UNITED NATIONS
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n ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR AFRICA COMMISSION ECONOMIQUE POUR L'AFRIQUE U
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KribiDu 09 au 13 Mars 1998
APPLICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLMNCE TO FOOD SECURITY AS DEVELOPED 8 Y USAID
THE EXAMPLE OF AN ETHIOPIAN PROJECT EXECUTED
BY SAY6 7%iEC%i/fPR6N/USA
TABLE OF CONTENT:
...
.
I FACESHEET 4
IU LIST OF ACRONYMS :
...
7. ...
IV.
IEE: SECTION 1 : BACKGROUND AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION 8 A . WATER POINTS DEVELOPMENT: PONDS. WELLS. BIRKAS ... 81 . Background: ... 8
a) Ponds: ... 8
b) Wells: ... 9
C) Birkas: ... 9
2 . Description: For Ponds. Wells. & Birkas ... 9
a) Planning & Design: ... 9
b) Construction: ... ...... 10
c) Operation: ... 10
B . NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: SEEDLINGS ... .... ... 1 1 1 . Background: ... I 1 2
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Description: Planning & Design ... 11C . LIVESTOCK HEALTH: ... 11
1
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Background: ... I I 2 . Description: ... 12a) Vaccination Programs: ... .... ... 12
b) Treatment: ... 12
D . LAND RECLAMATION: BUSH CLEARING: ... 12
1 . Background: ... 12
2 . Descripiion : ... ... 13
a) Cutting the trees at ground level & PruneJSprouts: (200 ha) ... 13
b) Cutting at ground level & Enclosed Burning: (200 ha) ...
. .
... 13c) Cutting the trees & piling branches on each stump . (300 ha) ... 13
E . CONSTRUCTION : HEATH POSTS, VETERINARY POSTS, DIPPINGTANKS: ... 14
1 . Background: ... I4 2 . Description: ... 14
... F . HUMAN HEALTH: EPI, FAMILY PLANING, NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING
...
14I . Background: ... 14 .
2 . Description: ...
..
... 1 5 G . TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & TRAININGS ACTIVITIES:...
...,.... ... 151 . : Early Warning InformatiodEmergency Response : Liben & Filtu ... 15
2 . Community Managed Saving Plan: Liben & Filtu ... 15
3 . hiilk Processing: Liben only ... I 5 4 . : Trainings: Liben and Filtu ... 16
V
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PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF IEE: ...~...16VI . IEE SECTION.2 : COUNTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION: BASELINE INFORMATION17 A . COUNTRY. ... 17
B . LIBEN & F~LTU WEREDAS: ... I 7 1 . IdentiJcation of existing water sources: ... 18
2 . Geography of the area: ... 18
a) Location: ... I 8 b) Topography & Soils: ... ... ... 18
c) Climate & Vegetation. ... 18
3 . Other Existing Factors in The Area: ... 18
VIL IEE SECTION 3: EVALUATION OF PROJECT/PROGRAM ISSUES WITH RESPECT TO
...
EhVIRONMENTAL IMPACT POTENTIAL 19.
A . WATER POINTS DEVELOPMENT: PONDS WELLS & BIRKAS: LIBEN AND FILTU ... 19B . NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: (SEEDLING):LIBEN ONLY ... 19
C . LIVESTOCK HEALTH: LIBEN AND FILTU ... 20
D . LAND RECLAMATION: BUSH CLEARING: LIBEN ONLY ... 20
E . CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES: LIBEN AND RLTU ... 20
F . HUMAN HEALTH: EPI PROGRAM: LIBEN AND FILTU ... 20
G . TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & TRAININGS: ... 20
1 . Early Warning Information B Emergency Response : Liben & Filtu ... 20
2 . Community Managed Saving Plan &Milk Processing: Liben & Filtu ... 20
I n . 1 . 3 . Tmiriiiigs: iiben ana rrrru ... 20
VIIL IEE SECTION 4: RECOMMENDED MITIGATION ACTIONS (INCLUDING MONITORING AND EVALUATION):
...
21A . WATER POINT DEVELOPMENT: PONDS. WELLS. BIRKAS: ... 21
1 . ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: ... 21
2 . hfITIGA TION M U S U R E S ... 21
B . NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: (SEEDLINGS): LIBEN ONLY ... 22
I . ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINA TION: ... 22
2 . MITIGA TION ME;1SURES: ... 22
C . LIVESTOCK HEALTH: LIBEN AND RLTU ... 22
I . EWIRONMENTA L DETERMINA TION: ... 22
2
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IMITIGATION MEXSURES: ... 22D . LAND RECLAMMATION: BUSH CLEARING ... 23
1 . EWlRONMEhTAL DETERMNA TION: ... ... ... 23
2
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MITIGATION MUSURES: ... 23a) Cutting: ... 23
b) Burning & Wild Lge: ... 23
c) Controlled Grazing: ... 23
E . E) CONTRUCTION ACTIVITIES: ... 24
I . ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINA TiON: ... 24
2 . MITIGATION MEASURES: ... 24
... F . HUMAN HEALTH: EPI, FAMILY PLANNING. NUTRITION. SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING. 24 1 . EPI: EXTENDED PROGRAM FOR IMMUNIZA TION ... 24
a ) ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION. ... 24
b) MITIGATION MEASURES: ... 24
2 . FAMILY PLANNING. NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENARY FEEDING: ... 25
G . TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & TRAININGS: ... 25
M. SUMMMARY OF FINDINGS:
...
26X
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ANNEX.l. SUMMARY ACTMTIES MATRIX FOR LIBEN WEREDA. OROMIA REGION...
27...
XI. ANNEX: 2: SUMMARY ACTIVITIES MA= FOR FILTU WEREDA. SOMALI REGION 30 XIL BIBLIOGRAPHY.
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3 2TITLE I1 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
I.
FACESHEET
Title of DAPIPAA Activity: Integrated Food Security Program
CS namelCountrylRegion: Save the Children/USA/Ethiopia/Oromia & Somali Funding Period: FY 1998
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FY 2002Resource Levels: Commodities (dollar equivalent, incl. monetization):
Total metric tonnage request:
202(e) grant: $
Statement Prepared by: Name: M. Nassirou Ba : Food Security Officer
Date March 1998
IEE Amendment (YIN)? - Date of Original IEE: M a r c h 1998
Environmental Media andlor Human Health Potentially Impacted (check all that apply):
air- water-x- land-x- biodiversity (specify) x human health x other- none Environmental Action(s) Recommended (check all that apply):
- 22- 1. Categorical Exclusion(s)
6 - 2. Initial Environmental Examination:
5 Negative Determination: no sipficant adverse effects expected regarding the propose
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activities, which are well defined over life of DAPIPAA. IEE prepared:
- without conditions (no special mitigation measures needed; normal good practices and engineering will be used)
- 5- with conditions (special mitigation measures specified to prevent unintended impact)
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Positwe Determination: IEE confirms potential for significant adverse effect ofone or more activities. Appropriate environmental review neededconducted.
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EA to be / being / has be& (circle one) conducted. Note that the activities affected cannot go forward until the EA is approved.1 D e f e r r a l : one or more elements not yet sufficiently defined to perform environmental analysis;
activities will not be implemented until amended IEE is approved.
11.
SUMMMARY OF FINDINGS:
Based on the environmental review presented in this IEE, the following determinations are made:
A. Categorical Exclusion:
Is recommended for Family Planning and Nutrition, pursuant to 22 CFR 216.2(c ) (2) (viii), and for Supplementary Feeding Program pursuant to 22 CFR 216.2(c ) (2) (xi), and for Early Warning Information and Emergency Response Systems pursuant to 22 CFR 216.2(c ) (2) (v), and to Community Managed Saving Plan pursuant to 22 CFR 216.2(c ) (2) (x).
Pilot Milk Processing and all other trainings such as Vet. Scouts, Ticks and Mastitis Control,, Early Warning and Emergency Response, Water Point Management, Pasture and Range Management, Traditional Harmful Practices, Health Action Committees, TBAs, Bridge to Health Teams, CBD, Family Planning, Nutrition, Community Midwives, Drug Vendors, IPM, Bio-hazardous and waste Management, Asset Diversification, are also classified Categorical exclusion pursuant to 22 CFR 216.2(c ) (2) (i), as all the above activities will have no adverse effects on the environment. No chemical will be used during the training for demonstration or any other purpose, and they will not require any facility construction
B. A Negative determination With Conditions:
Is recommended for proposed Water Points development (ponds, wells and birkas), Natural Resources Development (Seedlings), Livestock Health Activities, Land Reclamation Activities, Construction Activities (small scale), and EPI Program, pursuant to 22 CFR 216.3(a) (2) (iii). This proposed activities will be under closed monitoring and control with the necessary mitigation measures being instituted to ensure no harm is done to the environment. The mitigation measures will be implemented in conjunction with partners such as MOA', MoH, SORDU, WEMRD, PCAE and the Communities.
Even in cases where Save the ChildrenAJSA is not directly implementing activities or is limited to making available the service facilities (health posts, vet. posts, dipping tanks), it has been pro active in taking the initiative beyond compliance to provide adequate trainings to the institutions1 government bodiedpartners, and reinforce necessary mitigation measures to ensure that all implementation of different activities will stay environmentally sound.
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MoA = Ministry of Agriculture, MoH = Ministry of health, WEMRD = Water, Energy, Mineral Resources Development, SORDU = Southern Rangelands Development UnitUSAID APPROVAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION(S) RECOMMENDED:
Clearance:
Mission Director: Date:
Food For Peace Director: Date:
Concurrence:
Bureau Environmentai Ofiicer: Date:
(BHW
Approved:
Disapproved:
Optional Clearances:
FFP Officer: Date :
Mission Food Aid Manager:
Date:
Mission Environmentd Officer:
Date:
Regional Environmental Officer: Date:
Geographic Bureau Environmental Officer: Date:
General Counsel: Date:
Ill.
LIST
OF ACRONYMS:
BHT: Bridge to Health Team
~nj7: r - - k L ~ J I F-- UI ~ - L T - - * - W U I K
CMSP: Community Managed Saving Plan DAP: Development Activity Proposal EPA: Environmental Protection Agency FAM: Food Aid Management
FFP: Food For Peace
FHA: Food and Humanitarian Assistance FFW: Food For Work
GTZ: German Agency For Technical Cooperation HAC: Health Action Committee
IEE: Initial Environmental Examination
ILRI: International Livestock Research Institution IPM: Integrated Pest Management
MoA: Ministry of Agriculture MoH: Ministry of Health
NSA: National Statistics Authority PAA: Previously Approved Activities
PCAE: Pastoralist Concern Association Ethiopia (Local NGO) SCF: Save the Children Federation
SORDU: Southern Rangeland Development unit TBA: Traditional Birth Attendant
USAID: United States Agency for International Development WMRED: Water Mines & Energy Resources Development
IV.
IEE: SECTION 1. :
BACKGROUND AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION This Integrated Food Security Program of the DAP is implemented in Liben Wereda in Borena Zone of Oromia Region and Filtu Wereda in ~ i b e n ~ Zone of Somali Region. The main intervention areas are: Human Health and Livestock Health Improvement, Water Points, Natural Resources, Infrastructure, Early Warning Information and Emergency Response Systems Development, Land Reclamation, Technical Assistance and Trainings. For the purpose of this lnitial Environmental Examination, we have classified all activities in the 2 weredas into the following 6 categories: Water Points Development, Natural Resources Development, Livestock Health, Land Reclamation, Construction Activities and Human Health. Please refer to Annex I & 2 for detailed activity matrices.A. WATER POINTS DEVELOPMENT: PONDS, WELLS, BlRKAS
1. Background:
In Liben and Filtu weredas surface water constitutes the main source of water supply for both humans and animals population. The main water sources are ponds, traditional wells and two major rivers on the East and West borders of the Wereda. The water sources in the weredas are the major driving forces for social interactions as well as social conflicts. Different water sources are utilized depending on the season. In the dry season, wells, and permanent rivers are used, while ponds are used in the rainy season. Birkas will be a new introduction to the pastoralist communities in the area. All water will be harvested during rainy season.
a) Ponds:
During the designing of the DAP, a PRA was conducted to identifjr the priority problems of the communities in Liben and Filtu weredas. SCF and PCAE carried out a need assessment in all 38 communities of the Liben wereda and 35 communities of Filtu wereda respectively by Participatory Rapid Appraisal (PRA). The results of the need assessment put "water need" as a priority need in the two weredas. A team was sent from Head Office to confirm these findings which were then reported to USAID. A total of 42 ponds were identified to be in need of rehabilitation. Three consultants were hired to complete technical studies in the preparation of the DAP; Environmental Consultant, Water Consultant, and Livestock and Food Security Consultant.
Liben is a wereda name in Oromia Region and a Zone name in Somali Region, but refers to different localities. In Ethiopia the Administrative Structure is organized from top to bottom as follows: Federal State, Reglon (National State), Zone, Wereda, Communities.
There will be 3 1 ponds to be rehabilitated during the five years of the DAP, 24 in Liben and 7 in Filtu, each with a capacity of 10,000 m3. The locations are as follows: In Liben : Hadessa, Miessa, Jidola, Kassamale, Gofiyambo, Korati, Bokola, Boba, Adadi, Arada Bururi, Mutcho, Buradera, Bitata, Melka Guba, Ardote, Wato Bururi, Shinto, Akakala, Ouraro, Nura Umba. Hadessa and Miessa will have 2 ponds each. (please refer to a map in annex). In Filtu: Filtu, Gerebigel, Siro, Qulay, Haya Suftu, Goonway, Ossobei. There will be 5 birkas: Melka Libe, Koraila, Werawell, Haya Dintu, Massagid.
The design of each pond and each birka will be made by engineers and the schematic drawing is herewith attached in annex. SCF will make sure that women are given equal chance as men to participate in water committees and labor f ~ r c e . Beside the gender issue, the environmental justice issues will be taken into consideration as much as possible by making sure that one ethnic group/clan/class social, etc. is not favored more than the others.
b) Wells:
Traditional wells have been part of the history of the area and have remained as part of cultural practices of pastoralist in animal husbandry. Although their management require more energy and labor, they have remained reliable water source during the dry season. The current population increase in human and livestock is making water a scarcer resource than before. Therefore, the renovation of the wells intends to generate more water in an easier fetching manner by modifjing the traditional design of the wells. The design will be done by a qualified person and technical assistance will also be provided by the Water, Mineral & Energy Resources Development (WMERD) and the Southern Range-land Development Unit (SORDU). The new design will isolate the access point to the wells to improve the sanitation. Drainage channels will be dug in the vicinity of the wells to avoid water stagnation. There will be a total of 19 wells during the five years of the DAP with the capacity of 1,000 m3 each. The excavation/rehabilitation of the ponds will be done by Food For Work as for the ponds. The ponds will be located in the followings villages in Liben: Hadessa (3), Bulbul (6), Nura Humba, Boba, Korati, Miessa (2), Bura Era, Araro, Wato, Serba (please refer to map in the annex).
c) Birkas:
Birkas were recommended for Filtu wereda as an introductory scheme. They are a cement-lined under ground water reservoir filled during the rainy seasons. The walk of the birkas are reinforced with cement, iron bars and gravel. Channels will also be dug to facilitate the flow of water to fill the birka during the rainy season. Chlorination of the water to ensure its safety will be done by qualified staff of the regional WMERD with all necessary precautions. All sanitation and safety measures will be monitored by SCFDCAE. Sites were identified according to the need of the nearby communities.
2. Description: For Ponds, Wells, & Birkas
a) Planning 8 ~ e s i ~ n :
To investigate and address the issue of water, an outside consultant (water engineer) was contracted to come up with tangible recommendations that can alleviate the problem. The study recommended that surface water could be harvested through pond de-siltation and traditional well rehabilitation. The already existing ponds and wells which were abandoned because of silting and other cultural shortcomings e.g. non participation of concerned communities in the planningldesign and lack of community ownership structures for the operationhaintenance, have been recommended for
rehabilitation. The water consultant developed a general design for the ponds including aspects of sanitation and environmental considerations. The final design of each pond and birka for each location will be done in consultation with OXFAM which has extended experience in ponds construction and rehabilitation. Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and Water Energy Mines Resources Development (WEMRD) will also be involved.
b) Construction:
SCF will hire a permanent technical expert in charge of water and infrastructure development as well as a site supervisor. Also, pastoralist extension agents will be hired to organize communities around these activities. During Ponds construction, SCF will be assisted by qualified technical experts from WEMRD and the line ministries at the zonal level. Water committees will be formed in each community. The water management committee and the pastoralist extension agents of the project will work together to mobilize the community. The construction will be supported by Food For Work and Cash For Work schemes. WMERD and SORDU will provide technical support for the construction phase.
c) Operation:
The day to day operation will be monitored by the community representatives. They will be responsible for assessing labor availability as well as eligibility. SCF plans to use labor in Food For WorMCash For Work schemes to excavate the ponds. Save the Children and Pastoralkt Concern Association Ethiopia (PCAE) will ensure that community ownership of the ponds be implemented through traditionally existing water point management systems , (i.e. the Abba Konfi structure3, please refer to DAP Page 48). A Community Managed Savings Plan (CMSP) will be instituted to encourage communities in savings so that the sustainability of the pondslbirkas is ensured by using the hnds when necessary to maintain the ponds' structures (de-siltation, maintenance of hand pumps which will be installed on downstream wells dug for human access, etc.). Please refer to DAP page 78. Though the main objective of the CMSP is to drag pastordists towards the "banking system", it also is a viable instrument to support the sustainability of the pondsibirkas. Elected community members will receive training in water management (protection of water catchment areas, water sanitation, maintenance of hand pumps etc.). Trees planting is planned on water catchment. SCF' extension agents and water & infrastructure technicians will be involved in this activity. SCF will monitor the implementation of all the above activities on a periodic basis. Systematic and continuous de-silting will be instituted through the sustainability structures described above which will be supported by the CMSP scheme. The water committees will set standards of operation for each water points including openinghlosing hours, livestock group rotation, periodical contribution (cash or in- kind) to be used toward maintenance, etc. The sustainable maintenance of the water points will be ensured by the implementation of the Community Managed Saving Plan scheme which will be introduced by SCF and PCAE to pastoralist communities to promote savings, formal banking and to create community managed h n d for the maintenance of water points and other communal resources (such as pasture-lands).
The Abbas Konfi Structure refers to a traditional structure in which an elder is elected by the community to be fully in charge of the management of resources.
B. NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: SEEDLINGS
1. Background:
Natural Resource maintenance and management (tree seedling production and plantation) is very important to the area because of the continuous degradation of the flora (tree cutting for firewood, overgrazing, etc.). The land became exposed to the phenomenon of erosion which in turn is causing silting of water-points due to excessive run-off The current intervention is expected to contribute to the replacement and expansion of species recommended by the Ministry of Agriculture's department of forestry such as: Acacia Decurrens, Casuarina Equisepsonia, Sesbania Sesban, Prosopis Juliflora, Sesbania Grandislora, Pennisepum Pureune, Macrottilium atropureum, etc. SCF will also introduce h i t trees in the area which could help partially in addressing the general food shortage. The seedlings will be distributed to the communities and the distribution will be managed by the village committee. Furthermore, water catchment areas will be planted for each pond for approximately 2 ha ( 5,000 seedlings per ha). This is expected to decrease silting and promote the regeneration of the flora. In the past, natural resource development through seedling plantings was tried without a thorough analysis of the species. Many species could not adapt to the climatic condition of the area or were not suitable to the area due to their water absorbing nature. Furthermore, the planted areas were not protected and there were no particular links between watershed and seedling management.
The current proposed activities will take into consideration all the above issues. Moreover, the issue of community ownership explained in the previous paragraph, will be in effect to insure proper management of the resources and their sustainability.
2. Description: Planning & Design
Based on the recommendations of the technical committee of SORDU and W R D , which worked with village committees to ensure participation and sense of ownership, sites have been identified for planting. As mentioned above each pond will have a catchment of about 2 ha to be planted.
Depending on the topography of the location, minor terracing and check dams (mud barriers) wiIl be raised to slow down water velocity and therefore run off and erosion and consequently silting. Due to the small scale of this operation, no significant impact on the environment is anticipated. The nursery sites will be handed over to MoA as per the "Project Agreement" when the project phases out. The planted areas will be under the responsibilities of the concerned communities through the established
"Water and Pasture Management" Committees. The CMSP scheme will be used to support the sustainability of this intervention.
C. LIVESTOCK HEALTH:
.
Background:Livestock health problem is one of the most acute challenges facing the pastoralist communities in the area. Lack of qualified personnel, veterenary materials and services are some of the constraints that impede the efforts made in this sector. The area is characterized by a variety of animal diseases which are affecting the livestock production in general. The major diseases confirmed by a recent consultant study (Dr. Tafessse Musfin, January 1997, "Household Food Security : Livestock and Crop production in Liben wereda) are: Mastitis, Contagious Caprine Pleuro Pneumonia, Trypanosomiasis, Botulism, Antrax, Black Leg, Foot and Mouth Disease, Ticks Infestation. These epidemic and endemic diseases have been negatively affecting livestock production and productivity which is the basic livelihood of the communities in the area. To overcome this problem, intensive vaccination and
treatment programs have to be launched. SCF/PCAE will work jointly with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure success of the campaigns.
2. Description:
a) Vaccination Programs:
This program will be carried out on 24 different sites each year for approximately 120,000 heads of livestock in Liben wereda, and on 12 sites in Filtu for 60,000 heads per year. The technical manpower to carry out the vaccination wiii be provided by MoA/SORDU, SCF and PCAE will provide vehicles and fuel and undertake massive community mobilization through their extension agents at the time of each vaccination. The vaccines are also provided by the MoA in both weredas.
b) Treatment:
Diseases treatment will take place at sixteen different sites selected by the MoA, communities, PCAE and SCF's extension agents. It is assumed that approximately 58,000 heads of livestock will receive prompt treatment in Liben and 20,000 heads will be treated in Filtu. Especially external diseases such as mastitis, antrax, black legs and the like will be treated using accaricides. Dipping tanks and manual sprayers will be used for that purpose. The accaricides to be used will be those registered by USEPA, allowed by Ethiopian EPA and also available in the country. SCF has already contacted both agencies and has got approval for the following: Steladone, Neocidol, Taktic, Cethion 10, Ethion Technical.
The use of the accaricides will be under strict professional supervision and support of MoA, SORDU and SCFPCAE technical agents ( a Veterinary Doctor on board with SCF will be in charge of this operation). Appropriate trainings will be given to community members involved in the use the mentioned accaricides. The accaricides will be provided by the MoA. SCF and PCAE will be much more involved in the training on IPM and awareness of the communities for the safe and environmental sound use of the above mentioned chemicals. The technical aspect of this program will be taken care of by the MoA, SORDU as per the "Project Agreement". The communities will continue the activities through the trained vet. scouts. The knds to support the program will be drawn from the previously secured "Revolving Fund " currently deposited in a bank account under the name of the community.
D.
LAND RECLAMATION:BUSH
CLEARING:1. Background:
Increasing human and livestock population in the area has caused tremendous pressure on the Iand (overgrazing) by depleting palatable and usehl plant species. This phenomenon has created not only soil degradation, but also created a c0nduciv.e condition for vigorous expansion of unwanted plant species in the area (acacia species). Those unwanted bushes have become a major impediment to find adequate pasture and are encroaching into the normal grazing land of the area. The predominant acacia species (thorny bushes) are " Acacia Drepanolobium and Acacia Seyal". Currently an estimated area of 540,000 ha of land are totally covered by encroaching bush species while 450,000 ha are considered to be partially encroached, which gives a total infected area of 990,000 ha. Several attempts have been made in the past by both governmental and non governmental organizations to control the encroachment. SCF has done a great deal of research into the various approaches used by SORDU, the pastoralists communities, CARE, and Ethiopian Evangelical Church - Mekane Yesus
and has determined that no one is yet sure of how to clear these affected lands in a way that is both cost effective and sustainable.
2. Description :
Based on the research of the past attempt, SCF is proposing a two years pilot demonstration and research activity which, based on results will lead to a larger effort in years three to five of the DAP.
During the first year, 700 ha will be tested under three different techniques used in the past by the above mentioned organizations on a pilot basis in three different project sites. Each test plot will try a single technique for clearing and maintaining or improving the land. It is believed by destroying the unwanted species, that will create more conducive and favorable conditions for regeneration and vigorous growth of palatable species. The cutting and burning are recommended as short term solutions to avoid sprouting and seeds propagation. Parallel to this a long term strategy of other rational uses of cut bushes is being researched on by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with GTZ. SCF will closely follow up on those findings. The three techniques are:
a) Cutting the trees at ground level & PrunelSprouts: (200 ha) Cutting the trees at ground level with additional manual cut after new growth appears. Cutting off the new sprouts will prevent the plant from manufacturing its own food and will kill it. The first year, cut trees wiH be gathered into a central site and burned in mass the second year after the vegetation has dried to destroy the seed. Fire-breaks will be constructed around the pile to contain the fire.
b) Cutting at ground level & Enclosed Burning: (200 ha)
Cutting the trees at ground level grazing will be prevented for 1 season to allow the growth of sufficient grass. The entire test plot will be burned the second year. Fire-breaks will be constructed around the plot.
c) Cutting the trees & piling branches on each stump. (300 ha) Each stump will be burned individually (grazing allowed).
SCF in light of the environmental impact of the above mentioned interventions has contracted an independent Environmental Consultant firm (ECO Consult) to come with concrete recommendations on how to go about it. The study was done in February of 1997 and recommended "Cutting &
Controlled Burning " as a solution to the eradication of these unwanted species. The study also consulted with the National Environmental Protection Agency to confirm that "Controlled Burning"
could be the solution to this problem. Also the Firm found that there is no written document in Ethiopia preventing burning as a tool of pasture management. The study confirmed that the area is not a "protected area" and no "endangered species" live in the area. Also, although, burning will displace some wild life the total area under the project is just about 3% of the total area under partial and full encroachment. The burning could even trigger the regeneration of palatable species in the area. All burning will take place in FY 99 and SCF will decide on the best option based on the pilot research results. MoA will continue to give the technical support needed for better methods and approach of bushing clearing. The village Resources Management Committees such as the "Water Management Committees" and the "Pasture and Range-lands Management Committees" will be in charge of the overall supervision of the project after it phases out by mobilizing the communities. The hnds raised by the Community Managed Saving Plan (CMSP) will be used towards those efforts.
E. CONSTRUCTION : Heath Posts, Veterinary Posts, Dipping Tanks:
1. Background:
Liben and Filtu weredas are characterized by their lack of health facilities for both human and livestock. This has been pointed out during SCF's PRA conducted during the planning of this project.
In order to make some impact on health related issues the project is considering the construction of three health posts, seven vet. posts in Liben, and one heath post in Filtu. Tree dipping tanks will be constructed and four will be rehabilitated in Liben wereda. This is supposed to alleviate the current lack of health facilities. Every health post will have one latrine for proper disposal of human waste, one waste disposal pit and one water cistern according standard set by MoH for the whole country.
2. Description:
All the above mentioned constructions are small scale. SCF and PCAE have selected the sites along with the concerned communities and the local authorities. There will not be new land development or cutting trees for any of the sites. They will be in already developed areas. None of the sites is a wetlands filled, or habitat for endangered species and there is no unusual and flooding conditions.
Local resources will be used as much as possible/necessary. The health posts will be 10 m x 9 m, the dipping tank will be 16,000 liters each and the vet. posts will be 12 m x 4 m. The purchase of the chemicals for the dipping tanks will be done by a professional health person from the Ministry of Agriculture and the hnds will be provided by the communities themselves. SCF will give intensive training to all concerned parties on how to handle the chemicals. Other constructive measures will be taken for these 2 activities:
(1) Heath Posts:
After completion of the construction, MoH will staff the premises with professional health workers and also will be in charge of the maintenance and continuous provision of necessary supplies.
Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) trained by SCFIPCAE will work closely with the heath posts to extend the health services coverage. Previously secured "Human Health Revolving Funds" currently deposited at a bank account under the name of the communities will be used to support the above mentioned efforts.
(2) Vet. Posts & Dipping Tanks:
MoA will assign vet. assistants to the vet. posts. All SCFIPCAE trained vet. scouts and other trained community members on Mastitis and Tick Control, IPM, will also closely work with these vet. posts to strengthen the health coverage. MoA and the Communities will continue to manage the dipping tanks and the previously secured "Revolving F u n d will be used to support the efforts. The used solution from the dipping vat will be drained through pipes into a tank prepared for this purpose and properly situated near the dipping vat from which the solution evaporate through time. This tank is protected from humans and animals access, made out of concrete to avoid the infiltration of the solution into the ground water.
F . HUMAN HEALTH: EPI, FAMILY PLANING, NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING
1. Background:
The EPI+ intervention targets the most common vaccine- preventable diseases and Vitamin A deficiency which predispose children to a vicious cycle of infectionJillness and malnutrition.
EPI programs are the best proven interventions to achieve a reduction in the mortality and morbidity rates of children from the six most prevalent childhood diseases: tuberculosis, measles, polio, diphtheria, pertusis, and tetanus.
2. Description:
Every year about 1,000 children and 2,000 mothers will vaccinated in Filtu wereda, and 2,350 children and 5,750 mothers in Liben wereda. The program will be carried out in static and outreach sites. The necessary vaccines and vaccinators will be provided by MoH, while SCFPCAE will provide financial support for &el and vehicles. SCF trained community members on "Bio-hazarduous Waste Management" will be in charge of ensuring proper disposal of such waste during and after each EPI campaign. Family Planning has been chosen as a DAP activity because of the high popu!atisr.
growth rate of Liben District which is closely linked with food security. The greatest impact on food security will be achieved if efforts to reverse or slow down both trends, are pursued simultaneously.
There is no family planning activities in Filtu because of its strong religious orientation. The nutrition activity will target the root causes of childhood malnutrition through nutritional education with behavioral change, communication, reaching mothers and care givers. It is planned for both weredas.
The Supplementary feeding program will consist of providing supplementary food to malnourished children as they are discovered through the quarterly nutritional surveillance. Supplementary feeding is planned only for Liben wereda under the DAP resources. Filtu will get supplementary feeding assistance through other locally raised resources by SCFPCAE.
SCF and PCAE responsibilities in this program have been limited to financial and technical support.
The main responsibility relies on the MOW. The Country policy towards immunization program is to bring up the national rate from 45% to 80 % for the coming five years.
G.
TECHNlCA L ASSISTANCE & TRAININGS ACTIVITIES:I. : Early Warning Inforrnation/Emergency Response : Liben & Filtu The objective of this activity is to help the communities of the weredas to build their capacities for disaster preparedness and prevention. Its components are;
Market Data Collection Rainfall Data Collection Nutritional Surveillance
Assessment (Crop, Livestock ,Human, etc.)
2. Community Managed Saving Plan: Liben & Filtu
This is a scheme developed by SCF to ensure sustainable resource management practices through provision of initial capital to be matched by the communities for project maintenance purpose. The scheme is done through formal banking system.
:
3. Milk Processing: Liben only
This component consists of introducing a simple but improved technique for milk processing, butter and cheese making and work with group of selected women on pilot basis. The training will also cover the marketing of those products.
4. : Trainings: Liben and Filtu Vet. scout Training
Training on Ticks and Mastitis Control Training on Milk Processing
Training on Early Warning & Emergency Response System Training on Water Points Management
Training on Pasture & Range Management Training on Traditional H d l Practices Training of Health Action Committees Training of TBAs
T--!-! - - L - ~ - * J
1 la~rung ui Dnuge to Heaith Teams
Training of Community Based Distributors of Contraceptives Training on EPI, Family Planning and Nutrition
Training of Community Midwives Training of Drug Vendors
Training on Food Management Training of IPM
Training on Bio-hazardous Waste Management Training on Asset
V. PURPOSE A N D SCOPE OF IEE:
This IEE is compiled for the DAP and the Child Survival (CS 13) period covering FY 98 to FY 2002
: (1) under SCF's Food Security Program called "Integrated Livestock Improvement, Human Health
and Water Development" in Liben Wereda, Borena Zone, Orornia Regional State and, (2) its Sub- Grantee, PCAE program to be implemented in Filtu wereda, Liben Zone in Somali Regional State.
This is the first IEE written for the above mentioned program and it will be amended each year as needed and submitted with the PAA. The bush clearing activities in this DAP will be implemented on pilot basis in Liben wereda in order to come up with the most effective ways to design model approaches that merge traditional practices and sustainable interventions. For this reason, SCF is deferring the "Environmental Determination" of the post pilot bush clearing intervention and the amended IEE that will include the findings of the pilot activities will be submitted in FY 2000 with the PAA document. Over the five year DAP period, SCF will be working in partnership with Pastoralist Concern Association Ethiopia (PCAE) to address food security needs of approximately 7,500 households (out of a total of 10,545), in the 35 communities comprising Filtu district. PCAE is a sub- grantee for SCF through the course of this DAP. It is an indigenous developmental and advocacy institution founded by local developmental workers and elders, legally registered since 1995. SCF is taking the initiative in building the capacity of this Iocal NGO in Environmental Compliance which includes preparation of IEE and implementation of environmentally sound activities.
Vl.
IEE SECTION.2 :
COUNTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION: BASELINE INFORMATIONA. Country:
Ethiopia is one of the poorest nations with problems ranging from high rate population growth, lack of adequate health services, low agricultural productivity, limited economic development, nutritional deficiency among children, limited access to water and sanitation, lack of adequate infrastructure, food insecurity, high mortality and morbidity etc.. Despite efforts made by the government and other d e m r co~munities, the p:sb!em ~f f ~ o d insecurkj remains and iiffezts the people of Ethiopia, leaving them worse off than other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
I
% of ~ o ~ u l a t i o n with access to health services1
721
551
(
Daily calorie supply as % of requirement1
931
671
Source: UNDP, Human Development report, 1993
% of population with access to safe water GNP per Capita (USD)
Real GDP per Capita (USD)
Ethiopia has presently more than 56 million people and has a population growth of about 3%, one of the highest in Africa. In pastoral Iowlands, population growth has reached an estimated 4.1% (1994 Census, Orornia Region, Vol. I, Part IVY April 1996).
The 1992 National Nutritional Survey had determined over 60% of Ethiopian children under 5 years of age to be stunted. Although, this figure might have improved by now, individual NGOs statistics always show a great deal of malnourished children during their routine Nutritional Surveillance.
68 490 1,200
According to the National Statistic Authority, only 10% of the rural population have access to a safe water supply and even fewer have access to adequate human waste disposal facilities. Diarrhea is associated with 46% of all deaths in children under five years of age, making it the leading cause of childhood mortality in Ethiopia (NSA, Health Survey, 1995).
12 120 3 69
This five years DAP will be implemented in Liben wereda of Borena Zone in Oromia Region (Region 4), and Filtu wereda of Liben Zone in Somali Region to address the general food insecurity problem linked to livestock and water and , the health issues.
6. Liben & Filtu weredas:
Liben District is the largest of the 12 districts comprising the Borena Zone of Region 4 . Borena has an estimated population of 1.4 million residing in an area of 91,200 sq. kms. Liben district covers 9,900 sq. krns with a total population of 118,621 (1994, National Census) .
Filtu wereda is one of the four districts that make up Liben Zone in Somali Region. It has an area of 10,800 sq km. The population is 58,000 and there are 35 communities. The current immunization rate in Liben is about 40% and for Filtu according to PCAE's survey, there has not been any EPI
program so far. This DAP program will be the first initiative to undertake this kind of activity in Filtu area. For Liben, the regional plan is to bring the current rate up to 85% from now to 2001.
1. Identification of existing water sources:
There are two rivers in the area passing through both weredas: Genalle river and Dawa river bordering the Liben project area, East and west, and south of Filtu . Existing traditional wells, hnctional and silted ponds are other water sources.
2. Geography of the area:
a) Location:
The DAP activities sites are located in South East of the country in Liben and Filtu weredas, respectively 600 krn, and 720 km from Addis Ababa. The area is classified as a lowland area with an altitude ranging from 1200m to 1500m above sea level, and , a total surface area of 32,600 sq km for both weredas.
b) Topography & Soils:
The area has undulating plain stretching east to west as well as north to south. These plains are some times inhabited by huge termite hills locally known as Kobba or Kuissa. In the eastern side most of area in encroached by acacia thorny bushes which are not fit for livestock consumption. The area is characterized by "Mesozoic Limestone " and "Volcanic Rocks" soil type characterized by alluvial deposits. Reddish sandy soils dominate most of the activity area coupled with gray to black cracking soils around dry water courses. The most extensive reddish sandy soils type seem to be fragile and liable to many types of erosion, particularly around the permanent water points.
c) Climate & Vegetation:
The climate is characterized by bimodal rainfall with big rainy season occurring from March to May and the small rainy season happens from September to October. The annual average rainfall is from 500 to 700 mm and has a minimum of 500 mm in bad years. As a result of the erratic and unpredictable precipitation, the vegetation is xerophilous characterized with wood plant species and many perennial grasses and other herbs. Large expansion of bushes with no nutritional values to the livestock is noticeable. The area is dry and the temperature varies from 15 to 30 degree Celsius
3. Other Existing Factors in The Area:
Degradation of natural resources such as water, pasture, etc. The area relies on rainfall. There is also a persistent increase in human population due mostly to the cultural practices and the lack of knowledge coupled with rehsal of modern techniques ( Filtu has a predominance of muslim communities) . The livestock population also has been rising lately due to the lack of asset diversification knowledge (off-take, selling, banking, etc.). As mentioned above the expansion of bush encroachment into the grazing lands has created a lack of pasture mostly in Liben wereda.
Vll. IEE SECTION 3:
EVALUATION OF PROJECTIPROGRAM ISSUES WITH RESPECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT POTENTIALA. WATER POINTS DEVELOPMENT: PONDS, WELLS & Birkas: Liben and Filtu
In general all water projects have some health issues linked to them. These ponds, birkas and wells development are no exception to that rule. SCF and PCAE are foreseeing a few possible adverse impacts of the water points activities vis a vis the environment:
Possible overgrazing around the water points: Since water is a scarce resource in the area.
Its availability will definitely attract more livestock and consequently excessive grazing could result around the water points.
Possible water-borne diseases: Although the area has no specific water borne diseases problem except for malaria and diarrhea which are endemic to all low land areas in the country, there will be possibilities of contamination of water and proliferation of mosquitoes breeding. The water points have been designed to take in consideration most of these possibilities so that to avoid and diminish their occurrence (please refer to Section 2.A.)
Possible contribution to increase livestock population: This is a phenomenon which will happen due to the improvement of water, pasture and heath situation. Off-take techniques will be tried with the help of "model pastoralists" who are willing to break away from old traditional habits and try new things. Those pastoralists have already been identified.
0 Possibility of increased settlements around water points. Usually the increase settlement is cause of proliferation of communicable disease and reduce sanitary condition. This will be monitored and managed by the water & pasture committees.
Possible disruption of usual migration pattern. Although this is a possibility, it is not known how this will affect the environment. SCF will monitor it through its Early Warning System and report on it.
B. NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: (SEEDL1NG):Liben only
This activity consists of promoting afforestation and contributing to the replenishment of the natural resources in the area. The activity is small scale, only 160,000 seedlings per year. Planting activities will focus around the ponds and other sites selected by the communities, MoA and SORDU.
Improper selection of plant species can also have adverse effect on the environment. The possible environmental impact of this activity could b;e: Soil disturbance due to pitting and re-pitting which could also cause water logging, erosion, mosquito breeding, etc. Use of pesticide and chemical fertilizers on nursery sites could affect the environment. Improper handling and disposal of polythene tubes could disturb the environment.
C. L1VESTOCKHEALTH:LibenandFiltu
Improper use and handling of pesticides could cause hazardous results to human, livestock and the environment. The inappropriate disposal of used dips can also affect the environment (underground water, rivers, etc.). The improvement of livestock health could cause problem of carrying capacity, stocking rate and other natural resource degradation problems.
D. LAND RECLAMATION: BUSH CLEARING: Liben Only
This activity although prescribed as a "control burning" could still have some effect on the environment. Some minor tree speeches which are not resistant to the fire heat might die in the burned area. There could be displacement of some wild life. Uncontrolled burning could cause damage on the natural vegetation.
E. CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES: Liben and Filtu
These construction activities could disturb the natural environment of undeveloped areas through cutting down vegetation, removing of top soil or displacing of wild life. Improper selection of sites could cause drainage and sanitary problem, damage to wetlands, etc. The lack of proper design and necessary structures e.g. waste disposal, latrines, water cisterns, could affect the environment.
F. HUMAN HEALTH: EPI PROGRAM: Liben and Filtu
The EPI program focuses on vaccination therefore improper disposal of used syringes and other medical wastes could be hazardous. SCF is aware that faulty and improper handling of these materials could not only jeopardize human health, but also could have adverse effect on the environment.
Other human health related programs such as family planning, nutrition and supplementary feeding have no impact on the environment.
G. TECHNICAL ASSISTA NCE 8, TRAININGS:
1 Early Warning Information & Emergency Response : Liben & Filtu This activity is intended to develop the capacity of the communities for disaster prevention and preparedness. As such, it will not affect but rather contribute to the increase awareness of the community on environmental issues .
2. Community Managed Saving Plan & Milk Processing: Liben & Filtu These two activities are intended to transfer technical knowledge to communities to allow them to better manage their resources. They have no effect on the environment whatsoever.
3. Trainings: Liben and Filtu
These activities are all intended to develop the resource management capability of the communities and their environmental awareness. Thus they have no effect on the environment.
Vlll.
IEE SECTION 4:
RECOMMENDED MITIGATION ACTIONS (INCLUDING MONITORING AND EVALUATION):SCF, after a comprehensive review of its DAP activities and based on the Environmental Decision Guide provided by USAlD has come up with the following environmental determinations: Categorical Exclusion and Negative Determination with Conditions:
A. WATER POINT DEVELOPMENT: PONDS, WELLS, BIRKAS:
1. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
A Negative Determination with Conditions per 22 CFR 216.3 (a)(2)(iii) is recommended for this component, since the water points are all small in scale, will not have signzficant environmental impact.
2. MITIGATION MEASURES:
All the pondshirkas will be specifically designed according to the location and its geographical and geological characteristics. The volume and distribution of pondshrkas in the area will be determined considering the availability/carrying capacity of pasture around.
Measures will be taken to prevent major discrepancies betweer. water availability and pasture availability. SCF will be supported by Southern Range-lands Development Unit (SORDU) and WMERD in this effort. SCF plans to use the expertise of International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) to hrther elaborate on the carrying capacity issues.
Contacts have already been made.
As an innovative measure, there won't be any direct access to the ponds by humans or animals: "Cattle Troughs" will be constructed around each ponds to avoid direct animal contact. The same will be done for human by constructing well equipped with hand pumps.
Also drainage channels will be constructed when necessary to avoid water stagnation around the wells and the cattle troughs.
Protection of the ponds at a radius of 2 hectares with the planting of ecologically compatible species of vegetation as per a commissioned expert recommendations.
There will be rectification, repair or rehabilitation of all structures in case of defect.
Continuous Extension Services will be provided by Pastoralist Extension Agents to address the issues of health. Although the area doesn't have history of water born diseases except for malaria and diarrhea (which are common in all low land areas in Ethiopia), there will be extra precautions taken against the proliferation of those diseases. SCF has several training programs in its CS 13 program for the prevention of such diseases.
Workshops on de-stocking & asset, diversification will be given to address the problem of carrying capacity. SCF has already entered into an agreement with ILRI, CARE and the University of Utah to tackle the problem of increased livestock population v. s. Carrying Capacity issue. SCF has already participated in similar workshops organized by CARE and ILRI.
Monitoring Measures: SCF will monitor on a regular basis that all the mitigation measures set forth are going the way they are supposed to. Any deviation from the set plan will be analyzed and corrected. Since FY 98 will be a pilot year, only three ponds are planned to be done: 1 in Liben and 2 in Filtu. SCF will also use its experience of FY 98 and improve implementation for the coming years.
Possible anticipated indicators are: water catchment status, trees condition, soil erosion frequency of de-silting of the ponds by communities and follow up, etc.
Responsibility: SCF M&E Unit: SCF/US will try to determine environmental indicators for the ponds rehabilitation activities and these new indicators if found will be added to our DAP indicators. The results will be shared with USAlD and other concerned parties through reports and workshops and the information will be used to redirect intervention where necessary so to improve quality of services and correct unintended and non- beneficial effects.
B. NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT: (SEEDLINGS): Liben Only
i . ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
A Negative Determination with Conditions per 22 CFR 21 6.3 (a) (2) (iii) is recommended for this component, since the nurseries are all small in scale, will not have signi3cant environment impact.
2. MITIGATION MEASURES:
There will be 2 small nurseries of 80,000 seedling production capacity. Selected speqies which are environmentally compatible with the area ecology and economically usefbl have been identified by SCF and MoA to be promoted by these activities. The nurseries will not be using any pesticides or chemicals of any kind. For the disposal of used polythene tubes, proper caution wiIl be taken and appropriate method of disposal will'be applied in consultation with MoA. SCF extension agents will monitor the activities to ensure that no significant impact is done to the environment even by pitting and re-pitting activities. The "Pasture & Water Management Committees" will be in charge of the protection and day to day management of the planted areas and periodical monitoring from SCF technical staffs and MoA will be in place to ensure the sustainability of these activities. SCF M&E Unit will be in charge of regular monitoring of the implementation of all mitigation measures.
C. LIVESTOCK HEALTH: Liben and Filtu
1. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
A Negative Determination with Conditions per 22 CFR 21 6.3 (a) (2) (iii) is recommended for these activities and considered appropriate as the proposed activities will be under control and as such will not have signzficant effect on the environment.
2. MITIGATION MEASURES:
As specified in section 3.C., these activities will include the use of certain accaricides for dipping tanks and manual sprayers. As per SCF agreement with MoA, Title I1 fbnds will not be provided for the supply of those chemicals, nonetheless SCF pill make sure that proper training on the use of those chemicals are provided before hand. Technical Assistance and training focusing on IPM methods will be provided by a Veterinary Doctor (Permanent staff of SCF in charge of these activities).
SCFPCAE will make sure that community members who will come in contact with the chemicals are filly aware of the danger associated and filly trained to avoid and /or alleviate accidental incidents in case they occur. The disposal of used chemical from dipping vats will be done through standard structures explained earlier in section 1. Furthermore, livestock treatment will involve the use of
