clearance to ONLY the required section where the bridge and its approach roads will be constructed. Therefore, vegetation clearance will only be allowed in the approved working areas; ii) The contractor will only operate following a method statement approved by the Supervision Engineer. The method statement shall address all environmental sensitivities; iii) Restoration of all areas disturbed by the project to facilitate revegetation. iv) Plant indigenous tree species to increase on the tree cover in the project area. 118 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani The residual impact significance is expected to be high due to permanent vegetation clearance.

8.3.2.2 Potiential Spread of alien invasive species Alien and invasive species can be compounded by disturbances to the ecosystems through excavations, earthworks and through movement of machinery and equipment contaminated with materials of invasive plant species. Invasive plants suffocate growth of native species and some have potential to degrade soils fertility. The parameters of this impact are rated as shown below.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Direct, Vegetation 4 2 2 3 24 negative

Mitigation measures i) Assess for known invasive species while selecting sources for materials and consider sites that do not have such species. ii) Avoid ferrying material that contain foreign seeds into the project area iii) Mechanically remove all invasive species that sprout within the project area; iv) Develop and implement an adequate site restoration plan.

8.3.2.3 Pollution due to poor waste management The proposed bridge crosses an international water body and any waste generated from the activities of the proposed bridge might result into pollution of water, soil and air. The possibility of waste generation is high, and this has severe pollution impacts in case such wastes are released to the natural environment before proper treatment. Wastes anticipated include both domestic and industrial such as waste oils, debris from the drilled riverbed and wastewater among others. Wastewater will be a challenge in case it spills to the natural environment, especially during pipe piling and servicing and maintenance of equipment.

Surface water, communities and aquatic biodiversity are at risk in case of any pollution events. However, the quantity of such hazardous waste materials onsite will be very small thus only minor accidental spills could occur.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 4 2 8 4 56 environment negative

Mitigation measures: i) Application of appropriate technology which minimizes waste generation. ii) Restrict interaction between the project activities and the natural environment. iii) Measures should be developed to Reuse, Recycle and Reduce generated waste; iv) Develop and implement an adequate waste management plan; v) Implement a good housekeeping culture. vi) Quarterly water quality tests should be undertaken within the project area.

Residual impact: it is expected that after proper implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the residual impact will be minimal.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 8.3.2.4 Soil erosion Soil erosion is expected, especially as a result of vegetation loss and movement of heavy machinery on bare soils. In addition, poor disposal of spoil could propel the risk further. There is potential risk of localized soil erosion around the proposed site resulting into siltation of the river, and contamination of the aquatic environment. As such, there is potential disruption of the breeding grounds for fish and other aquatic fauna.

This impact is highly significant especially where fish utilize the riverbed for breeding/spawning.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Aquatic and Direct, wetland 4 2 6 5 60 negative ecosystem

Mitigation measures i) Movement of heavy machinery should be restricted to approved areas; ii) Vegetation clearance should be minimized as much as it will be practically possible and following an approved method statement; iii) Soil erosion barriers such as contour bunds will be necessary around the operational area; iv) Confine the direct zone of impact to minimize run offs; v) Prepare and implement an adequate site restoration plan; vi) Develop and implement an adequate Spoil Management plan.

Residual impact significance is low where adequate mitigation measures are implemented.

8.3.2.5 Vibration Impacts of vibration during the construction phase of the project will be considerable since construction of the Proposed Bridge involves drilling into the riverbed. In addition, movement of heavy equipment during construction will generate vibration. Wildlife responds to vibration in various unique ways. Impact is expected on wildlife such as fish and some terrestrial mammals among others.

Receptor Type of Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Impact General Direct, 2 2 6 4 40 environment negative

From the baseline assessment, it is evident that all vibration readings at the proposed Laropi/umi Bridge area were less than the equipment detection limit at 0 as the minimum level for acceleration for this respective equipment.

Nonetheless, vibration could still have a significant impact on settlement, buildings, wildlife and workers. Though majority of the physical structures such as building are made of permanent materials it is anticipated that during project construction and operation phases, ground vibration may occur as means of surface waves and body waves and subsequently cause significant potential impact when in close proximity to sensitive structures. It is anticipated that vibration will disrupt performance of social services such as office work, school programmes, religious sessions, health care services, and other economic activities, especially in Laropi town.

To the workers and community members particularly vulnerable groups (elderly, children, pregnant women, PWD and those with chronic illnesses), these vibrations will cause both acute and chronic health effects which may result in occupational diseases e.g. Muscle-skeletal disorders, central

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, among others if not detected and treated at an early stage of development. Additionally, workers might also develop vibration induced illnesses due to machine operations such as musculoskeletal conditions.

Mitigation measures:

i) Apply appropriate technology during drilling, pilling and other project activities with low vibration; ii) Daily monitoring of vibration on site should be conducted; iii) Regularly service all equipment that are associated with vibration generation; iv) All works should be carried out within permissible vibration levels; v) Work should only be conducted during daytime; vi) Provide appropriate PPE to workers as well as fitting workers to the right tasks; vii) Community members and workers should be sensitized on the effects of vibration and control measures that should be adhered to. viii) Vibration impact assessment should be conducted in respect of structural integrity of existing buildings if construction activities such as pile driving, demolition, drilling or excavation are to be undertaken; ix) Pre-assessment and post-assessment of the vibration effects from blasting activities to communities and workers should be conducted and documented accordingly. These shall be guiding any grievance resolution meetings that may be prompted; x) Project activities should be scheduled not to interrupt social services such as school programmes, religious sessions, health care services, and other economic activities.

Residual impact will be very low after implementation of the mitigation measures.

8.3.2.6 Noise nuisance Exposure to intermittent or continuous noise emmissions can be injurious to a person’s health causing permanent or temporary loss of hearing depending on the threshold and time of exposure. From the baseline assessment, due to the limited activity in the project area majority 75% (n=6) of its sampled points had their average sound levels being below daytime threshold level of 55 dB(A) for mixed locations with commercial and residential activities.

Due to the lack of detailed information related to the scheduling and positioning of construction related activities, predicted noise impacts cannot be quantitatively determined during baseline assessment. However, a qualitative description of the impacts and possible sources has been provided. It is anticipated that though the majority of the sound levels in sampled points were below the permissible levels for a mixed environment, these readings will change once construction and operation activities in the proposed project area have commenced due to the presence of noise generating sources. If not mitigated, such noise levels will affect the health and safety of workers, the community members’ livelihoods and social services such as schools, medical facilities and religious ceremonies among others.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 5 2 6 5 65 environment negative

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Mitigation measures:

i) Project activities will only be implemented during daylight hours; ii) The contractor shall comply with national safety and health standards and guidelines of AfDB; iii) Daily monitoring of noise generated on site should be conducted; iv) Engineering controls should be used to reduce noise generation at the source (isolation, dampening etc); v) All equipment should be maintained/serviced appropriately; vi) Workers exposed to high noise levels should be provided with appropriate personal protective gear – ear plugs, earmuffs or ear defenders, as would be appropriate; vii) Appropriate methods must be utilized for replacement of equipment which would otherwise generate noise; viii) Develop and implement a Medical surveillance plan for workers in noise prone environments.

It is further required to monitor noise pollution during construction period generated by construction equipment as guided by the table below which gives standard noise impact by construction equipment according to the EPA classification.

Equipment Noise level Bulldozer 80 Frontloader 72-84 Rock breaker 81-98 Dump truck 83-94 Scraper 80-93 Roller 73-75 Asphalt paver 86-88 Welding generator 71-82 Concrete mixer 74-88 Air compressor 74-87 Pneumatic instruments 81-98 Cement and dump trucks 83-94

8.3.2.7 Particulate matter Particulate matter is the sum of all solid and liquid particles suspended in air, some of which are hazardous. This complex mixture includes both organic and inorganic particles, such as dust, pollen, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets. Inhalable (PM10) and respirable (PM2.5) particulate matter are comprised of very small particles that are less than 10 μm and 2.5 μm respectively. Exposure to fine particles can cause short-term health effects such as eye, nose, throat and lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. Exposure to fine particles can also affect lung function and worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Scientific studies have linked increases in daily PM2.5 exposures with increased respiratory and cardiovascular hospital admissions, emergency department visits and deaths. Studies also suggest that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter may be associated with increased rates of chronic bronchitis, reduced lung function and increased mortality from lung cancer and heart disease. People with breathing and heart problems, children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM2.5. PM2.5 are tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are elevated. Particles in the

PM2.5 size range are able to travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs.

At the time of the baseline assessment, it was evident at the project area there was minimum activity to cause notable particulate matter.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani The impact on air quality and air pollution of fugitive dust is dependent on the quantity, relative humidity, temperature, wind velocity and drift potential of the dust particles. Large particles settle out near the source causing a local nuisance problem. Fine particles can be dispersed over much greater distances.

However, it is anticipated that on commencement of construction and operation activities concentration of particulate matter will increase due to presence of potential sources ranging from vehicular movements, earth works, and transportation of materials or waste or off cuts, offloading and loading of materials among others. Furthermore, with the varying temperatures, relative humidity and wind velocity, it is anticipated that soils and deposited dust on surfaces will be drier and more readily available for suspension or re-suspension in air, leading to higher concentrations of suspended particulate matter.

Given the close proximity of social-economic activities, social services and residential premises to the project area, it is anticipated that there may be significant adverse impacts to the receptors namely; workers, community members, visitors, general public, their businesses and properties.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Project workers, Direct, 3 2 6 5 55 community, wildlife negative

Mitigation measures

i. To avoid the generation of unnecessary dust, material drop height should be reduced, material storage piles and spoil areas should be protected from wind erosion. This can take the form of wind breaks, water sprays, among others ii. Trucks carrying finer granular materials should be covered at all times and comply with the set speed control mechanisms such as safety signs, speed control limits, speed humps and pedestrian access mechanisms, among others; iii. Dust suppresion by watering should be done regularly on the road section under construction. iv. Speed on the road under construction shall be regulated to acceptable limits by use of temporary speed humps, installation of road signage, among others. v. The engines whether for trucks or other plant/equipment should be well maintained in efficient form to reduce on gaseous emissions; vi. Workers should be provided with appropriate respiratory Personal Protective Equipment/gear as guided by PPE Management Plan and Risk Assessment and Management Plan; vii. Workers should be medically certified to wear respiratory Personal Protective Equipment/gear provided; viii. All stockpiles should be maintained for as short a time as possible and should be enclosed by wind breaking enclosures of similar height to the stockpile. Stockpiles should be situated away from the site boundary, water courses and nearby receptors and should take into account the predominant wind direction; ix. During the transfer of material to piles, drop heights should be minimized to control the dispersion of materials being transferred. Additional preventative techniques include the reduction of the dust source extent and adjusting work processes to reduce the amount of dust generation; x. Protection mechanisms should be instituted around social services such as dust control measures or shields or flexibility in work schedules; xi. Periodic occupational hygienic measurements for Particulate matter should be conducted and mitigation measures implemented throughout project life cycle and after commissioning of

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Lalopi Bridge. Continuous monitoring should be enforced to mitigate the effects of dust during construction; xii. Medical surveillance system for all workers to include pre-employment, routine, post- employment medical examination and biological monitoring should be instituted and monitored by an Occupational Physician.

8.3.2.8 Air pollution Outdoor air pollution activities have been noted to be potential sources of Criteria Air Contaminants

(CAC) and Greenhouse Gases such as Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Volatile Organic Carbons, and Methane (CH4) that can affect human and environmental health if their levels are not effectively controlled.

During construction and operational activities in the project area, it is anticipated that there shall be an increase in vehicular traffic and machine or equipment operations (potential sources of air pollutants) attributed to the increased movement of goods, persons and services.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Personnel at site and the Direct, 4 2 4 5 50 general environment negative

Mitigation measures: i. All trucks or other plant/equipment should be well maintained according to the maintenance schedule to reduce on gaseous emissions; ii. Workers should be provided with appropriate respiratory Personal Protective Equipment/gear as guided by PPE Management Plan and Risk Assessment and Management Plan. However, before issuance of respiratory PPE, each worker should be medically certified to wear the respiratory PPE as this shall in turn prevent adverse health incidents such as difficulty in breathing; iii. An occupational hygienic surveillance plan should be developed and implemented throughout project life cycle and after commissioning of Laropi Bridge. All data should be compared against set standards and mitigation measures implemented; iv. Medical surveillance system for all workers to include pre-employment, routine, post- employment medical examination and biological monitoring should be instituted and monitored by an Occupational Physician.

8.3.2.9 Physical agents Workers involved in infrastructure works are often exposed to extreme heat or strenuous physical activities in hot or cold environments which increases their risk for heat or cold stress. This may subsequently result in occupational accidents and occupational illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion among other. Exposure to heat can also result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, dizziness, and may reduce brain function responsible for reasoning ability, creating additional hazards.

From the baseline assessment, it was evident that majority 75% of the sampled points had readings above the threshold of WBGT exposure limits of 25 °C for heavy activities. The WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature) degrees Celsius (°C) unit takes into account environmental factors namely, air temperature, humidity and air movement, which contribute to perception of hotness or coldness by people. The Humidex scale is the easiest tool to inform the workers about hot weather conditions. The humidex scale quantifies human discomfort due to perceived heat taking into account the effect of air temperature and relative humidity. For a given temperature, the humidex increases as the relative humidity (moisture content) of the air becomes higher.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

HumidexRange(°C) Degrees of Comfort

20 – 29 Comfortable

30 – 39 Varying degrees of discomfort

40 – 45 Uncomfortable

46 and Over Many types of labour must be restricted

During project implementation, it is anticipated that workers will be involved in strenuous physical activities in especially the dry season, when temperatures are usually high. From the baseline measurements, it is evident that workers will be at risk of both minor and major occupational incidents during very hot environment such as heat exhaustion, fainting (syncope) and heat stroke which could be fatal in absence of medical attention. Once left unaddressed, these risks affect productivity of the worker and may result in occupational accidents and diseases.

Receptor Type of Impact Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Project workers Direct, 3 2 6 5 55 negative

Mitigation measures:

i. Proper scheduling of work tasks to ensure that heavy tasks are performed at time when working temperatures in the atmosphere are favaourable; ii. Flexible working hours to include rest breaks and rotational work practices should be established, communicated in the contracts of employment and operational for all workers; iii. Workers should be provided with welfare services to include wholesome drinking water, appropriate PPE, resting shades in respect of working temperatures and tasks being performed; iv. An occupational hygienic surveillance plan should be developed and implemented throughout project life cycle. All data should be compared against set standards and mitigation measures implemented; v. Medical surveillance system for all workers to include pre-employment, routine, post- employment medical examination and biological monitoring should be instituted and monitored by an Occupational Physician;

8.3.2.10 Alteration of landscape and aesthetics The project area is endowed with a beautiful scenery of undulating landscapes and cover which will be inevitably altered at the onset of project activities. Reduction in aesthetic beauty is as a result of complex alteration of the landscape through vegetation clearance, poor management of waste, spoil and other excavated materials. Alteration of the landscape directly impacts on Vegetation physiognomy; the stunning landscape features like rocky outcrops in the region. Impact severity is considered medium and significance is moderate

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 2 2 6 5 50 environment negative

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Mitigation measures:

i) Appropriate landscaping should be considered upon completion of the construction phase; ii) Appropriately manage wastes, stockpiles and spoil within the project area; iii) Habitat restoration with indigenous plant species that are representative of the damaged areas should be done to compensate for the vegetation loss and restore the ecological integrity of the areas.

8.3.2.11 Impact on Utilities The identified utility services in the project area include electricity and water. Some of the service lines and structures fall within the right of way. By implication, during construction there will be disruptions in the supply of water and electricity. This will affect households, businesses and institutions like schools, health centres among others. Generally this impact is of medium significance.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance General Direct, 2 2 4 5 40 environment negative

Mitigation measures:

i. Timely planning of relocation following and approved utilities relocation plan. ii. Timely communication and notification of affected communities regarding planned relocation works.

Residual impact will be insignificant with the implementation of these mitigation measures.

8.3.2.12 Temporary loss of access to homes and businesses Road works may result into temporary blocking of accesses to social facilities, homes and private properties through cutting, filling, dumping of gravel, heaping of spoil, barricades etc. The practise results into considerable disruption of economic and social activities in the project area and may cause stress and resentment of project activities. This impact is negative, moderate, short and medium term, reversible. Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Community Direct, 2 2 6 4 40 negative

Mitigation measures:

i. The contractor should always consult and plan with communities on convenient stock piling areas and accesses during construction. ii. The contractor should always provide temporary accesses to all affected premises. iii. Existing accesses should be restored after works, or convenient alternatives provided.

8.3.2.13 Potiential Disruption of school activities This impact will be felt on the road spots with schools close to the road. The sensitive receptors for this impact will be pupils/students and teachers. Heavy earth moving equipment might attract inquisitive children to construction sites. Besides the safety risk, noise and dust from the road construction activities and equipment might temporarily disrupt school activities. If due care is not taken accidents might arise.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Receptor Impact Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Type Schools Direct, 3 2 6 4 44 negative

Mitigation measure:

i. Wherever practical, the contractor should schedule construction near schools on weekends ii. Where ever the risks exist, the contractor should screen off schools to avoid accidents and disruption of studying. iii. The contractor should engage school administrators to sensitize pupils/students about the risks associated with the road construction and necessary precautions they need to undertake iv. Use of flagmen at the construction site near schools to control traffic and reduce noise.

8.3.2.14 Potiential of unexploded explosives The project area once experienced armed conflict and no doubt it was confronted with the threat caused by landmines and explosive hazards which include unexploded or abandoned ordnances. Such ordnances include explosive remains of war as well as improvised explosive devises. Specifically, with reference to unexploded ordinances (UXOs) went through the UNDP de-mining programme which was started in 2006 up to 2012 and the areas were cleared of landmines to the extent possible. There are specialised Engineering units within the Uganda People’s forces at the battalion levels in the district who are well equipped to handle any cases of UXOs during project implementation.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Workers, Direct, 2 2 6 2 20 community negative

Mitigation measures;

i. The contractor should work with UPDF survey the area for any UXOs prior to commencement of Works. ii. Contractor should work with the UPDF to manage any identified UXOs iii. Workers and community members should be sensitised to report any suspicious material to the relevant authorities for proper management.

8.3.2.15 Degredation of the community local forest reserve

The preferred route traverses the periphery of the Laropi local forest reserve. The assessment determined that the forest is about 49.5 acres (20ha) and about a quarter of it has been degraded by community activities especially fuelwood harvesting. The proposed route is towards the edge of the forest and takes about 0.3 acres off the degraded section that is characterised by exotic plant species especially Eucalyptus spp.

Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Receptor Laropi local forest Direct, 2 2 4 5 40 reserve negative

Mitigation measures;

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani i) UNRA shall seek approval from Laropi Town Council, through acquisition of consent to allow works within Laropi local forest reserve; ii) Work on section in the local forest reserve shall not commence before a methods statement by the contractor is produced detailing his methods at the site and approved by the Resident Engineer; iii) Undertake to identify land for tree planting within degraded sections of the forest reserve or any other sites that will be identified by UNRA in consultation with Laropi Town Council, Moyo District and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) iv) A “soft start” approach will be used within these sites to enable any animals move further away from the road before civil works begin. This can be achieved by passing a heavy-duty roller several times over the section. v) Limit road footprint in the forest sections. The Environment Management team shall mark off using high visibility tapes the disturbance area before bush clearance and grubbing begin. vi) No stockpiling construction materials in the forest section. vii) No extraction of construction materials in the forest section. viii) Provide containerized waste management facilities at work sites. ix) Provide mobile sewage management facilities at work sites.

Residual Impact: Following mitigation, residual impact will be of low significance.

8.3.2.16 Impacts associated with the influx of labor The project is expected to offer employment opportunities. Such opportunities lead to massive immigration in anticipation of employment hence concentration of people of different backgrounds within one place. The influx of workers, typically young males seeking road construction jobs will be associated with a series of social challenges such as crime, alcoholism/illicit drug abuse, Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) of women and girls and prostitution. These are often related to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS. Vices such as drug abuse and prostitution would affect social coherence and security in project communities tarnishing the image and intent of an otherwise good project.

a) Crime, drug abuse and prostitution

Unless sensitization of all workers is undertaken by contractor, this impact is highly sensitive because baseline information indicated that these practices already exist in the project area. Duration of the above-mentioned social ills will be short-term ending with completion of the bridge but associated social and health effects can be long-term and irreversible, especially addiction to drugs making impact magnitude high.

b) HIV/AIDS risk

The influx of male workers into the project area may increase the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission. The concentration of young males in the project area may lead to illicit and unsafe sexual behaviour that may push up infection rates in the local areas. Risky sexual behaviour and drug abuse are ranked as likely to occur due to common attitudes of construction workers though this will be moderated by high rates of sensitization on HIV/AIDs.

c) Sexual Harassment

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

d) Sexual Exploitation and Abuse

Construction workers are predominantly males. When attitudes that condone gender inequality and abuse of power are prevalent in the work sites, or culture, this increases the risk for women and girls in the community to be sexually exploitated and abused by construction workers. This is particularly so in settings where there is impunity for these practices. A large influx of male construction workers may also contribute to elopement with people’s spouse and underage girls.

e) Gender based violence at the community level

This impact refers to gender-based violence that women and girls may experience as a result of Project implementation. This may include intimate partner violence (IPV) as a result of failure to equitably manage compensation awards at household level. This may also refer to other GBV-related risks incurred as a result of projects creating changes in the communities in which they operate and causing shifts in power dynamics between community members and within households. Male jealousy, a key driver of GBV, can be triggered by labor influx on a project when workers are believed to be interacting with community women with the fear that it could exacerbate the risk of family breakdown.

f) Child labour

The existence of construction activities in the area may expose children to risks of exploitation and abuse. More so, young boys and girls may choose to drop out of schools to seek employment on the projects directly or indirectly. In line with the AfDB OSs 5, the project shall not employ children in a manner that is economically exploitative, hazardous or likely to interfere with a child’s education. The national labour laws of Uganda also prohibit child labour and only allows for employment of persons above the age of 18 years on such infrastructure projects.

The significance of impact associated with influx of workers is very high.

Receptor Impact Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Type Community, Direct, 4 4 8 4 64 Workers negative

Mitigation measures;

i. Recruitment of workers should prioritise labour from within the project area; ii. The contractor should involve local (LC) leaders in labour recruitment to ensure people hired have no criminal record and that no children below 18years are hired. iii. Local governments and the contractor shall collaborate with police to contain criminal activities in the project area. iv. A register of all construction workers shall be maintained with local authorities to aid in tracking cases of child neglect. v. UNRA shall procure a service provider for awareness creation and prevention of HIV/AIDS, GBV and Violence Against Children and other social risks. vi. Workers shall sign a code of conduct that addresses the risks of sexual harassment, drug and substance abuse, and other social ills. vii. Peer based awareness creation and counseling shall be instituted within the workforce. 129 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani viii. A worker Grievance redess mechanism shall be established and operated. ix. The contractor shall develop and implement a SEA and Sexual Harassment Prevention Action Plan with an accountability and Response Framework as part of the contractor Environment and Social Implementation plan. x. Continuous engagements should be held with the community and Grievance Redress Committees should be established and trained to manage community level grievances.

Residual Impact: Following mitigation, residual impact will be of minor significance.

8.3.2.17 Business loss/loss of livelihood There are different categories of businesses that operate along the proposed approach roads that will be directly affected by acquisition of land for road development. These include retail shops, restaurants, and carpentry workshops, among others. There are also different categories of businesses at the landing sites which will be indirectly affected by loss of customers when ferry activities cease after construction of the bridge.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Business Direct and 3 5 8 4 64 Community indirect negative

Mitigation measures;

i. Fair and timely compensation for the affected businesses ii. Develop and implement livelihood restoration plans for affected livelihoods especially at the ferry landing sites like re-skilling and re-tooling. iii. Relocation of business to the already existing markets in the project areas for example Laropi central market.

8.3.2.18 Occupational health, safety and security risks of workers and community Safety and health aspects of projects relate to handling of equipment during works, exposure to noise, vibration, dust exhaust fumes and general aspects of injuries and accidents due to works. Traffic management during road works also present key risks to workers and communities that sometimes must continue to use the roads under construction. The value of construction equipment and materials on construction sites make them susceptible to thieves and attacks. Projects often hire armed personnel to provide security for the project who sometimes become a security threat to the community.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability Significance Workers and Direct and 4 2 8 4 56 Community negative

Mitigation measures;

i. In line with AfDB OSs 4 and 5, the project shall develop and implement management plans that address aspects of occupational health and safety, security, and pollution prevention following the World Bank Group Environmental Health and safety guidelines. ii. The project shall also determine the potential hazardous materials to be used or generated throughout the lifecycle of the project and shall consider alternatives that use or generate less hazardous materials. The project will not manufacture, trade, donate or use any chemicals that are banned or subject to phase-out by international treaties, including ozone- depleting substances and persistent organic pollutants. 130 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani iii. Community and workers’ sensitisations shall be regularly undertaken to reduce risks of exposure to construction sites hazards. iv. The project shall develop and implement emergency response plans prop0tionate to the risk, to respond to accidents or emergency events that may cause risks to human health and environment.

8.3.2.19 Sourcing, haulage and storage of materials for construction Sourcing and haulage of construction materials may pose different risks both at the material source and during transportation. The risks may include risks those associated with poor siting and management of material sources as well as risks associated with transportation like road accidents and dust emissions. In addition, poor storage may result in stockpile collapse, soil erosion which could contaminate water sources, dust emissions among other associated risks. It is common on haulage roads that dust contaminates goods in roadside markets and noise affects sensitive receptors (schools and health centers). More so, transportansion of materials is often associated with damaging of feeder roads if not well maintained.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Community, Direct 3 2 8 4 52 Institutions negative

Mitigation measures:

i. Siteing of materials shall be doe in consultation with the district environment and community development officers ii. Adquate ESIAs shall be done for all material sources and their environmental and social management plans developed and implemented. iii. The contractor shall provide appropriate safety signage, humps, banksmen and regular watering on the haulage roads to suppress dust. iv. Haulage roads shall be regulary maintained to ensure that they are motorable at all times; v. The contractor shall ensure that proper contracts are done with land owners of borrow pits, quarries and dumpsites to mitigate any land related issues. vi. Stockpile shall not exceed the recommended height as guided by he supervision consultats following appropriate assessments.

8.3.2.20 Physical cultural resources loss Following AfDB guidelines it is important that projects are screened for impacts on cultural heritage. The findings of physical cultural resources (PCR) survey indicate resources that are of cultural importance like a gorroto of Ave Maria at Umi village. Such shall be preserved and managed with guidance form the Department of Museums and Monuments under the Ministry of Tourism, Wild life and antiquities. Impacts will arise where some community members that worship from this area are relocated because of project activities.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Community, Indirect 1 5 4 2 20 negative

Mitigation measures;

i. The preferred route has avoided directly affecting the known cultural site. ii. In case any other physical cultural resources are established during construction, the chance finds procedure shall apply.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani iii. UNRA and the contractor shall work closely with the Department of Museums and monuments to ensure proper management of any cultural resources established in the project area.

Workers and the general community shall be sensitised on value and management of physical cultural resources in case they are found in the area.

8.3.2.21 Spread of Corona Virus Disease COVID19 The project will attract workers from different regions into the project area for employment opportunities. Construction activities involve working in groups, meetings, toolbox talks among others. In addition, construction activities are associated with high turn-over, which means people move in and out very often. As such, and considering the high contagious nature of covid19, there will be high risks associated with its spread.

Receptor Impact Type Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Community and direct 5 2 8 5 52 project workers negative

Mitigation measures; i. The project shall domesticate the covid19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) developed by Ministry of Health and World Health Organisation; ii. Screening of workers and visitors before accessing the project and its facilities; iii. Limit interaction of the workers with the community by encamping the workers; iv. Vaccination of all project workers especially the category that is considered high risk. v. Regular sensitisation of the workers and the communities on the risks, nature and SOPs for COVID19; vi. Isolation of workers with signs and symptoms of COVID19.

8.3.3 Operational phase

8.3.3.1 Loss of livelihoods for the business community at ferry landing-sites While construction of the bridge is likely to introduce new opportunities in the project area, the replacement of ferry operations with a bridge will lead to loss of business for enterprises at the ferry landing sites. These businesses are entirely dependent on the ferry users as their customers. This will affect their economic viability.

Receptor Type of Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Impact Business Direct, 4 5 6 5 75 owners negative

Mitigation measures

i. Develop and implement livelihood restoration plans for affected livelihoods especially at the ferry landing sites like re-skilling and re-tooling. ii. Relocation of business to the already existing markets in the project areas for example Laropi central market.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 8.3.3.2 “New Road Effect” and Associated Accidents While the condition of the roads in the project are is currently poor, road users have been very careful especially driving towards the ferry landing. It is anticipated that a newly constructed bridge and paved approach roads will excite the road users. Such excitement usually results in road users driving faster than safe: a phenomenon referred to as “new road effect”. This usually happens in the first months of commissioning a new road and is associated with frequent road accidents with possible loss of life and goods. The impact would be short-term but resultant effects are long-term if no concerted effort is expended in sensitization of road users and local communities. Likelihood of impact occurring is medium but severity high where accidents lead to loss of life. Impact significance is therefore major. Receptor Type of Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Impact Communities Road Direct, 4 2 6 3 36 users negative

Mitigation measures

i) Appropriate and adequate road furniture including speed humps and road signs with be installed especially towards the bridge, near public schools and the trading center; ii) The project design shall provide appropriate signage warning motorists about pedestrians and animals on the road; iii) Traffic safety awareness programmes shall be conducted both during construction and use of the road. Training will target teachers (who should train pupils), health workers, public transport drivers and police. The training will focus on elements of road safety namely: engineering, environment and awareness. The training is expected to last over the entire construction period as provided below: - Once every 2 months: Training for 100 people from categories: teachers, health workers, public transport drivers and police, and provide them with requisite information packs such as brochures. - Once every quarter: Print information packs such as brochures or posters to be used in next training and for display in schools and public places (taxi parks, hotels).

- Twice every month (in 1st and 4th week of each month): Announcements will be made on local radio stations about road safety targeting pedestrians, school children, taxi and bus drivers and boda-boda.

8.3.3.3 Poor drainage of storm water from the road Paving will increase volume and erosive power of runoff from the road/carriageway and discharged onto sinks (grassland, forests or farmlands, etc) adjoining the road. If discharged onto private land and farmlands, erosive storm-water poses a risk of gullies, land degradation and siltation of streams, swamps and rivers. Receptor Type of Extent Duration Magnitude Probability significance Impact Communities Direct, 3 5 6 3 42 Landowners negative

Mitigations include;

i. Road design should provide for erosion protection works at outfall drains.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani ii. Erect erosion protection measures e.g. scour checks, lining of drains. Regular drains maintenance will also minimise soil erosion. iii. Construct interception ditches, settling ponds to prevent muddy water ingress into surface watercourses.

8.4 Cumulative impacts

Several infrastructural developments are taking place in Adjumani and Moyo with respect to the district development plans. For example, the upgrading of Atiak-Laropi that is ongoing and the planned upgrading of the Atiak-Moyo-Afoji road. There is also an ongoing upgrade of the water supply scheme in Moyo under the Ministry of Water and Environment. The impacts of such developments have cumulative effect on the project area. Some of the anticipated cumulative impacts are shown in table 8-4.

Table 50: cumulative impacts

Source/project Cumulative impact Receptor environment

Impacts: i. Bridge development  Vegetation Clearances General environment ii. Road Development  Habitat alteration and destruction projects  Loss of aesthetic beauty iii. Water supply projects  Soil erosion  Displacement of people  Social ills  Business losses

Mitigation measures Addressing cumulative impacts is a concerted effort, and the developer shall.

i) Implement all mitigation measures specified under this ESIS. ii) Development and implement a stakeholder engagement Plan.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

9 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PLAN (ESMMP)

9.1 Overview of ESMMP

This chapter describes how the Project proposes to manage the environmental and social impacts and risks that will arise during the pre-construction, construction and operation phases of the proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge.

This is a core tool that the Contractor will use to monitor project implementation and develop a standalone Environmental and Social Implementation Plan (ESIP) to guide construction works. This ESMMP is intended to guide the contractor in the preparation, implementation, monitoring and reporting on the ESIP. The ESIP will need to be regularly reviewed and updated as the project progresses to reflect any changes in project implementation and organization as well as regulatory requirements.

9.2 Objectives of the ESMMP

The objectives of the ESMMP include:

i) Assist in ensuring continuous compliance with national laws and regulations and requirements of AfDB; ii) Provide a framework for UNRA’s compliance, auditing and inspection programs; iii) Provide a mechanism for ensuring that measures identified in the ESIA are implemented to mitigate potentially adverse impacts and enhancement of positive ones; and iv) Provide assurance to regulators and stakeholders that their requirements with respect to environmental and socio-economic performance will be complied with.

9.3 Monitoring

Monitoring involves a routine check on the progress of implementation and the resultant effects on the environment as the project proceeds. These shall be checked against their effectiveness in reducing the negative impacts or enhancing the benefits identified in the ESIA. Monitoring procedures will comprise formulations of enforceable contractual terms to ensure contractors implement the ESMMP. In addition, certifying a project completion and handover process will require approval of UNRA and NEMA.

UNRA is committed to implementing industry best practices as well as international standards for environmental protection, social development, and health safety and security. In support of this commitment, UNRA has developed an Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), governed by an Environmental and Social Safeguards Policy (2016). The ESMS provides UNRA with a procedural framework for implementing, achieving, reviewing and maintaining its environmental, social, health and safety commitments and targets. The ESMMP provides a link between policy and implementation, essentially, acting as a planning document, summarizing environmental and social commitments (as outlined in this ESIA) and presenting the management measures and monitoring programs to be undertaken to achieve these commitments. The ESMMP provides a framework for developing flexible and readily updateable environmental management procedures.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.4 Responsibilities

9.4.1 UNRA (Project Developer)

The Project Developer will:

i) Have overall responsibility for environmental and social compliance; ii) Ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to facilitate environmental and social management of the Project, including financial and human resources; iii) Review for quality and approve the Contractor’s ESIP for project implementation, ESIAs for project associated facilities and the Final Environmental Mitigations Report; iv) Ensure that adequate supervision for implementation of the ESMMP is provided at all times; v) Check that penalties for non-compliances with contractual environmental commitments are actioned; and vi) Undertake regular compliance audits, including the mandatory Annual Environmental Compliance Audit in accordance with the National Environment Act.

9.4.2 Project Supervision Consultant

The Supervision Consultant will: i) Check that the required management and monitoring measures identified in the ESMMP are incorporated into the ESIP; ii) Monitor the implementation of the ESIP; iii) Regularly review and cause updating of the ESIP; iv) Enforce compliance with the contractual environmental and social requirements; v) Approval acceptable sites for project associated facilities prior to their respective ESIAs; vi) Issue any penalties for non-compliances with contractual environmental commitments.

9.4.3 Contractor(s)

The contractor(s) shall: i) Develop an ESIP in line with this ESMMP prior to construction, providing detail to meet environmental and social management requirements, and to the satisfaction of the Supervision Consultant; ii) Effectively implement and manage the ESIP to the satisfaction of Supervision Consultant and UNRA; iii) Monitor, record, audit and conduct surveillance of the implementation and effectiveness of the ESIP and report their effectiveness to Supervision Consultant; iv) Report regularly to the Supervision Consultant’s Environmental and Social Specialists regarding environmental and performance; v) Undertake adequate environmental and social assessments, including annual environmental compliance audits, for project associated facilities; vi) Recruit qualified and experience environmental, social and social personnel to implement the ESMMP; vii) Report environmental and social incidents to the Supervision Consultant, UNRA and relevant government authorities. Furthermore, document actions taken to rectify and improve the situation; viii) Check that all other requirements as described in the contract specification and other licenses, certificates and permits are complied with;

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani ix) Review and update the ESIP, during construction annually or if any significant changes occur; and x) Ensure that all workers are regularly sensitised on environmental and social, occupational health and safety aspects of the project to enhance compliance.

9.4.4 Development partners

Development partners including AfDB will; i) Provide appropriate guidance towards compliance with the Operational Safeguards; ii) Allow for quick feedback on the any safeguards documentation of the project; iii) Provide no-objection on environmental and social matters whenever required; and iv) Play an oversight role in implementing the Safeguards Requirements.

9.4.5 NEMA

i) As part of preconstruction activities, NEMA will undertake environmental and social due diligence including review and consideration of this ESIA in consultation with other relevant stakeholders. ii) NEMA shall also review and consider ESIAs for project support facilities. iii) Issue permits and licences required to guide project operations iv) Monitor implementation of EIA conditions of approval and provide feedback for continuous improvement.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.5 Detailed ESMMP

The detailed ESMMP is provided in table 51.

Table 51: Detailed Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan (ESMMP)

Impact/ Mitigation/ Enhancement and Preferred Outcomes Monitoring/ performance Frequency Responsible Indicative Capacity Building Commitments Indicators party costs (USD) Requirements Positive impacts a) Tasks for locally a) Percentage of Contractor, available skills are employees/worker Supervision Quarterly None None given to the local recruited from the Engineer and Employment opportunities people. project area. UNRA b) Competitive wages Contractor and Enhancement measure(s); b) Number of incidents Occupational health are paid. Daily Supervision None a) Recruit labour from project area with registered on site. and safety Engineer involvement of Local leaders c) Average salary/ b) Ensure a safe working environment for all wages paid to Contractor, workers workers in Supervision i c) Provision and honouring of contracts to all Quarterly None None comparison with Engineer and project workers salaries for similar UNRA d) Ensure gender equity in employment jobs in the area. e) Development and implementation of a Contractor, workers’ code of conduct; d) Number of Supervision Grievance f) Provision of security by working with Police, grievances recorded Weekly None Engineer and management Army and local authorities. from project workers. UNRA

e) Security Contractor, Induction and management plan Daily 20,000 UNRA safety training. implemented.

a) Scheduled Seamless mobility for Annually and 100,000 Improved connectivity across the Nile maintenance UNRA MoWT all road users as scheduled Retooling promptly undertaken Enhancement(s); b) Installation of road Contractor Quarterly Works budget None ii safety furniture a) Regular maintenance of the bridge and Contractor, provision of security at this installation; c) Number of mentions Supervision b) Management of traffic within the project Quarterly 1000 eg radio talk shows Engineer and area; UNRA

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Enhancement of socioeconomic development in the Improved socio- a) Changes in socio- region economic economic conditions in Annually UNRA None None conditions in the the area Enhancement measures; area

a) The bridge will be installed in consideration of b) Record of the social and environmental settings of the Routine and 100,000 area. periodic Quarterly UNRA Retooling

b) Routine and periodic maintenance will ensure maintenance that the bridge is available for use throughout undertaken its design life.

a) Land for project Conducive Contractor, associated facilities is atmosphere for Supervision obtained based on Quarterly None None Creation of business opportunities businesses Engineer and willing leaser willing UNRA leasee agreements. Enhancement(s); a) Ensure proper acquisition or rental of facilities Contractor, b) Evidence of from land owners with proper Supervision Contractual payments made to Quarterly Negotiation skills documentation to avoid grievances. Engineer and sum land owners b) Adequate, fair, and prompt payments for the UNRA landowners; c) Number of safety Contractor, iii c) Conduct safety awareness regarding training sessions Supervision Contractual Quarterly None construction activities; conducted Engineer and sum d) Community sensitization on business d) UNRA opportunities due to influx of workers in their area e) Number of e) Ensure equal opportunities to promote community Contractor, women participation sensitization session Supervision Quarterly 540 None on business Engineer and opportunities UNRA

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Contractor, f) Percentage of Supervision women employed on Quarterly None None Engineer and the project UNRA

Negative impacts

Pre-construction phase Increased human activity Contractor, a) Adequate ESIAs and Quarterly supervision Contract sum None RAPs Mitigation measures; Engineer, UNRA b) Project facilities Contractor, a) Adequate environmental and social located in approved Quarterly supervision Contract sum None assessments for project associated facilities sites Engineer, UNRA shall be undertaken in accordance with Contractor, c) Number of Camps national requirements and AfDB’s OSs; Limited destructive supervision Contractual registered as Quarterly None b) Locating project associated facilities like human activity in Engineer and sum workplaces i camps away from pristine and any sensitive sensitive ecological UNRA habitats, and away from busy community sites and settings; communities c) Designing the camps with adequate amenities for project workers; d) Stakeholder views Contractor, Contractual d) Continuous meaningful stakeholder recorded and action Monthly supervision None sum engagements especially with District taken Engineer, UNRA leadership, and others.

a) Number of PAPs compensated and Quarterly UNRA 500,000 None Land take resettled PAPs are not left worse off ii Mitigation measures; b) Number of PAPs who have re-adjusted their Quarterly UNRA None None a) Adequate, fair, and prompt compensation sources of livelihood and resettlement of PAPs.

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the ROW

Construction phase Habitat connectivity a) Vegetation clearance Contractor, Contractual Habitat modification and loss and Habitat limited to approved Daily Supervision None sum Mitigation measures; heterogeneity areas Engineer, UNRA b) Works done by an Contractor,

a) Minimise vegetation clearance to the approved method Daily Supervision None None approved working areas; statement Engineer, UNRA i b) Implement Method statement that incorporate environmental social requirements and sensitivities. Contractor, c) Restoration plan Contractual c) Adequate measures will be undertaken to Monthly Supervision None implemented sum restore all areas disturbed by the project to Engineer, UNRA facilitate revegetation.

No et loss of species of conservation concern Spread of alien invasive species ecological importance a) Vegetation clearance Contractor, Contractual None limited to approved Daily Supervision sum Mitigation measures; areas Engineer, UNRA

a) Assess for known invasive species while ii selecting sources for materials b) Avoid carrying top Contractor, b) Avoid ferrying material that contain foreign soil into the project Contractual Quarterly Supervision None seeds into the project area area. sum Engineer, UNRA c) Mechanically remove all invasive species that sprout within the project area;

d) Develop and implement an adequate site c) Number of invasive restoration plan. Contractual Identification of alien species encountered Monthly Contractor sum invasive species and removed invasive species.

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a) Works done by an Contractor,

approved method Daily Supervision None None Zero pollution from statement Engineer, UNRA, Waste generated Pollution due to poor waste management b) Activities confined to Contractor, Contractual designated project Daily Supervision None sum areas Engineer, UNRA Mitigation measures; c) Proper waste management practice Contractor, a) Application of appropriate technology which Contractual observed on site for Daily Supervision None minimizes waste generation. sum example waste Engineer iii b) Restrict interaction between the project activities and the natural environment. sorting c) Measures should be developed to Reuse, d) Adequate waste Contractor, Contractual Recycle and Reduce generated waste; management Plan Monthly Supervision None sum d) Develop and implement an adequate waste implemented Engineer management plan; e) Implement a good housekeeping culture. e) Housekeeping Contractor, Contractual f) Quarterly water quality tests should be schedule Daily Supervision None sum undertaken within the project area. Engineer f) Physical and Contractor, Contractual Chemical properties Monthly Supervision None sum of water Engineer

Soil erosion Controlled soil a) Movement of Contractor, Contractual None erosion equipment limited to Daily Supervision sum Mitigation measure(s); approved areas Engineer, UNRA iv a) Movement of heavy machinery should be restricted to approved areas; b) Vegetation clearance Contractor, Contractual b) Vegetation clearance should be minimized as None much as it will be practically possible and limited to approved Daily Supervision sum following an approved method statement; areas Engineer, UNRA

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Controlled vibration a) Works done as per Contractor,

during works approved method Daily Supervision Vibration None None statement Engineer, UNRA, Mitigation measure(s); Contractor, b) Level of vibration (Hz) a) Apply appropriate technology during drilling, monthly Supervision None None pilling and other project activities with low Engineer, vibration; b) Daily monitoring of vibration on site should be c) Schedule of servicing Contractual Monthly UNRA None conducted; of equipment sum c) Regularly service all equipment that are v associated with vibration generation; Contractor, e) Daily work schedule d) All works should be carried out within Daily Supervision None None permissible vibration levels; Engineer, e) Work should only be conducted during f) Workers in Contractor, daytime; appropriate PPE Daily Supervision f) Provide appropriate PPE to workers as well None None Engineer, UNRA as fitting workers to the right tasks; g) Number of g) Sunnitisation of community members and sensitization Contractor, Contractual workers on the effects of vibration and Daily None meetings held Supervision sum control measures that should be adhered to.

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works Increase in particulate matter Contractor, b) Lengths of the road Contractual Daily Supervision None sections watered sum Mitigation measure(s); Engineer, UNRA a) Reduce material drop height, material c) Number of trucks Contractor, storage piles and spoil areas Contractual covered while Daily Supervision None b) Dust suppression by watering access roads sum carrying materials Engineer, UNRA and stockpiles c) Covering trucks carrying finer granular d) Speed control materials measures installed Contractor, Contractual vi d) Installation speed humps and road signage near sensitive Monthly Supervision None sum e) Regular maintenance of plant/equipment receptors for Engineer, UNRA should be done particulate matter f) Provide Personal Protective Equipment/gear Contractor, as guided by Risk Assessment; e) Schedule of servicing Contractual Monthly Supervision None g) Workers should be medically certified to wear of equipment sum respiratory Personal Protective Engineer, Equipment/gear provided; f) Workers in UNRA None None h) All stockpiles should be maintained at a appropriate PPE Monthly height of 3-5m g) Adequate Medical Contractor, surveillance plan monthly Supervision Contractual implemented None Engineer, UNRA sum

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h) a maximum of 3-5 m Contractor, Contractual maintained for Daily Supervision None sum stockpiles Engineer, UNRA, Contractor,

Controlled air a) Schedule of servicing monthly Supervision Contractual None Air pollution Pollution during of equipment Engineer, UNRA sum

works b) Risk Assessment and Mitigation measure(s); Management Plan a) Regularly maintain All trucks or other implemented/ UNRA None None plant/equipment o reduce on gaseous Monthly Enforced emissions; vii b) Prepare and implement an adequate Risk Contractor, Assessment and Management Plan Workers in Supervision c) Provide workers with appropriate respiratory c) Daily Contract sum None appropriate PPE Engineer, UNRA Personal Protective Equipment/gear as

guided by a Risk Assessment. Contractor, d) Developed and implemented an d) Adequate Medical Contractual monthly Supervision None occupational hygienic surveillance plan. surveillance plan sum implemented Engineer, UNRA Contractor, Limited exposure of a) Daily work schedule Daily Supervision None None workers to physical Exposure to Physical agents (Temperature) Engineer, UNRA, agents

(Temperature, Mitigation measure(s); Contractor, coldness) b) Working conditions a) Proper scheduling of work tasks to ensure Supervision Contractual including working in Daily None that heavy tasks are performed at time when Engineer, UNRA, sum shifts working temperatures in the atmosphere are viii low; c) Welfare services b) Allow for flexible working hours to include rest Contractor, provided, including breaks and rotational work practices Daily Supervision Contract sum None drinking water, meals, c) Provide drinking water, meals, PPE and Engineer, UNRA PPE and a shade appropriate shades for workers at every work

section. d) Develop and implement an occupational d) Operational Contractor, hygienic surveillance plan occupational hygienic Daily Supervision Contract sum None surveillance plan Engineer,

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a) Percentage of Contractor, Reasonable number employees/worker Supervision of people in the area Quarterly None None recruited from the Engineer and due to the proposed project area. UNRA project Influx of labour b) Number of Contractor, engagements, on supervision Contractual Monthly None Mitigation measure(s); recruitment, with local Engineer, UNRA, sum authorities Local leaders a) Local workers should be given priority during recruitment; Contractor, c) HIV/AIDS prevention Contractual b) Recruitment of workers should be done in Quarterly supervision None programs sum corroboration with the local authorities; implemented Engineer, UNRA ix c) Implemented HIV/AIDS prevention programs Contractor, during the project; d) Engagements with supervision Contractual d) The Project shall work in collaboration with Uganda Quarterly None Police and local Engineer, UNRA, sum Police and the local security units including local security units Local leaders governments; e) Contractor, f) An adequate workers’ code of conduct will be e) Adequate workers’ Contractual Quarterly supervision None developed and implemented; and code of conduct sum g) Access to workers’ camp will be restricted. developed and Engineer, UNRA h) implemented

Contractor, Contractual f) Checks at the Daily supervision None sum entrances of worker’s Engineer, UNRA camps.

Alteration of landscape and aesthetics Protection of a) Landscaping done Contractor, with approval of the supervision Contractual x landscape and Bi-annualy None Supervision Engineer, sum Mitigation measures; aesthetics Consultant UNRA

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Impact on Utilities Seamless relocation of utilities Contractor, with minimal impact Untilities relocated in Mitigation measures; supervision Contractual xi to the communities following an approved Quarterly None Engineer, sum a) Timely planning of relocation following and Utilities Relocation Plan UNRA approved utilities relocation plan. b) Timely communication and notification of affected communities regarding planned relocation works. Contractor, Temporary loss of access to homes and businesses a) An approved method supervision Contractual Monthly None PAPs to continue statement implemented Engineer, sum Mitigation measures; accessing their UNRA properties Contractor, a) The contractor should always consult and plan with c)Temporary accesses supervision Contractual xii communities on convenient stock piling areas and provided wherever and Monthly None Engineer, sum accesses during construction. whenever necessary UNRA b) The contractor should always provide temporary accesses to all affected premises. Contractor, Permanent accesses supervision Contractual c) Existing accesses should be restored after works, Quarterly None or convenient alternatives provided. provided after works Engineer, sum UNRA Workplan for operations Contractor, near schoold developed supervision Contractual xiii Disruption of school activities School activities and implemented in Quarterly None Engineer, sum proceed normally consultation with the UNRA during the project cycle affected schools

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a) The contractor should work with UPDF survey the xiv area for any UXOs prior to commencement of Contractor, Works. Number of community supervision Identification and Monthly Contract sum b) Contractor should work with the UPDF to manage sensitisation on UXOs Engineer, reporting of UXOs any identified UXOs UNRA, UPDF c) Workers and community members should be sensitised to report any suspicious material to the relevant authorities for proper management. An adequate method Contractor, statement developed by Degredation of Laropi local forest reserve supervision Minimise potential the contractor and Quarterly Contract sum None Engineer, impact on the local approved by the Mitigation measures; UNRA a) Works at this section to only commence after forest reserve Supervision Consultant xv approval of a method statement; b) Tree planting within or outside the local forest Contractor, reserve; Number of trees planted in supervision UNRA GROW Quarterly 60,000 c) Adopt a “soft start” approach before the project area Engineer, Programme commencement of civil works begin; UNRA d) Limit road footprint in the forest section;

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criminal activities in the project area; recruitment UNRA

c) A register of all construction workers shall be filed Contractor, with local authorities to aid in tracking cases of Updated staff register for supervision child neglect. Montly None None xvi the project Engineer, d) UNRA shall procure a service provider for UNRA professional HIV/AIDS, GBV and Violence against Contractor, Children and other social risks. Service provider for supervision e) Workers shall sign a code of conduct that management of HIV/AIDS, Monthly Contract sum None Engineer, addresses the risks of sexual harassment, drug GBV and VAC risks UNRA and substance abuse, and other social ills. Contractor, f) Peer based awareness and counseling shall be Percentage of workers Labor laws and supervision instituted within the workforce. who have signed a code of Monthly None general human Engineer, g) A worker Grievance mechanism shall be conduct rights UNRA established and operated. Contractor, h) The contractor shall develop and implement a Grievance management supervision Grievance SEA/Sexual Harassment action plan with an mechanism developed Monthly None Engineer, management accountability and Response Framework as part of and implemented UNRA

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Impact/ Mitigation/ Enhancement and Preferred Outcomes Monitoring/ performance Frequency Responsible Indicative Capacity Building Commitments Indicators party costs (USD) Requirements the contractor Environment and Social Implementation plan. i) Continuous engagements should be held with the Contractor, Number of engaments for community and Grievance Redress committees supervision to create awareness about Monthly None SEA in general should be established and trained to manage Engineer, SEA community level grievances. UNRA j) SEA shall be mainstreamed in all awareness- raising activities in the community. Number of affected UNRA and Business loss enterprises compensated Quarterly 500,000 Business loss/loss of livelihood Contractor assessment No one left worse off fairly and timely Number of PAPs involved Implementation of Mitigation measures; Quarterly UNRA 500,000 a) Fair and timely compensation for the affected in livelihood initiatives livelihood initiatives businesses b) Develop and implement livelihood restoration plans for affected livelihoods especially at the Number of enterprises ferry landing sites like re-skilling and re- relocated to exisiting Quarterly UNRA None None tooling. markets c) Relocation of business to the already existing markets in the project areas for example Laropi central market An adequate health and Health, safety and Contractor, Health, safe and safety, security, and security Occupational health, safety and security risks of Quarterly supervision Contract sum secure work pollution prevention plan management, workers and community Engineer, UNRA environment and the developed and approved pollution prevention project area Mitigation measures; Contractor, Type materials approved g) Develop and implement occupational health and Monthly supervision None None approved for the project safety, security, and pollution prevention plan Engineer, UNRA following the World Bank Group Environmental Health and safety guidelines. h) Use of only approved materials on project; i) shall be undertaken regular Community and workers’ sensitisations on construction hazards and risks; j) Develop and implement emergency response plans prop0tionate to the risk, to respond to

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani accidents or emergency events that may cause risks to human health and environment.

Sourcing and haulage of materials for construction

Mitigation measures; vii. ESIAs shall be done for all material sources and their environmental and social management plans implemented. viii. The contractor shall provide appropriate safety signage, humps, banksmen and regular watering on the haulage roads to suppress dust. ix. The contractor shall ensure that proper contracts are done with land owners of borrow pits, quarries and dumpsites to mitigate any land related issues.

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Sourcing and haulage of materials for construction Contractor, Projects facilities whose Potential risks of supervision ESIAs are done and Monthly Contract sum None Mitigation measures; project support facilities Engineer, approved identified and managed UNRA a) ESIAs shall be done for all material sources Contractor, and their environmental and social The quality of safety supervision Daily Contract sum None management plans implemented. provisions implemented Engineer, b) The contractor shall provide appropriate UNRA safety signage, humps, banksmen and regular watering on the haulage roads to Contractor, suppress dust. Land acquisition supervision c) The contractor shall ensure that proper processes for project Monthly Contract sum None Engineer, contracts are done with land owners of support facilities UNRA borrow pits, quarries and dumpsites to mitigate any land related issues. Contractor, Chance Finds Procedure supervision Physical cultural resources loss implemented in case of Daily Contract sum None Protect and Engineer, any chance finds preserve the UNRA Mitigation measures; cultural heritage of Contractor, Plan for engagement with the area supervision a) Implement a chance finds procedure for any the Dept of Museums and Monthly Contract sum None Engineer, chance finds; Monuments UNRA b) Work closely with the Department of Museums and monuments; Contractor, Number of community c) Community sensitisation on value and Monthly supervision Contract sum None senstisations done management of physical cultural resources. Engineer Livelihood restoration To be Enhanced livelihoods plans for affected Loss of livelihoods for the business community at ferry Quarterly UNRA determined None of the business livelihoods developed and land during RAP community at ferry land implemented Mitigation measures;

Relocation of the affected To be a) Develop and implement livelihood restoration businesses to the existing Quarterly UNRA determined None plans for affected livelihoods especially at the markets during RAP ferry landing sites like re-skilling and retooling.

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Contractor, “New Road Effect” and Associated Accidents Appropriate road furniture supervision Quarterly Contract sum None Enhanced road safety installed Engineer, Mitigation measures; UNRA Contractor, Road safety a) Installation of appropriate and adequate road supervision considerations of the Monthly Contract sum None furniture including speed humps and road signs; Engineer, design b) The project design shall provide appropriate UNRA signage warning motorists about pedestrians and animals on the road; Road safety awareness c) Traffic safety awareness programmes shall be Monthly UNRA 200,000 Road safety campagins conducted both during construction and use of the road.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.6 Organizational Set-Up and ESMP Implementation Mechanisms

9.6.1 Set up of Environmental and Social Safeguards Management

The overall implementation and monitoring of the ESIA/ESMP for the road project is the responsibility of UNRA through its Directorate of Network Planning and Engineering and specifically, the Department of Environment and Social Safeguards (DESS). DESS is headed by a Head of Department whose other staff include 5 Specialists (3No. Social Development Specialists and 2No. Environmental Specialists). In addition, there is a pool of five Technical Assistants (3No. Environmental Specialists and 2 No. Social Development Specialists) and these are provided through technical assistance programmes by the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) and their contracts will expire by July 2021. Furthermore, DESS has 5No. Junior Safeguards officers and 6No. Environmental and Social Safeguards Trainees. In terms of mandate, DESS has a primary role to ensure all UNRA programs, plans, projects and activities mainstream environmental and social safeguards considerations as well as ensuring that, UNRA’s capacity and awareness is built in the areas of environmental and social safeguards. In execution of this over-arching mandate, DESS has in place some environmental and social safeguards management tools such as Environmental Management System (EMS) and social management system (EMS) and Land Acquisition and Resettlement Systems (LARMS).

Operationally, DESS is involved in a range of environmental and social safeguards roles in the Authority cascading from reviews of ESIAs and RAPs, monitoring and supervision of on-going road construction projects to direct involvement in-house in the preparation of environmental and social safeguards reports for road projects under preparation. There are currently 40 on-going road projects spread all-over the country and about 63 road projects under different stages of preparation (including bridges on various roads throughout the country).

9.6.2 Management of environmental and social safeguards in the proposed project

UNRA will assign a dedicated Environment and Social Safeguards staff for the road project. UNRA will hire Project Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialists (No.2) and Assistants (No.2), to augment UNRA’s overstretched Capacity to manage the ongoing numerous projects not longer than four months after Project effectiveness, and in any case before commencement of the civil works. UNRA shall liaise with the AfDB to provide the project Safeguards Staff training on management of environmental and social aspects (including monitoring and record keeping) in line with the provisions of the Integrated Safeguards System, with specific focus on 5 Operational Safeguards. In addition, the project is recommended to hire two intern trainees for Environment and Health and Safety. The safeguards team will undertake environmental and social monitoring of the ESMMP in conjunction with the relevant stakeholder government departments and agencies that have a role in the implementation of the project by way of their sector/statutory mandate. UNRA will be represented on site by a Supervision Consultant. The Project Supervision Consultant will assist UNRA to provide a full-time presence on site to manage the contracts. The Project Supervision Consultant will comprise of among others a qualified and UNRA approved full- time Environmental Expert and Sociologist. The Contractor will also have an environmental officer, health and safety advisor and social officer to support in managing potential environmental, social, health and safety risks and impacts.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani It is also recommended that the project shall procure a dedicated vehicle for safeguards staff hired at UNRA level and the Contractors and Supervision Consultant shall be required to provide dedicated functional vehicle for safeguards staff. Please note that appropriate PPE shall be required as one of the items to be provided by the Contractor at all times throughout the project and no specific quantities (no itemizing) should be attached given the fact that they are an integral part of the tasks to be undertaken to deliver the project.

9.6.3 Operational challenges

Bearing in mind how the mainstreaming path for cross-cutting themes into the road sub-sector has developed, UNRA has made effort to institutionalize environmental and social safeguards agenda into its planning and operations. The environmental and social safeguards profile in the Entity is high as evidenced by development and implementation of an Environmental and Social Management System and the Occupational Health and Safety. All these are no mean achievements and more reforms towards improving safeguards landscape in the Entity continue to grow. Despite the above milestones, the operations of DESS is grappling with a number of challenges which continue to affect its efficient delivery of environmental and social safeguards services in UNRA and some of these include:

Staffing

The human resource equation for the delivery of environmental and social safeguards compliance oversight by DESS is wanting in view of the growing number of road projects under preparation and implementation by UNRA. More so, some of the projects have tight preparation timelines as well as stringent safeguards requirements demanded by financing agencies and the national requirements as contained in the amended National Environment Act 2019. No doubt, available personnel in the Department is being stretched despite effort they put towards the requirements by the projects.

In addition, the Technical Assistants hired present two challenges in that, the duration of their contracts will end by July 2020 without indication of extension and they get involved in specific projects which assistance they were procured than offer capacity building, which would create sustainability. These indicate the human resource challenge at hand.

Equipment

In execution of supervisory and monitoring role, DESS relies largely on physical site inspections, interviews and review of records without going into some in situ measurements of some physical and ecological parameters. The approach can be exploited by fraudulent contractors since they will have known that, there will be measures for on-site physical verifications. DESS shall have in-house equipment for rapid verification of noise, air quality, vibrations and water. It is recommended that the DESS Specialists working onsite shall undertake verification measurements of specific parameters on a case-by-case basis, especially near sensitive locations when construction is ongoing. Regular/daily monitoring of project activities shall be undertaken by the Contractor. All monitoring results/parameters shall be recorded and used in case of complaints. In the same vein, there should be readily available logistics in terms of vehicles for the Department to rapidly respond to environmental and social safeguards emergencies in the projects as they happen.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.6.4 DESS Capacity Building Needs under the Project

For effective management of the environmental and social safeguards requirements in the road project the following are proposed: a. Hire of Technical Assistants/Advisers: The Project could hire 2No. Technical Assistants i.e. 1No. Environmental Specialist and 1No. Social Development Specialist. b. Hire of Community Liaison Officers: For on-ground liaison and communication with the PAPs and the communities at large in the areas of the project, it is proposed that, services of local CLOs who are graduates in environment and related social science disciplines be sourced. c. Support towards effective operationalization of ESMS: Much the ESMS is comprehensive in a number of UNRA’s environmental and social safeguards operations, there is need to have a dedicated officer to lead in ensuring its effective implementation. d. Training: There will be need to conduct induction-training sessions for CLOs, Technical Advisers, and project Technical officers on the following area: i. General ISS requirements; ii. Gender aspects in the project; iii. Child labor awareness; iv. Vulnerability awareness and sensitization drives; v. Climate change mainstreaming; vi. Livelihoods ventures; vii. HIV/AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis B control; viii. UNRA ESMS provisions and its requirements; and ix. Awareness on National Environment Act 2019 its provisions relating to the road project.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.7 Integration of Environmental and Social Aspects into Procurement Process

9.7.1 Bidding

During the bidding process, the Contractor will be expected to include a brief methodology of the implementation of the relevant environmental and social safeguards and attach a cost of implementation of these plans in his proposal bid. In addition, the Contractor should provide relevant staff for the implementation of the safeguards including a Social Specialist supported by Community Liaison Officers and an Environment Specialist supported by HSE Officers. Lastly, the contractor must prove prior experience in adequately managing safeguards issues in the road sector.

9.7.2 Bill of Quantities (BoQs)

The BoQs must capture all relevant safeguards aspects. These should include safeguards staffing, documentation (ESIP, etc.), waste management, HIV/AIDS, grievance redress, gender awareness, site clean-up and landscaping, monthly ESMP reporting among others. Laxity in the provision and use of personal protective equipment is a risk to the safety of workers. The BoQs should provide a sum for PPE and supervision be done to ensure that all workers undertake works while in full PPE.

9.7.3 Safeguards Clauses

As a best practice, the contracts for the civil works should include clauses on management of environment and social aspects. Sometimes, the clauses are weak and cannot be used to hold the contractors accountable. There is need to strengthen the clauses and to tailor them to the specific project safeguards aspects and management needs.

9.7.4 Staffing

It is common for contractors to recruit unqualified safeguards staff or to assign safeguards duties to site foremen or clerks with no prior safeguards experience. Staffing requirements should be spelt out in the contracts. In addition, it may be useful to include the minimum requirements in the contracts for the civil works. Therefore, UNRA through the supervising consultants must approve the contractor’s Environment Officer, Health and Safety Officer and the Sociologist.

9.7.5 ESMP Monitoring and Reporting

Laxity in implementation and reporting on safeguards issues is common amongst contractors largely because they do not take safeguards issues seriously. This can be addressed by requiring contractors to prepare monthly environment and social monitoring reports. These should either be pay items and clearly included in the BoQs or a condition for certification and payment approvals. Contractor’s safeguards reports are usually characterized by failure to include useful monitoring indicators such as safety statistics (fatalities, minor injuries, near misses, etc.), number of trees cut, and number replanted amongst others. The contractors will require training on safeguards monitoring and reporting. The contractors need to undertake proper recordkeeping of all safeguard activities. The contractors should liaise with District technical offices such as the District Environment Officer, District Community Development Officer, District Engineers and Physical Planner to ensure proper monitoring and timely implementation of project activities. 157 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

The Supervising Consultant shall be required to maintain a Compliance Tracker to follow-up on implementation of corrective instructions during project implementation and also guide on the use of financial remedies to evoke Compliance. For example, each instruction that does not get implemented for two consecutive reminders would attract financial penalty without further reminder or withhold of any financial certificate due for payment. The Contractor will be required to report accidents to supervising engineer in timely manner and police, including maintaining an accident and incident log; Severe Accidents and Serious Accidents shall be reported to the Supervision Consultant immediately and to UNRA within 12 hours and to AfDB within 24 hours of occurrence.

9.7.6 Project Reporting Commitments

The Contractor will be required to prepare regular reports (monthly, quarterly, and annual) on environmental, social, health and safety performance. On an annual basis, the Contractor will, under the guidance of UNRA, engage services of an independent environmental and social compliance auditor to determine the level of the Project’s environmental and social performance. The report will provide the information and data required to determine compliance with national legal requirements as well as OSs of AfDB. The aspects to be reported on shall include; grievance management, labour influx, traffic management, community health and safety and security, air quality, erosion and water pollution, waste management, emergency response, HIV/AIDS and gender management, Environmental and social restoration, among others.

9.7.7 Decommissioning and restoration of disturbed areas

At the end of the construction period, the Contractor must ensure restoration of all disturbed areas including materials sites through proper landscaping, backfilling and restoring topsoil, (re-) introduction of genetic species (e.g. natural re-grassing) similar to those destroyed in order to re-establish the natural local ecology. The final payment must be tagged to successful restoration activities.

9.8 Contractor/ UNRA Management Plans

The Contractor will be required to prepare some standalone safeguards management plans in addition to the Contractor’s Environment and Social Implementation Plan (ESIP)/ Construction – Environmental and Social Management Plan (C-ESMP). Reference should always be made to the ESIP as the overarching document that contains general Control Statements for various impacts such as air quality, solid waste, and hazardous materials, water quality and ecosystem, erosion control, waste excavation and disposal and safety and occupational health. In addition to the Management Plans, the Contractor should prepare Method Statements for specific activities such as earthworks and submit for the Supervision Engineer’s review and comments before commencement of works. If the Consultant notifies the Contractor that a specific method statement has failed to provide adequate mitigations, such a statement should be revised and resubmitted until when approved. UNRA/contractor will also prepare any other management plans for other unforeseen project safeguards risks. The Supervision Consultant (as represented by the Resident Engineer) shall provide clearance to the ESIP before commencement of civil works, in technical consultation with UNRA and the AfDB. A summary of the basic requirements in the key stand alone management plans are presented here; 158 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.8.1 Occupational health and safety plan

The Contractor will prepare a document that presents the framework for occupational health and safety management and monitoring measures that will be undertaked. The OHS plan will typically cover safety programs that will be applied for promoting health and safety, preventing harm, fatality and hazards to the employees, sub-contractors, properties and the general public. The OSH management plan shall consider the hyrachy of controls in hazard management, which includes plans to eliminate hazards, substituting potential hazards, employing engineering controls, administrative controls and use of appropriate PPE.

9.8.2 Security management plan

The Plan will provide guidance and requirements on safety and security for the Project. It will identify potential security risks present during the construction phase, methods and actions to mitigate these risks, and the requirements to ensure the highest levels of safety and security in the implementation of the Project. It will, therefore, set out commitment of the Project to security under the project. UNRA will not sanction any use of force by direct or contracted workers in providing security except when used for preventive and defensive purposes in proportion to the nature and extent of the threat. UNRA/ RE will; (i) make reasonable inquiries to verify that the direct or contracted workers retained by the Contractors to provide security are not implicated in past abuses; (ii) train them adequately in the use of force and appropriate conduct towards workers and host communities; (iii) require them to act within the applicable law and any requirements set out in the ESCP; (iv) UNRA will review all allegations of unlawful or abusive acts of security personnel, take action to prevent recurrence and where necessary report unlawful and abusive acts to relevant Authorities such as the Police, Local Councils, District Local Governments; (v) UNRA shall require that all deployed Security personnel sign a Code of Conduct to make behavioral commitments; (vi) UNRA shall require establishment of a clear and accessible Grievance Redress Mechanism handle complaints from both the Workers and the host community; (vii) Establish coordination and reporting arrangements between the Project Security and the Public Security Agencies; (viii) Put in place appropriate site access and control measures such as fencing of facilities, installing manned gates, surveillance cameras, and (ix) The project area, campsites, borrow areas, stone quarries, asphalt plant sites, access roads and other ancillary facilities shall be scanned for UXOs, other abandoned ordinances and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). etc.

9.8.3 Influx management plan

While project-induced labor influx can benefit the project and host communities (e.g., by increasing business opportunities, improving the availability goods and services), the influx can pose significant risks and impacts. If not carefully managed, labor influx can negatively affect public infrastructure, utilities, public services, housing, health, food security and social dynamics in the project area, especially in rural, remote or small communities, which typically have less absorptive capacity than a large urban environment. The Plan will detail measures aimed at:

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani  avoiding or reducing negative influx impacts and enhancing positive impacts in the project area of influence; and  providing capacity building for Contractor, local government and communities to help them cope with project-induced in-migration.

9.8.4 Labour management plan

The Contractor is expected to have a clear plan for recruitment of workers to promote project ownership by the communities. The Contractor should give preference to local people by recruitment of unskilled and semi-skilled labour from project villages and this should be done through local areas leaders (LC1) from where those seeking employment should get letters of recommendations.

9.8.5 Biodiversity management plan

The biodiversity management plan shall outline actions and measures necessary for the effective monitoring of the flora, fauna, water sources, aquatic and wetlands within camp site, quarry, borrow pits and along the bridge and access roads being constructed. The plan shall consider the following;  Covers identified impacts on biodiversity;  Details specific control measures to be implemented by contractors (and subcontractors), to achieve biodiversity protection;  Protection of the river banks, agricultural land, and control of erosion when there will be temporary interference with vegetation cover and natural drainage of the area.  Compliance with slope protection, erosion Control and soil conservation measures  Minimization vegetation clearance and protection of biodiversity rich sections of the river including fish breeding areas.  Rehabilitate the cleared areas with re-grassing, turfs and tree planting

9.8.6 HIV/AIDS, Herpititis B and gender management plan

The Contractor in pursuit of his commitment to health will organize trainings, conduct awareness and education on the use of infection control measure in the workplace. The Contractor is expected to;  provide appropriate measures to protect workers from the risk of exposure to HIV/AIDS and incorporate HIV/AIDS and Herpititis B information in occupational health and safety inductions,  provide guidelines in preventing the spread of Herpititis B, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs),  publicize knowledge related to Herpititis B, HIV/AIDS and STIs to the work crews and the surrounding communities,  provide information on good HIV prevention interventions, including promotion of the correct use of condoms and ensure sufficient resources are available for Herpititis B and HIV programs.

The contractor is expected to also come up with a Gender Management Plan (GMP). The GMP will cover gender related aspects, such as;  GBV risks at community and worker’s level, Sexual Harassment to protect women workers as well as community members, mitigation measures, responses and who is in charge of different actions,

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani  Show aspects of gender division of labour in terms of equality and equity, gender segregation (for example female workers having separate toilets and changing rooms from male workers),  Gender working conditions,  Provision of job opportunities where the contractor identifies areas where ladies are given high opportunities such as cleaning, human resource positions, working in laboratories, flag ladies among others.  The GMP should show gender sensitivity and show a clear code of conduct.  The GMP should also provide a checklist to help identify whether the project is gender complainant.

9.8.7 Traffic and road safety Management plan

The major purpose of this plan is to help protect road users and workers and keep traffic delays to a minimum through proper and clear signage and controls. The Traffic Management Plan will provide actions to ensure safety of road users and construction staff during construction the bridge and access roads. It will outline traffic control and traffic management procedures to prevent potential hazards associated with road use during construction. Any road work resulting in obstruction of roads needs to be managed so that safety is not compromised and disruptions and delays to road users are kept to a minimum. The Plan shall include a road safety awareness program.

9.9 Grievance Redress Mechanism

Project activities including those of the contractor at implementation phase usually result into undesirable social-economic and environmental impacts, which may cause feelings of discomfort and unfairness among project stakeholders including PAPs. This often results into grievances which require to be managed easily and promptly so as not to affect project activities. UNRA has recently developed harmonized guidelines for GRM (2018) for its roads and bridges projects. The same guidelines will be followed on this project.

Therefore, this section describes avenues for affected persons to lodge a complaint or express a grievance against the project, its staff or contractors during project implementation. It also describes the procedures, roles and responsibilities for addressing grievances and resolving disputes. Every aggrieved person shall be able to trigger this mechanism to quickly resolve their complaints. A grievance in the context of this project is defined as a complaint of dissatisfaction, harm, unfairness or mistreatment raised by an individual or a group within project area including project works or beyond affected by project processes and activities

9.9.1 Purpose and Objectives of GRM

The purpose of the GRM is to put in place a simple and easily accessible systematic process for recording, processing and promptly resolving grievances during project planning and implementation. In line with the UNRA ESS policy and UNRA Harmonized Grievance Redress Mechanism, 2018, the specific objectives of the GRM are: i. To provide project stakeholders with a clear mechanism of channeling grievances; ii. To set up and make known to all stakeholders a clear, accessible, transparent and efficient 161 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani system for receiving and resolving grievances; iii. To record, categorize and prioritize the grievances; iv. To provide an environment that fosters free and honest exchange of information and ideas in regard to resolving received grievances; v. To define clear roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in managing grievances. vi. To promptly resolve grievances in consultation with stakeholders within a specified timeframe vii. To escalate unresolved grievances in line with UNRA harmonized GRM procedure.

9.9.2 Sources of Grievances

During the project planning and implementation, and during project development, grievances arise from multiple sources. These include but not limited to casualties, fatalities, damages to sensitive ecosystems, loss of productive lands and assets, the spread of diseases, sexual violence, physical displacement, loss of livelihoods, as well as delayed completion of essential works among others. More detailed sources are provided in Table 52.

Table 52: Types of Grievances and examples Type of Grievances Examples Engineering Related The major issues related to engineering are to do with the alignment of approach Grievances roads, culvert locations, cost overruns, and the location of access roads or route options. Environmental Grievances Disturbance of natural ecosystems, inadequate management of project impacts such as storm water, stone blasting, dust, noise, uncovered borrow areas, encroachment on natural resources, waste disposal, hipping soil spoils in private property or swamps, inadequate restoration of sites. Social Issues Disruption of other existing public services e.g. hospitals, schools, water and electricity supply, historical sites, impacts on cultural sites, access to people’s homes, unwanted pregnancies, spread of diseases (HIV/AIDS, STI issues), child labour, family breakages, Rape / sexual and Gender-Based Violence, accidents Land-related issues Non-payment of compensation money, underpayment of compensation money, over-valuation and undervaluation of same or similar property, loss of livelihoods, omission of the affected property, road reserve queries, return of title, delayed payment, disputes of land ownership, injurious affections e.g. cracks in buildings, house left either hanging or below the road culvert locations, boundary queries between PAPs, registration of ghost PAPs, forgery of documents (e.g. Land titles, death certificate), obtaining money by false pretense, impersonation

9.9.3 GRM Principles

The proposed GRM is informed by a set of principles explained in UNRA Harmonized Grievance Redress Mechanism, 2018 that include that the GRM is binding and legitimate; GRM is affordable and accessible; GRM is transparent and free from interference; and GRM promotes equal opportunity for all parties.

Grievances Management Committees (GMCs) UNRA also promotes the concept of Grievances Management Committees. This is a community based arrangement that seeks to resolve grievances at the lowest level possible using existing or established structures. GMCs are composed of a minimum of 6 persons with; 3 PAP representatives with a gender

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani balance, LC1 chairpersons (ex-officio) and 2 other community members elected by community members from among the elderly or opinion leaders, and or community based civil society leadership: a. The GMC should comprise of: An observer who is a CBO / CSO representative if available– b. Chairperson LC1 (but not to be elected as chairman of the GMC)– c. 3 Project Affected Persons (at least 1 woman must be elected)– d. An opinion leader (e.g. elder, religious or clan leader) if available. e. From the PAPs members, an executive is elected composed of chairperson, secretary and mobiliser. GMCs will be set up with the help of sub-county CDOs and LC1 leaders through community meetings with PAPs and general community members along the alignment of approach roads. In addition, UNRA shall orient the GMCs in the process of conflict management procedures in order to enable them to effectively collect, screen and manage and communicate about such grievances to UNRA for verification and consideration (for more details, refer to UNRA- GRM, 2018).

9.9.3.1 Grievances Management a) A grievance can be submitted by any stakeholder either in writing or verbally through UNRA established channels (UNRA contact centres along the alignment, at RAP-RIT offices, at the UNRA headquarters, UNRA offices in Kyambogo, UNRA stations at Moyo and Gulu, project contractor/consultants office, and or Community based GMCs. b) Grievances may, in addition, be submitted through any of the following channels:  Email: [email protected];  Via (telephone)Toll-free line: (0800-100-812) or Customer Care Hotline (041- 4-318111) c) To promote access to this GRM, grievances can be submitted in the local language. At entry, such grievances submitted in the local language will be translated into English and an equivalent explanation given to the complainant or there presentative. d) To promote quick response and resolution of grievances, minimum considerations for reception of grievances will apply (names of complainant, address, nature of complaint, time and parties involved, any evidence and witness). These minimum considerations will continuously be explained to the community members during stakeholder consultations at the planning and implementation phase of this project. e) All grievances received will be registered using the GRM forms and logged onto an established GRM database. The complainant should receive an acknowledgment of receipt of the grievance in writing within a reasonable timeframe not exceeding 48 hours. Record forms and logo books already in use by the project proponent for road projects will be adapted for this project. f) Paper copies of the grievance form and the community reporting template will be made available to GMCs. g) Screening and categorizing Grievances: Grievances received will be screened and categorized to establish the nature, type and eligibility of the complaint as illustrated in Table 53.

In addition, the GM shall be adapted to be responsive to SEA/SH reporting in the following ways;  The GM focal persons (as relevant) will need to be trained on SEA/SH/GBV and on survivor centered approaches including those of confidentiality and safety of complainants/survivors;  Clear GM procedures and mechanisms for reporting allegations of GBV/SEA need to be in place,

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani  Also, a Response and Accountability mechanism should be clearly defined to hold project related perpetrators accountable.

Table 53: Screening and categorization criteria

Category Description Implication Category 0: Complaints that are not related to a UNRA Out of scope and require project, project workers or any UNRA activity immediate feedback/referral and closure Category 1: Queries, comments, and suggestions Require immediate feedback and closure Category 2: Complaints and concerns, which are not It is within mandate of UNRA criminal in nature or do not require the in respect to project activities involvement of police and require processing Category 3: Complaints and concerns that involve Require immediate allegations that require investigation or escalation intervention by the police or other law enforcement authorities. Once the complaint is screened for eligibility, then a decision will be taken to either drop it or proceed with assessments and investigation, and the complainant will be duly informed. Complaints that are categorized as (0) or (1) are quite straight forward will be resolved on first contact and closed out. The complainant will be given feedback and sign a closure out form. After screening and ascertaining need for further investigation by UNRA, the grievance will be attended to by the GMC or assigned to relevant department at UNRA as quickly as possible.

9.9.3.2 Grievance Processing The following process, as adapted from the existing UNRA-GRM Harmonised Guidelines, 2018; has been made available for PAPs, community and other stakeholders to have their grievances processed once they have been categorized as eligible. i) Investigation and Feedback (Tier One): If a grievance is categorized as (2) and requires further investigation it will be handled by the GMC or by mandate assigned to relevant officers or department. The process flow is lustrated in Table 54.

Table 54: Grievances Process Flow Step Action Responsibility

1. Reception and registration by GMC or GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or UNRA office/centre/contractor/consultant contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists 2. Acknowledgement of receipt to GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or complainant contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists 3. Sorting/categorization GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 4. Grievance review and investigation (if GMC, relevant UNRA department or category 2) and solution discussion contractor/consultant representative

5. Feedback to complainant GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists

6. Notification of responsible parties and GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or implementation of resolution contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists

7. Closure GMC sec or appointed UNRA representative or contractor /consultant CLO/sociologists

ii) In case the complainant is satisfied with the proposed solution, there solution will be effected and grievance closed out. Complainant will sign a grievance closure form witnessed by the UNRA or appointed representative. iii) The second tier is where the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution at the first tier. A mediator will be identified to mediate between the complainant and UNRA or contractor/consultant. Possible mediators include religious leaders, family/clan leaders, elders and CSO leaders or managers. iv) At the second tier, a near process described in table above will apply. v) In case the complainant is satisfied with the mediator proposed solution, the resolution will be effected and grievance closed out. Complainant will sign a grievance closure form witnessed by the mediator or appointed representative. vi) In case complainant is not satisfied with the mediation resolution, this GRM provides for recourse to the formal and traditional judicial system. vii) For SEA/SH/GBV cases, the GM shall adapt a survivor centered approach facilitating safe and confidential access to services by complainants/survivors.

9.9.3.3 Women Access and Participation in the Grievance Process Gender differences should be taken into consideration when handling grievances. In addition, established forms of gender segregation and defined roles and responsibilities may affect both men and women’s access to and use of a grievance mechanism. Women may also be inhibited or hindered from complaining about specific incidents (e.g., husbands abandoning affected family and eloping with different women after receiving compensation proceeds and gender-based violence emanating from contested sharing of compensation proceeds). In some communities, women may have lower literacy rates than men and be less familiar with formal processes.

Therefore, grievance mechanism committee to be established will include female staff who are aware of and sensitive to the role of women in local communities and the issues they face. The project will train personnel in the handling of gender-sensitive issues; preferably the safeguards team for UNRA should have training in gender-based violence.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 9.9.3.4 Reporting The UNRA sociologists, CLO and or contractor/consultant appointed representative in charge of grievances will make monthly grievances management reports with gender and area disaggregated data; highlighting information regarding the status, management, coordination and implementation of the GM.

Key indicators relevant for the weekly and monthly GRM reporting will be: i) No of grievances received / month or week ii) No. of outstanding grievances currently within each tier of the GRM iii) No of outstanding grievances and reasons for non-resolution iv) No of resolved and closed out grievances v) No of closed out grievances on stipulated time period allowed vi) No of closed out grievances outside the stipulated time allowed vii) No of escalated grievances and reasons for escalation.

9.10 Monitoring against the ESMMP

The implementation of an appropriate monitoring strategy as part of the ESMMP is important to ensure that existing management measures are effective, and to identify the need for improved or additional measures. The objectives of the Project environmental and social monitoring Programme are to:

i) Detect and analyse environmental and social trends or changes to develop an appropriate response, where required. ii) Ensure relevant environmental legislation and licensing commitments of the Project are complied with. iii) Measure the performance of environmental and social management measures to ensure impacts remain at an acceptable level and there is ongoing improvement of Project’s operations; and iv) Provide early warning of potential impacts, determine the extent of anticipated impacts and identify any unforeseen impacts associated with Project activities. The environmental and social monitoring Programme for the construction and operation phases includes the following main categories of monitoring:

a) Construction and Operations monitoring: Routine construction monitoring including visual inspections and ‘toolbox’ meetings with Project personnel to ensure management measures are employed adequately during construction works and during operations. b) Discharge (emission) monitoring: The monitoring of potential contaminants discharged or emitted from the Project to the environment, measured at or near the point of discharge (e.g. discharges from sewage treatment plant at the accommodation camp). c) Ambient monitoring: The monitoring of background conditions and the receiving environments that may be affected by Project activities. Ambient monitoring will be undertaken in upstream and downstream surface waters, along with ambient dust and noise monitoring at nearby villages. While operational and discharge monitoring will determine if environmentally significant releases have occurred, effects on sensitive receptors within the receiving environment can only be determined by ambient monitoring.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani d) Social monitoring: The monitoring of socio-economic indicators and feedback from Project affected communities, to identify and quantify the direct and indirect impacts of the Project on the surrounding community. A further category, investigation monitoring, will also be carried out when necessary, to determine the occurrence, nature and extent of impacts following an environmental incident (oil leakage, etc.) from the Project, or to verify/refute third-party claims of environmental / social impact.

During the construction decommissioning phase, closure monitoring will be undertaken to assess progress in achieving closure completion criteria for temporary work sites such as decommissioned borrow pits or accommodation camps. All relevant employees involved in monitoring activities (particularly for field monitoring) will be given appropriate training, where required, by a competent person in the use of:

a) Monitoring techniques, including use, calibration and maintenance of field monitoring equipment, sample collection, labelling and transport. b) Review and interpretation of field and laboratory monitoring results; and c) Record keeping and reporting procedures, including using standard forms and databases. Relevant environmental and social monitoring programme for each Project component are detailed in this ESMMP. These monitoring programs should be revised as appropriate when Project activities or conditions change significantly.

9.11 Auditing and Review

Regular audits of the Project ESMMP and associated management systems will be required. The audits will assess:

a) Adequacy of the ESMMP and associated plans with respect to the scale and nature of anticipated impacts and current development stage of the Project; b) Workforce awareness, competence and compliance with the ESMMP and associated plans and procedures; c) Performance of managers and operators in implementing, maintaining and enforcing the ESMMP and associated plans; and d) Suitability of allocated resources, equipment and budget for implementation of the ESMMP. Corrective actions will require documentation including reporting of progress towards their completion.

Internal audits of ESMMP implementation should be conducted by the construction contractor/concessionaire on a quarterly basis during construction, and at least annually during operations. After the concession period, UNRA shall continue these internal audits annually in line UNRA’s current audit schedule for their ESMS.

Independent external audits will need to be conducted during the construction phase and on an annual basis (over the construction period). The first external audit should be conducted at the commencement

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani of construction to ensure all required environmental management and monitoring plans and procedures are established. The frequency of subsequent operational audits will be based on the recommendations from the initial audits ensuring they are in line with the environmental audit regulatory regime in Uganda.

In addition, site inspections of all Project facilities will be required on a routine basis using a visual inspection form to record observations onsite. The frequency of inspection will be informed by risk but will typically be on a monthly basis. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be developed to enable environmental performance to be assessed objectively and quantitatively across the operation.

9.12 Proposed Complementary Initiatives

Complementary initiatives have been determined following a process of meaningful stakeholder consultation and engagement. The ESIA team engaged stakeholders including the community and district authorities of Moyo and Adjumani which revealed that agriculture and fishing constitute significant sources of livelihoods for the communities within the project area. As such, the proposed initiatives are geared towards enhancing farmers’ skills so that their productivity can be improved. This is envisaged to be done through provision of agricultural inputs, farmer training and value chain addition. Further consultations were carried out during the Resettlement Action Plan to ensure that the proposed initiatives are implementable.

These proposals fall within the NDP III priority areas to facilitate economic growth in Uganda among which include the following: a) Increasing household incomes and promoting equity b) Enhancing the availability and quality of gainful employment c) Promoting science, technology, innovation and ICT to enhance competitiveness d) Enhancing human capital development

In addition, the proposals fall within objectives of the five-year district development plans of Moyo and Adjumani districts that are also hinged on the National Development Plan III. Furthermore, engagements with district, subcounty leaders and communities during socio economic baseline studies recommended a number of interventions as a form additional support to communities to mitigate against the impacts of the proposed project. These initiatives provide wide ranging benefits that cover even persons that are not directly affected by the project. Proposed interventions can be categorised into three including Agriculturally based initiatives, business based initiatives and landing site based initiatives.

9.12.1 Agriculturally based initiatives

The initiatives proposed under this category target a portion of the community in the project area that is involved in subsistence agriculture. The initiatives include; a) Provision of inputs such as fertilizers and improved seeds; including introduction of high value crops, livestock, improved marketing and value chain addition. b) Provision of critical skills required to empower the farmers and enable them access financial services and management of credit

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani c) Enhance and promote linkages to existing government programs within the area such as the Youth and Women empowerment programs, Operation Wealth Creation to enable the affected households access inputs like fertilizers and improved seeds.

9.12.2 Businesses based initiatives

The initiatives target business owners within the project area, particularly the businesses along the right of way that are affected by the project. The initiatives proposed include: Provision of financial literacy training for business owners, entrepreneurs and artisans covering areas of credit management, business planning, marketing, inventory and quality control.

9.12.3 Landing site based initiatives

The assessment determined that there are 38 businesses at the landing landing sites of Umi and Laropi. While they are not in the Right of Way for the proposed bridge and approach roads, there will be loss of budiness following construction of the bridge since the affected traders are reliant on the waiting traffic at the ferry landing. Initiatives under this category therefore serve to restore the livelihoods of the persons who currently run businesses. a) Relocating the business women to the already existing central market in Laropi town for continuity in business. The relevant departments in Laropi Town council will be key players in program implementation and the cost determination. b) Provision of a skilling program to train the business women in alternative income generating activities like papyrus crafts, tailoring, hair dressing, baking and confectionery and related skills. Women admitted that they did not intend to seek employment outside their home area. Skilling the women could benefit them as they can use their acquired skills to enhance and diversify livelihood sources. c) For the men, training and provision of equipment for stone quarrying is proposed. Study findings indicated that stone/ rock quarrying was one of the activities men in the project area are engaged in. This activity would be an alternative source of livelihood for men currently involved in landing site based activities such as canoeing and water transport by canoes. d) Provision of small household equipment like groundnut grinders and processing to women on the landing sites. This was identified as a home based income generating enterprise. Supporting women with such equipment can help to restore their livelihoods.

9.12.4 Construction of a cold room for fresh fish storage with fish vending stalls

Road side markets support rural livelihoods and are a critical source of income to women and other vulnerable groups of people in the rural country side including in the project area. Construction of a cold room and fish stalls would provide an opportunity for the women currently involved in fish business to operate with better facilities that gurantees better storage.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

9.12.5 Proposed Budget for Financing Complimentary Initiatives

Sn Component Initiative Indicative Budget USD 1. Agriculture  Farmer training and provision of agricultural 120,000 enhancement inputs  Promotion of linkages and market access  Agriculture enterprise and value chain addition

2. Business  Provision of financial literacy training for business 25,000 promotion owners, entrepreneurs and artisans covering areas of credit management, business planning, marketing, inventory and quality control.

3 Landing site  Business relocation to central market 9,000 initiatives  Women skilling/training program and provision of 90,000 equipment (crafts, tailoring, hair dressing, baking and confectionery, grinders) and related skills

4 Fishing  Construction of a cold room and fish stalls 120,000

Total 364,000

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The construction of proposed Laropi/Umi Bridge is anticipated to provide a permanent and much more sustainable and dependable connection between Adjumani and Moyo districts, thus facilitating connection in the region. This will enhance the socioeconomic development of the region and attract the development of other related infrastructure and transboundary business opportunities. The proposal provides a solution to the current challenges associated with use and maintenance of Laraopi ferry whose size is incapable of handling the anticipated increase in traffic following the upgrading of Atiak-Laropi road.

However, the proposed development is associated with various adverse environmental and social impacts. This assessment had evaluated the potential negative impacts and determined appropriate measure to either avoid or mitigate them. More so, the assessment has determined measures to enhance positive impacts associated with the proposed project at different levels in its cycle. A costed ESMMP has been developed to guide development of the ESIP or C-ESMP to guide the construction/project implementation phase. The ESIA has further determined that that the residual negative impacts are of low significance.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani References

1. Bennun, L.A. & Howell, K. 2002. Birds. Pp. 121–161 in Davis, G. (ed) African forest biodiversity; a field survey manual for vertebrates. Oxford: Earth Watch Europe. 2. Carswell,M., Pomeroy, D., Reynolds, J. and Tushabe, H. (2005). The Bird Atlas of Uganda. British Ornithologist’s Club and British Ornithologists’ Union. 3. Cumulative impact assessment and management IFC, 2013. Environment, social and governance department. 4. https://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/Uganda-declared-landmine-free/688334-1649922- 2kirma/index.html 5. International Finance Corporation, IFC (2012) IFC Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability, [Online] World Bank available from www.googlescholar.com. 6. IUCN. 2019. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2019-3. Available at: www.iucnredlist.org. (Accessed: December 2019). 7. Katende A B, Ann Birnie and Bo Tengnas (2000). Useful Trees and Shrubs for Uganda: Identification, Propagation and Management for Agricultural and Pastoral Communities. Regional Land Management Unit, RELMA/Sida, ICRAF House, Gigiri P. O. Box 63403, Nairobi, Kenya 8. Kindt, Roeland & Breugel, Paulo & Lillesø, Jens-Peter Barnekow & Gachathi, Francis & Omondi, William & Jamnadass, Ramni & Graudal, Lars. (2014). Potential Natural Vegetation of Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia). Volume 8. Atlas and Tree Species Composition for Kenya. 9. Langdale-Brown, I., Osmaston, H.A. & Wilson, J.G. (1964). The vegetation of Uganda and its bearing on land uses. Uganda Government Printer, Entebbe, Uganda. 10. LB, Leopold & FE, Clarke & BB, Hanshaw & JR, Balsley.1971. A Procedure for Evaluating Environmental Impact. 11. Lucie M B, Keith D A, Miller R M, Murray J M & Rodriguez J P (2016) Guidelines for Application of IUCN Redlist of Ecosystems: Categories and Criteria, IUCN Gland Switzerland 12. Montgomery, D.R and J.M Buffington. Channel Classification, Prediction of Channel Response and Assessment of Channel Condition. Report TFW-SH10-93-002. University of Washington, Seattle, 1993.Rosgen, D. D Classification of Natural Rivers. Catena, Vol, 22, No.3, 1994, pp. 169-199 13. National Environment Management Authority, (2008) State of Environment Report for Uganda, NEMA, Uganda 14. Shamsudduha, M., Taylor, R.G., Jones, D., Longuevergne, L., Owor, M. and Tindimugaya, C., 2017. Recent changes in terrestrial water storage in the Upper Nile Basin: an evaluation of commonly used gridded GRACE products. 15. Stevenson, J. and Fanshawe, J. (2002). Field guide to the birds of East Africa Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi. T & A D Poyser LTD, UK. 16. Sutherland j. William, (2006). Ecological Census Techniques: A handbook. 2nd Edition Second Edition, Cambridge University Press, University of East Anglia. 17. United Nations, UN (1992) UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE [Online] FCCC/INFORMAL/84 GE.05-62220 (E) 200705, and Available from www.unfccc.int

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 18. WCS (2016). National red list for Uganda for the following taxa: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians,butterflies, dragonflies and vascular plants, www.nationalredlist.org/files/2016/03/National-Redlist-for-Uganda.pdf

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Appendices

Appendix 1: Plant Species Recorded in the Project Area

Family Species Life form Fabaceae Abrus precatorius Climber Malvaceae Abutilon mauritianum Herb Fabaceae Acacia brevispica Shrub Fabaceae Acacia hockii Shrub Fabaceae Acacia senegal Shrub Fabaceae Acacia sieberiana Tree Euphorbiaceae Acalypha bipartita Herb Euphorbiaceae Acalypha crenata Herb Fabaceae Accacia tortilis Tree Amaranthaceae Achyranthes aspera Herb Passifloraceae Adenia verenata Climber Fabaceae Aeschynomene indica Shrub Agavaceae Agave sisalana Fibber Asteraceae Ageratum conazoides Herb Fabaceae Albizia adiantifolia Tree Fabaceae Albizia grandbracteata Tree Sapindaceae Allophylus africana Shrub Apocynaceae Alstonia boonei Tree Fabaceae Alysicarpus rugosus Herb Moraceae Antiaris toxicaria Tree Asparagaceae Asparagus flagellaris Shrub Asteraceae Aspilia kotschy Herb Meliaceae Azadirachta indica Tree Fabaceae Baikiaea isignis Tree Zygophyllaceae Balanites aegyptiaca Tree Asteraceae Bidens pilosa Herb Sapindaceae Blighia unijugata Tree Arecaceae Borassus aethiopum Shrub Poaceae Brachiaria brizantha Grass Poaceae Brachiaria decumbens Grass Poaceae Brachiaria jubata Grass Phyllanthaceae Bridelia micrantha Tree Phyllanthaceae Bridelia scleroneura Shrub

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Cyperaceae Bulbostylis filamentosa Herb Cyperaceae Bulbostylis sp. Herb Capparaceae Cadaba farinosa Shrub Capparaceae Capparis erythrocarpos Shrub Capparaceae Capparis fascicularis Climber Apocynaceae Carissa spinarum Shrub Apiaceae Centella asiatica Herb Fabaceae Chamaecrista kirkii Herb Fabaceae Chamaecrista nigricans Herb Menispermaceae Chasmanthera dependens Climber Poaceae Chloris gayana Grass Poaceae Chloris pycnothrix Grass Menispermaceae Cissamperos mucronata Climber Vitaceae Cissus quadrangularis Climber Vitaceae Cissus rotundifolia Climber Combrataceae Combretum adenogonium Tree Combrataceae Combretum aculeatum Shrub Commelinaceae Commelina benghalensis Herb Malvaceae Corchorus olitorius Herb Capparaceae Crateva adansonii Shrub Fabaceae Crotalaria pallida Herb Poaceae Ctenium newtonii Grass Commelinaceae Cyanotis lanata Herb Amaranthaceae Cyathula achyranthioides Herb Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Grass Cyperaceae Cyperus articulatus Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus cyperoides Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus denudatus Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus difformis Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus dubius Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus latifolia Herb Cyperaceae Cyperus papyrus Sedge Cyperaceae Cyperus rotundus Grass Vitaceae Cyphostemma adenocaule Climber Poaceae Dactyloctenium aegyptium Grass Fabaceae Desmodium salicifolium Herb Fabaceae Desmodium triflorum Herb 175 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Fabaceae Desmodium velutina Herb Fabaceae Dichrostachys cinerea Shrub Poaceae Digitaria abyssinica Grass Poaceae Digitaria gayana Grass Poaceae Digitaria longiflora Grass Poaceae Echinochloa haploclada Grass Poaceae Echinochloa pyramidalis Grass Pontederiaceae Eichhornia crassipes Herb Pontederiaceae Eichhornia crassipes Weed Poaceae Eleusin africana Grass Fabaceae Entadda abbysinica Tree Poaceae Eragrostis racemosa Grass Poaceae Eragrostis tremula Grass Euphorbiaceae Erythrococca bongensis Shrub Convolvulaceae Evolvulus alsinioides Herb Phyllanthaceae Flueggea virosa Shrub Rubiaceae Gardenia tenuifolia Shrub Gisekiaceae Giseckia pharnaceoides Herb Colchicaceae Gloriosa superba Herb Amaranthaceae Gomphrena celosioides Herb Malvaceae Grewia similis Shrub Ruttaceae Harrisonia abyssinica Shrub Malvaceae Hibiscus micrantha Shrub Lamiaceae Hoslundia opposita Shrub Poaceae Hyperthelia dissoluta Grass Fabaceae Indigofera hirsuta Herb Fabaceae Indigofera spicata Herb Convolvulaceae Ipomoea aquatica Climber Convolvulaceae Ipomoea involcrata Climber Convolvulaceae Ipomoea sp Climber Olacaceae Jasminum eminii Shrub Acanthaceae Justicia exhigua Herb Meliaceae Khaya anthotheca Tree Bignoniaceae Kigelia africana Tree Cyperaceae Kyllinga alba Herb Anacardiaceae Lannea schweinfurthii Tree Poaceae Leersia hexandra Grass

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Apocynaceae Leptadenia hestata Climber Onagoraceae Ludwigia abyssinica Herb Asclepiadaceae Marsdenia rubicunda Climber Marsileaceae Marsilia minuta Herb Celastraceae Maytenus senegalensis Shrub Convolvulaceae Merremia tridentata Herb Fabaceae Mimosa pigra Shrub Rubiaceae Mitragyna rubrostipulata Tree Euphorbiaceae Monanthotaxis bouchanani Shrub Rubiaceae Oldenlandia sp Herb Opiliaceae Opilia celtidfolia Shrub Poaceae Oplismenus hirtelus Grass Lamiaceae Orthocyphone sp Herb Polygonaceae Oxygonum sinuatum Herb Poaceae Panicum deustum Grass Poaceae Panicum maximum Grass Poaceae Paspalum scrobiculatum Grass Fabaceae Philenoptera laxflora Shrub Phyllanthaceae Phyllanthus maderaspatensis Shrub Fabaceae Piliostigma thonningii Shrub Meliaceae Pseudocedrella kotschy Shrub Amaranthaceae Puppalia lappacea Herb Anacardiaceae Rhus natalensis Shrub Fabaceae Rhynchosia minima Herb Salviniaceae Salvinia mollesta Herb Asparagaceae Sansevieria dawei Herb Asparagaceae Sansevieria nilotica Herb Apocynaceae Sarcostemma viminale Climber Apocynaceae Secamone africana Climber Fabaceae Senna bicapsularis Herb Fabaceae Senna occidentalis Herb Fabaceae Senna siamea Tree Fabaceae Sesbania sesbani Herb Poaceae Setaria homonyma Grass Poaceae Setaria sphacelata Grass Malvaceae Sida acuta Herb Malvaceae Sida alba Herb 177 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Malvaceae Sida ovata Herb Malvaceae Sida rhombifolia Herb Rubiaceae Spermacoce dibracteata Herb Rubiaceae Spermacoce princii Herb Poaceae Sporobolus pyramidalis Grass Loganiaceae Strychnos innocua Shrub Portulaccaceae Talinum portulacifolium Herb Fabaceae Tamarindus indica Tree Lamiaceae Tectona grandis (Teak) Tree Fabaceae Tephrosia linearis Herb Fabaceae Tephrosia pumila Herb Fabaceae Tephrosia villosa Herb Fabaceae Teramnus repens Herb Apocynaceae Thevatia peruviana Shrub Lamiaceae Tinnea aethiopica Shrub Euphorbiaceae Tragia brevipes Herb Cannabaceae Trema orientalis Tree Oleaceae Trichalasia niamniamniensis Shrub Asteraceae Tridax procumbens Herb Malvaceae Triumfetta annua Herb Malvacea Urena lobata Shrub Poaceae Urochloa fatmensis Grass Ruttaceae Vepris nobilis Tree Asteraceae Vernonia amygdalena Shrub Asteraceae Vernonia cinerea Herb Fabaceae Vigna unguiculata Climber Verbenaceae Vitax doniana Tree Sapotaceae Vitellaria paradoxa Tree Malvacea Waltheria indica Herb Malvacea Wissadula rostrata Herb Rhamnaceae Ziziphus pubescens Shrub Fabaceae Zornia pratensis Herb Fabaceae Erythrina abyssinica Tree Anacardiaceae Mangifera indica Tree Anacardiaceae Sclerocarya birrea Tree Labiatae Ocimum suave Shrub Moraceae Ficus abutilifolia Tree/Shrub

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Moraceae Ficus ingens Tree Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia candelabrum succelent

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Appendix 2: Avifauna Recorded in the Project Area

ion

Name Name

Atlas No. Atlas ECOLOG

Common Common

Scientific Scientific

Conservat 193 Africa Jacana Actophilornis africana W LC 937 Grosbeak Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons fW LC 39 Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash w LC 17 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis G LC 200 Senegal Thick-Knee Burhinus senegalensis W LC 677 Grey-Backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura f LC 465 Nubian Woodpecker Campethera nubica Gen LC 323 White-Browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus Gen LC 383 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis W LC 828 Sulphur-Breasted Bush-Shrike Cholorophoneus sulfureopectus f LC 320 Diederick Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius Gen LC 586 Spotted Palm-Thrush Cichladsusa guttata Gen LC 801 Beautiful Sunbird Cinnyris pulchellus Gen LC 85a Black-Chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis Gen LC 645 Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana Gen LC Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis WG LC 647 Winding Cisticola Cisticola marginatus w LC 369 Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Gen LC Pied Craw Corvus albus Gen LC 576 White-Browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini f LC 305 Eastern Grey Plantain Eater Crinifer zonurus Gen LC 358 African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Gen LC 48 White Faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata W LC 154 Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena Gen LC 473 Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens Gen LC 836 Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis F LC 716 Silverbird Empidornis semipartitus Gen LC 969 Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild wG LC 930 Northern Red Bishop Euplectes franciscanus G LC 401 Broad-Billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus Afw LC 376 Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti Gen LC 373 Grey-Headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala Afw LC 375 Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis A LC 76 African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer W LC 378 African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta fw LC African fireFinch Lagonosticta rubricata G LC 180 | P a g e

Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 959 Red-Billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala Gen LC 872 Ruppell’s Starling Lamprotornis purpuroptera Gen LC 841 Tropical Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus Gen LC 843 Black-Headed Gonolek Laniarius erythrogaster f LC 815 Grey-Backed Fiscal Lanius excubitoroides Afw LC 191 Black-Bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster Gen LC 420 African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus Gen LC 441 Black-Billed Barbet Lybius guifsobalito Gen LC 621 Moustached Grass Warbler Melocichla mentalis Gen LC 477 Grey Woodpecker Mesopicos goertae f LC Black kite Milvus migrans Gen LC African pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Gen LC 29 Yellow Billed Storke Mycteria ibis w LC 844 Brubru Nilaus afer Gen LC 142 Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris G LC 664 Buff-Bellied Warbler Phyllolais pulchella f LC 746 Brown Throated Wattle Eye Platysteiridae cyanea f LC 891 Chestnut-Crowned Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser superciliosus Gen LC 908 Black-Headed Weaver Ploceus melanocephalu Gen LC 910 Yellow-Backed Weaver Ploceus melanocephalus W LC 897 Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis f LC 433 Yellow-Fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus f LC 658 Tawny-Flanked Prinia Prinia subflava fw LC 157 Heuglin's Francolin Pternistis icterorhynchus G LC 562 Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus f LC 925 Red-Billed Quelea Quelea quelea A LC 980 Bronze Mannikin Spermestes cucullata Gen LC African mourning dove Streptopelia decipiens Gen LC 284 African Mourning Dove Streptopelia decipiens Af LC 833 Black-Crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus Gen LC 739 African Paradise-Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis f LC 761 Brown Babbler Turdoides plebejus Gen LC 612 African Thrush Turdus pelios f LC 272 Black-Billed Wood Dove Turtur abyssinicus Af LC 271 Blue-Spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer Af LC 974 Red-Cheeked Cordon-Bleu Uraeginthus bengalus Gen LC 368 Blue-Naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus Gen LC 221 African Wattled Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus senegallus W LC 223 Spur-Winged Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus spinosus WG LC 985 Pin-Tailed Whydah Vidua macroura G LC

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Appendix 3: Results of Water Quality Assessments for Proposed Laropi Bridge

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

APPENDIX 4: Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN (SEP) FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF LAROPI BRIDGE AND APPROACH ROADS.

INTRODUCTION

1 Introduction UNRA whose mandate is to develop and maintain the national road network is proposing to build a bridge across the Nile at Laropi/Umi, connecting Adjumani and Moyo Districts. Currently, this crossing is facilitated by Laropi ferry under the management of Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). The aforementioned ferry is in good condition, and only operates during day, between 7:00am and 7:00pm for safety and security reasons The Laropi/Umi Bridge will link Atiak-Laropi Road (66km) which is currently under development, and Laropi-Moyo-Afoji Road (37km) which is proposed for upgrade to bituminous standard.

African Development Bank (AfDB) has considered financing the construction of the Laropi/Umi bridge. The National Environment Act No. 5 of 2019, in its Schedule 5, requires a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for such projects prior to their implementation. Similarly, the Integrated Safeguards System (ISS) of AfDB present Operational Safeguards (OSs) which require assessment of environment, climate change and social risks and impacts as early as possible in the project cycle.

As part of the ESIA processes, the National, AfDB’s OSs and UNRA guidelines require for meaningful stakeholder engagement and consultations with different stakeholders at different levels. A Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) is prepared to guide the stakeholder engagements and consultations during ESIA activities.

2 An over view of Stakeholder engagements

2.1 Stakeholder engagements

A stakeholder is a group or individual who may be affected by the project or have specific interest in the project activities. These may be identified within the right of way, surrounding communities, responsible authorities that are directly or indirectly affected by the road project

Stakeholder engagement is the process by which the project developer enhances the participation of people who have interest in the project and the project affected communities in project activities and decision making processes throughout the life cycle of the project. Meaningful stakeholder engagement has to be all inclusive and conducted in a transparent manner to improve the environmental and social sustainability of projects, enhance project acceptance, relationships and make a significant contribution to successful project design and implementation.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 2.2 Principles of effective Stakeholder Engagement

Stakeholder engagement is usually informed by a set of principles that define core values underpinning interactions with stakeholders. They include the following;

a) Commitment is demonstrated when the need to understand, engage and identify the project affected persons, community and other stakeholders is recognised and acted upon early in the process. The process should commence as soon as scoping paying more attention to communities and households affected by displacement

b) Integrity occurs when engagement is conducted in a manner that fosters mutual respect and trust. Ensure the team works with affected households and communities to explore ways to avoid, minimise where possible physical and economic displacement of households. The stakeholder views should be taken as important and where possible implemented

c) Respect is created when the rights, cultural beliefs, values and interests of stakeholders and neighbouring communities are recognised. Ensure that the public consultations and disclosure process complies with the national legislation, regulations and AfDB standards

d) Transparency is demonstrated when community concerns are responded to in a timely, open and effective manner; The team will establish grievance management committees to manage all grievances and concerns

e) Inclusiveness is achieved when broad participation is encouraged and supported by appropriate participation opportunities. Women and vulnerable PAPS should be encouraged to participate at all relevant stages or special arrangements to be made to ensure participation

f) Trust is achieved through open and meaningful dialogue that respects and upholds a community’s beliefs, values and opinions. The process must be culturally appropriate and inclusive of all stakeholders affected by land acquisition, free of interference, manipulation, intimidation or coercion

3 Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)

The SEP is a formal strategy to communicate with project stakeholders at international, national, district and community levels to achieve the support for the project while observing the national guidelines and international best practices, defining technically and culturally appropriate approach to consultation. The SEP will assist the ESIA team with managing and facilitating engagements through various stages of the project life cycle at feasibility, detailed project design, ESIA/RAP preparation, implementation, construction, monitoring, evaluation and closure.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani The SEP will assist the ESIA team with managing and facilitating future engagements through various stages of the project life cycle at feasibility, detailed project design, ESIA preparation, implementation, construction, monitoring and evaluation through the project cycle.

3.2 Objectives of SEP

The key objectives of this SEP are summarised below;

1. To establish a systematic approach to stakeholder consultations guiding the ESIA process in mapping, identification and analysis of stakeholders

2. To identify key stakeholders and understand engagement requirements

3. To create awareness of the project, potential risks, impacts and seek views on the proposed project design

4. Describe the legal requirements for consultation and disclosure

5. To define reporting and monitoring measures to ensure the effectiveness of the SEP

6. To provide project-affected parties with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues and grievances for effective management

3.3 Legal framework for preparation of SEP Law/Policy Jurisdiction/Mandate Relevance The This is the cornerstone of legislation in Identify and plan for constitution of Uganda. It provides for participatory consultation and active the Republic of governance – Under the political objectives; participation of community Uganda, 1995 part (i) The State shall be based on members, local leadership and democratic principles which empower and other stakeholders along encourage the active participation of all project areas in planning citizens at all levels in their own governance; studies and implementation and (iii), the State shall be guided by the principle of decentralization and devolution of government functions and powers to the people at appropriate levels where they can best manage and direct their own affairs.

On environmental protection and Stakeholder engagements conservation, the constitution offers ‘every should include consultation Ugandan… a right to a clean and healthy over potential social and

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani environment’ (section 39) while at the same environmental impacts and time expects citizens to play their part in locally agreeable mitigation creating a healthy environment - ‘it is the measures. This SEP shall duty of every citizen of Uganda to create and take into consideration likely protect a clean and healthy environment vulnerabilities among (section 17). stakeholders and how they are likely to compromise their full participation in planning consultations and mitigation implementation The These specify the general requirements for Require developers to ensure Environmental good ESIA and RAP practice in Uganda. The that the views of stakeholders Impact Environmental Impact Assessment in affected communities are Assessment Regulations, 1998; Sub-regulation (1) of sought and those potential Regulations, Regulation 12 that requires the developer to impacts including benefits are 1998; take all measures necessary to seek the identified and appropriately views of the people in the communities that disclosed. may be affected by the project. Regulations 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 outline further requirements for public participation.

National These are instruments aimed at narrowing These have implications for Gender Policy the gender (inequality) gap and promoting stakeholder engagement that 2007; and equity in access to and control of resources includes the identification of National Plan or development outcomes by ensuring that and consultation with of Action for gender concerns are routinely identified and vulnerable social groups such Women. addressed in the identification, design, as women, youth and disabled appraisal, implementation, monitoring and groups in respect to evaluation of national, and local government development processes and policies, plans and programs. related impacts.

The Local The Local Government Act (1997) provides Identify and plan for meaningful Government for the system of local governments, which engagement, consultation and Act (1997); is based on local councils and the involvement of relevant local

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani participation of the community members in government stakeholders, which powers over development planning, community leaders and budgeting, financial management, human members. Preparation of this resources and service provision function SEP started with mapping of (including the emerging of safety and Local Government security service delivery needs) have been stakeholders to ensure devolved to popularly elected Local inclusive public involvement Governments. and participation The UNRA Highlight the significance of stakeholder These have implications for Environment engagement as source of information as well stakeholder engagement that and Social as project social and environment risk includes the identification of Management management strategy and tool throughout and consultation with all System (2019) the project cycle and includes Guidelines for relevant stakeholders in and the UNRA Stakeholder Consultation and Information respect to development Land Disclosure during ESIA and RAP processes. processes and related impacts Acquisition and This is re-echoed in annex 1 section 6 and 5 including management of Resettlement of the UNRA Business Processes for the project risks and meaningful Policy (2019) Department of Environment and Social disclosure of project relevant section 4.0 Safeguards information. African Requires assessment of environment, dentify and plan for early and Development climate change and social risks and impacts appropriate engagement and Bank(AfDB)’s as early as possible in the project cycle, consultation with all project ISS which Compliance, supervision and monitoring stakeholders presents OSs The IFC Stakeholder Engagement: According to IFC Identify and plan for early and Standards PS-1 Stakeholder engagement is an appropriate engagement and regarding ongoing process that may involve consultation with all project stakeholder stakeholder analysis and planning, stakeholders including engagement disclosure and dissemination of information, vulnerable social groups and and consultation and participation, grievance paying special attention to their consultation mechanism, and ongoing reporting to needs and concerns. Affected Communities.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 4. Stakeholder identification /mapping Stakeholder identification is the process of determining individuals, groups or institutions by their key groupings and subgroupings to determine their priorities and objectives in relation to the project. Stakeholder mapping and identifications is based on the location, power, mandate influence, interest and vulnerability in the project. Key consideration is given to those stakeholders who have the power to Influence the project, control what decisions are made, facilitate its implementation and stakeholders with direct or indirect interest in the project

These stakeholders are identified in the following ways;  By determining the project footprint and observations during reconnaissance in the project area  In consultation with key local resource persons including the project staff, government officials, community leaders, and interest group representative  By brainstorming the preliminary list of stakeholders potentially affected by the project footprint including categories of organisations, interest groups, households, individuals The stakeholder mapping exercise that was undertaken on the proposed bridge and the approach roads identified different stakeholders at different levels; regional, district, sub county and at community levels as indicated in table 3.1

Table 4: 1 Categories of stakeholders identified for Laropi bridge and approach roads

Stakeholder category Stakeholder type Targeted stakeholders District Moyo District Local Political and technical teams government Adjumaini Political and technical teams Sub county Pachara Political and technical teams Laropi Sub county Political and technical teams Landing sites business Umi Business community communities Laropi Landing sites Business community Villages ( Communities) Arra Project Affected community Pakoma East Project Affected community Logubu South Project Affected community Business group Central markets Women groups Transports Bodabodas , boat owners

Utility owners Umeme Regional offices National Water and Regional offices Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Institutions Holy Trinity church and Caretakers Primary school in Laropi Town NGOS/ CBOs Moyo SACCO Those operating in the project area

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani 5 Methodology for Stakeholder Engagement

Basing on the identified project stakeholders on Laropi bridge and approach roads, different methodologies / strategies will be used. An attempt will be made to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are fairly represented and consulted considering issues of leadership positions, gender, age, and physical abilities The methodologies will include but not limited to;

5.1 Correspondences

Letters/Memos and phone calls shall be used in informing the stakeholders of impending engagements and consultations. 5.2 Consultative meetings / Public meetings

These initial engagements will target district leadership both political and technical teams, the sub- counties, the communities and the CSOs/NGOs operating in the project area. These engagements will be through dialogues and consultations. The engagements will provide an enabling environment for stakeholders to air out their views, concerns as well as their recommendations which will be considered ESIA preparation. Public meetings will be preceded with a preparatory/mobilization plan for the inclusion and consultation with all the key stakeholders. The ESIA team will collaborate with the District Community Development Officers (DCDOs) and the sub-county Community Development Officers to identify, notify and mobilize district and local stakeholders. These will include political leaders, technical teams, and representatives of women, youth, people with disabilities and business community. The planned consultative meetings will be publicized by means of invitation letters to various local government institutions and follow up phone calls. Community meetings will be confirmed indicating the dates and venues.

5.3 Focus Group Discussions The UNRA team will also disseminate as well as gather more information about the project through the use of focus group discussions(FGD’s) and key informant interviews with a few selected groups and persons along the project area. The information got from these groups will be used to enrich the stakeholder views as well as a better understanding of the project area. The FGDs will be arranged at the community level especially for engagements between special interest groups such as vulnerable social groups, identified livelihood groups and community representatives like community leaders. 5.4 Key Informant Interviews

Some people are always more informed on environment and socio-economic aspects of the project area. To this effect, Key Informant Interviews will be conducted with different categories of expert stakeholders or institutional stakeholder representatives to share relevant project information and derive feedback or build consensus. 5.5 Surveys

These will be used to gather opinions and views from the various affected stakeholders. Herein the baseline data will be recorded in soft or hard copies which will further help to develop baseline database for monitoring impacts. These will target the affected households, businesses, interest groups and institutions along the project area.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

6 Stakeholder Engagement Program

Following the identified stakeholders on the Laropi bridge and approach roads, a stakeholder engagement program was proposed to guide stakeholder engagements and consultations as indicated in table 5:1

Table 6-1: Proposed program for stakeholder engagements for Laropi bridge project

DATE ENGAGEMENT TYPE OF ENGAGEMENT

14/11/2019 Stakeholder Engagement Engagement with District leadership about the for District and Sub county proposed Laropi bridge in their district and proposed stakeholders- Adjumani stakeholder engagements 15/11/2019 Stakeholder Engagement Engagement with District leadership about the for District and Sub county proposed Laropi bridge in their district and proposed stakeholders- Moyo stakeholder engagements 16/11/2019 Stakeholder Engagement Engagement with sub county leaders and community for Laropi Town Council about the proposed Laropi bridge in their community community and proposed stakeholder engagements 20-11-2019 Community Engagement Engagement with affected community in Arra village for Arra village 21-11-2019 Community Engagement Engagement for community at Laropi landing site for Laropi landing site community 22-11-2019 Community engagement for Engagement with affected communities in Moyo side. Lugubu south and Pakoma West 23-11-2019 Engagement with utility Engagement with NWSC offices, the Parish priest for owners in Laropi town, Holy Trinity church and Primary school in Laropi Moyo district Town 23-11-2019 Focus group discussion Focus Group Discussion with community leaders and over UMI Rock –Physical landlords of the Umi rock which is perceived as the Cultural Resource Physical Cultural Resource (PCR)

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

7. Roles and Responsibilities of implementation team Roles and responsibilities have been defined in order to ensure effective stakeholder engagement during the life of the project. Principal roles and responsibilities for the implementation of this plan during the construction phase are outlined in Table 6-1 below.

Table 7:1. Roles and Responsibilities of implementation team

Roles Responsibilities Project Coordinator  Ensures that this SEP is implemented  Provides necessary resources for effective implementation of this Plan

ESIA Team leader  Coordinates with parties for effective implementation of this Plan  Evaluates the compliance of Project activities with national and international legislation requirements  Organizes cooperation activities with mult-disciplinary team approach ESIA team  Implements and improves this SEP  Coordinates with parties for proper implementation of this SEP  Documents proceedings of the engagements

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APPENDIX 5: Screening Forms Potential Environmental and Social, Health and Safety Risks

SCREENING FOR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS Screening Form for Project Associated Facilities

This form will be used to screen potential environment, Social, Health, and Safety risk levels of the Project Associated Facilities. The purpose of screening is to determine the relevance of Operational Safeguards of the African Development Bank, identify risk levels, and the necessary plans to prepare to mitigate the associated risks. Subproject Name Subproject Location Subproject Proponent Estimated Investment Estimated start date

Questions Answer OSs relevance Due diligence / yes no Actions Will the project component involve civil works including new construction, expansion, upgrading or rehabilitation Will the scope of works for the project component involves the waste generation Will the project component for the project component involve the land acquisition and/or restrictions on land use? Will the scope of the project component associate with any external waste management facilities such as a sanitary landfill, or wastewater treatment plant for hazardous waste management Is there a sound regulatory framework, institutional capacity in place for Project management? Will the scope of works for access roads involve recruitment of workforce including direct, contracted, primary supply, and/or community workers? Will the scope of works for project components involve the use of security personnel during construction and/or operation? Will the proposed project component be located within or near any ecologically sensitive areas?

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Are there any vulnerable groups present in the project component area and are likely to be affected by the proposed subproject negatively or positively? Will any of the project components be located within or near any known cultural heritage sites? Does the project area present considerable Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) risk? Is there any territorial dispute in the area of the Facilities and its ancillary aspects and related activities?

Will the project component and their ancillary aspects and related activities involve the use or potential pollution of, or be located in international waterways? Will the project component and their ancillary aspects and related activities involve posing any major community Health and Safety aspects Conclusions 1. Proposed Environmental and Social Risk Ratings (Category 1, 2 or 3). 2. Proposed ESHS Instruments

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

APPENDIX 6: Content of the Scoping Report

The analysis of the scoping for the environmental and social impacts of any of the proposed project components shall be arranged in the following chapters: Chapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Project description. Chapter 3: Policy, legal, and institutional framework. Chapter 4: Environmental & Socio-economic baseline. Chapter 5: Stakeholder engagement. Chapter 6: Potential impacts & mitigation recommendations. Chapter 7: Environmental Social Management and Monitoring Plan Chapter 8: Terms of Reference for Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Chapter 9: Conclusion

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Appendix 7: Security and Emergency Response Plan

BACKGROUND

The proposed construction of Laropi – Umi Bridge require a practical Security and Emergency Response Plan to minimize injuries, loss of life and property damage that can result from accidents and emergencies, including personal injuries, fire, explosion, toxic chemical spills, gas leaks and natural disasters. It is therefore important to provide a Plan on how to deal with such emergences to save lives and to contain situations that may cause environmental pollution. In addition, bridge construction activities are expected to be secured by armed personnel, and this poses a security risk to the workers and communities of the project area if not well managed.

Bridge project construction activities could result in accidents or unforeseen risks to the workforce, local communities and the environment. Therefore, proper planning from the outset to ensure a system of coordinated action between UNRA, contractors and local authorities is important. Besides the major benefit of providing guidance during an emergency, unrecognized hazardous conditions could aggravate an emergency situation and an emergency response plan can help eliminate them. The planning process brings to light potential situations that can be rectified before an emergency occurs. In addition, a security and emergency response plan promotes security and safety awareness and shows the Company’s commitment to the security and safety of workers, the local community and the environment.

Purpose of the SERP

Security and Emergency Response Plan (SERP) is to provide a systematic approach to the protection of employees, assets and the environment from impact of serious incidents. It encompasses organizing, coordinating and implementing a range of procedures to prevent, mitigate, respond to and recover from the consequences of an emergency event. It is designed to be address all incidents, regardless of nature, severity, or location, thus, will avert a minor incident from becoming a disaster, save lives, prevent injuries and minimize damage to property and the environment.

Furthermore, the Plan provides for a rapid and effective emergency response and recovery; helps security and emergency services; implements an effective evacuation plan if required and communicates vital information to all relevant persons involved in the project emergency (both internal personnel and external agencies) with minimum delay. It outlines the necessary resources, personnel and their roles, and logistics, which allow for a prompt, coordinated, and rational approach to a project accident.

In all, the Plan gives guidance to the contractor and outlines the general procedures to be followed for all emergency situations and incidents that could occur as a result of the Contractor’s operations and activities in the project area owing to natural causes, equipment failure or human error to ensure all potential emergency situations that might arise during the Project are properly identified, reported and dealt with in a safe and effective manner. As such, the contractor shall develop own SERP for project implementation, following this guidance as the minimum.

Scope of SERP The SERP covers the required actions for all situations that could generate security and emergency situations during the project’s construction phase. The SERP will manage security and emergency events during the stages of construction for example: earthworks, traffic management, casting, relocation of utilities and many

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani more. It has been developed to establish general guidelines and response procedures for the management of security and emergency events Laropi – Umi Bridge Construction Project. It also establishes an emergency management command structure and mechanisms for review, oversight and accountability.

As such, this SERP outlines: a. the key policies, legislation and standards relating to waste management; b. roles and responsibilities; c. key actions and measures necessary for an effective response in case of an emergency; d. both accidental and intended critical situations; e. specific control measures to be implemented by the contractors (and their sub-contractors), to achieve this; f. the requirements of the ESIA findings and Government of Uganda Disaster Preparedness requirements as well as international best practices in the management of disasters; and g. General approach to security and emergency response management, procedures and methodologies.

Through this, the SERP then defines the actions and measures necessary for the effective management of emergency situations and/or accidents for both the Project beneficiaries (communities), contractors and subcontractors in line with the applicable law and other obligations governing best practices in handling of emergencies.

Objectives of the SERP The Plan will help the Contractor to ensure the following: a. To identify potential security and safety threats or risks that may arise from works, natural or anthropogenic causes; b. To elaborate procedures to identify, record, investigate, and to analyze any incidents that occur on site; c. To identify the root cause and contributory causes of the incidents and formulate measures accordingly to prevent future recurrence of similar incident; and d. To initiate corrective and preventive actions and confirming effectiveness of actions taken.

The contractor shall establish procedures to ensure that all personnel including the subcontractors’ workers have the skills to report environment incidents. The contractor shall keep records of all incident reports, investigation, and analysis and counter measures taken.

Linkages with other plans in the project The contractor will be required to develop respective management plans to facilitate management of significant impacts determined in the ESIA. A few obvious ones have been listed and are linked to the SERP as follows: a. Waste Management Plan: The linkage between the two plans rotates around the need to safely and securely handle waste from collection, storage, transportation and eventual safe disposal aware that some waste can be hazardous and instances of spillage call for stand-by measures for effective containment to keep it from escalating; b. Hazardous Waste Management Plan: Sustainable management of hazardous waste is key in ensuring health in the project which brings these two Plans in working closely aware that, hazardous waste can be disastrous to the environment and human-beings as such it equally requires measures for its effective containment to avoid its escalation which is provided under the SERP; c. Traffic Management Plan: Sound management of traffic implies that project will be safe to its workers and the public which brings these two Plans into linkage. For instance, during construction of the bridge,

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani a temporary bridge will first be built to facilitate movement of construction equipment and materials required in the development of the permanent bridge. However, the temporary bridge is likely to attract vehicular public traffic which could result into serious accidents which can involve traffic or labourers as such, there is need for a robust emergency response plan; d. Labor Management Plan: One of the considerations in labor management is the need to guarantee their safety while on the project and in the accommodation. e. Chance Finds Procedures: Instances of accidental encounter of any archaeological resources during bridge construction will require measures for management of any accidental encounters of physical cultural resources; f. Workers Accommodation Plan: Accommodation will need adequate provisions for emergency response to be in-built in case of fires, and accidents and related sudden fatalities which all require measures for effectively handling such occurrences; and g. Rock Blast Management Plan: During blasting processes, there is need for an emergency response plan to help handle incidence and impacts from flying rock as well as potential risks which can arise from blasting equipment.

Policy, legal and Institutional framework

Policy Framework These policy/Guidelines Framework apply to this Plan: a. The National Environment Management Policy, 1994: The overall policy goal is sustainable development, which maintains and promotes environmental quality and resource productivity for socio- economic transformation hence importance of addressing disasters in development process is key to attainment of this policy objectives; b. The National Policy for Disaster Preparedness and Management October 2010: The main thrust of this policy is to make disaster management an integral part of the development process. It recognizes the profound impact of human activity on the interrelations within the natural environment as well as the influence of population growth, the high density of urbanization, industrial expansion, resource exploitation and technological advances. The policy also emphasizes the critical importance of restoring and maintaining the quality and overall welfare and development of human beings in their environment; c. Uganda Vision 2040: According to Vision 2040, for Uganda to shift from a peasantry to an industrialized and largely urban society, it must be propelled by improved transport system; d. The National Environment Health Policy 2010: This policy establishes the environmental health priorities of the Government of Uganda and provides a framework for the development of services and programs at national and local government levels; e. National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based violence, 2016: The policy emphasizes early intervention to prevent re-victimization of and long-term effects for girls, including interpersonal violence, sexual coercion, alcohol and drug abuse and mental health problems; Reporting cases of violence against children immediately. It is important to reckon that, in case of disasters, women are more vulnerable because of loss of shelter, food and they remain playing a key role in the welfare of their households. f. National Policy on HIV/AIDS and the world of work, 2007: The policy obliges developing entities to mainstream HIV/AIDS interventions to their planned development interventions. g. The National Policy for Older Persons 2009: The Policy promotes and contributes to the attainment of the development goals. This policy informs other policies, programs and sectoral plans. It will provide a framework for:

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani  Enhancing the recognition of the roles, contributions and potentials of older persons in the development process;  Strengthening the informal and formal community-based support systems and actions for older persons dignity; h. The National Equal Opportunities Policy 2006: The goal of the National Equal Opportunities policy is to provide avenues where individuals and groups’ potentials are put to maximum use by availing equal opportunities and affirmative action. i. Uganda Gender Policy 2007: The Uganda Gender Policy mandates the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development and other line Ministries to mainstream gender in all sectors. j. National Policy on Disability 2006: The National Policy on Disability in Uganda aims at promoting equal opportunities for enhanced empowerment, participation and protection of rights of PWDs irrespective of gender, age and type of disability. k. The National Orphans and other Vulnerable Children’s Policy 2004: The Policy focuses on full development and realization of rights of orphans and other vulnerable children. Specifically, to ensure that the legal, policy, and institutional framework for child protection is developed and strengthened at all levels and that, orphans, vulnerable children and their families access basic essential services package as well as ensuring that, resources for interventions that benefit orphans and other vulnerable children are mobilized and efficiently utilized. l. Transport sector policy: Furthermore, to give transport modal linkage, the sub-sector has four supplementary policies of which one is on environment which provides that, the government will ensure an optimum and sustainable road network and bridge stock that balances traffic needs against safety and environmental demands; and m. MoWT General Specifications for Roads and Bridge Works (2005) Section 1800: Occupational Health and Safety, HIV/AIDS and Gender.

Legal Framework The following apply: a. The Uganda Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995: Paragraph XXIII of the National Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy of the 1995 Constitution obliges the state to institute effective machinery for dealing with any hazard or disaster arising out of natural calamities or any situation resulting in the general displacement of people or general disruption of normal life; a. The National Environment Act, 2019: Specifically, the Act provides that, every person in Uganda has a right to a clean and healthy environment in accordance with the Constitution and the principles of sustainable development. A person may, where the right referred to herein above is threatened as a result of an act or omission by any person which has/is likely to cause harm to human health or the environment take a legal process against the person whose act or omission has/or is likely to cause harm to human health or the environment; b. The Uganda National Roads Authority (General) Regulations, 2017 in its Article 37 provides for traffic management during road construction or maintenance i.e. a contractor shall ensure proper traffic management and safety during construction and maintenance works on a national road and shall comply with the Safety at Road Works Code of Practice issued by the Authority. Furthermore, the Regulations provides that, a person carrying out works or maintaining a national road shall manage the works efficiently to ensure that safety is not compromised and that disruption is minimized. In addition, person carrying out works on a national road shall:  put in place road signage to warn, inform and direct road users;  put in place convenience areas for workers with specific regard to gender and persons with disabilities; and

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani  Provide safety equipment for the workers on site. c. Workers compensation Act of 2000: The Act outlines matters of compensation for injuries and accidents as well as the responsibility of employees to take care of their health and safety while on the project. d. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 2006; The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 2006 makes provisions for the health, safety, welfare and appropriate training of persons employed in workplaces. e. The Employment Act of 2006: The Employment is the governing legal statutory instrument for the recruitment, contracting, deployment, remuneration, management and compensation of workers. This Act provides for matters governing individual employment relationships in terms of circumstances of provision of labor. f. Children Act Cap 59: The Act defines a child as a person below the age of 18. It lists the right for children to be with their parents, circumstances under which they should not, foster care and adoption procedures as well as mandates of local authorities and roles of community. g. Traffic and Road Safety Act, Cap.361: Section 119 of the Traffic and Road Safety Act stipulates that every person who uses, parks or turns a motor vehicle, trailer or engineering plant on any road carelessly or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road commits an offence.

Institutional Framework The following are some of the key institutions in the implementation of this Plan. They are: a. The Ministry for Works and Transport: The Ministry has equipment and expertise for emergency repair of bridges and roads. In addition, the Ministry has equipment that can be called upon for rescue purposes in case of collapsed building etc.; b. Ministry of Health: Provide at both national and district levels adequate and timely health services which prevent unnecessary loss of life when a disaster/emergency strikes and restore them productive capacity; c. The National Disaster Preparedness and Management Commission (NDPMC): The National Disaster Commission will amongst other functions be responsible for monitoring, supervising and evaluating activities of sectoral lead institutions, national and international humanitarian agencies; d. Ministry of Internal Affairs (Directorate of Fire and Rescue Services in the Uganda Police Force); The Uganda Police Force is usually amongst the first institutions informed of any emergency event in the country. They have the communications and institutional organization to deal with such events. Consequently, the police fire and rescue services has specialized equipment for firefighting and have skills specialized for rescue operations. The rescue operations of Uganda Police are spread coordinated through the regional police hubs throughout the country; e. Ministry of Defence: The Ministry of Defence is to ensure timely provision of support in numbers of human resources, equipment and logistics whenever massive disasters occur, that is beyond the capacities of the regular emergency institutions. At least 20% of the UPDF soldiers in each battalion are accorded training, knowledge, practices, appropriate logistics and equipment for the common disasters in the surrounding location; in addition to their formal military training. The selected UPDF officers and men will be provided with standard emergency body wares and gears appropriate for managing the hazard or disaster at hand. f. Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development-MoGLSD: The Ministry plays a crucial role in promoting attention to the various peculiar needs of women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities in any disaster preparedness and response activities. In addition, the Ministry’s Department of Occupational Health and Safety ensures that, infrastructure development projects have adequate measures for risk management; g. Parastatals and the Private Sector (including road contractors and consultants): are expected to

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani take measures to ensure, as far as possible, the safety of their activities and operations have in- built measures against threats of possible natural disaster events. They must also ensure that their industrial, transport and other activities do not pose risks either to their workers, the general public or the environment and that they are capable of taking precautionary measures in the event of any emergency or accident and are also to ensure observance of sectoral regulations in sectors they operate. h. Uganda National Roads Authority-UNRA: UNRA is to ensure its roads and bridges projects have emergency response plans with clear modalities of undertaking emergence response in case of collapse of facilities under construction or accidents in case of workers; i. National Environment Management Authority-NEMA: NEMA through ESIAs for development projects ensures the integration of environmental and social concerns in such development interventions as well as robust mitigation measures with the full participation of the individual and community; j. Local Communities and Individual Families: Communities are to be responsible for taking measures within their own capacities, to protect their own livelihoods and property though it is expected that such measures will/ought to be part of an integrated approach which will include the development of family management capacities and a reduction in their vulnerability over time; k. Inter-Governmental Organizations and Development Partners: Inter-governmental agencies and Development Partners provide technical and financial support to disaster and emergency risk reduction when they occur; and l. The Role of National and International Humanitarian Organizations and NGOs: National and International Humanitarian Organizations and Non-Governmental organizations provide pivotal role in mobilizing and sensitizing the masses about risks, hazards and disasters that affect their communities and how to manage them.

SECURITY AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Security Procedures In order to ensure efficient security services and minimize and eliminate the risks of gun misuse on the project, suitable procedures will be followed. The procedures will include the process of hiring armed security personnel on site, their management while on duty until closure of the project. The key steps will include the following:  The contractor will determine whether to use private security company or public forces of Uganda including Uganda Police Force (UPF) or Uganda Peoples Defense Force (UPDF);  The private security company will forward the profiles of security staff proposed to provide security on the project;  Background search will be done on each of the proposed security staff to determine that they do not have a record of misuse of a gun, violence against children and GBV;  Only personnel/staff who are determined to have a clean record will be considered for deployment. A report will be made to the Resident Engineer before deployment is made;  In case of a replacement of personnel, a background search report will be presented to the Resident Engineer.  In case the contractor opts to use either UPF or and UPDF, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) who oversees security in a district will give recommendation to security personnel after certifying that they do not have a record of gun misuse, VAC and GBV.

Emergency Procedures

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani In order to ensure the efficiency of the plan for emergency situations, all persons on site shall be properly trained. The persons on site have the liability to comply with the procedures in the emergency plan and to improve their knowledge on the emergency measures, i.e. by repeatedly using emergency exits and of escape ways, verification of labor protection sign meaning, etc. For the proper behavior in emergency situations, the indications of the following appendices shall be observed: a. General rules in case of alarm (phone numbers, alarm signals, first aid, ambulance, etc.), b. Evacuation plan in case of fire, Emergency exists, Meeting points, First aid units” (in case of fire, explosions, evacuation, etc.) c. In case of emissions of substances dangerous for health, the directions included in Safety Data Sheet shall be observed (SDS). d. The Site manager has the responsibility of ensuring that all emergency exits and meeting points are permanently free, and in case of amendment, all persons on site shall be notified. e. In case of perceiving a possible danger, all persons on site undertake to immediately inform the project manager. f. Checks/tests of the alarm systems and knowledge of signal type shall regularly be performed.

Emergency cases perception The person who perceives an emergency situation shall immediately inform the responsible person/person assigned for the management of the emergency situations, who, in its turn, shall immediately inform the Project Manager and the following information shall be communicated: a. What is the type of emergency? b. The exact place of the emergency situation and the place of the person who makes the communication; c. What has already happened (body harm, fire); and d. What measures does the person who makes the announcement intend to take (i.e. rescue the injured persons, extinguish the fire, etc.)

The following rule shall permanently be observed: b. Alarm c. Help d. Rescue/Extinction

Notifying Rescue Agencies The work area shall keep available communication equipment that can relay accurate information quickly. To do this, reliable communications equipment shall be used for example, cellular phones or two-way radios. Procedures shall be developed, and personnel trained in order to have timely communication both internally and externally. The work station/area shall have a backup system in place for example using the public media, mobile public address system, in case the normal system is rendered useless by the emergency. For example, telephone lines may be cut. The type and location of emergency communication systems will be posted at visible locations on the project. This will include location of telephones, a list of site personnel with cellular phones or two-way radios, and any other equipment available. Emergency phone numbers and the site address/location shall be posted beside all site phones. The Project Manager will inform the directors of the project regarding the evolution of the event and will make the necessary requests deemed necessary to attend the emergency.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani A communication system shall be made up of strategically placed equipment and properly defined responsibilities. The emergency response plan posted in a conspicuous place on the project shall identify the designated equipment and the people to operate it.

In summary, for notification the following steps shall be considered: a. Use the emergency telephone list that shall remain in a visible place or be carried by field personnel. b. The notifying person shall provide clear and specific information as follows: i. Name of the company. ii. Name and work position of who makes the call. iii. Description of the situation at hand and special requirements if any iv. Exact address of the company or the site where the emergency occurs (giving directions to make access to the location easier.) v. Phone number of where to call to confirm the veracity of the claim made vi. Any other information requested by the rescue agency.

Emergency situations behavior In emergency situations, the site personnel shall be notified by a sound signal. General rules for emergency situations: a. keep calm; b. do not use the elevator/elevation/lowering systems; c. do not run to the locker room, toilet, etc.; d. do not waste your time by getting back your personal staffs; e. follow the directions of the site master; and f. do not leave the meeting place until you hear that the alarm signal has stopped. In case of an emergency situation that requests the evacuation of the site (the evacuation sound signal), the site personnel shall act according to the acceptable Evacuation procedures with calmness as warranted.

Behavior in case of accident In case of accidents, the following steps shall be observed: a. accident area shall be secured; b. first aid shall be requested for (the person trained for giving the First Aid); c. first aid shall be provided; d. if possible, the injured person shall be transported to the first aid point for medical care provided by a first aid qualified personnel; e. the Site Supervisor/Health and Safety Supervisor shall be notified on the accident; f. Ambulance, Police Fire and Rescue Brigade, nearby hospital/health facility shall be contacted; g. information on the accident report system shall be provided; h. the causes of the accident shall be analyzed; i. the cause of the accident shall be eliminated; j. all employees on site shall be notified and trained through the SSM Plan on the methods to avoid the similar accidents; k. there shall be checked whether elimination of the cause of accident was efficient; l. the accident shall be reported for statistics; and m. there shall be notified, depending on the circumstances (employer, site director).

Fire prevention

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Location of fire extinguishers, hydrants for the firemen hoses and of fire alarms shall be found in the plan drafted by the Contractors and approved by the workforce. Fire prevention plan, emergency exists, escape ways, meeting points, and first aid points. Phone numbers of the police force fire and rescue brigade, ambulance, hospital shall have the same treatment, and “general alarm rules.

Fire Prevention measures Fire prevention measures will focus on: a. training of all persons on the site about fire prevention; b. observing the no smoking areas; c. putting the cigarette ash in non-inflammable containers; d. storing the inflammable material as to not obstruct the exits; e. keeping the exits, the emergency exits, and the meeting points permanently free; f. maintaining the visibility of protection signs, marks (i.e. emergency exits, first aid); g. free access to extinguishers; h. escape ways and access of firemen shall not be blocked by car parking; i. works using fire shall only be performed according to the system based on work permit; j. daily evacuation of inflammable waste; and k. regular verification of extinguishers and of other equipment (according to legal provisions).

Behavior in case of fire In case of a fire the work force behave as follows: a. if for people rescue you need to pass through fired rooms/sheds, put a wet blanket on your head; b. carefully open the doors since the quick air inflow cause the quick increment of flames; c. through the thick smoke rooms, you need to walk out by crawling or bending; d. call the victims, find them, and rescue them; e. if your clothing lights up, do not run, lay down and roll over; f. throw a coat, a blanket/fireproof blanket or something sealant over the people whose clothing is on fire; g. in case of fire extinction use fire extinguishers, water, sand, dirt, covers, etc.; h. if the vertical side is on fire, throw water from upwards to downwards; i. flammable fluids shall be extinguished by covering them in sand, dirt, heavy blankets; j. electric systems shall only be extinguished after the prior disconnection of the power supply; and k. Leave the fired area down the wind.

Resource setup- Fire detection and protection facilities Liaise with Uganda Police fire-fighting department in the project districts; and use its facilities as one of our first Response Team in case of any fire emergency, prior arrangements should be done with Uganda Police.

Portable fire-fighting equipment. The following portable fire-fighting equipment or equivalent shall always be provided and available on different sections of the project facilities and sections of the road. a. 5 kg CO2 extinguishers b. 6 kg Dry chemical extinguishers c. 9 kg Dry chemical extinguishers. The portable equipment offered shall be of a type for which replacement cartridges and dry powder refills can be readily available locally.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Unexploded munitions Under the general munition names are also included the following: a. military, fire and hunting gun bullets; b. projectiles; c. bombs or rocket launcher; d. reactive munition; e. mines; f. signalizing bullets; g. grenades; h. bombs; and i. Any element loaded with explosive substances.

When dealing with such munition, observe the following rules such as not to: a. touch it; b. hit or move; c. put it in the fire; d. attempt to dismount the warheads or other components; e. let children play with such components; f. lift, transport or introduce unexploded munition or waste iron dumps in rooms; g. allow access, or to put the fire and not even to perform works on such sites etc.

When project management is notified about their existence, immediately inform the nearest police station and the nearest military establishments within the areas of the project.

Dangerous substances In case of dangerous substances emission or leak, the following procedures shall be observed: a. If the substance is known, the procedures according to the safety data sheet shall apply. b. If the substance is unknown, and it is assumed that it may endanger people’s health and safety (smell, smoke, smoldering), immediately inform the project manager; c. Immediately call nearest fire and rescue brigade; and d. Irrespective of the circumstances, leave the dangerous area quickly and securely.

Evacuation from the site To ensure the efficiency of the evacuation plan, the whole site personnel shall be trained in such operations. The emergency procedures shall be followed since the emergency situation has occurred and until when the situation on the site is safe.

Occurrence of emergency situations An emergency situation enforcing the evacuation occurs if: a. any dangerous substances or objects are found; b. a dangerous situation occurs, and which expands and jeopardize other persons as well; and c. there are persons exposed to a dangerous situation, who are not aware of it and who therefore cannot take any prevention measures.

Evacuation procedure

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani a. When perceiving an emergency situation, every person on the site has the obligation to notify the other persons, its supervisor and, if possible, the persons around it (by shouts, noises, warning signals, etc.) and to immediately go to the site management. The related person shall remain in the office to give detailed information to the site management, fire brigade, beneficiary, and to the authorities’ representatives; b. After evaluating the situation, the Site/Project Manager of the project and, any person responsible shall operate the alarm signal according to General rules in case of alarm in the project; c. When the alarm signal starts, all persons on the site shall walk to the exits, emergency exists, meeting points, as described in the site safety lay-out plan; d. As far as possible, effort be made to check if all persons in the area have been evacuated; e. Depending on the type of the emergency situation, one shall inform the related authorities (i.e. In case of bomb alarm, one shall notify army and police or area leadership); f. The Site Manager shall allow close inspection of the areas (as close as possible) to be able to evaluate the area and how can the related area be isolated of the rest of the site; g. If such area can be isolated, the site manager may decide the continuation of the works in the areas that are not exposed to that danger; h. The Site Manager shall remain in-charge of the isolated area and shall ensure that the area is tampered with till competent security agencies take charge of it; i. The Site Manager shall keep in touch with the authorities of the area till the area is declared safe and handed back to the project.

Verification of the alarm system Alarm system shall be regularly checked by its operation, every set day of the month and at set time in the day and should be by the designated Security Manager of the site. The check and results (maintenance and recheck) shall be registered. The Project Manager of the site may initiate an alarm exercise, in which situation it shall be reported.

Final Check Point In each work area, there shall be a suitable Emergency Assembly point to reunite the staff, considering the number of evacuees and checking that everyone has been able to get out. That is managed by the Emergency coordinator so that in case that there is someone missing, it can be reported in order to start the search procedure. The Emergency Coordinator together with rescue agencies, shall determine when the situation has been controlled and will evaluate if it is safe for staff to enter the facility again or, if they must remain outside.

Documentation Evacuation plan is part of the Emergency Plan, which is to be an integral part of the occupational and health and safety plan as well as related Plans in the project. All changes shall be registered in the documents and shall be communicated in occupational safety and health directions according to safety and health plan procedures.

The reasons of evacuation shall be identified and proper measures shall be taken in order to avoid future similar events. The measures shall be registered in the documents and communicated to all people on the site according to the safety and health procedures of the project. Moreover, a copy of the documentation shall be submitted to the Resident Engineer on the site.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani EMERGENCY ACTIONS AND RESOURCES

Composition of the Internal Emergency Response Team a. Project Manager b. Safety and Health Manager c. Social Manager d. Environment Control Officer.

Incidents Emergencies that might develop during construction activities include: a. Fire (involving fuels, gases and other materials); b. Personnel injuries due to traffic accidents and/or external impact, etc.; c. Construction activities (e.g. fall of material, manual and mechanical handling, use of hand tools, use of hazardous substances, etc.); and d. Medical cases.

Incidence Response Team (IRT) The Incident Response Team (IRT) that will be based at the contractor’s work area, will be trained and thus, will be responsible for dealing with all envisaged incidents and emergency situations that may occur on the project. In an event when the IRT is mobilized (due to an incident or emergency), the Project Manager will be notified immediately. The IRT will be chaired by Health and Safety Manager and shall include senior staff, Consultant, Construction team, Occupational Health and Safety Environment (OHSE) and Logistics department (HR) within the project. The IRT is responsible for monitoring the safety of everyone on the project, coordinating and responding to all emergency events during the construction and commissioning period and directly report to ERG Leader.

Emergency Response Group (ERG) The Emergency Response Group (ERG) will be based at the selected project site office in either districts headed by the Project Manager and their deputy, and is responsible for providing tactical response, support, assistance and advice to all incident and emergency situations at site/location and for providing operational response to any emergency. This plan shall describe how ERG will handle both the "technical" crises e.g. fire, explosion, oil spill, and "social" crises e.g. illness, injury, civil unrest. In an event when the ERG is mobilized due to an incident or emergency the Incident Management Team Leader shall be notified immediately. The function of the ERG is to coordinate and oversee arrangements to ensure that the IRT meets its emergency management obligations. The Project Manager or their deputy will be the Chair of the ERG and will nominate an Emergency Response Coordinator to coordinate with representatives from various agencies and senior staff from HR, Finance, HSE, Logistic, Security, IT and public affairs department within the organization.

Primary Responsibilities a. Direct the emergency response group members as appropriate to the emergency. b. Notify and liaise with the UNRA Team. c. To manage all emergency situations; d. To provide emergency support, advice and assistance to all the locations, assets and operations; e. Ensure liaison with Government, key stakeholders and local authorities in accordance with legal and legislative requirements

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani f. To inform the Incident Management Team of the names and conditions of all persons involved at the emergency location; g. To communicate with all national Companies, with employees or equipment at the emergency location and notify them of the names and condition of their employees; and h. To arrange the reception and treatment for all personnel evacuated from the emergency site.

Emergency Risk Management Emergency planning requires an identification and assessment and evaluation of the hazards likely to cause an emergency. Emergency risk management shall be carried out in accordance with OSH laws and guidelines to identify and set priorities to be addressed within an emergency management program. Emergency Risk Management focuses on reducing risk by modifying aspects of the source of the risk, the community or the environment- because it is impossible to completely prevent emergency situations from occurring.

Risk and Mitigation Measures Risk Preventative Mitigation Measures Road Accidents a. Traffic Control devices (road signs and markings, speed signs, stop signs, speed bumps and safety barriers) b. Infrastructure maintenance and improvements c. Maintaining traffic laws and guidelines d. Closing of road during extreme flooding. Chemical Spill/leak of a. Contractor Safety Department personnel shall possess enough Hazardous Materials on Hazardous safety training and have access to appropriate proper PPE. the road and Land Flooding a. Have contact of the metrological office for updated information on the weather forecast b. Fire brigade/ firefighting Department of Uganda Police shall be on standby just in case there is fire outbreak Terrorist Events/ Boom a. Regular contact and updates from National intelligence agencies Threats regarding threats such as landmines b. Random security checks at the project area during threats. c. Ugandan Army and Police personnel are appropriately resourced and trained to quickly respond to terrorist emergency events. Fire and Explosion a. Training staff for fire emergencies emergency b. Utilize Portable fire extinguishers for incipient fires c. Practice use of Hot-Work Permits: d. Plan for fire emergencies drills. e. All responsibility shall be defined for management and employees f. Chain of command shall be maintained to minimize any confusion Electrocution a. All employees to know how to turn off the power in an emergency. b. Always use dry hands when handling cords or plugs. c. Pull on the plug, not the cord, to disconnect it from the outlet. d. Staff to report any possible Electrical problems. e. Avoid handling a cord or plug that has exposed wiring; a damaged cord should be discarded. Only handle the insulated part of a plug or cord.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani f. Hire a licensed electrician to evaluate the electrical wiring, outlets, and switches to verify the system if it’s appropriate for safe work in all project facilities. Structure collapse a. Selection of an appropriate structural configuration and the careful detailing of structural members, such as beams and columns, and the connections between them. b. Test the response of structures to verify their seismic performance c. Construction of structures must have approval from specified authorities or body. Poisoning (Chemical) a. Intervene before the event, aiming to prevent it happening, either by controlling the victim’s access to the agent, controlling the action of an agent upon the victim, b. Educating communities and individuals about poison awareness and safety practices, or campaigning for initiatives such as safer packaging, labelling and storage of chemical products. c. Protect people, by improving the safety of products and the environment where they are used. d. Action shall be taken after an exposure has occurred, to prevent the poisoning from progressing to a more serious, irreversible or chronic stage and to restore the victim to his/her former state of health. e. Diagnosis and treatment of poisoned victims who cannot be treated to full recovery, to prevent death or permanent disability.

Review of Risks The Emergency Response Group (ERG) will review the risk/hazard register bi-annually following an incident. The review will: take account of any new or emerging risks that relate to emergency management and project assets. This may include the consideration of: a. Any new developments b. Hazard mapping studies c. Resource availability d. Identifying opportunities and mechanism to treat and mitigate risks e. Take account of new or changed risk controls f. Identifying the resources required to control risks and identify the means to attain those resources This Emergency Management Plan will be monitored, Reviewed and approved by the ERG in coordination with IRT.

Preparedness Preparedness ensures that arrangements and resources are maintained in a state of readiness to be mobilized and deployed for response and recovery to an emergency event. The Emergency Response Group (ERG) will oversee the adequacy of preparedness in case of an emergency event and will undertake the following preparedness activities: a. Alarms and signals to alert employees and the public shall be identified, this will include audio alarms or public address system. Management and employees shall know actions to take when an emergency alarm is activated.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani b. A chain of command shall be maintained to minimize any confusion. Trained personnel will be identified to coordinate the emergency-response actions. a. Ensure all staff are aware of, and hold enough competency to perform their emergency management roles and responsibilities; b. Arrange training and education programs for staff, contractors and community leaders, including environmental management committee members of the project; c. Conduct exercises to test specific aspects of the EMP, and its sub-plans or procedures; d. Establishing processes for lessons learned including conducting debriefs and reviews of other emergency events or exercises that are relevant to the project; e. Maintain working relationships for emergency management and refreshing any specific response and recovery support arrangements with stakeholders and other agencies; f. Ensure the Emergency Response Centre is adequate, accessible and properly resourced to meet needs during an emergency; and, g. Continual review, identification, evaluation and auditing of emergency management arrangements.

Training and capacity building Once the emergency response personnel or coordinator is designated, training workshops will be specific to each of the teams formed. These people will be identified and shall in turn be responsible for replicating, disseminating and monitoring the emergency plan in its various components and, of course, actively participating in case of an emergency. Disclosure of the Emergency Plan shall be made to all staff working on the project, as well as identifying the people in the response team and the activities to be followed. Professional training shall be given to the designated fire team. The

ERG will review staff and sub-contractor competency and identify training needs for IRT and ERG committee members, issues to be presented to staff will include: a. Trainings and workshops- by professional expertise/consultant from other emergency response organizations. b. Emergency event case studies; c. In-house training.

Emergency Drills The Emergency Response Group (ERG) will prepare sub-plans and procedures for the Incidence Response Team (IRT) on conducting test (mock) runs/exercises. The ERG will also determine the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency management arrangements and identify opportunities for improvement. Sample exercises will cover: Field exercises– where the scenario is created (e.g., a fire explosion or severe people injury that required immediate medevac) and emergency responders approach the scenario as though it were a real situation; Desktop exercise – Where the scenario is described, and participants discuss their roles and can examine various aspects and alternatives. This can include testing a procedure or process. The ERG will develop and execute an Exercise schedule. In determining what aspect of the emergency management process will be exercised, consideration will be given to: a. Any new or emerging risks; b. Those sections of the ERP that hasn’t recently been tested (whether in operations or an exercise); c. Where there have been specific changes in the emergency management roles or the personnel; When the ERG and Support Personnel are mobilized, they will proceed immediately to the Emergency Response Centre (ERC) in order to carry out the tasks and actions required.

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani Monitoring and Evaluation In order to know and assess the impact of the above policies and strategies on emergency management, constant and progressive monitoring and evaluation will have to be done. These action and strategies will require fine turning or modifications for them to respond to changing circumstances in the future. Furthermore, it is important that measures of progress and effectiveness of the proposed strategies are evaluated.

Objectives To determine the impact of the proposed actions and strategies, ascertain their progress and effectiveness.

Actions a. Ensure that all programs and activities related to emergency preparedness and management have well defined information; b. Establish progress indicators for all programs and activities, and where possible, set targets; c. Require that, all emergency management interventions out the methodology for monitoring and evaluation; d. Develop disaster management monitoring guidelines and a standardized reporting system to assist key stakeholders in the monitoring and data collection and reporting; and e. Undertake continuous and periodic evaluation of all aspects of emergency management programmes.

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Appendix 8: Record of Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations

Recordings of Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations

Aspect Concerns from participants RESPONSE/ PROPOSED MITIGATION Security concern The current status of using the The issue of insecurity will be handled ferry to cross River Nile at Laropi- at the national level. The Government Omi has been a strong security will be in charge of the security of the factor. With the construction of the place like any other area in the country bridge, there will be issues of insecurity from the neighboring countries for example attackers from Sudan to Uganda Project duration This is a- long- waited -for project. The project is the preliminary stages The stakeholders have fears that and a number of studies are being the project will take so long to start. conducted to inform the documents for When will the project start? What further actions. The commencement should leaders tell people about date is not yet fixed. the proposed project in terms of time of commencement Designs and Construction of Laropi bridge will The design team to be informed of this concerns on other not only serve West Nile region but view and concern. road projects the entire nation. In fact, it should not be looked at as a national Yes, it is conceivable. Currently UNRA project but a continental project. It has got many projects which were once is not only connecting Sudan and proposals. Even the Moyo- Atiak Road Congo but also Central African will ever be worked the proposed Republic. It will also enhance the Bridge will be worked on. The design Cairo- Cape town highway. Will team to be informed of this view and the design of the bridge take into concern consideration of the wider picture No. The proposed construction of of the beneficiaries of the proposed Moyo-Atiak- and proposed construction bridge? of Laropi-bridge are two independent If Moyo -Atiak road has been in a projects. The proposal of Laropi bridge bad condition for long, is it will not cancel the proposed Atiak- conceivable that the bridge of that Nimule road. nature can be constructed on The engineering team will harmonize laropi? the approach roads and the Moyo- We want the design of the bridge Atiak road to avoid the loss since the be in such way that it can allow approach roads will be diverted from boats to pass under the bridge. We the current road

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani used to have boat engines on this river. Will it be possible We have been hearing about the proposed construction of Moyo- Atiak road by UNRA? Now UNRA is again talking of construction of the bridge at Laropi. Does this mean that the proposed road was cancelled? Is there a way of harmonizing this current road works from Moyo, Laropi up to Atiak so that it can easily connect to the proposed bridge and build some of the town roads of Laropi? Compensation Will they compensate only the All land in in Uganda is worth and valuation. affected households or even the something, so every land has value agricultural land and grazing areas. and all will be assessed and If the road construction affects the compensated rocks, will the rocks be The owners of the roads will be compensated. compensated. Fear of inadequate compensation The assessment of affected properties to enable the PAPs replace their will be conducted guided by a project property. level methodology that was developed also approved by the Chief Government Valuer (CGV). The key intention of the methodology is to ensure that assessments are conducted based on the principle of full replacement cost. Other uplifts in form of targeted assistance to vulnerable households and support for livelihood restoration or enhancements shall be provided to affected household on a case by case basis. Restoration of When the bridge is diverted from A through study will be conducted on livelihoods. the current landing sites, the the business communities and the economic activities at the landing appropriate actions will be done for the sites will be disrupted e.g eating affected persons. places, kiosks, dry and fresh fish vendors, motor boat transport and boda-boda all will be affected and people will automatically lose livelihoods. What plans do you

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani have for such people since it’s the source of fees and food? Job opportunities Will the local community benefit UNRA always tasks the contractors to from job opportunities during the employ people from the local bridge construction? communities especially for non-skilled labor. HIV/AIDs There is the risk of HIV/AIDS Nominated Service Provider is prevalence increasing in the area when the engaged to manage the awareness construction starts. How is it going about HIV/AIDS in the project area to to be handled? mitigate against the spread of the scourge Fatherless Chines fathering babies within the Adequate sensitization will be children. community and leave them behind conducted both for community at the end of the project. What will members and the project workforce to UNRA do about this issue mitigate against this issue. The project may not necessarily be implemented by the Chinese company but the sensitization will cover which contractor. Destruction of Will they Plant trees along the UNRA has a program called GROW existing road? Since they are going to cut that plants trees along all the right of vegetation down some trees. way on UNRA roads. So trees will be planted on the approach roads Aquatic The bridge could be constructed on Adequate studies will be conducted to destruction the breeding fish places /areas. cater for such concerns. UNRA should consult with ministry of Fisheries for technical guidance. Land ownership UNRA has got land around the The land will be still be for UNRA since landing site are you going to hand UNRA is the government body over the land to the local government? Vulnerability There are old people, People with The project pays keen attention to issues Disabilities and families which are people with advanced age, persons head by young people in the ROW with disabilities (PWDs) and all other vulnerable groups. These are identified and their households are further assessed to determine level of extra support required for them to replace their livelihoods. Those that are found to be really deserving are supported by the project team to replace their land and housing while those whose social support at the family level is found to be strong enough, are assisted to

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani purchase land and to replace their houses There are some features of public Adequate engagements will be Historical sites interest on the proposed approach conducted with the custodian of the road –Omi side. It is said that there said physical Cultural Resources to are cultural attachments on the establish the facts about them and act caves inside the rocks on Omi accordingly. village. Will the project affect them Aspect Concerns from participants RESPONSE/ PROPOSED MITIGATION Security concern The current status of using the The issue of insecurity will be handled ferry to cross River Nile at Laropi- at the national level. The Government Omi has been a strong security will be in charge of the security of the factor. With the construction of the place like any other area in the country bridge, there will be issues of insecurity from the neighboring countries for example attackers from Sudan to Uganda Project duration This is a- long- waited -for project. The project is the preliminary stages The stakeholders have fears that and a number of studies are being the project will take so long to start. conducted to inform the documents for When will the project start? What further actions. The commencement should leaders tell people about date is not yet fixed. the proposed project in terms of time of commencement Designs and Construction of Laropi bridge will The design team to be informed of this concerns on other not only serve West Nile region but view and concern. road projects the entire nation. In fact, it should not be looked at as a national Yes, it is conceivable. Currently UNRA project but a continental project. It has got many projects which were once is not only connecting Sudan and proposals. Even the Moyo- Atiak Road Congo but also Central African will ever be worked the proposed Republic. It will also enhance the Bridge will be worked on. The design Cairo- Cape town highway. Will team to be informed of this view and the design of the bridge take into concern consideration of the wider picture No. The proposed construction of of the beneficiaries of the proposed Moyo-Atiak- and proposed construction bridge? of Laropi-bridge are two independent If Moyo -Atiak road has been in a projects. The proposal of Laropi bridge bad condition for long, is it will not cancel the proposed Atiak- conceivable that the bridge of that Nimule road. nature can be constructed on The engineering team will harmonize laropi? the approach roads and the Moyo- We want the design of the bridge Atiak road to avoid the loss since the be in such way that it can allow

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani boats to pass under the bridge. We approach roads will be diverted from used to have boat engines on this the current road river. Will it be possible We have been hearing about the proposed construction of Moyo- Atiak road by UNRA? Now UNRA is again talking of construction of the bridge at Laropi. Does this mean that the proposed road was cancelled? Is there a way of harmonizing this current road works from Moyo, Laropi up to Atiak so that it can easily connect to the proposed bridge and build some of the town roads of Laropi? Compensation Will they compensate only the All land in in Uganda is worth and valuation. affected households or even the something, so every land has value agricultural land and grazing areas. and all will be assessed and If the road construction affects the compensated rocks, will the rocks be The owners of the roads will be compensated. compensated. Fear of inadequate compensation The assessment of affected properties to enable the PAPs replace their will be conducted guided by a project property. level methodology that was developed also approved by the Chief Government Valuer (CGV). The key intention of the methodology is to ensure that assessments are conducted based on the principle of full replacement cost. Other uplifts in form of targeted assistance to vulnerable households and support for livelihood restoration or enhancements shall be provided to affected household on a case by case basis. Restoration of When the bridge is diverted from A through study will be conducted on livelihoods. the current landing sites, the the business communities and the economic activities at the landing appropriate actions will be done for the sites will be disrupted e.g eating affected persons. places, kiosks, dry and fresh fish vendors, motor boat transport and boda-boda all will be affected and people will automatically lose livelihoods. What plans do you

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Photographs of Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations

Stakeholder engagements at Adjumani district -14-11-2019

Enagement with Chairman LCV at Adjumani on 14-11-19 Key infromant interview with Chairman LCV at Adjumani on 14-11-19

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Key infromant interview with CAO at Adjumani on 14-11-19

Stakeholder engagement at Adjumani district local Government on 15-11-2019

Community engagement for Arra Central village omi landing site on 20-11-2019

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Environmental and Social Impact Statement (ESIS) for Proposed Construction of Laropi/Umi Bridge Connecting Moyo and Adjumani

Stakeholder engagement with business community in Laropi, Moyo side -21-11-19

Community engagement for Pakoma and Lugubu south villages at Laropi landing site on 22-11-2019

Engagement with fish Vendors Umi landing sites Engaement with clan leaders on OMI rocked percieved as PCR

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Attendance Lists of Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations

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