ministry of energy and mineral development · ministry of energy and mineral development...

RP195

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND MINERALDEVELOPMENT

ENERGY FOR RURAL TRANSFORMATION PROJECT

Expansion of a Micro-hydro Station at Kisiizi:Environmental Impact Study

Final ReportOctober, 2001

Prepared by:NORPLAN (U) Ltd.P.O.Box 7544KAMPALA, UGANDATel: 257276, 34024415Fax: 257861Email: [email protected]

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Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Backqround

There is growing demand for electricity in rural Uganda, which is cur-rently not being met by the present supply. The Government ofUganda (GoU) and the Uganda Electricity Board (UEB) have recentlyintroduced measures to decentralise the sector as part of a strategyto correct shortfalls and encourage private participation in the powermarket.

The World Bank (WB) is providing assistance through the Energy forRural Transformation (ERT) project as part of a large initiative enti-tled African Rural Renewable Energy Initiative (AFRREI). The objec-tive for the programme is to facilitate private sector involvement insupplying electricity as a catalyst for general rural development. Theproposed Kisiizi mini-hydropower project in the West Nile falls underthe category of 'independent grid systems in isolated areas' and isthus eligible for financial support through the programme.

The objective of this study was to conduct a scoping exercise in orderto ensure that the first phase of the project would conform to GoUand WB guidelines on environmental and social safeguards. This en-tailed a review of an existing Business Plan and the Project Designand Cost Estimates Report, site visits and consultations with variousstakeholders. The method used in appraising the project consists ofthree steps: evaluating baseline data, assessing impacts according tomagnitude and duration, and arriving at an overall impact assess-ment. A review of the policy, legal and institutional framework is alsoprovided.

Project Description

The proposed Kisiizi Electrification project (Phase I) is a an expan-sion of existing micro-hydro station from 60kW to 250kW and con-struction of distribution lines to serve the surrounding communities.The present project is currently supplying the Hospital Energy needs.

The project is targeting; Kisiizi hospital, Kisiizi trading centre, Kisiizimarket and the Kihanga area with a total peak demand of 182 kW.The local mini grid is to be extended to serve communities within adistance of 2km from the generation centre. The project will use localeucalyptus poles obtained from within their forest reserves within thesite for construction of the 11 kV overhead lines.

The project is estimated to cost USD 0.5 million plus additional distri-bution costs of USD 0.2 million, proposes to manage billing systemby using smart card boxes or prepayment wherby one gets automati-cally disconnected once the prepaid bill expires. The tariffs to be lev-ied have been studied and are expected to be affordable comparedwith the current expenditures on alternative energy uses.

Proiect Settinq

The project is located at the Rushoma River, near Kisiizi Falls, Ru-kungiri District on the Rushoma River. There are no scale industries

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Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page ii

in the vicinity of the site and the resultant air and water quality is con-sidered to be fairly high. Vegetation and wildlife were considered ashaving a low value along with the aquatic ecosystem and biodiversityfor the region. This is primarily because the area is highly cultivatedand inhabited by native Bakiga people. The majority are subsistencefarmers practising customary land tenure and limited crop rotation.Kisiizi Falls are within freehold lands owned by the hospital of thechurch of Uganda. There is little in the way of cash crop or othereconomic activity except petty trading. A few of the households de-rive their livelihood from employment income. Services andinfrastructure are poor to inadequate. As a result, the local populationwelcome the project as a development opportunity.

Proiect Impacts

The most important impacts to consider are changes in river flow,water quality and aquatic ecosystem as a result of reduced flow be-tween the intake and the outlet, and general changes in water condi-tions and characteristics. Impacts on vegetation, wildlife and otherenvironmental issues are considered low or minimal.

Impacts on the human environment that warrant consideration arethe loss of land and agricultural and eucalyptus production due to in-undation by the reservoir. In addition, the creation of the reservoirmay lead to increase in some water-borne diseases. Also influx ofpeople into the project area may lead to an increased incidence ofsexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV/AIDS. Finally,the visual and aesthetic aspects of the rapids along this stretch of theRushoma River will be diminished during the dry season.

The potential benefits of the project are also highlighted. Clearly thedemand for a regular supply of electricity to Kisiizi hospital and sur-rounding areas is most welcome and should lead to considerableeconomic development as well as social improvements touching onvery many aspects of people's lives. In investments in anticipation ofthe project being built, the value of land has gone up and investmentsseem to be increasing.

Recommendations

In order to eliminate or reduce negative impacts a number of mitiga-tion measures are recommended. They include restrictions on clear-ing for construction, erosion prevention, waste disposal, awarenesscreation.

There is spearheaded initiated need for optimising positive impactsthrough the employment of locals for non-skilled labour, improved in-frastructure by the district administration and credit schemes initiatedby NGOs in the vicinity of the project.

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Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ............................................... 1-1

1.1 Background ............................................... . 1-11.2 Objectives of the study ............................................... 1-21.3 Study team ............................................... . 1-21.4 Methods ............................................... .1-21.5 Policy, legal and administrative framework ............................................... 1-4

1.5.1 Environment Management ............................................... 1-41.5.2 Wildlife Management ............................................... 1-51.5.3 Electricity Regulation ............................................... 1-51.5.4 Water Resource Management ............................................... 1-61.5.5 Land ............................................... 1-61.5.6 Privatisation and Investment ............................................... 1-61.5.7 Local Government Act ............................................... 1-71.5.8 Local Councils ................................................ 1-71.5.9 Private Sector, Civil Society Institutions, NGOs ............................................... 1-71.5.10 0ther Relevant Legislation ...................... ......................... 1-71. 5. 11 International Agreements (To be revisited) .................................... 1-81.5.12 Donors and Financing Institutions ........ ................................. 1-8

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................ 2-1

2.1 Project development objectives ................................................ 2-12.2 Studies and present state of the project ............................................ 2-12.3 Technical Description ................................................ 2-1

2.3.1 The Present Scheme ............................................... 2-12.3.2 The Proposed Scheme ............................................... 2-2

2.4 Alternatives to the project ............................................... 2-22.44.1 Extend the UEB National Grid ............................................... 2-22.4.2 Diesel Generation ............................................... 2-32.4.3 The Zero Option ............................................... 2-3

3 PROJECT SETTING ............................................... 3-1

3.1 Biophysical environment .................... 3-13.1.1 Location ................... 3-13.1.2 Air quality ................... 3-13.1.3 Water quality ................... 3-13.1.4 Vegetation ................... 3-33.1.5 Wildlife ................... 3-33.1.6 Aquatic ecosystem ................... 3-43.1.7 Biodiversity ................... 3-5

3.2 Human Environment .. 3-53.2.1 Human Population .3-53.2.2 Agriculture .3-63.2.3 Economy and Trade .3-73.2.4 Land Tenure and Administration .3-73.2.5 Energy .3-83.2.6 Health .3-83.2.7 Education .3-93.2.8 Other Services .3-9

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3.2.9 Cultural heritage ........................................ 3-103.2. 1OAttitudes to the projects ........................................ 3-10

4 PROJECT IMPACTS .......................................... 4-1

4.1 Impacts on the biophysical environment .......................................... 4-14.1.1 River flow ........................................ 4-14.1.2 Water quality ........................................ 4-14.1.3 Soil degradation and erosion ........................................ 4-24.1.4 Air pollution and noise ........................................ 4-24.1.5 Vegetation ........................................ 4-34.1.6 Wildlife ........................................ 4-44.1.7 Aquatic ecosystem ........................................ 4-44.1.8 Biodiversity ........................................ 4-54.1.9 Potential benefits ........................................ 4-5

4.2 Impacts on Human Environment ........................................... 4-64.2.1 Loss of agricultural land ........................................ 4-64.2.2 Resettlement ........................................ 4-74.2.3 Population influx ........................................ 4-74.2.4 Health risks ........................................ 4-84.2.5 Visual aspects ........................................ 4-84.2.6 Potential benefits ........................................ 4-9

4.3 Overall impact assessment ........................................... 4-11

5 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS . . .............................. 5-1

5.1 Environmental Management Plan .......................................... 5-15.2 Mitigation Measures .......................................... . 5-1

5.22.1 Minimum bypass flow ........................................ 5-25.2.2 Compensation plan ........................................ 5-35.2.3 Measures to optimise positive impacts ........................................ 5-3

5.3 Proposed Monitoring .......................................... . 5-45.3.1 Biophysical environment ........................................ 5-45.3.2 Human environment ........................................ 5-55.3.3 Monitoring plan for Kisiizi Waterfalls ........................................ 5-5

5.4 Conclusion ........................................... 5-6


Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page v

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 3-1 PLANT SPECIES RECORDED IN THE PROJECT AREA ..................... ........................... 3-3TABLE 3-2 BIRD SPECIES IN THE PROJECT AREA .................................................................... 3-4TABLE 3-3 DEMOGRAPHIC FEATURES OF THE FORMER RUKUNGIRI DISTRICT

(I.E.KANUNGU AND RUKUNGIRI) .................................................................... 3-6TABLE 3-4 MAJOR CROPS GROWN ARE DISPLAYED IN THE TABLE BELOW ............................. 3-7TABLE 3-5 THE SIX LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH IN THE DISTRICT ARE GIVEN

IN TH E TA BLE BELO W . . ...................................................................... 3-9

TABLE 3-6 POPULATION SERVED BY A PROTECTED WATER SOURCE INRUBABO COUNTY .................................................................... 3-10

TABLE 4-1 OVERALL IMPACT ASSESSMENT .................................................................... 4-7TABLE 5-1: MITIGATION MEASURES OVERVIEW ..................................................................... 5-7


Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page vi

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeEIA Environmental Impact AssessmentHIV Human Immuno-deficiency Viruskm/s kilometre per second

M2km square kilometrem2 ~square metre

m3/s cubic metres per secondmasl metres above sea levelMW MegawattMWh Megawatt-hourNGO Non Government OrganisationsOD Operational Directive (World Bank)STD Sexually Transmitted DeceaseToR Terms of ReferenceUNDP United Nation Development ProgrammeUSD United States of America DollarWB World Bank


Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page vi;

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Environmental and Social Study Team, NORPLAN (U) Ltd. Con-sulting Engineers and Planners wishes to express gratitude to all thepersons who were consulted for the useful contribution that made thestudies successful. In this regard, the Commissioner of the Ministry ofEnergy and Mineral Development; Mr. Godfrey Turyahikayo, the As-sistant Commissioner of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Devel-opment; Eng. Paul Mubiru are acknowledged. Gratitude is also due toMr. W. Tibanyenda (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Mr. Patterson(Hospital Finance Manager) and Mr. M. Mugume (Hospital Adminis-trator), for being very helpful and making very useful contribution tothe studies. Local Officials and residents in the proposed Kisiizi pro-ject area were very responsive for which the team is grateful.


Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects Page 1-1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

In order to meet the growing demand for rural electricity, theGovernment of Uganda (GOU) and the Uganda Electricity Board(UEB) has recently introduced measures to decentralise electricitygeneration as part of a strategy to correct serious shortfalls inperformance. With one of the lowest per capita electricityconsumption in the world (62 kWh/year) and with approximately 5%of households having access to grid-supplied electricity, the presentrate of additional customs of 10,000 per year is not sufficient. With apopulation growth of 2% per year, 90,000 customers are requiredmerely to retain the present low level of electricity consumption (ToR,p. 1).

The new Electricity Law provides for measures of 'unbundling' UEBand encourages private participation in the growing power market.This commercially oriented approach could have importantconsequences for rural electrification. The government has soughtthe assistance of the World Bank (WB) in implementing a new ruralelectrification strategy. This consists of the following elements:

* Level playing field for private sector participants

* Enabling regulatory framework

* Cost recovery and cost-based tariffs

* Subsidy transfer and financing mechanism

Energy for Rural Transformation (ERT) for Uganda is under a largeWB initiative entitled African Rural Renewable Energy Initiative(AFRREI) whose objectives are to facilitate private sector energydevelopment schemes in rural Africa and to utilise these schemes asa catalyst for general rural development. The ERT is a proposed 10-year loan programme that aims to provide rural households withreliable supplies of electricity and the benefits that come from this. Inaddition, rural enterprises should receive assistance in switching overfrom traditional other sources of energy. The global objective of theprogramme is the promotion of renewable energy. Each programmewill have capacity building aspects and conform to GOU's and WB'ssocial and environmental standards. These projects in general terms,fall into category 'B' of the WB assessments, that is projects withsome impacts of the social and biophysical environments - (b) ruralelectrification.

The first phase of the ERT programme will have the followingcomponents:

Main grid related power distribution and generation, that isconnecting rural areas to the main grid



* Independent grid systems in isolated areas

* Individual or institutional solar photovoltaic systems (PV) indispersed areas

* Pilot schemes for scaling up traditional energy uses

The Kisiizi micro-hydropower project at the Kisiizi Hospital inRukungiri District in southern Uganda can be considered under thesecond component of this programme.

1.2 Objectives of the study

According to the ToR, the objectives are to ensure the investmentsfor the first phase of the ERT comply with GOU and WB standardsand social safeguard policies. In addition, recommendations for aframework for ensuring compliance of future projects within the ERTprogramme will be worked out based on reviews of this and otherstudies.

This particular study involves an assessment of the Kisiizi micro-hydropower project in Rukungiri District in relation to GoU standards,environmental legislation, regulations and administrative frameworkand WB's 10 Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies.

1.3 Study team

The study team comprised of both local and international consultantswith backgrounds in Environmental Assessment in Uganda and withfamiliarity with WB projects and standards.

The core NORPLAN team consisted of:

Prof. Mary Okwakol- Team Leader/EIA SpecialistNakandha

Dr. Stephen Sparkes Social Impacts/Resettlement SpecialistStephen Ajalu Physical Impacts/Material EngineerKatrin Lervik Environmental Planner/HydrologistGertrude B. Magezi SociologistVSocio-EconomistBackstoppingQuinto A. Ouma Technical advice on: Power generation; Power

distribution; Transmission lines; Rural Electrifi-cation

Deo R. Nkunzingoma Technical advice on: Environmental Legislation;Institutional Legislation and Regulations

Lawrence L. Omulen Project administrative issues and technical ad-vice on economic issues of the study.

1.4 Methods

Three main methods were used by the consultant in formulating thisreport:

. Literature review of reports, documents and other informationabout the project (see Section 2.2 below)



* Site visit, including the project area (proposed reservoir and pow-erhouse, canals and penstock) and the Kisiizi Hospital site andsurrounding areas

* Consultations with the Client, the developer, district officials, localleaders and project affected persons at the site and potential pro-ject beneficiaries.

The methods used for assessing project impacts and arriving at rec-ommendations and conclusions is a method that NORPLAN hasworked out on other EIA scoping studies. This is based on a three-stepprocedure making assessment of impacts, conclusions and recom-mendations more objective, easier to understand and possible to traceback if desired. The core of the procedure is to combine the 'value' ofthe affected environment and the 'magnitude of impacts' to arrive at an'overall impact assessment'.

Step 1

Firstly, baseline conditions both environmental and social are describedin detail and a value, on a scale from 'low value' to 'high value', is as-signed to the impact zones and the characteristics thereof. This valueis related to international, national or local guidelines, standards andevaluations. In the case of the human environment, people, culturesand health can not be ranked in such a manner and, unlike the varyingvalues of the biophysical environments, are all classified as having a'high value'.

Low Medium High

… ---------- ----I---------------

Step 2

The second step is to describe and evaluate the magnitude of potentialproject impacts. The impacts are measured in terms of their extent intime and space, the vulnerability of the environments affected, theprobability that impacts will occur and the reversibility of impacts. Themagnitude of impacts is evaluated on a scale from 'high negative' to'high positive'.

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'hase Magnitude of impacts on ..

Negative Positive

High Medium Little / no Medium High

j ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I

Step 3

The third and final step is combining the "value" (step 1) and "the mag-nitude of impacts" (step 2) to obtain the "overall impact assessment"(step 3). This assessment evaluated the importance of an impact on ascale from "very large negative" to "very large positive". For instance,an area of 'high value' affected by a 'high negative impact' results in anoverall impact assessment of 'very large negative impact', while anarea of 'low value' affected by a 'high negative impact' may give anoverall assessment of 'small negative impact'

1.5 Policy, legal and administrative framework

This section discusses the policy, legal and administrative frameworkwithin which the TOR for the EIA for the Kisiizi Hydropower Projecthas been prepared. National and International environmental re-quirements and guidelines are discussed along with relevant interna-tional environmental agreements and conventions.

1.5.1 Environment Management

Under the National Environment Statute, 1995 (GoU, 1995) the Na-tional Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is the principalagency in Uganda for the management of the environment and shallco-ordinate, monitor and supervise all activities in the field of the en-vironment (GoU 1995a:18). NEMA is under the Ministry of Lands,Water and Environment, and has a cross-sectoral mandate and isalso to review and approve ElAs.

NEMA has issued guidelines on ElAs (NEMA 1997). In 1998 'TheEnvironmental Impact Assessment Regulations' (GoU 1998) was ap-proved by the Ugandan Parliament. The actual implementation of theEIA process remains a function of the relevant line ministries and de-partments, the private sector, NGOs and the general public.

The National Environment Statute, 1995 (GoU 1995a) provides toolsfor environmental management that hitherto had not been employed,including ElAs. The statute imposes a mandatory duty on a projectdeveloper to have an Environmental Impact Assessment conductedbefore implementing the project.

The EIA Regulations, 1998 (GoU 1998) specifies the types of pro-jects to be subject to ElAs. An EIA should be conducted for plannedactivities that may, are likely to, or will have significant impacts on theenvironment. The EIA required should be appropriate to the scale



and possible effects of the project, and therefor the EnvironmentStatute recognises three levels of EIA:

1. An Environmental Impact Review shall be required for small-scaleactivities that Day have significant impact.

2. An Environmental Impact Evaluation for activities that are likely tohave significant impacts.

3. A Environmental Impact Study for activities that will havesignificant impacts.

Determination of the level of the EIA required is done through thescreening stage, and the National Environment Guidelines provide achecklist where environmental factors potentially affected are listed.This is a useful tool in the first stage in determining the category un-der which the projects fall.

1.5.2 Wildlife Management

Uganda Wildlife Statute, 1996 sets out the procedure of declaringWildlife conservation areas and sets out the purposes for which ar-eas may be declared "Wildlife Conservation Areas". This statute es-tablishes a body corporate called the "Uganda Wildlife Authority"(UWA). The Statute designates the Authority as the Lead Agency forthe purposes of the EIA and in consultation with NEMA is supposedto carry out Environmental Audits.

Section 16 of the Uganda Wildlife Statute, 1996 also requires an EIA.It states: "Any developer desiring to undertake any project which mayhave a significant effect on any wildlife species or community shallundertake an environmental impact assessment in accordance withthe National Environment Statute, 1995." (GoU 1996:22).

This Statute is relevant for the operations of UEB or its successorcompanies especially for activities such as transmission and distribu-tion line construction in areas designated as National Parks, Wildlifeconservation and protected areas.

1.5.3 Electricity Regulation

The Electricity Act of 1964 provided the Legal Framework for opera-tion, empowered UEB to supply electricity to or take it away from anyperson inside or outside Uganda. The Electricity Act, Cap 135 hadestablished UEB as a statutory power to exercise Corporate and mo-nopoly functions relating to the generation, transmission, distribution,supply of electricity, licensing and other regulatory functions.

The Electricity Act 1964 was recently reviewed and the Electricity Act1999 enacted. The Electricity Act 1999 creates the Electricity Regula-tory Authority (ERA) which is supported by a secretariat. The Act alsoallows for entry of private players in the Electricity Sector through adetailed licensing mechanism overseen by the ERA. The Authorityhas the power to issue licenses to any person intending to participatein generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The sale,



export and import of electricity are also licensable. However this Elec-tricity Act 1999 is not yet fully operational.

Kisiizi Hospital, as an Independent Power Producer (IPP), can be li-censed to generate and sell power in accordance with its Implemen-tation and Power Purchase Agreements with ERA. The electricity act1999 requires the IPP to pay royalties to the district Local Govern-ment in which the generating station is located.

Before the Electricity Regulatory Authority, issues a license for any ofthe activities supposed to be licensed under the Electricity Act, it shallrequire that the applicant first produces a certificate of approval fromNEMA.

1.5.4 Water Resource Management

The Water Statute, 1995 (GoU 1995b) provides for the use, protec-tion and management of water resources and supply. The objectivesof the statute are:

* to promote the national management and use of Uganda watersthrough the introduction and application of standards and tech-niques and co-ordination of all public and private activities thatmay influence water quality and quantity and

* to allow for the orderly development and use of water resourcessuch activities as generation of hydroelectric or geothermal en-ergy. (Rephrase).

1.5.5 Land

The land Act 1998 provides for the ownership and management ofland. It provides for four different types of land tenures (Customary,Leasehold, Mailo and free hold) and the procedure for applying forgrant of any of these tenures. The Act provides that non-citizens ofUganda may only be granted leases not exceeding 99 years.

The Act inter alia provides that the construction of electric lines, damsand hydropower plants are public works. Any person authorised toexecute public works on any land may enter into mutual agreementwith an occupier or owner of the land in accordance with the act. (Notclear).

1.5.6 Privatisation and Investment

The Investment Code Statute, sets out the procedure for an invest-ment license and the kind of information to be included therein. Itmakes provision for the Investment Authority as a body corporate todistinguish between foreign and non-foreign investors. The code pro-vides that Investment in the energy conservation industry is priorityand requires the investor to perform an Environmental Impact As-sessment for approval by NEMA before the project is implemented.

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1.5.7 Local Govemment Act

The Local Government Act 1997 provides for decentralisation anddevolution of government functions, powers and services. The Actsets up the political and administrative functions of local govern-ments. The Electricity Act 1999 authorises the ERA to delegate someof its licensing functions to local governments and to be paid royaltiesby the developers.

Rukunqiri District Administration

Kisiizi Hydropower Project is located at Rushoma River in Nya-rushanje Sub county, Rubabo County in Rukungiri District. The dis-trict was created under the Local Government Legislation. Its topadministrators include the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), thechairman Local Council Five (LC V) and the Chief Administrative Of-ficer (CAO).

Although technical expertise for hydropower project may not existamong the district officials, the Central Government will fill the gap bysourcing the required personnel.

1.5.8 Local Councils

The Local Councils and the entire community in the project area arewell organised. During the site visits, the local officials mobilised thecommunity for consultations. They seem to have established goodco-operative arrangements and therefore the capacity to deal with re-settlement issues at the time of project implementation.

The Local Councils and the communities have the potential to partici-pate in further studies of catchment area especially mobilisation al-though the capacity to deal with technical aspects does not exist. Avillage awareness seminar on social studies would enhance villagecapacity. This could be organised within the broad framework of thecatchment studies, should it be finally decided to have it done.

1.5.9 Private Sector, Civil Society Institutions, NGOs

Interested private sector institutions and NGOs will be given an op-portunity to participate in project implementation. The Kisiizi HospitalAdministration for instance, plans to hire a competent private com-pany to manage the sale of power. NGOs on the other hand haverelevant experience in the district and could play an important role incarrying out some of the mitigation and monitoring activities, in par-ticular related to social issues.

1.5.10 Other Relevant Legislation

The Uganda Constitution, 1995

The Constitution of 1995, Articles 39 and 41 provide that everyonehas a duty to maintain a sound environment. Every person inUganda has a right to a healthy and clean environment and as suchcan bring legal action for any pollution or disposal of wastes. Chapterthree section 245 stipulates that Parliament shall by law provide



measures intended to protect and preserve the environment fromabuse, pollution and degradation.

The Town and Country Planning Act Cap 30

This act provides for the orderly and progressive development of landin towns and other rural areas of the country. It defines building op-erations to include the making accessible of electrical installationsand development in relation to any land. Any placing of new poles fortransmission and distribution of electricity and construction of substa-tions would have to comply with the provisions of this Act.

1.5.11 Intemational Agreements (To be revisited).

Uganda has signed and ratified several international agreements re-lating to the environment, both global and regional. They include thefollowing:

a The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has a major objec-tive to ensure the conservation of biological diversity and the sus-tainable use of its components.

* The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species ofWild Fauna and Flora (CITES) seeks to ensure that the interna-tional trade in species of wild fauna and flora does not threatensurvival in the wild of the species concerned.

a Others such as the African Convention on the Conservation ofNature and Natural Resources (1968), signed the ProtocolAgreement on the Conservation of Common Natural Resources(1982) and the Lusaka Agreement of Co-operative Enforcementand Operations Directed at Illegal Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora(1994).

1.5.12 Donors and Financing Institutions

This scoping exercise follows international standards and proce-dures. It will therefore be possible, upon approval from NEMA, fordevelopers to seek financing and donor support from private andgovernment organisations.

The World Bank (IDA) has a range of relevant requirements andguidelines, including:

* Environmental Assessment Sourcebook (WB 1991a,b,c) and Up-dates (No.1-25).

* Operational Policies (OP), Bank Procedures (BP) and Good Prac-tice (GP) 4.01, Environmental Assessment (WB 1999a,b,c) (re-placing OD 4.00 and OD 4.01, WB 1989a,b).

* Operational Policies (OP) and Bank Procedures (BP) 4.04, Natu-ral Habitats (WB 1995 a,b).

. Operational Policies (OP) 4.07, Water Resources Management(WB 1993a).



. Operational Directive (OD) 4.20, Indigenous Peoples (WB1991 d).

. Operational Directive (OD) 4.30, Involuntary Resettlement (WB1990a).

Similarly, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is theprivate sector arm of the World Bank Group, has adopted 'Environ-mental and Social Safeguard Policies' which are quite similar to therequirements of the International Development Association (IDA) ofthe World Bank Group. The 'Environmental and Social SafeguardPolicies' of IFC consist of the following Operational Procedures (OP):

• OP 4.01, Environmental Assessment (IFC 1998a).

* OP 4.04, Natural Habitats (IFC 1998b).

* OP 4.10, Indigenous People (IFC 1998c).

* OP 4.11, Safeguarding Cultural Property (IFC 1998d).

* OP 4.12, Involuntary Resettlement (IFC 1998e).

* OP 4.36, Forestry (IFC 1998f).

* OP 4.37, Safety of Dams (IFC 1998g).

* OP 7.50, Projects on International Waterways (IFC 1998h).

In addition, bilateral donors have their specific guidelines for incorpo-ration of environmental and social concerns in to project planning andimplementation. This EIA has paid particular attention to Safeguardsof the World Bank.



2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Project development objectives

The aim of the project is to upgrade the micro-hydropower projectthat is already at the site from 60kW to 250kW in order to meet grow-ing demand at the hospital and to sell excess electricity to the nearbycommunity and trading centre. The upgrading also aims at providinga reliable source of electricity in a sustainable and environmentallyacceptable manner.

2.2 Studies and present state of the project

There have been a number of studies for the proposed micro-hydropower project. The Consultant obtained the following docu-ments of the previous studies for review:

* Sub-Project investments, Annex 3

* Business Plan

* Project design and Cost Estimates Report compiled by a SriLankan Consultant

* Socio-econom ic data was gathered by the District and is includedin the District Development Plan (2000).

The present project status can be described as in the 'FeasibilityStage' of development pending social and environmental approvaland financing. The Business Plan outlines a demand and the techni-cal reports and studies provide detailed plans. Several consultantteams have visited the site and there are high expectations from localcommunity.

2.3 Technical Description

2.3.1 The Present Scheme

The present micro-hydro electric power project at Kisiizi was built in1986 and is currently meeting the Hospital energy needs. The projectis a run-of-the river scheme using water diverted from the RushomaRiver by a weir located some 10 m up stream of the Kisiizi falls. Asmall reservoir of approximately 80 m2 is formed behind the weir. Thescheme consist of a concrete weir, a head-race channel at 90 de-grees to the river flow, a 90 m long open channel 1.2 x 1.0 m and a75 m long, 350 mm diameter steel penstock leading to the powerhouse.

The intake is not regulated and there is no desilting tank except forthe trash rack installed across the channel upstream of the penstockentry. The existing channel has been designed to convey 0.26 m3/s tothe turbine utilising a gross head of 31 m. The channel velocity has



been estimated at 0.31 m/s. The hydropower station currently sup-plies the hospital with power using 1.2 km of an underground ar-moured transmission cables.

2.3.2 The Proposed SchemeThe proposed project is a run-of-the river scheme with a capacity of250 kW. The scheme will entail increasing the height of the existingconcrete weir by 0.7 m and extending the riverbank walls (wing walls)a distance of 12 m up stream to create a reservoir. The fully open in-take is to be transformed into a controlled intake with an opening of1.2 m wide and 0.8 m height. A sluice gate will be introduced downstream to regulate the flow from 1.2 m3/s to 1.0. m3/s A new penstockwill have a diameter of at least 600 mm. Furthermore, a desilting tankand forebay are to be introduced just before the intake to the pen-stock by widening the existing channel to 4.5 m.

The project is targeting four load centres namely; Kisiizi hospital,Kisiizi trading centre, Kisiizi market and the Kihanga area with a totalpeak demand of 182 kW. The local mini grid is to be extended toserve communities within a distance of 2 km from the generation cen-tre. The project will use local eucalyptus poles obtained from withintheir forest reserves within the site for construction of the 11 kV over-head lines.

The hospital has a good reputation with the local communities and itdoes not want to get involved with debt collections and hence losename. The project therefore proposes to manage billing system byusing smart card boxes or prepayment whereby one gets automati-cally disconnected once the prepaid bill expires. The tariffs to be lev-ied have been studied and are expected to be affordable comparedwith the current expenditures on alternative energy uses.

The project is estimated to cost USD 0.5 million. No cost estimatesfor environmental and social mitigation and monitoring activities havebeen included. Furthermore, the costs for distribution is expected tocost some additional US D 0.2 million.

2.4 Alternatives to the project

Other alternatives for improving power supply in the area are consid-ered below.

2.4.1 Extend the UEB National Grid

The nearest national UEB grid to Kisiizi is at least 25 km . Accordingto the study conducted by ESKOM, a South African utility firm, ex-tending the grid was considered a cheaper option. However, the cur-rent demand of electricity on the National grid exceeds the energygenerated from the Owen Falls Dam. As a result of load shedding,most people will need a back up from the generators to make up forthe power shortages. This option would therefore be viable only whenthe proposed Bujagali Hydropower project is completed in 2005.

Krziisi Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


2.4.2 Diesel Generation

Diesel power stations have high operation and maintenance costsbecause of the high cost of diesel and spare parts. The economic lifeof the diesel generators is low and the spare parts are usually difficultto get due to technology changes. Diesel power has also generationlimitations making it difficult to extend to the potential load centres.Diesel power stations only operate for duration and at particular timesof the day (e.g. 4 hours in the evenings). The demand for power dur-ing daytime is therefore not met. Finally, emission of gases from thediesel generators is a source of pollution.

2.4.3 The Zero Option

The zero option assumes that no action is taken to improve thepower supply in the area, i.e. the situation continues as today. First,the hospital energy demand has exceeded the present generated ca-pacity. Secondly, most people in Kisiizi area utilise paraffin and drycells as the main source of energy. This energy source is not onlyexpensive but also limiting the development in the area.

There is a very high demand for power in the area. There is high ini-tiative among the communities and most people are willing to pay.



3 PROJECT SETTING

3.1 Biophysical environment

3.1.1 LocationThe Kisiizi micro-hydro power Project is located at the RushomaRiver near Kisiizi Falls in Kisiizi Hospital, Rukungiri District. The sitecan be accessed by the main highway from Kampala to Kabale viaMasaka and Mbarara towns branching of at Rubare town about 370km, then travelling some 40 km on a narrow rough gravel road toKisiizi Hospital.

The Rushoma river has got a catchment of 320 km2 at Kisiizi and it ispart of the large catchment of 1746 km2 at Kanungu-Rwenshamaarea. The average peak and low flows at Kisiizi are 4.17 m3/s (Nov -Dec) and 0.83 m3/s (Jul- Aug) res-pectively. In general, the river hasa flow of at least 1.0 m3/s during 10 months of the year.

The topography within the project site varies from 1600 m to 1650 mmasl and the terrain can be described as rolling and undulating withgentle to steep slopes devoid of forest cover. The river flows throughflat bottom valley bounded by gentle slopes that are cultivated andmeanders slightly towards the falls.

3.1.2 Air quality

No large-scale industries, urban areas or other major sources of airpollution exist in the project areas. The only source of air pollution isthe burning of hospital waste at a small incinerator near the presentpowerhouse. Ambient air pollution levels are generally very low.Noise levels in the areas are low as there are no significant sourcesof noise. No air quality or noise measurements have been made. Airquality is considered to be fairly high.

Air Quality Value Low Medium High

3.1.3 Water quality

In the absence of industrial activities and population pressure oncatchment resources, the water quality of the river in the study areais generally good. However no water quality sampling was performed.The water is not used for drinking purposes due to relatively high lev-els of sediment and water quality is given the value medium for theRushoma River due to the fact that the area upstream and in the pro-ject area is affected by human activities, in particular intensivecultivation along the right bank.

Water Quality Value Low Medium High



MAP OF UGANDA SHOWING THE DISTRICTSWHERE ERT SUB-PROJECTS ARE LOCATED



3. 1.4 Vegetation

The vegetation classifications and descriptions still used in Ugandaare based on concepts of Langdale-Brown and Osmaston (1967).Forest/savanna vegetation is found in many parts of Uganda and isdominated by elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) with isolatedforest and savanna. This type of vegetation covers most of South-western Uganda, where Kisiizi is located.

The vegetation of Rukungiri District is typical grass-savanna withAcacia species dominating. There are also some forests doting mostof the undulating hills and river valleys. However, Nyarushanje sub-county where Kisiizi is located is generally covered by PygenumMoist Montane Forest, a high altitude Forest.

Table 3-1 Plant Species recorded in the Project Area

Catchment Area River Bank Diversion andPower House

Eucalyptus species Acanthus pubescens Setaria sphacelata

Truirafetta macrophylla Pennisetum purpureum Pinns spImpatiens Eucalyptus spp Artocerpusnimniamiensis integritolia

Pennisetum purpureum Melananthera sp Zea mays

Eunsete ventricosum

Acalympha sp

Hibiscus sp

Typha sp

Arundinaria alpina sp

Trinfetta macrophylla

The value of the vegetation in upstream of the intake is low, consist-ing of production forest (Eucalyptus) and cultivated areas with only asmall section of the river having natural vegetation cover. There areno species of plants of regional or local importance in this part of theriver. The vicinity of the waterfalls has its own ecosystem due to theconstant spray and water.

Vegetation Value Low Medium High

3.1.5 Wildlife

There are about 380 species of mammals in Uganda and a largediversity of birds, reptiles and insects. Wildlife in terms of largeranimals is, however, very sparse in the project area, probably due tothe human activities in the surroundings. The mammal fauna of thedirect impact zone and the surrounding areas is dominated by smallmammals. The locals reported that they were in the vicinity of the



project.

The rivers and riverine vegetation, along with the surrounding areas,support various bird species, including the ones in Table 3-2 below.One bird species, the Slender-bill starling (Onychognathus tenui-rostris), is a unique bird found in the vicinity of the waterfall where itnests and feeds. This is not classified as endangered but Ugandahas a regional responsibility for its survival.

The local community reported few snakes in the area. Some men-tioned the presence of mangoose and wild cats.

Table 3-2 Bird species in the project area

Common Name Scientific (Latin) Name

Crowned crane Baleanca pavonina

Pied crow Corvus albus

African hawk eagle Hieraaetus spilogaster

Black kite Milvus migrans

Black billed dove Turtur abyssinicus

Glossy ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Slender-billed starling Onychognathus tenuirostnis

African pied wagtail Motacilla aguimp

Black chinned qualfinch Ortygospiza gabonensis

African mash owl Asio capensis

Red necked spurfowl Francolinus afer

The major disturbance in the project area is indirectly caused by habi-tat changes resulting from extensive cultivation. Species adapted toforest habitats have disappeared whereas species adapted to grass-land and human presence are favoured. The local population also di-rectly affects local wildlife through various forms of hunting. At pre-sent the most common wildlife in the area are birds, and thereforethese are the most hunted item.

Overall, the diversity and abundance of wildlife in the project areas islow and heavily influenced by human presence. Small animals likegiant rat dominate. The only larger animals reported were the mon-keys. All these species are common to the region and Uganda.

Wildlife Value Low Medium High

3. 1.6 Aquatic ecosystem

Although Uganda has a large number of fresh water fish in its variouslakes and rivers, the only few fish reported in the river that were har-vested by the local community is Clarius spp. No reports of fish mi-gration or other species were reported in interviews. The waterfall



acts, of course, as a natural barrier. Other acquatic organisms re-ported were frogs, crabs and worms.

Aquatic Ecosystem Low Medium HighValueI

3.1. 7 Biodiversity

No species, habitats on ecosystems of particular conservation con-cern have been reported. There have not been any rare, threatenedor endangered species identified. In general species diversity is lowas the project area is disturbed by human activities. Overall assess-ment in the whole project area is rated at having a medium valuesince most of the impacted area is cultivated.

Biodiversity Value Low Medium High

3.2 Human Environment

Rukungiri has been divided into two Districts of Kanungu and Ru-kungiri. The project is within Rukungiri which comprises of Rubaboand Rujumbura Counties. Kisiizi is in Rubabo County.

3.2.1 Human Population

According to the 1991 Population and Housing Census, the totalpopulation of the then Rukungiri District was 390,780 persons ofwhich 187,885 were male and 202,895 were females.

Kisiizi is in Nyarushanje subcounty whose population density range is150-199 persons per sq. km.

Population Trends

The population consists of a high proportion of children estimated atover 50% leading to higher overall dependency ratio of 113.8 com-pared to the national average of 102.5. By 1991 female populationaccounted for 52% of the total population of which 98% live in the ru-ral areas. The major ethnic groups in Rukungiri are Bakiga 65%, Ba-hororo 29%, Bafumbira 2.9% and Banyankole 1.4% (Bahima). InKisiizi the majority of the people are Bahororo but all are Bantuspeaking ethnic groups.

Population Growth

The population growth rate of Rukungiri is one of the highest inUganda standing at about 4.0% (ref. Rukungiri district profile 1998).This reflects a high fertility rate. This growth rate is higher than the



regional average of about 3.0 and the national level of about 2.5%per annum.

Population Density

Although the project area has one of the highest population density(150 199 persons per sq. km) some of the other subcounties havesparse population due to the presence of National parks and gamereserves. Table 3.3 shows key demographic features of the formerRukungiri district.

Table 3-3 Demographic features of the former Rukungiri district(i.e. Kanungu and Ruk ungiri)

Population Populat. Populat. Literacy rate

(Age 10 plus)

Census Male Female Total Density Growth 1991 %

Year ('000) ('000) ('000) lnh./km2 p.a.

1969 117.09 127.49 244.58 94.7 - Male53.9

1980 142.97 153.58 296.55 114.8 1.85 Female 46.1

1991 187.88 202.89 390.78 151.2 2.51 Average 56.6

Source: Adapted from the 1991 Population and Housing Census Re-port

Settlements

The settlement pattern in Rukungiri district is characterised by de-tached housing units (53%). These are either permanent or semi-permanent housing units. Up to 23% of the housing,units are mostlyhuts made out of temporary structures.

Within the project area, there exists at least 50 modern buildingswithin the Kisiizi hospital campus. Within a radius of about 1-2 kmsfrom the project site there are over 300 individuals and of either per-manent or semi-permanent structures. These households showedwillingness to have power connected to their residences/shops at areasonable cost.

3.2.2 Agriculture

Agriculture provides livelihood to over 80% to the rural population inRukungiri district. The 1991 population census indicates that between80% and 83% of the families are involved mainly in crop and live-stock production.

Agricultural production, which is predominantly rain fed, is carried outmostly on smallholdings using traditional technologies. In many areasthere is a high level of land degradation on account of increasingpopulation pressure and unsustainable agricultural practices.



Table 3-4 Major crops grown are displayed in the table below.Crop Total Average Total Production (UT)

Maize 1513.75 2724.73

Sweet Potatoes 1608.7 1624.8

Finger Millet 693.05 1384.10

Sorghum 970.43 2232.0

Beans 1255.8 2260.4

Groundnuts 4519.0 5423.0

Coffee 2720.0 2176.0

Tobacco 320.0 320.0

Bananas

Source: District Environment Profile - Rukungiri 1998.

The project area of Rubabo county grows a lot of bananas. Inter-cropping is common although bananas, beans, finger millet, coffeeand groundnuts are usually grown in pure stands. Physical degrada-tion in agricultural land has led to declining output levels resulting intocurrent problems of food insecurity.

Livestock: Management of Livestock is the second most importanteconomic activity in the project area. Key livestock include cattle,goats, sheep, pigs and poultry whose numbers have been increasingover years. The most dominant livestock system is communal graz-ing. The highest number of cattle is in Nyarushanje (7075) followedby Kebisoni (6940) both of which are in the immediate vicinity ofKisiizi.

Fishing: The major fishing area is Lake Edward, which is shared be-tween Uganda and Congo. It is far from the project area. There wasno information regarding fishing activities within the Kisiizi River.However, a number of fishponds have been rehabilitated. There are77 fishponds in Rubabo county.

3.2.3 Economy and Trade

The economy of Rukungiri district is based on agricultural production.The majority of the people (97%) are involved in subsistence farming.By 1991 the economically active population stood at 61%. About 74%of the total households derive their livelihood from farming, followedby employment income (9.8%) and trading (4.8%). Only about 60,000people (12%) of the total population in Rukungiri have been assessedfor payment of graduated tax. This accounts for about less than 15%of the District income. The most significant cash crops are coffee andbananas. Livestock (cattle) is the second most important economicactivity.

3.2.4 Land Tenure and Administration

Within Rukungiri district, three main types of land tenure system ex-ist. These are customary tenure, leaseholds and freehold. Customarytenure is the most widespread.

Kizilsi Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


Kisiizi Falls are within freehold lands owned by the hospital of Churchof Uganda. This has some advantages in case of need for compen-sation or other development obstacles. There is only one landlord todeal with.

The dominant form of land use in the project area is small-scale ofthe total land area in Rukungiri district is under protected areas man-aged by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. In Rubabo county, there areno protected areas.

3.2.5 Energy

The main source of energy in the district is fuelwood which accountsfor about 93% of the mean monthly household fuelwood consump-tion. The main source of charcoal is Nyarushanje subcounty whereKisiizi parish is found. Only a few places in the district have substan-tial bio-mass for charcoal production. There is a danger, therefore ofdepleting the available tree stock, which may lead to increased landdegradation.

There is a limited supply of electricity mostly to Rukungiri town via a32 kVA powerline. There about 600 consumers. There is virtually nosupply to the rural areas apart from the supply to Buyanja with justover 30 consumers.

Some power is generated at Kisiizi Falls but is privately owned by thelocal hospital. There have been demands for the extension of theKisiizi power scheme to accommodate a bigger area and serve morepotential customers.

The district gets petroleum products from Kampala depots. By 1997,the combined supply of petroleum product in the district was 88,430litres of petrol, 51,638 litres of diesel and 46,010 litres of kerosene.Kerosene is the most widely used fuel for lighting purposes.

3.2.6 Health

The Health condition of the people in the Project area is not differentfrom other districts in the country.

Table 3-5 The six leading causes of death in the district are given inthe table below.Disease/Condition Percentage of Disease Burden

1. Malaria 29.72. HIV/AIDS 17.53. Material and Peri-natal Mortality 16.44. Pneumonia 10.95. Diarrhoea Diseases and Dyenstry6. Tuberculosis 4.2Source: Community Diagnosis Survey, 1994



There are three hospitals, six-health centres, six dispensaries in thedistrict. In Rubabo county, where Kisiizi is located, there is one NGOhospital, one health centre, two maternity units and five subdispensa-ries.

3.2.7 Education

There was a dramatic increase in primary school enrolment at the in-troduction of UIPE in 1996. There was a 2% decline in enrolment by1998. The enrolment in 1998 was 65,673 boys and 64,187 girls.

There is a high dropout rate in the district most of which are ill -equipped. As a result student performance is generally poor.

Enrolment in secondary schools is low particularly for girls. The fe-male population aged 20 years and above who completed secondaryeducation is 4% compared to 20% for men.

3.2.8 Other Services

The low level of development of infrastructure in the district is seenas one of the major hindrances to development. Most of the roadsare in a poor state, making travel during the wet seasons difficult.There are no telephones in the project area but -the hospital has asatellite link for E-mail that is used once a day. Radio contact is alsoa means of communicating with the outside world.

Housinq and Sanitation

The district has very few designated urban centres. Settlements inurban centres are neglected and often congested. The majority of thedwelling units 59.8% were of a temporary structure (1991 census)while semi-permanent dwellings accounted for 36.9%. The majority ofthe dwelling units (87%) are owner occupied.

Sanitation

The 1991 census showed that 89% of the county households had pitlatrines. Rubabo county, Nyarushanje sub-county has an 83% pit la-trine coverage. It is one of the highest in the districts.

Water Supply

Some areas in the district have limited potential accessing safe wa-ter. Rubabo county is one of those which are better served with safewater. Percentage of population served by a protected water sourcein Rubabo is shown in table.



Table 3-6 Population served by a protected water source in RubaboCounty

Subcounty Total Population Percent served

1. Nyarushanje 35,601 34.8

2. Nyakishenye 27,205 62.6

3. Kebisoni 24,417 35.9

4. Buyanja 31,460 46.7Source: Water Department, Rukungiri District 1994.

As a result of the water shortage both people and livestock crowdaround the few available safe water sources including Kisiizi Dam.

3.2.9 Cultural heritage

Kisiizi Falls were used by the community to banish girls who becamepregnant outside wedlock. This practice however was abandoned in1916 when the victim pulled her brother and they perished together.Currently the falls are a tourist attraction and the hospital vision is topreserve it at all costs.

3.2.10 Attitudes to the projects

There have been several demand studies undertaken for the project.Not only do the local residences say that they would be willing to payfor electricity in lieu of their present use of generators and paraffin,but there would be a number of benefits to small businesses, 3-4schools in the vicinity and lights for the market at Kisiizi Town.

Interviews with affected persons at the site revealed that thoseinterviewed welcomed the project as a development opportunity.



4 PROJECT IMPACTS

4.1 Impacts on the biophysical environment

4.1.1 River flow

The increased capacity will in the dry season divert a large portion ofthe natural flow into the channel, hence the bypass flow pass the fallswill be dramatically reduced. There is no mention of any minimumbypass criteria in the reports available.

The impacts of reduced flow past the falls are not known in detail, butare expected to affect:

- microclimate past the falls in terms of reduced spray, lowerhumidity, changes in temperature. How this change again willaffect the ecosystem, vegetation and biodiversity is unknown asthere is little detailed data about the falls.

- the eastethic aspect of the falls. The falls are well known andattracted by tourists, and this will change with increased diversion

The impacts of the reduced bypass flow should be studied in moredetail, and should emerge in detailed recommendations on whatshould be the minimum bypass flow in the dry season. This studyshould be linked with the economical viability of the project. Furtherstudies should also emerge in recommendation for the technical de-sign of the intake structure, ensuring the possibility of detailed opera-tion of bypass in dry season

Impacts on river flow are expected to be minimal during construction,but could be medium negative during operation, depending on theminimum bypass flow criterions.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on river flow

Negative Positive


i - Construction phase including the pre-construction phase (short-term).ii - The long-term operation phase.

4.1.2 Water quality

During the construction period there will be local water qualitychanges, Handling of fuel, oil, lubricants and other chemicals impliesa risk of spills and accidents, which could have local neg ative impactson water quality. Water quality changes will mostly have short-termduration during and soon after the construction phase.

Kizi,si Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


The magnitude of impacts on water quality is expected to be little -medium negative during the construction phase and minimal duringlong term operation.

Phase Magnitude of impacts on water quality

Negative PositiveHigh Medium Little / no Medium High


4.1.3 Soil degradation and erosion

All areas disturbed during construction phase are likely to experiencesome soil degradation (compaction, erosion). The magnitude ofimpacts on soil degradation and erosion is expected to be a littlenegative during the construction phase and minimal during long-termoperation.

In discussions with the hospital administration, the topic of catchmentmanagement was discussed. Increased agricultural activity in thecatchment might lead to increased erosion and a higher sedimentload. This will affect the lifetime of the turbines. No intake or forebaytank is designed, so there is nowhere sediments can settle and beremoved. The 900 intake channel will prevent the largest sediments toenter the hydroelectric plant.

Phase Magnitude of impacts on soil degradation and erosion



4. 1.4 Air pollution and noise

Construction activities will result in only minimal local increase in airpollution due to burning of fossil fuels from the temporary dieselgenerator and construction activities in general. There will be somenoise disturbance during project construction that will affect nearbycommunities and wildlife. The impact is considered little-mediumnegative during construction.



'hase Magnitude of impacts on air pollution and noise

Negative Positive

High Medium Little /no Medium High

I I

li i - Construction phase including the pre-construction phase (short-term).ii - The long-term operation phase.

4.1.5 Vegetation

No areas of high value will be affected during construction. The majorconcern is the reduction of water flow over the waterfall and the microecosystem in the vicinity of the waterfall during the operation phase.There will be some changes in species composition towards moredroughts tolerating plant species along the river and species lessreliant on the humid environment of the waterfall and the spray. Dueto the rather steep sloping riverbanks, the belt of vegetation that willbe affected is small. There will, however, be a reduced river flowdownstream of the falls and over the falls itself (approximately 90metres in length). The magnitude of impacts is estimated as mediumnegative during project construction and possibly medium duringproject operation (permanent impact), the latter depending on furtherstudies and the agreed upon minimum bypass flow.

It is anticipated that if the project is constructed, there will be someinflux of people seeking employment and other opportunities inassociation with the project, but may not be considerable given therelative isolation of the project area and the nature of upgrading anexisting hydropower scheme. These people will need food, water,energy and shelter, which will increase the pressure on variousnatural resources by direct harvesting of natural resources andchanges in land-use (e.g. collection of wood fuel, increase in andintensification of subsistence cropping). This is expected to be themost serious impact on terrestrial vegetation. The impacts may besmall to medium negative and may be both short-term and long-term.

Increasing and stabilising the water level by dam construction willinundate an area upstream of the dam. Some vegetation will bepermanently lost and surrounding vegetation will experience changesin species composition towards more riparian species. No uniqueflora or sites of particular importance for the local population havebeen identified in this area. Impacts are expected to be smallnegative but permanent. The land in the inundated area is owned bythe hospital (Church of Uganda) and is presently being used byhospital staff for gardens to supplement income. Alternative sightsshould be available in the same vicinity.



'hase Magnitude of impacts on vegetation



4.1.6 Wildlife

During the construction period there will be some habitat destructionand general disturbance causing the displacement of some species.However, since the area for the proposed project is already highlycultivated and large mammals are very rare, impacts due to changeof land use will be small negative but long-term. In general, animalswhich are less mobile (often small animals) or species requiringhabitat types with limited distribution will be more seriously affectedthan larger and often more mobile species (for instance many birdspecies).

With the anticipated population influx, the demand for natural re-sources such as fuel wood, building materials (e.g. poles and thatch-ing grass), land for cultivation and game for meat will increase. Birds,being more mobile than mammals, are likely to be less affected bythe construction and changes to the environment.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on wildlife



4.1.7 Aquatic ecosystem

Impacts on aquatic ecology will arise from changes in the natural flowregime in a short section of the river and water quality changes. Spillsof liquid hydrocarbon fuel from trucks and the transfer from trucks tostorage facilities pose a hazard. Other petroleum products associatedwith equipment maintenance (e.g. hydraulic fluids, oil, solvents) andchemicals are used in relatively small quantities. These fuels andchemicals, as a rule, are damaging to aquatic organisms.

The most important changes in water quality in terms of aquatic lifeare increased sediment load and pollution during the project

Kizihsi Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


construction phase. This will result in temporary avoidance by aquaticlife of some areas just downstream of construction activities in theriver. Water quality impacts on aquatic life are likely to be small andshort-term.

Construction of the dam will result in reduced river flow along the 90metre stretch between the intake and the outlet. Depth, crosssectional area and velocity will be changed. The changes will be mostpronounced in the dry season when the largest proportion of the riverflow will be diverted. The exact amount of water in this section of theriver will be dependent on the future hydrology of the river.

Parts of the riverbed will become dry at least parts of the year,reducing potential available habitat for aquatic life. There will be adecrease in available aquatic habitats and aquatic life in the shortriver section under consideration. The magnitude of impacts will besmall negative and long-term.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on aquatic ecology



4. 1.8 Biodiversity

No species of particular conservation concern have yet beenidentified in the project area and therefore no major negative impactsare expected on biodiversity. However, further studies of theecosystem near the waterfall should be undertaken to confirm this.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on biodiversity


j~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I


4. 1.9 Potential benefits

Creation of a small reservoir will favour some aquatic species (forinstance invertebrates and fish) and birds adapted to more slowflowing conditions rather than rapid flowing conditions that dominatethe affected stretch of the river at present. This impact is consideredsmall positive for these species.

Kizirsi Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


'hase Magnitude of impacts - potential benefits

Negative Positive



4.2 Impacts on Human Environment

4.2.1 Loss of agricultural land

There will be a permanent loss of some land due to inundation by thereservoir. This will comprise approximately 2 hectares. Most of thisland is at present agricultural land, cultivated/fallow fields with a smallsection of Eucalyptus production forest owned by the hospital on theright bank of the river just before the intake. The exact amount ofland needed for project construction and operation is not yet definedpending final layout.

A study of the Environmental District Profile revealed that duringdrought both livestock and people crowd around the few available wa-ter sources including Kisiizi dam. On completion of the dam, accessby both livestock and humans will be prohibited otherwise the rate ofsiltation will increase.

Compensation will be required for the loss of agricultural land andcrops. Some of the land take may only be temporarily (during projectconstruction) and the land will be available for agricultural productionafter project construction - camps and storage places, etc. In future,cultivation around the reservoir should be carefully controlled orprohibited in order to avoid soil erosion that leads to damsedimentation. Hence some people may lose agricultural land abovethe reservoir. Loss of agricultural production associated with theconstruction phases also needs to be compensated in a fair andtimely manner. The magnitude of impacts on agriculture is mediumnegative during project construction and small negative during projectoperation.

3hase Magnitude of impacts on agriculture

Negative Positive


j~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ F




4.2.2 Resettlement

There is no need for resettlement in the project area. No settlementsor buildings are located in the direct impact zone. However, sincesome agricultural land will be inundated, relocation of householdsdependent on this land (owned by the hospital but used by staff forgardens) may chose to move closer to their new fields. Furtherclarification of this issue is necessary but it is not expected that morethan a few households may choose to relocate. However, fordistribution of power to neighbouring communities there is likelihoodof temporary displacementland take to make way for powerlines.Hence the rating of little impact during the construction and operationphases.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on resettlement



4.2.3 Population influx

Part of the skilled workforce will be imported as not all requiredlabour can be met in the project area. All non-skilled labour should becovered by the local communities. In addition to this small influx ofthe actual workforce, the influx of people seeking employmentdirectly from the project or indirectly from the increased economicactivities in the area will occur. Population influx is likely to cause asmall 'boom-town' phenomenon. Typical characteristics of suchsituations are sudden increase in demand and needs for variousgoods and services, both physical (e.g. housing, food, energy, water,transport, waste disposal and social (e.g. health, education, lawenforcement, entertainment). It is no expected that this result in alarge population increase given the relative isolation of the projectarea and the small amount of extra power that will be available.

Population influx will put some additional strains on alreadyinadequate facilities and services. However, the small scale of theproject is likely to avoid major and long-term social disruption andsevere socio-economic impacts. The impacts could be significantduring the construction period, when the magnitude is expected to bemedium negative, while impacts are small negative during projectoperation.



'hase Magnitude of impacts of population influx

Negative PositiveHigh Medium Little /no Medium High

ii


4.2.4 Health risks

The creation of the reservoir and changes to the aquatic environmentmay lead to an increase in some water borne diseases (Malaria andpossibly encephalitis and schistomiasis) but may limit incidence ofothers such as river-blindness (Onchocerciasis). In addition, if properwater supply and sanitary conditions are not put in place duringconstruction, the population influx might result in negative healthimpacts. Also, influx of people into the project area may lead to anincreased incidence of sexually transmitted diseases, includingHIV/AIDS. Safety issues (increased traffic, electrocution andaccidents caused by machinery) are also a concern. The magnitudeimpacts is expected to be small to medium negative during projectconstruction and negligible during project operation.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on health


j~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I


4.2.5 Visual aspects

Dam construction, enlarging the canals and other activities will resultin some minor changes in topography and other landscapecharacteristics. Secondly, during construction the falls area may not beasily accessible to members of the public. The reservoir will changethe landscape significantly, submerging cultivated areas but little inthe way of forest or land with aesthetic value. Thus small to mediumnegative impacts are expected during the construction phase andsmall negative impacts during the operational phase, both upstreamof the dam and to a minor extent due to the presence of transmissionlines to households along the road and to the trading centre.

The major touristic attraction in the vicinity of the site are the Kisiiziwaterfalls. During times of drought there may not be enough waterflow to run both the power station and waterfalls. With regard to thewaterfall, the reducing in flow could have serious consequences on



the immediate environment and the micro ecosystem in the vicinity. Acareful study of this ecosystem should be undertaken to ensure thatall is done to preserve it and the vegetation and wildlife found in thisarea. From an aesthetic point of view, the reduction of flow over thefalls after operation will have a medium to high negative affect in thedry but will be far less noticeable during the wet seasons. Again fur-ther studies should be conducted to confirm this assumption.

'hase Magnitude of impacts on visual aspects



4.2.6 Potential benefits

* The generation of a reliable supply of electricity in Kisiizi will haveenormous positive benefits for the region. However, it is necessaryalso to ensure that benefits also reach affected communities andthey do not lose out on any development opportunities.

* Besides receiving more power, the hospital will generate incomefrom sale of extra power. This income will be used to improveremuneration of staff thereby mitigating the current high turnover.

* The project will require a number of wage labourers during theconstruction phase, but few people will be needed to operate thepower plant. Other long-term employment opportunities may,however, result from an expanded local economy.

* The construction of the project and the presence of the labourforce will increase the demand for food and basic consumergoods. This increase will be beneficial to farmers who can increasetheir produce and sell surpluses on the local markets. For a fewpeople, the growth in retail business will provide opportunities toexpand businesses such as restaurants, guesthouses, shops andstalls selling basic goods and small business enterprises.

* The present population in the project area is poor and basic socialservices are inadequate. The project might act as a catalyst toimprove the general welfare of the people. The magnitude ofimpacts during project construction is expected to be mediumpositive and small positive during project operation.

* Improved power supply for Nyarushanje subcounty will increaseinvestment in electrical equipment which is inevitable ifelectrification is to lead to increases in productivity.

Kiziisi Scoping study 0311.26 NORPLAN A.S


* Power supply to households in and around the mini grid will fallinto three categories: those within the grid areas and areconnected. These will be consumers and business persons inhigher income brackets. These will benefit directly botheconomically and socially.

* There will be those within the grid areas but are unconnected,These belong to the lower income brackets. The third category willbe those outside the grid area, households of all incomes and arenot connected. Those will make up the majority. These twocategories of households will have indirect benefits of thehydropower hence the widest impact.

* Power supply will enhance local demand for agricultural produce.Currently, agricultural crops are harvested and sold offunprocessed and yet some farmers would prefer to process theirproduce for higher values. Reliable power supply will stimulatethem into small processing activities.

* Communities are yearning for cold storage facilities, car-bafterycharging, baking, photocopying studios, refrigeration andrecreational facilities are limited and expensive. These will expandonce power supply is abundant and reliable; hence people'sincome will increase and the quality of life will improve as well.

* Upcountry communities suffer higher prices because power supplyand transport costs are high. Power supply will lead to a reductionin transaction costs and the prices of customer goods andproduction inputs.

* The quality of education in the project area is particularlydisadvantaged due to lack of power supply. Children in boardingschools in this region have limited lighting hence shorter periods ofstudy compared to their urban counterparts. All children in theproject area are not exposed to the media. Power supply will openthem up to the new world.

* The potential to introduce telecommunications is high withimproved power supply, the communities in the subcounty willhave been connected to a wider world and will get new ideas insocial and economic development.

'hase Magnitude of impacts - potential benefits

Negative PositiveHigh Medium Little /no Medium High




4.3 Overall impact assessment

The overall impact assessment, combining the values discussed inChapter 1 with the magnitude of impacts described in this chapter, isshown in Table 2-1 below. Given the scale of the project and the factthat it is merely an upgrading, most impacts are quite low. The majorconcern is the ecosystem of the waterfall and how unique this is interms of vegetation and wildlife and the resultant aesthetic and touristvalue the falls have. Without further study accurate estimates of thevalue of biodiversity and other characteristics on the biophysicalenvironment are uncertain.

Table 4-1 Overall Impact Assessment

Overall ImpactAspects Value Magnitude of Impacts * Assessment

Biophysical environment

River flow Medium i - Little/no Medium negativeii - Medium/high negative impact

Water quality Medium i - Medium negative Small negativeii - Little/no impact

i- Medium negative SalngtvSoil degradation Medium Small negabve/erosion ii - Little/no impact

Air pollution/noise Medium i - Small negative Minimal/no impactii - Little/no

Vegetation Medium i - Medium negative Medium negativeii - Medium negative impact

i - Medium negative Medium negativeWildlife Medium Mdu eav

ii - Medium negative impact

i - Medium/small negative Small negativeAquaticecology Low Salngtv

ii - Small negative impact

Biodiversity Medium i -Small negative Medium negativeii - Medium impact

i - Little/no benefitsPotential benefits Medium Little/no benefitsii - Little/no benefits



Human environment

Agricultural Medium- i - Small negative Small negativehigh ii- Small/medium negative impact

i - Little/noResettlement Medium- Little/no

high ii - Little/no

Population influx Medium - Small/medium negative Small negativeii - Small negative impact

i - Small/medium negative Small negativeHealth Medium Salngtv

ii - Small negative impact

Visual aspects Medium- i - Small negative Medium negativehigh ii - Medium/high negative impact

i- Medium positiveMeimpstvPotential benefits Medium Medium positive

i - Medium positive impact

* Magnitude is in terms of i) construction phase, and ii) operational phase.



5 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

5.1 Environmental Management Plan

The Hospital Administration should establish a management envi-ronment unit to oversee environment issues during both constructionand operation. An environmental monitoring plan should be devel-oped, on the basis of the monitoring and mitigation measures rec-ommended below. Detailed schedules, budgets and responsibilitiesshould be allocated.

5.2 Mitigation Measures

The following measures are recommended to reduce or eliminatenegative impacts:

* Clearing for construction activities shall be confined to thoseareas designated and marked. If clearing of sensitive slopesand land adjacent to rivers is necessary, this should be done byhand clearing. The construction area should be fenced off so asto avoid any unplanned, additional land take and reduce therisk of accidents. A temporary alternate access to the bottom ofthe falls should be made to ensure continued enjoyment of thetouristic site.

* Restrictions on land use around reservoir should be establishedwith the long-term goal of reducing erosion. This should be partof a catchment management strategy with the goal ofprolonging the life of the reservoir by limiting sedimentation.Full compensation for crops destroyed/temporary landtakeduring extension of powerlines should be done.

* Awareness raising and preventive health campaigns should becarried out to reduce the threat of the spread of variousdiseases. Sanitary problems must be controlled during projectconstruction by providing adequate sanitary amenities likelatrines and provision of safe drinking water if necessary. Workpractices and safety should be monitored. Alternative safesources of water for both livestock and humans should beestablished to ensure that the dam is not invaded.Consideration for introducing appropriate species of fish in thereservoir should be done.

* It is recommended that engineering requirements regardingdrainage/erosion prevention and construction techniques for allconstruction actions be strictly enforced. These will include theprovision and maintenance of suitable drainage networks, slopecontrol, compaction or re-vegetation of exposed surfaces andprotection of surfaces prone to submersion by water.All waste materials, garbage and debris shall be removed anddisposed of by incineration or landfilling, whichever isappropriate.

Fuel shall be stored in specified areas only. Refuelling, oilchanges and lubricating mobile equipment shall be conducted



on a pad that drains into a temporary retention pond.

• It is not recommended to introduce fish species in the reservoir.The size of the reservoir is small and so will additional catchesdue to such an introduction be. Introducing a new species ishighly undesirable from an ecological point of view. Thereservoir size should be of such a size to withstand the twentyyear return drought to ensure that the falls always haveadequate water.

* Alternative safe sources of water for both livestock and humansshould be established to ensure that the dam is not invaded.Consideration for introducing appropriate species of fish in thereservoir should be done.

* Local communities should be involved in the discussionsleading to the design and laying of distribution lines (communityparticipation).

* Works in submerged work places should have protectiveclothing to avoid infections from water-borne diseases e.g.bilharzia, worms etc.

* Workers should have access to the facilities at the KisiiziHospital.

* To avoid a contractor's camp and associated health problems,workers should be encouraged to rent private accommodationin the nearby trading centre/villages, efforts to recruit locallabour should be encouraged.

5.2.1 Minimum bypass flow

The issue of a minimum bypass flow (MBF) is vital since it influenceall the salient issues of vegetation, wildlife and biodiversity as well asvisual and aesthetic aspects. These areas should studied more in de-tail, to identify a suitable criterion for MBF.

Issues to be studied are:

- further ecological/vegetation studies in and around the waterfalls

- wildlife/biodiversity issues

- visual and aesthetic aspects

- hydrological dry season conditions

- economical viability

The dry season flow is essential for this study. Previously there hasnot been regular flow recordings for the Kisiizi river, and data fromneighbouring rivers have been used and scaled. This might give mis-leading information, and for a study of dry season flow and MBF it isnot sufficient. From Jan 2000 weekly recordings has been done onthe river stretch upstream the intake, and the dry season recordingshould be studied in detail. If one more dry season can be includedthat would strengthen the data series. The data series has not beenmade available for this study.



The study of the environmental components near the falls will give ifthere are high-value findings which might risk medium-large negativeimpacts due to the planned water abstraction in the dry season. Therecommendation on MBF and on the design of the intake arrange-ment should be related to these findings. The economical viability ofthe hydropower project should also be included in the assessment.The recommendation on MBF should be a weighed decision basedon the relationship between the cost-benefit ratio for the HPP andmagnitude of the environmental impacts.

A preliminary recommendation for MBF can be based upon the his-torical hydrological series, as it is a proven value of what the localecosystem can manage. The MBF should temporarily be set to equalthe monthly average flow of the driest month in the year, until furtherstudies has been carried out. The exact figure of the driest monthflow should be extracted from the new data of weekly recordings. Theintake should be designed to ensure that the MFB criterion will bekept.

5.2.2 Compensation plan

If any resettlement is carried out (maybe only voluntarily as a result ofinundation of fields), it should be according to international standards(WB) and with the overall objective of improving the standard of livingfor those being resettled. All buildings and materials should bereplaced and suitable sites chosen as close as possible to theoriginal homesteads, or in other locations after consultation withaffected persons. Compensation in cash is usually discouraged inrelation to resettlement but in this case may be acceptable sincematerials are readily available in the area for the construction of newdwellings.

Compensation for lost crops and permanent loss of land should beprovided following NEMA or international standards. Cashcompensation is the mostly likely means of compensation for the lossof production.

5.2.3 Measures to optimise positive impacts

In order to optimise positive impacts of the project, the following isrecommended:

• The Contractor should recruit non-skilled labour only from thelocal villages and in close co-operation with the local authoritiesas long as required the skills are available.

* The resident population, for the most part, lack adequateresources to take full advantage of the changes the project willcause. Rotating credit schemes for businesses and localentrepreneurs and co-operation with local authorities to tacklethe new situation would allow for greater benefits to the localpopulation. However, this would have to be set up well beforethe project commences in order to reap benefits.

* Co-ordination with local and district authorities regardingimproved infrastructure development could enhance mitigation



measures dealing with health, drinking water supply, education,electricity supply and general social uplift. This emphasises thatthe project could become a development opportunity with long-term, positive implications for the project area and the region.

Table 5-1: Mitigation measures overview

Issue Mitigation measure Responsible partyErosion of slopes Hand-clearing of sensitive Contractor

slopes and general precau-tions regarding erosion pre-vention

Catchment management Measures to preserve vege- (hospital)tation, reduction of agricul-tural activities and perhapsminimal relocation of house-holds

Health issues Awareness programme - (hospital)traffic safety, sanitation is-sues and STDs - possiblyan extension of existingawareness programmes inthe area

Waste materials Disposal of waste in burrow Contractor/ownerareas, landfill or incinerator.

Fuel and pollution Fuel storage in specified Contractor/ownerareas; refuelling and oilchanges plus lubricatingequipment on a pad.

Minimum Bypass Flow

Compensation Cash compensation for lost Ownercrops and permanent loss ofland; NEMA and World Bankstandards.

Employment Recruitment of un-skilled Contractor/Ownerlabour only from local com-munities

Credit schemes Revolving credit schemes for NGOs, Micro-financiallocal entrepreneurs. Institutions

District development Infrastructural development Local Authorities.

5.3 Proposed Monitoring

5.3.1 Biophysical environment

Water quality and Hydroloqy

It is recommended that water quality samples are taken before thehydropower projects commences in order to provide a basis for moni-toring subsequent changes. Samples should also be taken duringconstruction and continue into the operational phase.

The water flow recordings should be continued on a weekly basis. Af-ter construction is completed measurements should be carried outboth upstream and downstream of the intake to record total flow andMBF.

Krziisi Scoping study 03.11.26 NORPLAN A.S


Flora

Monitoring of terrestrial vegetation is important to measure habitatchanges and excessive exploitation of natural resources. Focus willbe on the area around the waterfall. During construction, areas thatcome under additional pressure due to population influx andincreased demand for various natural resources for food, energy andbuilding materials should also be considered.

5.3.2 Human environment

Monitoring the human environment will focus primarily on economicand health issues. The most outstanding issues are how the projectaffected people cope with the influx of workers and outsiders, and thepossible health consequences. The risks of impoverishment due toresettlement and the impact of a large, more educated and bettertrained group on a resident population are many. Continued monitor-ing of number of visitors to the falls should be done. Monitoring of thelocal communities, population growth, gender, public health and otherdisease vectors should be carried out systematically.

Compensation

Compensation for land and loss of crops needs to be monitoredduring the pre-construction phase and to a limited extent during theconstruction and the start of the operation phase since some of theland will be returned. Monitors will need to check whether individualfarmers have received proper and prompt compensation according todistrict rates and/or been given other land to cultivate on a temporaryor permanent basis. If resettlement is chosen by affectedhouseholds, the same follow-up on compensation should beundertaken.

Health

A number of health issues are vital to the safety of the people duringthe construction and operational phases of the project. It is recom-mended that monitoring be ongoing but that more thorough checksbe made during the construction phase.

5.3.3 Monitoring plan for Kisiizi Waterfalls

In this section brief overview of the possible contents of a monitoringplan for Kisiizi Waterfalls is presented. The goal of such a plan is toensure that mitigating measures are satisfactorily carried out and thatregular monitoring is undertaken in a systematic and responsiblemanner for the ecosystem. In order to achieve this it will benecessary to work together with the hospital (project owners) andlocal authorities who will most likely to implement the plan and co-ordinate efforts with contractors and stakeholders. This plan shouldinclude the following steps:

1. Detailed investigation of the micro ecosystem of the waterfall -this will involve 2-3 weeks input from a trained biologisVecologistto chart vegetation and wildlife in the vicinity of the waterfall. Theresults of this investigation will determine the value of the



biodiversity in the ecosystem and the degree of impact as well asprovide data for further monitoring. It will also influence to aconsiderable deg ree the Minimum Bypass Flow.

2. Devise a detailed monitoring plan for the construction andoperation phases for the project, including identification of focusareas, methodologies, possible interventions and budgetrequirements. It will be important to define parameters formonitoring and the costs for further mitigation measures.

3. Implement monitoring plan during the construction and for theoperation phase for a specified period. This should also involvethe training of a local person, possibly connected to the hospital,to carry out long-term monitoring and data collection.

5.4 Conclusion

This scoping report has reviewed baseline data, accessed potentialproject impacts on the biophysical and social environments and pro-posed mitigation measures and an outline for monitoring.

This report together with previous reports provides adequate analysisto conclude that a 'full-blown' EIA, covering all aspects of the envi-ronment is not required. Project impacts are for the most part small inmost areas or fields of study. For the areas of concern (mediumnegative impacts) such as water flow and quality and biodiversity inrelation to the ecosystem of the waterfall, further detailed samplingand planning is required. This should be in the form of implementa-tion plans for mitigation measures and monitoring.

It is recommended that the project now move ahead in preparationfor financing and eventually implementation. This requires implemen-tation plans that concentrate on practical arrangements related toenvironmental monitoring of the Kisiizi Waterfalls.


Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MoE&MD)Environment and Social Assessment for the Rural Transformation Projects

REFERENCES/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Atlas of Uganda 1995. Atlas of Uganda. Uganda Geology. Depart-ment of Geological Survey and Mines, Uganda 1966.

Biswas, A.K. & Agarwala, S.B.C. (eds.) 1992. Environmental ImpactAssessment for Developing Countries. Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd.,Oxford, UK.

Dr. A.Barr & Dr. W. Cavendish; Monitoring and Evaluation in AF-FREI/ERT Projects. A Programme Outline and Baseline Proposals.

GoU Equity and Vulnerability: A Situational Analysis of Women,Adolescents and children in Uganda, 1994.

GoU 1995a. The National Environment Statute. Statute No. 4 1995.Uganda Printing and Publishing Corporation (UPPC), Entebbe.

GoU 1995b. The Water Statute. Statute No. 9 1995. Uganda Printingand Publishing Corporation (UPPC), Entebbe.

GoU 1996. Uganda Wildlife Statute. Statute No. 14 1996. UgandaPrinting and Publishing Corporation (UPPC), Entebbe.

GoU 1998a. The Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations,1998. Statutory Instruments No. 13 1998. Uganda Printing andPublishing Corporation (UPPC), Entebbe.

GoU 1998b. The Land Act 1998 (Act No. 16 of 1998). The Law Devel-opment Centre, Kampala.

GoU 1999. The Uganda Electricity Board Act.

IFC 1998c. OP 4.10, Indigenous People. International Finance Corpo-ration (IFC), Washington, D.C.

IFC 1998e. OP 4.12, Involuntary Resettlement. International FinanceCorporation (IFC), Washington, D.C.

IUCN / UNEP I WWF 1991. Biological Diversity. World ConservationUnion, United Nations Environmental Programme and World FundFor Nature. Gland, Switzerland.

Langdale-Brown, I., Osmaston, H.A. & Wilson, G. 1964. The Vegeta-tion of Uganda and its bearing on land-use. Government Printer, En-tebbe, Uganda.

MOFPED 1999 Uganda Poverty Status Report.

NEMA Environmental District Profiles, Rukungiri

NEMA 1996. State of the Environment Report for Uganda 1996. Na-tional Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kampala.



NEMA 1997. Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment inUganda. National Environment Management Authority (NEMA),Kampala.

NORPLAN 1999c. Karuma Falls Hydropower Project. EnvironmentalImpact Assessment - Volume 1: Main Report. NORPAK POWER Ltd.,Kampala.

NORPLAN 1999d. Karuma Falls Hydropower Project. EnvironmentalImpact Assessment - Volume 2A: Annexes Biological Environment.NORPAK POWER Ltd., Kampala.

NORPLAN 1999e. Karuma Falls Hydropower Project. EnvironmentalImpact Assessment - Volume 2B: Annexes Human Environment.NORPAK POWER Ltd., Kampala.

Republic of Uganda 1992. The 1991 Population and Housing Census(District Summary Series) Masindi District. Statistic Department, Min-istry of Finance and Economic Planning (MFEP), Entebbe, Uganda.

WB 1991 a. Environmental Assessment Sourcebook. Volume I: Poli-cies, Procedures, and Cross-Sectoral Issues. WB Technical PaperNo. 139. Environment Department, World Bank, Washington D.C.,USA.

WB 1991 b. Environmental Assessment Sourcebook. Volume Il: Sec-toral Guidelines. WB Technical Paper No. 140. Environment Depart-ment, World Bank, Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1991d. Operational Directive 4.20: Indigenous Peoples. WorldBank, Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1995a. Operational Policies 4.04: Natural Habitats. World Bank,Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1995b. Bank Procedures 4.04: Natural Habitats. World Bank,Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1995c. An Integrated Approach to Water Resource Management:A strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa. World Bank, Washington D.C.,USA.

WB 1996. The World Bank Participation Sourcebook. World Bank,Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1997a. Biodiversity and environmental assessment. Environ-mental Assessment Sourcebook Update No. 20. World Bank, Wash-ington D.C., USA.

WB 1999a. Operational Policies 4.01: Environmental Assessment.World Bank, Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1999b. Bank Procedures 4.01: Environmental Assessment.World Bank, Washington D.C., USA.



WB 1999c. Good Practices 4.01: Environmental Assessment. WorldBank, Washington D.C., USA.

WB 1999d. Environmental Management Plans. Environmental As-sessment Sourcebook Update No. 25. Environmental Department,World Bank, Washington D.C., USA.



APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE STUDY

BACKGROUND

At present, Uganda's power sector's performance is poor. The Elec-tricity Board (UEB) which no longer has a legal monopoly in thepower sector after the enactment of the Electricity Act of 1999 stillcontinues to undertake generation, transmission and distribution ac-tivities in the country. UEB suffers from poor finance performance,operating inefficiency, low productivity and inadequate funds for re-quired investments. Uganda is experiencing loadshedding of once aweek of around 20 MW. Uganda's main grid installed capacity nowstands at about 260 MW. In addition, Uganda currently has one ofthe lowest per capita electricity consumption (62 kWh/year) in theworld (India - 300, China - 580, USA - 11,000 in 1996). Only an es-timated 5% of Uganda's total 4.7 million households - and less than1% of the rural population has access to the grid supplied electricity.At present, UEB connects less than an additional 10,00 customersper year, which implies that Uganda is losing the access race aspopulation growth at the rate of 2% per year which would add 90,000or more new households per year. Also, despite the availability of awealth of indigenous renewable energy resources including powergeneration from a variety of sources such as biomass residues, smallhydro, wind and geothermal as well as solar energy for stand-alonephotovoltaic systems. Only a small fraction of the country's renew-able energy resource potential has been tapped todate.

In recent years, the government has taken steps to correct this seri-ous shortfall in electricity supply and in the past year has enacted anew electricity law which provides for the unbundling of UEB and alsoencourages private participation in the power market. The Govern-ment has also acted to provide much needed new generation capac-ity by:

The commissioning of Unit 11 and Unit 12 of the Kiira Power Station;and Signing of the first Independent Power Producer Contract for a200 MW plant at Bujagali, also on the Nile River. In the area of ruralelectrification, the Government has adopted a commercially orientedapproach - with the Government playing the role of market enabler.

The main elements of this strategy are:

* Level playing field for private sector participants;

* Enabling regulatory framework;

* Cost recovery and cost benefit tariffs; and

* A subsidy transfer and financing mechanism.



The Government has also requested World Bank assistance in im-plementing a broad scale rural electrification programme, entitledEnergy for Rural Transformation (ERT), aimed at catalysing eco-nomic transformation of the rural economy

The ERT Project is proposed as a 10-year Adaptable ProgrammeLoan, supported by three separate but linked to World Bank credits-roughly equal in duration. The development objectives of the pro-posed programme are to provide:

Rural households the direct and indirect benefits of increased accessto adequate and reliable supplies of electricity; and

Rural enterprises, the benefits of increased productivity and incomearising from electricity access - with technical assistance provided toaccelerate switch over to electricity - and/or more efficient use of tra-ditional fuels, whose use is likely to continue in heat - intensive appli-cations such as brick-making. In addition, the global objective of theproposed programme is to contribute to global environmental protec-tion by promoting the use of stand-alone solar photovoltaic (PV) sys-tems and the generation of conventional power from small renewableenergy resources.

The first phase of the ERT Programme would have four components:

Component 1: Main grid related power distribution andgeneration. The power distribution would be to presently unservedrural areas that would be connected to the main grid. The powergeneration would also be from small, renewable energy resources,such as sugar mills, that are close, or already connected to the maing rid.

Component 2: Independent grid systems for relatively con-centrated isolated areas with a potential for the use of electricity byrural enterprises. This component would support relatively larger sys-tems that may require some transmission (such as in the West NileRegion) and smaller systems, such as those located in rural tradingcentres that require only generation and distribution facilities. It is ex-pected that a significant part of the power generation would be fromrenewable energy resources.

Component 3: Individual/institutional solar PV systems for,relatively dispersed areas where even small independent grid sys-tems are not viable.

Component 4: Pilots for scale up in later tranches, includingenergy efficiency in use of traditional wood fuels by rural SMEs andpublic institutions, provision of telecommunications and connectivityin rural areas, low-cost household water disinfecting, and energisedwater pumping.

Capacity building within the programme would include sector reforms,building of local project development capacity, low cost rural electrifi-cation designs, renewable energy development and light-handedregulation to be undertaken at the local level.



During the project preparation, it will be necessary to ensure that thespecific project activities (i.e. the initial sub-project investment) knownat project appraisal are fully compliant with Government and WorldBank requirement on environmental and social safeguards. In addi-tion, a framework must be identified which ensures that future in-vestments also are compliant.

The specific sub-projects which are being prepared for ERT Projectappraisal are:

Description ReviewExpansion of current bagasse-based co- Assessment has been conducted.generation plant to allow sale of excess NEMA approval certificate issued.power to the interconnected UEB grid.Expansion of current bagasse-based co- Assessment has been conductedgeneration plant to allow sale of excesspower to the interconnected UEB grid.Concession - development of a mini-hydro An approval certificate issued.station near Paidha and construction of elec-trical transmission and distribution facilitiesto serve the Nebbi and Arua areas.Electrification - Construction of electrical undertaken.transmission and distribution facilities as wellas mini-hydro, diesel or other generationstation to serve Kagadi Town.Expansion of an existing micro-hydro station undertaken.and construction of distribution lines to servethe surrounding community

undertaken.

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The objectives of the environmental and Social Safeguard Analysisare to:

• Ensure that specific Phase I project investments listed above arecompliant with Government of Uganda and World Bank Environ-mental and Social Safeguard Policies; and

* Recommend a framework for ensuring similar compliance of fu-ture projects within the ERT Programme.

SCOPE OF WORK

Task 1 - Assessment of Phase I sites - The Consultants will re-view Uganda's national Environmental Legislation, Regulations andAdministrative Framework as well as the World Bank's 10 Environ-mental and Social Safeguard Policies as they relate to the ProposedProgramme.

This will include land acquisition and resettlement issues such as formini-hydro power plants and transmission lines. Best on this review,the Consultant will assess the compliance of Phase I sites. This willinclude a review of the existing (Kakira and Lugazi) environmental



assessments and will also include conducting of a screening exerciseand assessments if necessary for the Kagadi and Kisiizi sites. ForWest Nile, the consultant will prepare a ToR for the Social SafeguardAnalysis, to be conducted under separate contract.

The Consultant will prepare on behalf of the Project sponsors sepa-rate reports for each of the unstudied sites (i.e. kagadi and Kisiizi).These reports will be suitable in format, scope and detail for submis-sion to NEMA and/or other necessary approving authorities. The re-ports will include:

• A description of the site and the proposed project;

* The projected area of land, air and water that may be affected;

* The materials that the project shall use, including both construc-tion materials and inputs;

* An assessment of potential environmental and social impacts ofthe proposed project;

• The possible products and by-products including waste genera-tion of the project;

* The environmental effects of the materials, methods, products ofthe projects and how they will be eliminated or mitigated and;

. Appropriately costed environment and social mitigation plan(which could be presented in a tabular format).

For Kakira and Lugazi, it is possible that some of the World Bank re-quired safeguards were not considered in the existing studies. Theconsultant will assess whether all appropriate Safeguards were con-sidered in the assessment and will undertake additional safeguardanalysis if required. In the case additional analysis is needed, theConsultant will prepare a report as described above.

Task 2 - Definition of Safeguard Framework

The Consultant will also carry out an evaluation of the existing safe-guard framework to ensure that an adequate institutional approachexists to address all safeguard issues which could reasonably be ex-pected to arise within the ERT programme. This includes both theavailability of adequate consulting expertise to conduct the neededstudies as well as an adequate structure for review and approval asprovided by Ugandan Law and World Bank requirements. In theevent that gaps are found, the Consultant will work with relevant insti-tutions (NEMA), MEMD, Private Sector, etc) to develop practical solu-tions. The results of this work will be described in the Proposed Man-agement Plan. The Plan will describe institutional arrangements aswell as clear rules and regulations to ensure compliance of the Na-tional Laws and the Bank's Safeguard Policies.

The Consultant also will access the institutional and human resourcecapacity within the proposed framework to effectively undertake in a



timely manner the necessary safeguard studies as well as approvaland implementation and monitoring measures. If appropriate, theConsultant will recommend capacity building measures to addressany deficiencies found. The recommendations will include proposedrecipient institutions and the type of assistance, a draft plan, includingToR, schedule, and estimated costs.

Reporting - as described above, the Consultant will prepare individ-ual screening and/or EIA reports prepared for the phase I sites, aswell as a ToR for the West Nile EIA. In addition, the Consultant willprepare a consolidated Safeguard Management Programme Report.This report will be in English and will include an Executive Summarysuitable for use as a free-standing document. The Report also will in-clude:

i) A description of the proposed project; a description of the safe-guard issues likely to be encountered in the project execution; the po-tential impacts of the proposed investment, including phase I invest-ment as well as an over view of potential future investments; a de-scription of the mitigation measures; and ii) A description of the pol-icy, legal and administrative safeguard framework including assess-ment and approval procedures to be followed as well as the capacitybuilding and monitoring plan.

The Consultant will assist in the public hearing process as requiredfor individual sub-projects as well as for the project as a whole. Cop-ies of the report shall be provided to the Government of Uganda andthe Bank's Africa Safeguard Policies Enhancement Team for reviewand clearance.

Issues of compensation

Issues of compensation for any persons that might be displaced beincluded and be discussed at an early stage in the project includingconsultation with the respective local authorities in the area of con-cern.

Consultinq Team

The EIA will be conducted by a Consultant Team with a mix of intern-tional and local staff. The team should include back grounds inUgandan environmental assessment experience; social development;international environmental assessment on World Bank project; andfamiliarity with the Energy sector and the Bank's safeguard policies.

Duration of the assiqnment

The assignment will take approximately 8 person weeks, review andclearance by the Bank and the Government of Uganda should be de-livered before November 1. 2000.

Kiziis" Scoping study 0311 26 NORPLAN A.S


APPENDIX B: LIST OF PERSONS CONSULTED

Name Position

G.R. Turyahikayo Commissioner, Ministry of Energy

P. Mubiru Ass. Commissioner, Ministry of Energy

W. Tibanyenda Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Rukungiri

B. Patterson Hospital Finance Manager

Moses Mugume Hospital Administrator

Frank Kwesiga LC 1, Chairman, Kisiizi Hospital

Mathias Byandusya CBHC Trainer

Kellen Kamugisha Trader

Fiddel Tumwesigye Trader

Nancy Mwebesa Vice Chairperson

Venice Kyomugisha Villager

Gereson Kabafuuzaki Villager

Pulisi Mubakali Villager

Gideon Habomugisha Electrician

Wilson Tibagyenda Deputy Chief Administrative Officer



APPENDIX D: LAYOUT OF THE EXISTING HYDROELECTRICPLANT IN KISIIZI



APPENDIX E: PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORD OF THE PROPOSEDMINI-HYDRO STATION SITE AT KISIIZI

Plate 1: The Kisiizi hospital, presently operating a micro-hydrostation that is to be expanded.

Plate 2: Part of the catchment area showing the eucalyptusplantation and a valley that will be submerged onexpansion of the station.



Plate 3: The catchment area, just before the dam, showing part ofthe eucalyptus plantation and the thick vegetation.

Plate 4: Downstream River Rushoma where the waterfall water joinsthe mainstream river water.



Plate 5: The Kisiizi waterfalls showing the eucalyptus plantation andmany climbers downstream.

Plate 6: The canal at Kisiizi showing silted water, indicating the effectof erosion at source as a result of cultivation.

Kiziisr Scoping study 0311.26 NORPLAN A.S

PPFENDIX C: ACTIVITY PROGRAMME FOR ERT ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARD ANALYSIS

Ainistry of Energy and Mineral Development - Energy for Rural Transformation Project, Environmental and Social Safeguard Analysis

Activity Weeks1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

A. PREPARATIONS | I IIAfinal milestone for collecting information

Al, Planning and Mobilisation _ A2. Gather information, reports, maps

B. TASK 1: ASSESSMENT OF PHASE I SITES

B. 1 Review of RegulationsB.2 Site VisitsB. Review of Kakira and Lugazi reportsB.4 Sc:re6ning/ ToR for Paidha in West NileB.5 Screening for Kagadi and KisiiziB.5 Quality Assurance

C. TASK 2: DEFINITION OF SAFEGUARD FRAMEWORK

CA Evaluate existing safeguard frameworkC.2 Evaluate institutional and human resource capacity of proposed framework

D. REPORTING Ideadline for feedback for 5 report!

D. 1 Writing of Reports AlD.2 Review of the Reports by the Client

Rdeadline for feedack for 1 reportReports ,

I Kakira EIA Review Report2 Lugazi EIA Review Report3 Screening / ToR for West Nile - Paidha4. Screening Kisiizi 5i Screening Kagadi -6 Safeguard Framework

* draft

clivluuml,--rij azia zoacliz Asse5smFFg tor mie R<ural Tran,Ion-nadon Projects mage D-10

APPENDIX D: LAYOUT OF THE HYDRO-ELECTRIC PLANT INKISIIZI

Annex 2 Layout of the existing hydroelectric plant in Kisizi

I *~~~~~~~~~~I

QI0

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-7s I j-I l

I IC 1 22

SEC TION 1-1 IEXISTINGI

Drawing 4 Section of the existing weir and intake arrangement.

~.._

LEF T VIEW IEXISTINGI

Drawing 5 Front view of the weir and headrace channel.

| Proposid vertical Sl2b/wall

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I -T-~~~~~~~I

SECTION 1-1 IPROPOSEDI

Drawing 4 Proposed alteraHon of the weir and intake arrangement

LEFT.VIEWIPROPOD I .D g rotieohewerndhedc .h*nn: * ,j .X

_ -. . .

LEFT VIEW IPROPQSEDI

Drawing 5 Front view of the weir and headrace channel with proposed alteraons.

APPENDIX E: PHOTOGR A PHIC RECORD OF THEPROPOSED MINI-HYDRO STATIONSITE AT KISIIZI

, - l -. ........-... .

i_~ ~ ~~~~4 " * -~ 'I ''~~o '-

'' -~ t *v ,,, , ,-

.. ._.....- - .. _. f-,rt

........... -, . .

Plate 1: The Kisiizi hospital, presently operating a micro-hydrostation that is to be expanded.

Plate 2: Part of the catchment area showing the eucalyptusplantabon and a valiay that will be submerged on

_ ^ ~~~expansion of the station.

F; &; i;;r lDb h -Id7 rsmstornzation Projects

.u,,,''.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Z, 4"V

Catchment area; just be-fore the- d-n, showing part of-

--- AJ -yeeucalyptus plantation and the thick vegetation. ti

R L' ~~~~~~~~~, ,4p'

jon h misramrvrmiter

rent and Social Assessment for-the Rural Transformation Projects

Plate 5: The-Kisiizi waterfalls showing the eucalyptus p!ntatin

and many climbers downstream.

I~~- t . t U

-*,

of Energy and Miners! sDveiopmaint (MUm-&MD)rment and Social Assessrnent for the Rural Transformation Projects

* Pla'. 6: Th.e rkkn= at Wizi showing silted water, indicating theeffect of erosion at source as a result of cultivation.

;.;. I

)~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~4

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