Mpatamanga Hydropower Project Environmental & Social Impact Assessment Volume II – Main ESIA Report Sub-volume 6: Chapters 6 & 7 Prepared for MHPL Revision A 31 July 2024 Revision Record Revision Date Prepared by: Checked by: Description: A 31 July 2024 SLR Consulting D. Buffin Issue for WB RSA review See Section 1 for authors To limit the size of the files Volume II – ESIA Report of the ESIA document Chapter 1: Introduction disclosed on internet, the Chapter 2: Project description ESIA Volume II has been Chapter 3: ESIA Process and Methodology divided into sub-volumes. Chapter 4: Policy, Legal and Institutional Framework Chapter 5: Environmental and Social Baseline Data This sub-volume 6 contains Chapter 6: Alternative Analysis This sub-volume Chapters 6 and 7. Chapter 7: Stakeholder Engagement Chapter 8: Impact Assessment & Mitigation Measures Chapter 9: Environmental Flows Assessment Chapter 10: Climate Change Chapter 11: Cumulative Impact Assessment Chapter 12 Transboundary Impact Assessment Citation: SLR Consulting (2024). Mpatamanga Hydropower Project: Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, ESIA Report Revision 1, July 2024. Disclaimer: This document has been prepared by SLR with reasonable skill, care and diligence, and taking account of the timescales and resources devoted to it by agreement with MHPL (the Client) as part or all of the services it has been appointed by the Client to carry out. It is subject to the terms and conditions of that appointment. SLR shall not be liable for the use of or reliance on any information, advice, recommendations and opinions in this document for any purpose by any person other than the Client. Reliance may be granted to a third party only in the event that SLR and the third party have executed a reliance agreement or collateral warranty. Information reported herein may be based on the interpretation of public domain data collected by SLR, and/or information supplied by the Client and/or its other advisors and associates. These data have been accepted in good faith as being accurate and valid. The copyright and intellectual property in all drawings, reports, specifications, bills of quantities, calculations and other information set out in this report remain vested in SLR unless the terms of appointment state otherwise. This document may contain information of a specialised and/or highly technical nature and the Client is advised to seek clarification on any elements which may be unclear to it. Information, advice, recommendations and opinions in this document should only be relied upon in the context of the whole document and any documents referenced explicitly herein and should then only be used within the context of the appointment. SLR Consulting France SAS 2 Square Roger Genin, 38000 Grenoble, France T: +33 6 23 37 14 14 www.slrconsulting.com Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6 Alternatives Analysis Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page a Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Contents 6.1 Malawi’s Energy Context & Need for the Project ...... 6-1 Malawi’s Energy Consumption ....................................................................................................................... 6-1 Electricity Generation ......................................................................................................................................... 6-1 Electricity Importation ....................................................................................................................................... 6-2 Current Challenges .............................................................................................................................................. 6-3 Forecast Power Demand at National Level ............................................................................................. 6-3 Need for, and Benefits of, the Mpatamanga Project ......................................................................... 6-5 6.2 Alternative Technologies for Power Generation ....... 6-6 Thermal Energy ...................................................................................................................................................... 6-6 Renewable Energy................................................................................................................................................ 6-7 Geothermal Energy ............................................................................................................................................. 6-8 Nuclear ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6-9 Importation of Electricity ................................................................................................................................. 6-9 Project GHG Emissions c.f. Alternative Power Scenarios ............................................................... 6-9 6.3 Alternative Design Options and Design Evolution... 6-11 Options Assessment (2015)........................................................................................................................... 6-11 Feasibility Study (2015-2018) ...................................................................................................................... 6-12 Hydraulic Study and Environmental Flows Assessment (2018) ................................................ 6-12 Technical Due Diligence and Additional Studies (2019) ................................................................. 6-13 Design Freeze – Feasibility Study Optimisation (2023) ................................................................. 6-13 Project Layout ...................................................................................................................................................... 6-13 Type of Dam Structure .................................................................................................................................... 6-14 Dam Height............................................................................................................................................................ 6-15 Headrace Tunnel ................................................................................................................................................. 6-15 Bottom Outlet ...................................................................................................................................................... 6-15 Reservoir Level ..................................................................................................................................................... 6-16 Regulating Dam ................................................................................................................................................... 6-16 Access Routes...................................................................................................................................................... 6-19 Transmission Lines ............................................................................................................................................ 6-20 Fish Pass ..................................................................................................................................................................6-22 Substation Design ..............................................................................................................................................6-22 Alternatives Considered to Minimise Resettlement ........................................................................6-22 6.4 Alternative Modes of Operation ...................................... 6-25 Environmental Flow ...........................................................................................................................................6-25 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page b Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Run-of-River ..........................................................................................................................................................6-26 Operation of the Regulating Dam without Turbining Discharges ..............................................6-26 6.5 No Project Alternative .......................................................... 6-27 Annexes ....................................................................................................6-28 Annex 6-1: References........................................................................................................................................................ 6-29 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page c Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis List of Tables Table 6-1: Breakdown of Power Generation in Malawi .......................................................................................... 6-1 Table 6-2: Existing Hydropower Plants in Malawi .................................................................................................... 6-1 Table 6-3: Diesel Power Plants Currently in Operation ........................................................................................ 6-2 Table 6-4: Lifecycle GHG Emissions Factors ......................................................................................................... 6-10 Table 6-5: Avoided GHG Emissions ............................................................................................................................ 6-10 List of Figures Figure 6-1: Demand Forecast 2022-2042 .................................................................................................................. 6-4 Figure 6-2: Renewable Resource Potential ................................................................................................................ 6-8 Figure 6-3: Total GHG Net Emissions of the Mpatamanga Scheme ........................................................... 6-9 Figure 6-4: Potential Locations of the Regulating Dam .................................................................................... 6-18 Figure 6-5: Alternatives for the New Sections of the S137 Road................................................................. 6-19 Figure 6-6: Alternative Transmission Line Routes ................................................................................................ 6-21 Figure 6-7: Land Acquisition for the Upper Part of the Main Reservoir Buffer Area ......................... 6-24 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page d Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Acronyms Acronym Full text AIS Air Insulated Substation CCRA Climate Change Risk Assessment CFRD Concrete Face Rockfill Dam CH Critical Habitat EFlow Environmental Flow EGENCO Electricity Generation Company (Malawi) Limited ESCOM Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment EV Electric Vehicle FSL Full Supply Level GHG Greenhouse Gas GIS Gas Insulated Substation GOM Government of Malawi GPS Geographical Positioning System HFO Heavy Fuel Oil HPP Hydropower Project IFC International Finance Corporation IHA International Hydropower Association IRENA International Renewable Energy Agency LiDAR Light Detection And Ranging MAREP Malawi Rural Electrification Programme MEPA Malawi Environmental Protection Agency MHPL Mpatamanga Hydropower Limited MOL Minimum Operating Level NDC Nationally Determined Contributions NG Net Gain NNL No Net Loss NREL National Renewable Energy Laboratory NWRA National Water Resources Authority PPP Public-Private Partnership PS Performance Standard PV Photovoltaic RCC Roller Compacted Concrete RD Regulating Dam RLRAP Preliminary Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Action Plan SAPP Southern African Power Tool UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page e Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Units Unit Full text % Percent GWh Gigawatthour km kilometres kV kilovolt kWh/kWp/yr Kilowatthours produced per kilowatt peak of installed solar capacity per year m metre m asl metres above sea level m3/s cubic metres per second MW Megawatt tCO2e Tonnes of equivalent carbon dioxide TJ Terajoule Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page f Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6.1 Malawi’s Energy Context & Need for the Project Malawi’s Energy Consumption Malawi’s total energy consumption in 2020 was 91,282 TJ (IRENA, 2023). The main source/contributor of energy is biomass (wood and charcoal) which is used as a source of energy for household cooking and heating and accounts for 86% of the country’s total energy consumption (Ministry of Energy, 2024). Combustion of liquid hydrocarbons (oil, petrol, diesel) and coal accounts for 10% and 1% of total energy consumption respectively. Liquid hydrocarbons are used mostly for the transport sector. Malawi has no significant reserves of crude oil or natural gas, and thus relies on imports to meet its energy needs. However, Malawi does have uranium and coal reserves, but for the moment they have not been exploited. Electricity generation accounts for 3% of the country’s total energy consumption (Ministry of Energy, 2024), of which 72% is hydropower, 18.4% solar and 9.6% thermal (see Table 6-1). Electricity Generation Electricity Generation Company (Malawi) Limited Electricity Generation Company (Malawi) Limited (EGENCO) is a state-owned enterprise is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and improvement of the power generation facilities owned by the GOM, these include both hydroelectric and thermal power plants. The Company was formed in 2016 following the unbundling of the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited into two separate institutions; one for generating electricity (EGENCO) and another one for transmission and distribution (ESCOM). EGENCO started its operations as a separate and independent company on 1 January 2017. Currently, EGENCO operates four hydropower schemes: Nkula, Tedzani, Kapichira and Wovwe. The Company also operates thermal power plants in Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Mapanga, Blantyre. Installed Capacity The total installed capacity in 2024 is 554.3 MW as shown in Table 6-1. Table 6-1: Breakdown of Power Generation in Malawi Scheme Capacity (2024) Percent Hydro 398.8 MW 72% Thermal 53.2 MW 9.6% Solar 102.3 MW 18.4% Total 554.3 MW 100% Source: (EGENCO, 2024), (Ministry of Energy, 2024) Hydropower Hydropower plants comprise EGENCO schemes with a total installed capacity of 390.55 MW and 8.2 MW from the from the Ruo-Ndiza HPP which is owned and operated by the Mulanje Renewable Energy Plc, a private energy-generating company (see Table 6-2). Table 6-2: Existing Hydropower Plants in Malawi Scheme Capacity (MW) Year Completed EGENCO Nkula A 35.1 1966 Nkula B 100 1980, 1986, 1992 Tedzani I 20 1973 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-1 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Scheme Capacity (MW) Year Completed Tedzani II 20 1977 Tedzani III 62 1996 Tedzani III 19.1 2021 Wovwe Mini Hydro 4.5 1995 Kapchira Phase I 64.8 2000 Kapchira Phase II 64.8 2012 Total 390.55 - Other Mulanje Hydro 8.25 2020 Grand Total 398.8 Source: (EGENCO, 2024), (Ministry of Energy, 2024) Thermal Power In addition to the country’s hydropower schemes, electricity is also generated from the following EGENCO thermal power plants with a total installed capacity of 53.22 MW as shown in Table 6-3. Table 6-3: Diesel Power Plants Currently in Operation Power plant Number of generators Installed Capacity (MW) Mapanga 10 20 Luwinga 3 6 Kanengo Phase I 5 10 Kanengo Phase II 5 10 Lilongwe A 3 5.4 Likoma 2 1.17 Chizumulu 2 0.65 Total 53.22 Solar Power In addition to the country’s hydropower and thermal power schemes, electricity is also generated from the following solar power plants (Ministry of Energy, 2024): • JCM solar power facility (80 MW) • Serengeti solar power facility (21 MW) • EGENCO solar power facility (1.3 MW) Electricity Importation Electricity is imported from Mozambique and Zambia via Mozambique-Malawi and Zambia- Malawi cross boarder interconnections, 7 MW and 20 MW respectively. There are plans to increase the electricity importation and this is discussed in more detail in Section 6.2.5. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-2 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Current Challenges Malawi’s energy sector is characterized by one of the lowest electrification rates in the world. In 2020 access to electricity rate stood at 11% with severe disparities between urban (42%) and rural areas (4%). Households without access to electricity rely on wood fuel for cooking and there is some use of small scale solar and diesel generators for sporadic electricity generation in off grid locations. The inequity among the rich and poor is stark: the poorest 20% report 1% electrification rate while the richest 20% reports a rate of 31%. Access to electricity and reliability of the network are major constraints for the private sector. As per the 2018 World Bank ‘Doing Business Report’, procedures, time and cost to get connected to the electricity grid as well as the reliability of the electricity supply and the transparency of tariffs in Malawi are ranked extremely low (169 out of 190 countries) and below the sub-Saharan Africa average. Growing demand for power in the central and northern regions, as industrial and mining prospects open up and the expansion of the grid through the Malawi Rural Electrification Programme (MAREP) has put considerable constraint on the limited generation capacity. This has discouraged would be investors in both the industrial and mining sectors in the country from seriously considering investing in the country due to the unavailability of reliable and secure power supply. The forecast growth rates in energy and peak demand are higher than the 4% average annual growth recorded between 2016 and 2021. Demand from all sectors (residential, commercial, and industrial) is expected to grow in the next 20 years. Malawi has a total installed generation capacity of approx. 550 MW (2024), and mostly hydropower. Peak demand is in 2024 is estimated at around 500 MW (Figure 6-1). Hydropower is exposed to hydrologic vulnerability and climate change. Severe droughts occurred in past years and led to reduced water levels in Lake Malawi and consequently reduced flow rates in the Shire River, where most of the hydropower schemes are located. This shortage of water led to prolonged load shedding of up to 12-16 hours a day, but according to ESCOM, the situation was abated somewhat with the introduction of new diesel generation leading to average load shedding being reduced to 6 hours per day from 2018 onwards. In 2024, Malawi has experienced high rainfall, and the Lake Malawi has record high water levels and there are high flow rates in the Shire River. However, climate change modelling identified the possibility of possibly reduced river flow over the next 7 years for some climate scenarios. Forecast Power Demand at National Level The electricity demand forecast published by the Ministry of Energy has been developed to reflect current policy targets, including the electrification targets set by the National Electrification Programme, the implementation of the 2021 Loss Reduction Roadmap, as well as the current long-term economic forecasts and industrial, agriculture and mining developments in the country. The annual energy and peak demand forecast results are provided in Figure 6-1. It is estimated that the energy demand will reach 12,458 GWh with a peak demand of 1,914 MW by 2042. This increase represents an average annual growth of above 8% from 2021. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-3 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Figure 6-1: Demand Forecast 2022-2042 Base case forecast by activity Demand forecast and peak demand forecast for low, base and high demand scenarios Source: (Economic Consulting Associated Limited, 2023) Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-4 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Need for, and Benefits of, the Mpatamanga Project The Mpatamanga project is a flagship of the GOM with potential to contribute to reducing energy shortages and enhancing energy security. Mpatamanga is on top of government’s priority list for development as the least cost generation expansion, based on analysis done by the World Bank in its Integrated Resource Plan. It is the first of the uncommitted projects recommended for financing support. The project will aim to meet both the peak and off-peak power demands on a mid to long-term basis. The present power production capacity of Malawi is around 554 MW, so Mpatamanga designed for 358 MW, will increase capacity by about 65%. The storage reservoir and consequently, peaking operation, allows for optimum operation of the existing plants at Shire River with respect to the provision of firm energy. The existing plants could be exclusively operated in the base load/steady mode, thus maximizing their performance, with Mpatamanga covering the peaking demand. The Mpatamanga reservoir with its considerable dead storage is expected to trap significant quantities of sediment that is transported by the river, and thus reduce sediment loads in the river downstream. This will reduce the sediment inflow into the Kapichira reservoir downstream, and thus increase power generation at that plant (by reduction in outages due to sediment flushing) and prolong the lifetime of that reservoir, while reducing the costs for maintenance (dredging). The project will add low-cost electricity generation capacity and energy to the Malawian grid. Modelling indicates that all the additional capacity and energy will be needed in Malawi, yet excess energy produced by Mpatamanga can be exported to the SAPP if needed. Studies have shown that the project cashflows are positive in all years under both a low and medium demand scenario. Further, when comparing Malawi’s total system costs with and without the project, analysis shows that Mpatamanga is the least-cost solution and substantially lowers the total system cost when compared with the next best option. The modelling shows that Mpatamanga will serve to lower the overall cost of power procurement because its storage component allows for the optimization of its dispatch to meet the national electricity system requirements and reduces the cost of purchases. Ultimately the combination of Mpatamanga, renewable energy, coal supported by imports and revamping of existing thermal plants represents a robust supply mix, that delivers least-cost energy for Malawi. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-5 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6.2 Alternative Technologies for Power Generation Development of electrical power systems in Malawi has always been guided by master planning for 20 years in advance and specific feasibility studies for the selected power development options. Thermal Energy Coal Coal is Malawi’s most abundant fossil resource. Coal reserves are estimated to be 1 billion metric tonnes, 22 million of which are proven reserves of a bituminous type, with a high ash and low sulphur content. Coal deposits have been found in 15 dispersed locations in the country, the largest being at Ngana in the north, where total proven reserves have been estimated at 16 million tonnes but could possibly reach as high as 70 million tonnes. Further exploration work might increase the total reserves of coal in the country. Coal mining started in 1985 and two fields are being mined in Rumphi District. Coal extraction is carried out primarily in open-pit mines. The annual production of coal in Malawi s variable, and during the period 2015-2022 production varied in the range of 48,000 to 66,000 tonnes, the highest production was in 2017 and lowest in 2016 (TheGlobalEconomy, 2024). Coal is predominantly used as an energy source for process heat in tobacco processing, textile and sugar production, and beer brewing as well as cement production. Coal is an economically preferred energy source in Malawi due to its relatively low price and abundance. However, coal has a high carbon intensity, and its burning contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and to climate change. Notwithstanding Malawi’s very low emissions of around 0.08 t CO2e per capita in 2020 (TheGlobalEconomy, 2024). Malawi as a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has made firm decisions and plans to move the country’s development pathways towards a green economy based on national circumstances and capabilities, as per the Nationally Determined Contribution(Republic of Malawi, 2021). Coal burning produces high levels of particulates which create air quality and health issues. The mining of coal is particularly dangerous, leading to a large number of casualties each year through accidents and health issues following exposure to coal dust. As such, from an environmental and social perspective, coal is the least preferred option for increased electricity generation. Malawi’s Ministry of Energy’s website (Ministry of Energy, 2024) indicates that that the GOM has made a decision to develop the 300 MW Coal Fired Power Plant at the Kam’mwamba in order to increase generation capacity and also diversify the generation from hydropower. It is envisaged that the power plant is developed by EGENCOusing either local or foreign coal resources; or a mix of the two. The project consists of six 50 MW units, an additional seventh 700 MW unit was also envisaged at some point but has been cancelled (Chirambo, 2018). The 300 MW Kam’mwamba project is not an alternative to the Mpatamanga HPP because the decision to implement the project has already been taken and expected power production integrated into Malawi’s power generation strategy. An alternative to the Mpatamanga HPP would be to either expand the capacity of the Kam’mwamba project or implement a similar sized project elsewhere. However, this would not align with Malawi’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Implementation Plan (Republic of Malawi, 2021), which includes a conditional commitment to develop grid-connected hydropower generation with displacement of GHG emissions from fossil fuel power generation, including coal-fired, diesel and Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) generation. Diesel / Heavy Fuel Oil EGENCO currently operates several diesel power plants (see Table 6-3) that are used as standby or emergency power supply. They are also used to provide additional capacity during peak periods and for system voltage improvement. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-6 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Currently, EGENCO does not have plans to develop new diesel or Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) power plant projects, but it can be expected that refurbishing of the existing diesel units may occur. Development of diesel (or HFO) power plants with a combined power production capacity equivalent to that of the Mpatamanga Project within the time frame required to meet the expected future energy demand is not realistic. In addition, this would not align with Malawi’s NDC Implementation Plan (Republic of Malawi, 2021), which includes a conditional commitment to develop grid-connected hydropower generation with displacement of GHG emissions from fossil fuel power generation, including diesel and HFO generation. Gas Power Plants There are no gas-fired power plants currently in operation in Malawi. Malawi does not have any gas fields under development. Consequently, to develop gas power plants, gas would need to be imported - probably by pipeline from neighbouring countries. The time frame necessary to implement gas power projects is too long for this alternative to be a realistic alternative to the Mpatamanga Project. Renewable Energy Wind and Solar Malawi presents sufficient renewable energy resources for the development of wind and solar power to be feasible (see Figure 6-2). Malawi’s NDC implementation plan includes the conditional commitments to develop grid-connected large scale solar PV projects, off-grid small scale solar PV systems and grid connected wind power projects. However, the time scales necessary to develop and implement the PV and solar projects means that the technology is not a realistic alternative to the Mpatamanga Project in the short-term. However, PV and wind are mid- to long- term solutions for power generation in Malawi, and the implementation of the Mpatamanga HPP should provide the power necessary to handle the intermittence and to allow their integration into the grid, to boost the economy and enable these renewable energies to be developed. Battery Energy Storage Systems One of the disadvantages of wind and solar power plants as an alternative to Mpatamanga is that they are not able to supply the peak power that Mpatamanga is capable of. However, equipping wind or solar projects with battery storage enables the electricity that is generated during off peak period to be stored and then made available when there is peak demand. Some of the solar projects that are in operation or in development in Malawi include battery energy storage systems. These include • Golomoti Solar Project (20 MW) with a 10 MWh storage capacity, developed by JCM Power • Nkhotakota Solar Project (20 MW) with a 10 MWh storage capacity, developed by Phanes Group and responsibility Renewable Energy Holding (rAREH). However, there are few solar battery storage projects with installed capacities comparable with the Mpatamanga Project, and Malawi is probably not ready to launch such a project in a similar time frame as the Mpatamanga Project. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-7 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Figure 6-2: Renewable Resource Potential Distribution of wind potential Potential wind power density (W/m2) is shown in the seven classes used by NREL, measured at a height of 100 m. The bar chart shows the distribution of the country's land area in each of these classes compared to the global distribution of wind resources. Areas in the third class or above are considered to be a good wind resource. Distribution of solar potential Solar resource potential has been divided into seven classes, each representing a range of annual PV output per unit of capacity (kWh/kWp/yr). The bar chart shows the proportion of a country's land area in each of these classes and the global distribution of land area across the classes (for comparison). Source: (IRENA, 2023) One of the challenges that is facing the development of solar battery storage projects is the cost and availability of lithium, which is the metal of choice for the composition of storage batteries. Lithium prices have risen significantly recently to new record levels. It is likely that prices will remain high for some time as supply growth lags behind demand growth. Battery lithium demand is projected to increase tenfold over 2020–2030, in line with battery demand growth, driven by the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). It takes two to three years to build and optimise a battery factory or an EV plant, but it takes between five and ten years to build and optimise a mine, and currently the EV sector (EV and battery manufacturing) is raising capital at much faster rates than the raw materials sector. Efforts to develop additional lithium production and processing capacity will therefore be required this decade. The main issue in this regard is quality assurance between lithium suppliers and battery producers. The mining, processing and battery manufacturing segments are dominated by a limited number of companies, and car manufacturers are now seeking to take stakes in these companies (Gielen & Lyons, 2022). Geothermal Energy There are currently no geothermal energy power plants in Malawi. However, Malawi’s Ministry of Energy’s website (Ministry of Energy, 2024) provides information on the Chiweta geothermal project, located in the Rumphi district (Northern Region of Malawi), 370 km north of Lilongwe, which has a power production potential of between 10.5 MW to 13.5 MW. The project is at the early stages of development. The time frame necessary to implement thermal energy projects is too long for this alternative to be a realistic alternative to the Mpatamanga Project. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-8 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Nuclear Uranium is mined at the Kayelekera uranium mine, which is an open cast mine located 52 km west of Karoga District in the Northern Region of Malawi. Production at the mine has been paused since 2014, due to a fall in global uranium prices (Chiphwanya, 2020). Although Malawi has the uranium resources necessary to develop nuclear energy, it is not realistic for a nuclear power plant to be developed in the country because of the complexity and associated risks. The GOM has no plans to develop nuclear energy in the country. Importation of Electricity Electricity is currently imported from Mozambique and Zambia via the Mozambique-Malawi and Zambia-Malawi cross boarder interconnections, 7 MW and 20 MW respectively. In the short-term, Malawi intends to import an additional 50 MW of power from Mozambique via a 400 kV Interconnection Project that is currently under construction. The transmission link between Malawi and Mozambique will help Malawi meet increasing electricity demand, and to open up expanded trading opportunities in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). The 218 km, 400 kV transmission line starts at Matambo in Tete Province in Central Mozambique and crosses the Malawian border into Mwanza and end at Phombeya in Balaka district in Southern Malawi. In January 2024, the project construction was 45% completed (Singini, 2024). A future increase in electricity importation is not a realistic alternative to the Mpatamanga Project. In effect, the GOM hopes that excess energy produced by Mpatamanga can be exported to the SAPP. Project GHG Emissions c.f. Alternative Power Scenarios Project Emissions The Project’s design team has estimated the GHG emissions over the life of the Project (EDF Renewables Hydro Engineering Centre, 2024) Total lifecycle GHG emissions over 20, 30 and 100 years are show in Figure 6-3. Total net emissions amount to 1.3 ± 0.2, 1.5 ± 0.2 and 2.3 ± 0.3 MtCO2eq, respectively. Within 20 years, emissions due to the construction and to the reservoir creation are similar (53 and 38% of the total emissions, respectively). Changes in land use only increase emission by 11%. Over 100 years, in spite of higher emissions for maintenance, biogenic emissions largely dominate (71%) with more than 1.6 MtCO2e. Assuming an annual energy production of 1544 GWh, the emission ratios for 20, 30 and 100 years are 42 ± 6, 33 ± 4 and 15 ± 2 gCO2e/kWh, respectively. Figure 6-3: Total GHG Net Emissions of the Mpatamanga Scheme Source: (EDF Renewables Hydro Engineering Centre, 2024) Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-9 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Avoided Emissions The carbon-intensity factors used for calculations are emission factors for the whole lifecycle of consumed fuels and used power plants. These numbers come from the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (Bruckner et al., 2014), which aggregates emission factors estimated by a multitude of peer-reviewed studies. Table 6-4: Lifecycle GHG Emissions Factors Power Source Life-Cycle Emission Factor (gCO2e/kWh) Coal 820 Oil 650 Gas 490 Hydropower 24 Solar 45 Wind 11 Biomass 230 Source: IPCC, AR5 (2014) cited in (EDF Renewables Hydro Engineering Centre, 2024) Malawi’s current energy mix is provided in Section 6.1.2. The county’s CO2 emission factor for electricity and heat generation is 107 gCO2eq/kWh in 2021 (IRENA, 2023). To estimate GHG emission trends, the following 2 power production scenarios have been considered: • The project will replace 1,544 GWh/yr of thermal (oil) generation (= if needed, one or several thermal (oil) schemes with an equivalent annual generation will be developed). • The project will replace 1,544 GWh/yr of a hypothetical generation option having the same CO2 emission factor as today (107 gCO2e/kWh) (= if needed, several schemes with an equivalent annual generation will be developed with the same technology distribution as of today). The emissions over 30 years and 100 years for Mpatamanga, and avoided emissions for the generation of the equivalent energy from the above power generation scenarios are presented in Table 6-5. Table 6-5: Avoided GHG Emissions Number of years 30 years 100 years Annual production (GWh/yr) 1,554 Emissions Mpatamanga (MtCO2e) 1.5±0.2 1.5±0.3 Scenario 1 (oil) Emission Factor (gCO2e/kWh) 650 Total emissions (MtCO2e) 30.1 100.4 Avoided Emissions (MtCO2e) 28.6±2.9 98.0±10.0 Scenario 2 (current mix) Emission Factor (gCO2e/kWh) 107 Total emissions (MtCO2e) 5.0 16.5 Avoided Emissions (MtCO2e) 3.4±0.3 14.2±1.5 Source: (EDF Renewables Hydro Engineering Centre, 2024) Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-10 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6.3 Alternative Design Options and Design Evolution The Mpatamanga project has gone through a long and significant design evolution process spanning over 20 years. This section describes the key studies which have been completed. It then describes the key iterations which have been made regarding civil structures, layout, reservoir’s levels, access route, transmission line routes and the inclusion of the regulating scheme. Options Assessment (2015) During the development of the pre-feasibility study, different layout alternatives of the project were identified and studied. The outcomes of the analysis were presented in an Option Assessment Report (Fichtner, 2015a). The process required selecting the most promising project concept to be developed into the full feasibility design for the next stage. During the options assessment, the project concept was analysed and adjusted to the project-specific conditions, which were defined and fine-tuned through design development. The key objectives of the option assessment were to: • Undertake a pre-feasibility study to international best practice acceptable to the client and international financial institutions • Work effectively with the client, World Bank, ESCOM and other involved parties • Carry out the required field investigations including preliminary geological investigations, environmental, social and topographic surveys with analysis and processing of data/results • Review and optimize technical and financial aspects of the alternative project concepts and to select the most promising layout for further design development • Undertake a preliminary socio-environmental impact assessment study in line with the internationally recognized practice and procedures • Estimate the power generation, total implementation costs of the project and prepare a preliminary implementation schedule • Evaluate the preliminarily financial performance of the project. The work undertaken by the options assessment to inform the iteration of the project design included: • Preparing topographic maps in scale 1:2,000 to 1:10,000 with the contour interval of 2 to 25 m for the project area, based on high accuracy GPS survey in combination with the high- resolution satellite imagery • Performing comprehensive hydrological analysis, comprising critical review, update and further processing of the existing records and studies. As the result, the series of daily inflows, magnitude of exceptional flows and the availability of water resources for the power production at the Mpatamanga HPP were defined. • Undertaking preliminary geological survey, surface mapping, including the identification of the possible quarry areas and the preliminary seismic assessment and establishing the design-relevant parameters. • Analyzing and optimizing the project key parameters, such as project concept, general layout, reservoir water levels, dam type and powerhouse concept, allowing for the selection of the conceptual layout deemed technically optimal for the project under the given technical and site conditions • Analyzing the connection of the Mpatamanga hydropower project to the national grid and the preliminary load flow analysis, defining the optimum voltage, preliminary routing and layout of the new transmission line • Using the preliminary ESIA for the envisioned project concept for determining the expected environmental and social impacts and defining the relevant stakeholders, legislative requirements and the scope of work for the full scale ESIA • Estimating construction costs, comprising direct and indirect costs of all major project components for all alternative layouts. The cost function for the installed discharge/installed capacity was established Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-11 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis • Performing power production analysis for the variety of the considered design discharges/installed capacities, resulting in the definition of the expected annual power generation function • Preliminarily establishing construction and implementation time schedules • Carrying out preliminary financial and sensitivity analyses, based on the previously defined relevant inputs and parameters, resulting in the evaluation of the financial performance of the different considered alternatives/installed capacities and allowing for the ranking of options • Establishing a risk matrix, listing out the major identified risk categories and the related project risks as well as the measures for their control and reduction. The options assessment concluded that the Mpatamanga HPP is a technically feasible project in the prevailing topographic, geological, hydrological, infrastructural, environmental and socio- economic boundary conditions. It offers a safe, rational and reliable project setup. The proposed project layout is financially viable, resulting in the relatively low generation levelized costs. Feasibility Study (2015-2018) Following the options assessment, the project design was refined in a full feasibility study which was completed by Fichtner between 2015 and 2018, under a World Bank-supported Energy Sector Support Project for the GOM’s Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining. At the same time, an ESIA process was undertaken by AGRI-PRO Ambiente Consultores SA and CENOR Consulting Engineers. The full feasibility study developed the design based on the results obtained from all previous studies. These were developed using the following analytical studies: • Geotechnical and geophysical investigations • Detailed hydrology including assessment of climate change impacts • Sediment and hydraulic analyses • Reservoir operations and power & energy simulations • Interpretation of the geotechnical factual report • Feasibility design of project components • Dam safety analysis • Construction work plan • Costing • Economic and financial analysis • Project justification • Risks evaluation and mitigation Further geotechnical investigations, a topographic survey, and draft tender documents were also developed during this period. These studies and documents resulted in a partnership agreement between the GOM and IFC InfraVentures. Hydraulic Study and Environmental Flows Assessment (2018) The IFC commissioned Multiconsult Norge AS of Norway to conduct a Hydraulic Study and Environmental Flows (EFlows) Assessment for the Mpatamanga project in 2018. Multiconsult associated with Deltares of the Netherlands and the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology of the United Kingdom as sub-consultants. Of particular interest were potential impacts on the Majete Wildlife Reserve about 7 km downstream and the Elephant Marsh (a Ramsar Site) about 35 km downstream of the proposed dam site. The assessment included: • An aquatic biodiversity field report • Bathymetry survey report Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-12 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis • Hydraulic study report • Eflows assessment report • Socio-economic screening report The key outcome of this study was that the design in 2018 would have unmitigable impacts on the downstream reach of the Shire River due to peaking operations. This led to the design and inclusion of the regulating dam to remove the peak flows downstream, a significant iteration to make the project more sustainable. Technical Due Diligence and Additional Studies (2019) Further refinement of the technical design was provided through a technical due diligence. Additional studies which were conducted by Multiconsult UK on behalf of SN Power in 2019. IFC engaged SN Power to expand upon the feasibility studies and design a bankable project from all perspectives (technical, environmental and social, legal and commercial). Key aspects were: • Optimal transmission line routing • Production of a digital terrain model • A topographical survey of the Tedzani-Mpatamanga-Kapichira stretch of the Shire River • Inundation mapping utilizing LiDAR study results conducted by the GOM in 2018 • Various reviews including peak ground acceleration and seismic studies, geological review, and construction materials, cost and schedule review. Design Freeze – Feasibility Study Optimisation (2023) With the involvement of MHPL in the Project, a Feasibility Study Optimization and Design Freeze was undertaken in 2022-2023 (MHPL, 2023b). The main objective of this stage was to freeze the general design of the scheme at a level of feasibility, before developing it to the Basic Design level required for tendering. The study allowed the following to be decided: • The number of headrace tunnels shall be two (Twin Tunnel layout). • The number of units at the main powerhouse shall be four (4). • A mean discharge flow of 2 m3/s shall be released at the Main Dam (subject to MEPA and NWRA confirmation). • The operating levels at regulating dam shall be set at EL. 204.5 masl for the Minimum Operating Level (MOL) and EL. 213 masl for the Full Supply Level (FSL). • The connection to the grid of the regulating dam units shall be a loop-in / loop-out transmission line on Kapichira / Tedzani 132 kV existing transmission line. In parallel, a set of additional surveys and studies were conducted to confirm or adjust key input data: • hydrological study • sediment study • geotechnical investigations • Lidar, topography and hydro-sediment surveys Project Layout The first layout proposed in 1998 (Malawi - Power System Development and Operation Study, Lahmeyer International, Knight Piesold, 1998) envisioned Mpatamanga as a 64-m-high rockfill dam, with a short headrace tunnel, surge tank and a surface powerhouse. A river diversion during construction was envisioned by means of a diversion tunnel. It was intended to offer an installed capacity of 228 MW and to utilize the flow of about 450 m³/s. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-13 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis In the options assessment in 2015, various different layout alternatives were identified and studied on a comparative basis. The preliminary development of the project alternatives was governed by the prevailing conditions at site, such as existing facilities, structures, topography and geological conditions. The options assessment considered various layouts before the general layout which we have today was chosen and became the preferred approach. This approach utilized the gross head of about 60 m, formed by a 45 m high dam, located at the beginning of the rapids, an 800 m long power tunnel and a surge shaft, located at the left bank and a surface powerhouse. Due to the morphology of the terrain, the powerhouse needed to be shifted further into the left bank and connected to the natural riverbed with a tailrace channel. The diversion tunnel was placed in the right bank. An alternative layout was also examined and compared, with the cavern-type underground powerhouse located close to the dam and thus eliminating the need for the power tunnel and surge tank. The size of the spillway, diversion tunnel and stilling basin was adjusted to minimize the impacts over the rapids (gorge), with geologic and historical value. The dimensions of these structures have been iterated to achieve an optimal balance between the technical and environmental requirements. Several promising layout alternatives were identified during elaboration of the options assessment. The general layouts of the project alternatives comprised the following main features: • Dam structure with river diversion facility • Spillway structure • Power intake and power waterways (tunnel, surge tank and penstock) • Powerhouse with tailrace • Access roads The following project constraints were then defined and applied to the project options: • Reservoir water level at EL. 275 m • Tailwater level at EL. 215 m • Dam crest level at EL. 280 m • Dam axis, located at the upstream end of the Mpatamanga Gorge • Power waterways (intake, tunnel, surge tank, if any, penstock), located at the left abutment • Powerhouse (surface or underground), located at the left abutment • Switchyard, located next to the powerhouse at the left bank • Diversion tunnel, located at the right abutment Consequently, the identified promising alternative project layouts all comprise similar arrangements of the dam and power waterways. Four alternative conceptual layouts, which differ in terms of dam type and powerhouse arrangement were then evaluated. Comparison was made between a rockfill dam versus a concrete gravity dam and surface powerhouse versus underground powerhouse. The adopted project concept is described in detail in Chapter 2: Project description. Type of Dam Structure The 2015 Pre-Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2015b) recommended a rockfill dam with ductile core, clay/silt or asphalt. This was because of the presence of geological faults at the dam site, and the rockfill dam offers the best resistance to ground movement caused by seismic activity. The study also proposed a concrete face rockfill dam (CFRD) as a possible alternative. The 2018 Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2018), included an optimisation study that evaluated three types of dam structure; Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) gravity dam, double arch dam and CFRD. The double arch dam was deemed to be the most sensitive to possible ground movements and was eliminated from the assessment. The RCC/Concrete gravity dam was assessed to generally allow merging of the dam and spillway structures and possibly simplified the river diversion concept, and consequently offers reductions in cost. The CFRD offers the best Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-14 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis resistance to ground movement. The 2018 Feasibility Study concluded that CFRD was the optimum dam type configuration under the financial, commercial and technical aspects considered, but indicated that of the Project were to be developed as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) the selection of dam type could be revisited. With the involvement of new Strategic Sponsors in the Project in 2022 (SCATEC and EDF forming MHPL), an optimisation study was undertaken (MHPL, 2023b) which concluded that there was no evidence of active or potentially active geological faults crossing the main dam site or the reservoir area and that when taking this into account the RCC gravity dam was considered the optimal dam type configuration. Dam Height The dam height determines the elevation of the reservoir water level, and area occupied by the reservoir. Increasing dam height can allow the Project to produce more power, and reducing dam height reduces the scale of environmental and social impacts caused by reservoir impoundment. However, reducing dam height does not result in a proportional reduction in downstream impacts or impacts on biodiversity caused by influx, which are the significant impacts of the Project. The Project dam envisaged by the GOM in 1998 had a height of 64 m, and the reservoir Full Supply Level at an elevation of 278 m (Lahmeyer International, Knight Piesold, 1998). The initial Project conceptual layout proposed by Lahmeyer was confirmed in the 2015 Pre- Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2015b), and a dam height of 45 m proposed located at the upstream end of the rapids located in the Mpatamanga Gorge. The optimisation study undertaken as part of the 2018 Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2018), further refined the dam height and proposed a 50-m-high dam and a reservoir Full Supply Level at an elevation of 276 m. The 2023 optimisation study (MHPL, 2023b) and subsequent basic design studies defined the dam height as 55 m and FSL at EL. 276 m. Consequently, it can be considered that the dam height is optimised. Increasing the dam height (and reservoir FSL) would cause interference with the Tedzani HPP tailrace discharge upstream, and this shall be avoided. Reducing the dam height (and reservoir FSL) would result in a reduced head, and consequently reduced power production capacity. In this case, the full hydropower potential would not be achieved, but the reduction in scale of environmental and social impacts negligible to minor. Headrace Tunnel The length and diameter of the headrace tunnel has consequences on the scale of excavation works and the quantity of spoil to be disposed of, which has environmental and social implications. The Project dam envisaged by the GOM in 1998 had a single 370-m-long headrace tunnel (Lahmeyer International, Knight Piesold, 1998). The 2015 Pre-Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2015b) considered a longer tunnel – 800 m – and the 2018 Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2018) proposed two parallel 820-m-long tunnels. The 2023 optimisation study (MHPL, 2023b) retained two headrace tunnels, and extended the length to 920 m. Bottom Outlet Typically, dam structures are equipped with a bottom outlet. The bottom outlet is a safety feature, and a means of enabling sediment that has accumulated in the reservoir to be flushed downstream. In the event of an emergency (such as a seismic event) the bottom outlet is used to lower the reservoir water level to a “safe” level for the dam stability. The bottom outlet can also be used to control the water discharge during the first impoundment. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-15 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis The 2015 Pre-Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2015b) and 2018 Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2018) both included a bottom outlet in the dam design. However, during the 2023 optimisation study (MHPL, 2023b), it was assessed that the bottom outlet’s functions were either not required or can be performed by other means: • The reservoir water level can be lowered by opening the spillway radial gates. The water level can be lowered to an elevation of 262.53 m, reducing the hydraulic load on the dam structure by 50% in <3.5 days, with a flow rate of 1,000 m 3/s (4 gates open), and 8 days with a flow rate of 600 m3/s (1 gate open). • Control of water discharge during reservoir filling can be performed through the diversion tunnel by a modification of the inlet structure and gates. This allows 90% of the inflow into the reservoir to be discharged downstream • With regard to sediment flushing. Modelling has predicted that sediment accumulation is in the upper reach of the reservoir, and not close to the dam structure. This means that sediment flush through a bottom outlet is considered as not feasible and there is no need to equip the dam with a bottom outlet specifically for this purpose. Reservoir Level Mpatamanga main reservoir operating level underwent design revisions to minimize resettlement and impacts to existing infrastructure and land use. At the pre-feasibility optimization stage the elevation of 275 m was adopted as the normal operating water level in the reservoir, to optimize the volume to surface area ratio. Key constraints which also needed to be considered were the existing hydropower plant at Tedzani approximately 20 km upstream from the Mpatamanga dam site, and various households and agricultural land located close to the Shire River. The level selected does not affect the safety at the Tedzani hydropower plant during floods and avoids potential impact to power generation at the cascade. It is also deemed as the upper acceptable limit in terms of the amount of resettlement that would need to occur. For the Optimization Assessment Report, an estimate of the number of existing buildings affected by the various project options and reservoir levels was completed. The number of affected buildings rises steadily with the increase of reservoir’s water level. The number of buildings affected by every meter of higher reservoir level increases around EL. 275 m, which is where the final designs full operating level will be (EL. 276 m). No further change to the reservoir water level was made during the 2023 Design Freeze study. Regulating Dam Dam-Reservoir The original project design, up until 2019, did not include the regulating scheme (RD). Following a two-year study to find a downstream flow regime which would allow the project to achieve a net gain in biodiversity, the designers concluded that the only solution would be to include a regulating component to the project. Without the regulation and with peaking operation there would have been a significant impact on the downstream ecology and human river users due to the rapidly fluctuating water levels. To meet the IFC PS6 requirements of no net biodiversity loss or net gain achievement in Natural and Critical Habitats, the option of including a RD was explored and decided upon by the technical team designing the scheme. The detailed Environmental Flows (EFlows) Assessment was conducted between 2018-2019 by Multiconsult in association with Deltares of the Netherlands and the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology of the United Kingdom (Multiconsult, 2019a). Its aim was to model different power generation scenarios for the Mpatamanga HPP together with other existing and planned hydropower projects and irrigation projects downstream of Mpatamanga, to reduce or mitigate detrimental impacts on people, the aquatic and riparian habitats, and ecosystems services provided by the river basin. The study sought to confirm the adequacy of the proposed operation pattern including: Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-16 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis • Whether the (at the time) proposed 45 m3/s environmental flow together with twice-daily peaking flows would be adequate to assure Net Gain for any Critical Habitat (CH) triggers and No Net Loss (NNL) over the impacted Natural Habitats such as aquatic and riparian ecosystem while ensuring safety for downstream communities and users. • In the case it would not, to identify and propose an acceptable downstream flow regime that would allow daily peaking operations while at the same time assuring people’s safety and NG/NNL, as feasible. • To better define the extent and geo-morphological, social, and ecological impacts of the daily water level and flow velocity fluctuations twice a day, with a special emphasis on key ecosystem services, migratory fish and invertebrate species, and both the Elephant Marsh and the Majete Reserve, if any. The EFlow assessment included an (i) inception study, (ii) bathymetric surveys, (iii) hydrological analysis, (iv) hydraulic modelling, (v) aquatic biodiversity surveys (dry season), and (vi) rapid socio- economic screening. A total of 15 ‘EFlow sites’ were selected for detailed bathymetric and biodiversity surveys, based on detailed interpretation of orthophotos and Google Earth satellite images as well as inputs from the bathymetric surveyors, hydrologists, and ecologists, and field reconnaissance. The study encompassed the stretch of the Shire River from the tail end of the proposed Mpatamanga HPP daily storage reservoir to downstream of the Elephant Marsh. The EFlow sites were distributed systematically along the Shire River to capture different habitats and ecosystems which might be affected by the originally proposed Mpatamanga HPP. The final EFlows Assessment considered six peaking/operation scenarios in addition to the baseline scenario. The EFlows Assessment ranked the scenarios on their own and compared to each other. The study concluded that the biodiversity NNL objective was unrealistic with the basic peaking scenarios but that the alternative peaking scenarios might achieve NNL if mitigation measures were well designed and implemented. However, it was noted that the costs associated with biodiversity offsets and restoration of livelihoods among riverbank farmers downstream would be significant. Furthermore, achieving NG on CH triggers would have been highly unlikely and mitigation costs would have been prohibitive. As such, given the mitigation costs were expected to be very high and the project would not be able to deliver the GOM-required installed capacity, it was subsequently proposed (by SN Power and IFC after the EFlow study) to explore the possibility of constructing the RD downstream of the main dam to re-regulate the outflow from the power station and deliver a uniform daily discharge into the Shire River. The inclusion of the RD represents a significant design mitigation measure in response to the earlier ESIA and E-flow studies. Six potential sites for the RD were studied. Site selection was largely dictated by the topography of the Shire River valley and the RD needed to be sited in a narrow area while maximizing reservoir volume without exceeding the tailrace level of the main powerhouse. The geology around the RD was assumed to be similar to Mpatamanga: gneiss and aplite rocks which are common in the Middle Shire area, and good for hydropower construction. No people or dwellings were identified in the river reach between Mpatamanga and Kapichira. The 6 potential locations identified are shown in Figure 6-4. These locations were recommended for consideration as they would provide the peaking capacity, generate the required installed capacity, and significantly mitigate impacts downstream of the project. It was confirmed that alternatives would provide sufficient storage volume to re-regulate the outflow from the Mpatamanga HPP at full peak flow. After much consideration RD6 was chosen in order to avoid any physical footprint in the Majete Wildlife Reserve. RD6 has been confirmed to have enough volume to fully attenuate/dampen the Mpatamanga HPP peaking operations. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-17 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Figure 6-4: Potential Locations of the Regulating Dam Source: (Multiconsult, 2019c) Regulating Dam Powerhouse The original project design, up until 2019, did not include the RD or a regulating dam powerhouse. With the start of the involvement of MHPL in the Project in 2022, a powerhouse for the regulating dam was included in the Project design. This is discussed in 6.3.12. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-18 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Access Routes Part of the existing S137 road which links Blantyre to Mwanza will be used to access main dam site during construction and operation. However, the impoundment of the reservoir will flood a section of the S137 road, and consequently the Project plans to build a new 12-km-long section of road which avoids the reservoir and passes over the main dam to avoid the need to construct a bridge. The remaining length of road used by the Project which has a length of 46 km will be upgraded. The physical and economic displacement caused by the land acquisition necessary to construct the new section of road is expected to result in between 4 and 7 households physically displaced and between 50 to 100 households affected by economic displacement (see Preliminary Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Action Plan - RLRAP). The PRLRAP has identified an alternative routing for part of the new section of the S137 which reduced the physical and economic displacement impacts. Project’s tender documents require that the Detailed Design will consider alternatives to minimise involuntary resettlement impacts as illustrated in Figure 6-5. Figure 6-5: Alternatives for the New Sections of the S137 Road Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-19 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Transmission Lines Main Dam Transmission Line Regarding the main dam transmission line, it was assumed in the 2015 pre-feasibility study (Fichtner, 2015b) that the Mpatamanga hydropower project could be connected to the existing Tedzani 3 substation and that there would be enough space to extend it by adding additional line feeders. The envisioned TL route would follow the existing S137 road from the Mpatamanga switchyard towards the intersection with the existing 132 kV line Kapichira - Tedzani, and further, in parallel to the existing line to the Tedzani 3 132/66 kV substation. However, after the pre- feasibility study, a preliminary transmission line route desk-top review was conducted for the interconnection of Mpatamanga to Phombeya substation, with three alternatives, one on the east side of the reservoir and the other two running on the west side of the Shire River • Alternative 1: Proposed line route following the existing 132 kV transmission lines to Phombeya substation. The approximate line route length for Alternative 1 is 69.7 km. The line route to the east is the longest which results in additional costs for the line construction. • Alternative 2: Proposed line route crossing the water reservoir and following the Mozambique - Malawi regional interconnector transmission line to Phombeya substation. The terrain is hilly, and the line will cross some perennial rivers and streams, village roads and field tracks, as well some settlements. Then, the route turns to the south for approximately 9 km until it crosses the reservoir of Mpatamanga. The line span for this crossing is approximately 1.7 – 2 km and will be very challenging and expensive to implement. • Alternative 3: Proposed line route running to the west of the water reservoir and following the Mozambique - Malawi Interconnector transmission line. The line route for Alternative 3 is almost the same as Alternative 2. However, after running in parallel to the future 400 kV Mozambique - Malawi Interconnector, the line turns to the south-west direction to avoid crossing of the Mpatamanga reservoir. Then, the line crosses the Shire River before it runs towards the Mpatamanga Substation. A desk-top survey and targeted field surveys were performed to identify the main implementation constraints of the three studied corridors, in terms of land use, hydrography, presence of settlements and sensitive areas (forest reserves and conservation areas). The majority of the line routes traverse degraded to partly open woodland consisting of bush and scrub partly thinning out to savannah-like grassland, along with areas of cropland. No protected areas or forest reserves are crossed by the routes. Regarding settlements, evaluation was performed for only Alternative 1 and 3, due to their better viability. Alternative 3 was identified is the route with less negative E&S impacts, particularly because it will affect fewer settlements along its routing. Considering the technical and the environmental and social impacts of the alternatives, line route Alternative 3 was chosen, and it is that route which is evaluated in this ESIA. The transmission line route was decided by ESCOM, as the best option for connecting Mpatamanga HPP to the network. In 2019, Multiconsult undertook a technical due diligence and identified an alternative route for the main dam TL. Multiconsult used a similar corridor. This option, when compared from the previously identified route preference, is around 860 m away at its furthest diverging point. The Project Company/Strategic Sponsor will make a decision on the final routing taking into account the previous studies as well as resettlement scoping. Resettlement scoping will be undertaken for the two TLs in 2021 and the results included in the resettlement policy framework. See Chapter 2: Project description for the location of the two main dam TL options, the GOM approved 2018 feasibility study route and Multiconsult’s reworked 2019 route. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-20 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Figure 6-6: Alternative Transmission Line Routes Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-21 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Regulating Dam Transmission Line Route The RD station grid connection principles are known, and the RD TL corridor has been established and mapped (refer to section 2). It is currently envisaged that the routing selection will be refined by the Project Company/Strategic Sponsor. Chapter 5: Environmental and social planning, design, and methodology includes guidance with regards to routing principles for avoiding and minimizing E&S impacts. Fish Pass A fish pass is not needed for the Project because waterfalls at Tedzani, Nkula, Mpatamanga and Kapichira constitute natural barriers to migratory fish, and because there are no obligatory migratory fish species in the river, apart from the African Mottled Eel Anguilla labiata. Juvenile eels (elvers) migrate from the ocean up the Zambezi and its tributaries (as well as other rivers) where they mature and migrate downstream as adults. The value of incorporating an eelway on the dam walls was evaluated by the aquatic and fish specialists to facilitate the upward migration of elvers. However, there was general consensus that this potential mitigation should be dropped as i) the eelway may facilitate and exacerbate the risk of the alien invasive and predatory Australian crayfish gaining access to the Middle Shire (from the Zambezi where it is already present), which would be a worse outcome than the benefits of aiding eel migration; and ii) the eelway would only facilitate upward movement of elvers, and adult eels would be unable to migrate downstream (having to pass through the turbines or over the spillway during flooding where they could be injured or killed). No mitigation for fish migration is therefore proposed or considered warranted. Substation Design A comparative study has been performed to help selecting the most suitable technology for the main dam substation, based on a multicriteria analysis of three technologies: Air Insulated Substation (AIS), Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) and Hybrid Substation. AIS technology for both 132 kV and 400 kV Voltage levels has been selected for the Main dam Substation, because of the following criteria: • Ease of implementation for future extensions of the substation by ESCOM • Tight Interface management at the boundaries between ESCOM and MHPL during operation and maintenance • Higher cost of the GIS solution compared to the AIS solution for the main dam substation (around + 30%) • No particular footprint stakes close to the Main substation area. Alternatives Considered to Minimise Resettlement Minimisation of Resettlement at the Basic Design Stage Prior to and during the basic design stage in 2024, the following elements have been considered to minimise involuntary resettlement impacts: • The land requirements considered for the main reservoir up to 2020-2021 included a 100 m buffer around the banks of the reservoir. A number of settlements were affected by this 100 m buffer area without being affected by the main reservoir itself. The definition of the main reservoir land requirements considered by the Basic Design has reduced this buffer to consider only the 1,000-year return period flood extent (see Figure 6-7). This allowed to reduce the number of households physically displaced by the main reservoir from more than 100 ((Mott MacDonald, 2021)) to about 60. Similarly, the number of persons losing lands is reduced, as the land requirements for the main reservoir have been reduced. • The previous studies (Multiconsult, 2019b) also considered “all households who reside less than 200 m from construction areas, access roads, quarries or spoil tips” will need to be Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-22 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis physically displaced. This 200 m buffer around some construction areas could have caused some important involuntary resettlement impacts, especially along the linear components of the Project, such as the transmission lines and the access roads. This 200 m buffer from construction areas is no longer considered. The permanent land requirements for the Transmission Lines have been limited to the wayleave of the lines. Some (10 to 20) households have their houses within 100 m from some of the construction sites in the Main Works area. Measures to ensure the safety of these households will be defined by the ESMP and will be applied by the EPC Contractors. These measures will comply with regulatory requirements on community health and safety, and World Bank IFC requirements regarding noise, air quality and vibration (community exposure thresholds defined by World Health Organisation). However, as a last resort measure, these households may have to be physically resettled for safety reasons before construction if the mitigation measures cannot guarantee that their exposure to construction nuisances will stay below acceptable thresholds. • In Blantyre District, the planned access road to the Project site will use the existing S137, which will be upgraded between the Chileka airport and the Main Works area. As this section of the S137 road is already existing, the upgrade works will be performed inside the existing road reserve (36 m wide, 18 m from each side of the centre of the road), which is legally State Land. This existing road reserve will not be cleared in its entirety. The land requirement along the existing 137 road sections to be upgraded will be limited to the footprint of the works. Areas not affected by the upgrade works on these existing sections will not be affected. Minimisation of Resettlement at the Detailed Design Stage Further optimisation will be performed at the Detailed Design Stage to avoid and minimise involuntary resettlement impacts for the temporary land requirements not defined at the Basic Design stage, for the linear components of the project (transmission lines and roads), and land needs yet to be defined. A Temporary land requirements during construction The temporary land requirements which are not defined at the Basic Design stage will be defined during the Detail Design Studies to minimise involuntary resettlement impacts as much as possible. Access tracks, borrow areas, laydown areas or any additional land requirement (temporary or permanent) not defined at the Basic Design stage will be defined with the objective to avoid physical resettlement, and to avoid as much as possible areas used by the local communities. B Linear components In Neno District, it will be necessary to construct new sections on the S137 road, to replace the sections which will be flooded, and reconnect the road to the non-affected part of the S137 road. The Detailed Design will consider some alternatives to minimise involuntary resettlement impacts along these new sections of the S137 road, as illustrated in Figure 6-5. The Basic Design has selected the preferred route for the 400 kV and 132 kV Transmission Lines. During the detailed Design stage, micro-sitting of the pylons will be considered as well as small re-adjustment of the line’s route to further minimise involuntary resettlement impacts wherever possible. The service road between the Main Dam area and the Regulating Dam will be a private road. Several households have houses close to this service road and could be affected and resettled for safety reasons. To minimise involuntary resettlement impacts, the Detailed Design will optimise the definition of this service road. C Other Land Needs yet to be Defined For all other Project land needs not yet defined, such as an area for sediment storage or areas to be acquired for biodiversity offset measures, the Project will avoid or minimise involuntary resettlement impacts as much as possible. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-23 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Figure 6-7: Land Acquisition for the Upper Part of the Main Reservoir Buffer Area Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-24 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6.4 Alternative Modes of Operation Environmental Flow Background The 2018 Feasibility Study (Fichtner, 2018) proposed an environmental flow of 5 m3/s discharged from the main dam (this was before the addition of the regulation dam). This minimum flow was determined arbitrarily as a value that was intended to represent a compromise between ensuring a minimum amount of water for landscape / visual impacts and maintaining a maximum amount of water for energy production. The environmental flow was to be combined with two weirs (mirror dams) immediately upstream of the powerhouse, thereby creating small ponds to reduce visual impacts, but the combined minimum flow and weirs would have very limited ecological function according to the 2019 ESIA (Multiconsult, 2019d) and later Environmental Flow studies(Multiconsult, 2019a). Following the Environmental Flows Assessment (Multiconsult, 2019a) a Regulating Dam was integrated into the Project Design to attenuate downstream impacts from hydropeaking operations. With this mitigation measure nearly all the downstream impacts related to hydropeaking operations are prevented. However, this results in modifying the stretch of river between the main dam and the regulating dam reservoir headwaters – referred to as the dewatered reach - and which has a length of between 0.85 and 2.5 km depending on the water level in the regulation dam’s reservoir. Findings of the MHPL Design Freeze (2023) The Design Freeze (Feasibility Study Optimization) (MHPL, 2023a) reassessed the proposed 5 m3/s environmental flow proposed in the 2018 Feasibility Study. The study proposed reducing the environmental flow from 5 m3/s to 2 m3/s and to conducting monitoring and apply adaptive management as necessary. The rationales for proposing 2 m3/s are as follows: • The affected reach has only limited socio-economic importance. The lower part is used for cattle watering and there is house with a view over this reach – but which is only occupied for part of the year. In the upper part of the reach, the river flows at high velocity into a deep and narrow gorge and which is difficult to access. • Downstream of affected reach, the Shire River will be transformed into a highly modified reservoir with up to 8.5 m of daily water level fluctuation. The reservoir will have little ecological function, and social or environmental uses will not be possible for safety reasons. The reach between the Main Dam and Regulating Dam will be largely disconnected from the Mpatamanga main reservoir and downstream Shire River. Few to no fishes will be able to develop in such a small, homogenous, and isolated habitat. • The Malawi Water Resources Regulations article 56 (2018) includes a requirement for an environmental flow corresponding to 10% Mean Annual Flow to be discharged downstream of a dam, which corresponds to approximately 25 m3/s, which is five times more than the proposed 5 m3/s, but substantially lower than any recent historical low flows in the Shire River (absolute minimum flow of approximately 157 m 3/s between 1992 and 2013). • The Regulation dam and dewater reach has been integrated into the Project footprint and clearly identified as a project component and is arguably part of the project infrastructure. It could in this case be argued that this reach is not subject to the Minimum Required Release, which would only be applied to the Shire River downstream of the Regulating dam. Considering that the affected reach will be highly modified with limited ecological functions, it is deemed acceptable to deliver no or a very limited flow from the main dam since no ecological or social benefits are expected from such flow. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-25 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Run-of-River One of the alternative modes of operation is for the Project to operate as a run-of-river and to turbine the discharges from Shire River without storing water. This option could avoid creating (or reduce the size/depth) of the reservoir but would have less power production capacity (because the hydraulic head would probably be reduced). The main issue with a run-of-river operation mode (no reservoir) would be inability to perform peaking and thus contribute to meeting peak power demand, which is one of the main reasons for implementing the Mpatamanga project with hydropeaking capacity. Operation of the Regulating Dam without Turbining Discharges The main purpose of the regulating dam operation is to avoid variations of the outflows induced by the peaking operation of the main dam upstream so that the flow of the river through the Majete Natural Reserve and into the Kapichira Reservoir – located downstream - is constant. Except during flood periods, the released flows from the regulating dam (powerhouse and/or spillway) shall be at any time comprised between 90% and 110% of the recorded mean inflow coming into the main reservoir during the previous day. The Basic Design for the Project includes a Regulating Dam Powerhouse, which enables the discharges from the Regulating Dam’s reservoir to be turbined. An alternative would be to operate the regulation dam without turbining the discharges. Not turbining the regulation dam discharges would result in the following: • A 14% reduced power production capacity. The planned regulating dam turbines and main dam turbines have installed capacities of 57 MW and 301 MW respectively. • Avoidance of the 3% discharge flow variations resulting from the primary reserve requirement (see explanation below). Primary Reserve: Generators providing regulation reserves must be able to adjust their output in response to system frequency deviations. This service is required for all generating units unless the system and market operator grant an exemption. For Mpatamanga HPP, ESCOM is responsible for determining the minimum numerical values of Spinning (Primary), Regulating (Secondary), and Quick (Tertiary) Reserves needed for the system's secure operation under various conditions. Low-frequency response, or Primary Reserve, is a required service for Mpatamanga HPP. All units must respond to a frequency incident with a minimum of 3% of its Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR) within 10 seconds. This response must be maintained for at least 10 minutes. It is noteworthy that not turbining the regulation dam discharges will not avoid the variations in flow that are within the 90%-110% range of the recorded mean inflow coming into the main reservoir during the previous day. The +/- 10% variation allowance is linked to the need of flexibility to manage the Regulation reservoir storage and is not linked to the presence of turbines at the regulation dam. It will be necessary to have this flexibility with or without the regulation dam turbines. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-26 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis 6.5 No Project Alternative With the do-nothing scenario, the Project is not implemented, and the project’s negative impacts can be avoided, but benefits and positive impacts will not be realised. There would be a gap in the power production strategy and a lack of access to reliable power supply services which hampers economic growth and contributes to poverty and isolation of rural population would continue. The Mpatamanga is a priority project in Malawi’s power programme, and without the Project, in the short-medium term there will be insufficient installed power to meet peak demand. Without Mpatamanga, alternative power production projects that are not already included in the power strategy would need to be developed. In view of the important capacity of the Mpatamanga project, alternatives would be to either (i) accelerate the development of a multitude of small renewable energy projects, or (ii) develop an alternative project with a similar capacity to Mpatamanga. With the regard to the first option – acceleration of development of renewable energy project - this is probably not feasible because the purpose of the Mpatamanga project was to bolster economic development in order that such project can be developed in the medium-long term. With regard to the development of a large project with similar capacity to Mpatamanga, one option would be to expand the capacity of the planned 300 MW Kam’mwamba coal power plant project. This project was initially planned with a capacity of 1,000 MW, but the 700 MW unit was cancelled. If this project were to developed, it would go against Malawi’s commitments with regard to climate change and GHG emissions set out in the 2021 updated NDC ((Republic of Malawi, 2021). However, the GOM would have a choice of either facing power shortages or reviewing its commitments with regard to climate change and GHG emissions. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-27 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Annexes Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-28 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Annex 6-1: References Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-29 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 6 - Alternatives Analysis Chiphwanya, O. (2020, May 6). Paladin touts Kayelekera sale, hopeful on uranium price. The Nation Online. https://mwnation.com/paladin-touts-kayelekera-sale-hopeful-on-uranium-price/ Chirambo, M. (2018, December 26). Govt scales down coal power project. Nation Online. https://mwnation.com/govt-scales-down-coal-power-project/ Economic Consulting Associated Limited. (2023). Update of 2017 IRP demand Forecast for Malawi—Demand forecast, loss, reduction and energy efficiency plan —Final Report. Ministry of Energy of Malawi. EDF Renewables Hydro Engineering Centre. (2024). Technical Note: GHG Footprint of the Mpatamanga Project (Draft) [Technical Note (Draft)]. EGENCO. (2024). EGENCO - Installed Capacity (MW). Home Page. https://www.egenco.mw/ Fichtner. (2015a). Options assessment for the Mpatamanga Project. Fichtner. (2015b). Pre-Feasibility Study for Mpatamanga Hydropower Project. Fichtner. (2018). Feasibility Study Report for Mpatamanga Hydropower Project – Volume 1 – Feasibility Study Report. Gielen, D., & Lyons, M. (2022). Critical materials for the energy transition: Lithium. International Renewable Energy Agency. IRENA. (2023). International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Energy Profile —Malawi [Dataset]. Lahmeyer International, Knight Piesold. (1998). Malawi —Power System Development and Operation Study. MHPL. (2023a). Mpatamanga Hydropower Project Design Freeze (Feasibility Study Optimization) General—DF_GEN_02—Design Freeze Executive Summary—H-30575802-2023-000001—Rev A. MHPL. (2023b). Mpatamanga hydropower project —Design freeze (feasibility study optimization)— General—Ref H-30575802-2023-000001—Rev a. Ministry of Energy. (2024, June 24). https://www.energy.gov.mw/ Mott MacDonald. (2021). Mpatamanga Hydropower Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment—Vol II Chapter 7: Baseline. Multiconsult. (2019a). Hydraulic Study and Environmental Flows Assessment for the Mpatamanga HPP: Aquatic Biodiversity Field Report. Unpublished report for World Bank. Multiconsult. (2019b). Mpatamanga hydropower project framework Resettlement Action Plan (RAP). Multiconsult. (2019c). Preliminary ESIA for Mpatamanga Hydropower Project with a Regulating Dam—Document 1021193401-01. Multiconsult. (2019d). Preliminary ESIA for Mpatamanga Hydropower Project with a Regulating Dam—Final Report—Document n°1021193401-01. Republic of Malawi. (2021). Updated Nationally Determined Contributions. Singini, G. (2024, January 4). Power interconnector project misses deadline. Nation Online. https://mwnation.com/power-interconnector-project-misses-deadline/ TheGlobalEconomy. (2024). Malawi: Coal Production. Theglobaleconomy. https://www.theglobaleconomy.com/Malawi/coal_production/ Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 6_Alternatives_31Jul2024 Page 6-30 End of this section Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement 7 Stakeholder Engagement Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page a Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Contents 7.1 Introduction ................................................................................... 7-1 7.2 Stakeholder Identification & Analysis .............................. 7-1 7.3 Documented Record of Stakeholder Engagement 7-10 Engagement Prior to 2022............................................................................................................................. 7-10 Engagement post 2022.................................................................................................................................... 7-11 7.4 Grievance Redress Mechanism ........................................ 7-29 Annexes ....................................................................................................7-30 Annex 7-1: Summary of MHPP's Monthly Community and Quarterly Stakeholder Meetings from 2022 – 2024 ..............................................................................................................................................................................7-31 Annex 7-2: Records of 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings ........................................................................................ 7-32 Annex 7-3: Records of 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings ................................................................................... 7-33 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page b Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement List of Tables Table 7-1: Stakeholder Analysis ........................................................................................................................................ 7-2 Table 7-2: November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings .......................................................................................... 7-15 Table 7-3: January 2023 TBC Scoping Meetings .................................................................................................. 7-19 Table 7-4: May 2023 Offset Feasibility Community Meetings...................................................................... 7-19 Table 7-5: Biodiversity Offset Workshop ................................................................................................................. 7-20 Table 7-6: July 2023 CIA Scoping Meetings (Institutional) ............................................................................. 7-21 Table 7-7: July 2023 CIA Scoping Meetings (Community) ............................................................................. 7-21 Table 7-8: 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings............................................................................................................. 7-24 List of Figures Figure 7-1: Location of Scoping Meetings in November 2023 ...................................................................... 7-14 Figure 7-2: Photos of the November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings .......................................................... 7-16 Figure 7-3: Location of ESIA Disclosure Meetings in July 2024 ................................................................... 7-23 Figure 7-4: Photos of the July 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings ................................................................... 7-26 Figure 7-5: Simplified Project Grievance Management Procedure............................................................. 7-29 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page c Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Acronyms Acronym Full text ADC Area Development Committee AP African Parks BAP Biodiversity Action Plan CEPA Centre for Environmental and Policy Advocacy CHIA Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment CIA Cumulative Impact Assessment DC District Council DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DoE Department of Energy DoL Department of Land DNPW Department of National Parks and Wildlife E&S Environmental & Social ESMMP Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan EAA Ecological Area of Analysis EDF Electricité de France EDO Environmental District Officer EIA National Environmental Impact Assessment ESIA International Environmental & Social Impact Assessment ESS World Bank’s Environmental & Social Standards ESSP Energy Sector Support Project FBO Faith Based Organisations GBV Gender Based Violence GIP Good Industry Practices GoM Government of Malawi GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism GVGRC Group Village Grievance Redress Committees GVH Group Village Head HPP Hydropower Plant IFC International Finance Corporation IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature km kilometre MEPA Malawi Environmental Protection Authority MERA Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority MHPL Mpatamanga Hydropower Project Limited MHPP Mpatamanga Hydropower Project MNREE Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Environment MoE Ministry of Energy MoMa Mozambique-Malawi MRDRMP Malawi Resilience and Disaster Risk Management Project MWASIP Malawi Watershed Services Improvement Project N/A Not Applicable NGO Non-Governmental Organization NTS Non-Technical Summary NWRA National Water Resources Authority PAP Project Affected Peoples PIU Project Implementation Unit PSEPP Protocol for a Stakeholder Engagement Plan Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page d Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Acronym Full text RAP Resettlement Action Plan QECH Queen Elizabeth Community Hospital RLRAP Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Action Plan SEP Stakeholder Engagement Plan STD Sexually Transmitted Diseases SVTP Shire Valley Transformation Project TA Traditional Authority TBC The Biodiversity Company USAID United States Agency for International Development VDC Village Development Committee VNRMC Village Natural Resources Management Committees WESM Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page e Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement 7.1 Introduction Stakeholder engagement is an inclusive process conducted throughout the project life cycle. This chapter documents the meaningful consultations undertaken with stakeholders from project conception until July 2024, before disclosure. Future engagement activities will be implemented per the program described in the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) presented in the 2024 Environmental and Social Management and Monitoring Plan (ESMMP). The Project’s consultation process with stakeholders has been divided into two stages: • Before 2022, before the creation of Mpatamanga Hydropower Project Limited (MHPL): - Between 2015 and 2018 (preliminary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)); Meetings undertaken by AGRI PRO, Ambiente Consultores SA, and CENOR Consulting Engineers; - Between 2018 and 2019 (Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)); Meetings undertaken by MultiConsult and The Biodiversity Company (TBC); - Between 2020 and 2021 (Initial ESIA and Resettlement Action Plan (RAP)); Meetings undertaken by Mott MacDonald and C12; • From 2022, since the creation of MHPL: - Monthly community meetings; - Quarterly stakeholder meetings; - Newsletters; - 2024 ESIA process meetings: (i) ESIA, Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) and BAP Scoping Meetings, (ii) Social Surveys, (iii) Public Consultation Meetings on the Draft ESIA. 7.2 Stakeholder Identification & Analysis Stakeholders are individuals or groups who (i) are affected or likely to be affected by the Project (project-affected people) and (ii) may have an interest in the Project (other interested parties). Stakeholders were identified through the preliminary and initial ESIA processes and further confirmed through the preparation of the 2024 ESIA. Table 7-1 describes the stakeholders identified as relevant to the Project, and analyses the parties’ interest in the Project, and where applicable, the relevant district or traditional authority. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-1 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-1: Stakeholder Analysis Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) A. People and Operators Potentially Affected by the Project A1 Communities and Households Affected by the Project’s Land Acquisition (Involuntary Resettlement) Households potentially affected by physical Affected by loss of dwelling or shelter because of project-related land • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe displacement: 150 to 220 households living in the access, which requires the affected person(s) to move to another District • TA Mlauli project facilities’ footprint (including roads and location • Neno District • TA Symon transmission lines) Balaka District • • TA Phalula • TA Kuntaja Households affected by economic displacement only: Affected by loss of assets (including land) or access to assets that • Blantyre City • TA Kapeni between 1,600 to 2,100 households leads to loss of income sources or means of livelihood because of • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe project-related land acquisition or restriction of access to land and District • TA Mlauli natural resources Neno District • • TA Symon Households not physically or economically displaced, Affected by increased pressure on natural resources, density of • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe but living in host communities, where displaced dwellings and associated risks on community health and safety District • TA Mlauli households will be relocated • Neno District A2 Communities and Households Affected by Impacts and Risks other than the Project’s Land Acquisition Households living around the two reservoirs, the Potentially exposed to community health, safety and security risks, • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe transmission line corridors, the service road (Main Dam influx, or reduced ecosystem services (e.g. fishing and charcoal District • TA Mlauli to Regulating Dam) and the upgraded S137 road. making) associated with increased noise and dust exposure, traffic • Neno District • TA Symon Includes also vulnerable groups that may be risks, drowning risks, disease transmission, human-animal conflicts or Balaka District • • TA Kuntaja disproportionally adversely affected by the project and reduced access to water, sense of place, and fertile land associated facilities • TA Phalula Households farming and fishing in the Shire River Potentially affected by the consequences of the long-term Shire • Chikwawa • TA Kasisi, floodplain downstream of the Regulating Dam, between riverbed bed incision and riverbank erosion due to sediment trapping in District • TA Mlilima the Kapichira Dam and the confluence with the Mwanza the main reservoir: lowering of ground water level in the floodplain, • TA Katunga, River reduction of floodplain flooding and loss of hydraulic connectivity • TA Maseya, from the Shire River • TA Makhwira Households residing within 20 m along the right bank of Potentially affected by loss of dwelling or shelter because of the long- • Chikwawa • TA Kasisi the Shire River in Chikwawa, within 1 km upstream of term Shire riverbank erosion due to the natural erosive process of the District the Chikwawa Bridge unconsolidated cliff combined with the sediment trapping in the main reservoir Chikwawa Town Potentially affected by incremental erosion of the foundation of the • Chikwawa • TA Kasisi Chikwawa Bridge District • TA Mlilima A3 Economic Operators Affected by the Project’s Land Acquisition (Involuntary Resettlement) Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-2 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) Ranches or commercial farms affected by economic Affected by loss of assets (including land) or access to assets that • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe displacement: 16 ranches or commercial farms are leads to a loss of income sources because of project-related land District • TA Mlauli affected by the main reservoir and main works areas acquisition or restriction of access to land and natural resources. • Neno District Workers employed by the ranches or commercial farms are potentially affected by the loss of jobs and associated income A4 Economic Operators Affected by impacts and risks other than the Project’s Land Acquisition Power Production: EGENCO, for existing hydropower Adjustment of operations with the presence of Mpatamanga. • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe plants (HPP) along the Shire River: Upstream (Tedzani Coordination for flood control, drought management, sediment District • TA Symon and Nkula HPPs) and Downstream (Kapichira HPP) management, dam safety • Neno District • TA Kasisi • Chikwawa District Power transport: ESCOM for the existing lines and the Assistance in avoiding double-resettlement (households displaced for • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe Mozambique-Malawi (MoMa) interconnection, and as the construction of the MoMa line and then displaced again for the District • TA Mlauli future operator of the Mpatamanga transmission lines construction of the Mpatamanga lines). Environmental and social • Neno District • TA Symon management of the Mpatamanga lines during operation Balaka District • • TA Phalula Conservation Management: Management authorities of Potentially exposed to an incremental risk of poaching and logging due Chikwawa • TA Kunthembwe the Majete Wildlife Reserve to improved access and increased influx of job seekers closer to the District • TA Kasisi park boundaries Tourism operators: Robin Pope Safaris – Majete Wildlife Potentially affected by loss of attractivity of the existing tourist lodges Chikwawa • TA Kunthembwe Reserve, and African Parks (AP) - Mkulumadzi Lodge due to noise and light pollution and visual impacts (dam and District • TA Kasisi transmission lines) Sugar Estate with pumping stations extracting water Potentially affected by a reduction in Shire River flow during reservoir Chikwawa • TA Kasisi from the Shire River downstream of the Regulating Dam filling and impairment of irrigation associated with erosion of the banks District • TA Katunga (Presscane, Illovo Sugar Cane, Agricane) where the pumping stations are located and/or long-term riverbed • TA Maseya incision and associated lowering of the river water level • TA Makhwira • TA Lundo Extractive industries operators: existing mining or oil and Potentially affected by loss of access to exploration areas and/or • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe gas operators with concessions encroaching onto the deposits due to reservoir impoundment District • TA Mlauli reservoir footprint • Neno District • A5 Communities, Households and Economic Operators Affected by Cumulative impacts and risks Households in the Chikwawa District experiencing the Potentially affected by loss of dwelling or shelter because of the long- • Chikwawa • TA Kasisi cumulative effects of several other power-generating term Shire riverbank erosion due to the natural erosive process of the District • TA Mlilima and agricultural projects, such as Kapichira HPP and the unconsolidated cliff accelerated by the sediment trapping in the main SVTP. reservoir. Potentially affected by changes in Shire River, impacting on fishing and other livelihood strategies. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-3 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) Existing Economic Operators Potentially affected by cumulative impacts as a result of increased • Blantyre • TA Kunthembwe • Upstream (Tedzani and Nkula HPPs) competition and conflict over water resources, particularly during District • TA Mlauli • Downstream (Kapichira HPP, including its times of scarcity, affecting community relations and local economies. • Neno District • TA Kasisi rehabilitation, Presscane, Illovo Sugar Cane, Agricane, • Chikwawa • TA Chikwawa Boma Lenwe National Park) District • TA Mlilima Future Economic Operators • Upstream (MoMa Interconnection Line) • Downstream (SVTP, MWASIP, MRDRMP, Blantyre Water Board) B Local Authorities B1 District Local Government (District Council (DC) Office) Blantyre District, Neno District, Chikwawa District, • Ensure the project adheres to regional statutes practices and create • Blantyre - Balaka District a conducive environment to undertake the project and manage the District main impacts, especially land acquisition and livelihood restoration • Neno District • Involved in information disclosure, representing community interests, • Chikwawa local stakeholder mobilisation, identification of alternative land for District the affected community, approval of housing designs, grievance • Balaka District redress mechanism and conflict resolution • Understanding the cumulative effects of multiple economic operators within the region, including the cumulative socio- economic and cultural effects of influx District Office Specialised Services, Units or • Information disclosure, representation of community interests, • Blantyre - Committees Social Welfare Service: Land Service, mobilisation of local stakeholders, identification of alternative land District Agricultural Service, Victim Support Units, Gender for the affected community, approval of housing designs, grievance • Neno District Officers, Environmental Sub-Committees redress mechanism, and conflict resolution • Chikwawa • Information on district development plans and needs assessment District • Understanding the cumulative effects of multiple economic • Balaka District operators within the region, including the cumulative socio- economic and cultural effects of influx B2 Traditional Authorities (TA) and Groups of Village Heads (GVH) • TA Kunthembwe • TA Kasisi, • Ensure the project adheres to local statutes, practices and creation • Blantyre - • TA Mlauli • TA Chikwawa Boma of a conducive environment to undertake the project and manage District • TA Symon • TA Katunga, the main impacts, especially land acquisition and livelihood • Neno District restoration Chikwawa • TA Kuntaja • TA Maseya, • • Involved in information disclosure, representing community interests, District • TA Phalula • TA Makhwira local stakeholder mobilisation, identification of alternative land for • Balaka District • TA Lundo affected community, approval of housing designs, grievance redress • TA Mlilima mechanism and conflict resolution Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-4 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) • Potentially impacted by changes on social fabric of communities as a result of influx B3 Village or Grassroots Level Committees • Village: Development Committees (VDCs), Natural • Involved in information disclosure, representing community interests, • Blantyre - Resources Management Committees (VNRMCs), Area local stakeholder mobilisation, identification of alternative land for District Development Committees (ADCs), Beach affected community, approval of housing designs, grievance redress • Neno District Committees. mechanism and conflict resolution. • Chikwawa • Community Conservation Area Committees (Elephant • Community expectations and perceptions District Marsh) • Balaka District C Governmental Ministries, Departments and Agencies C1 Regulators and Project Partners Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Environment • Decision making power National - (MNREE) • Member of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) and lead government agency in project Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) • Central authority in charge of ESIA evaluation National - • Exercises general supervision and coordination over all matters relating to the environment, natural resources, and climate change management National Water Resources Authority (NWRA) • Manage and award water abstraction rights National - • Will be involved in assessing minimum flow released downstream of the Main Dam and potential water extraction application for small- scale irrigation initiatives from the Main Reservoir Ministry of Lands • Initiate the legal land acquisition process through its Survey National - Department and Department of Lands (DoL) and Valuation Review and approve the preparation of the Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Action Plan (RLRAP) development • During the RLRAP implementation, verify and finalise the Compensation Schedule Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) • Ensuring policy direction, statutory compliance, security, financing National - and coordination • Provide advice on policy as well as implementation and other matters • Establish technical, safety and quality standards, with which the project must comply, and monitoring their compliance Ministry of Transport and Public Works and Roads • Owner of public roads constructed or upgraded as part of the project National - Authority • Managed by the Roads Authority Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-5 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) Department of Museums and Monuments • Prepares/updates the reports as per the regulatory requirements: (i) a National - “Graves Impact Assessment”, and (ii) a “Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment; and • Provide a Graveyards Exhumation and Relocation Plan. • Ministry of Education • Review, approve and participate to the community development National - • Ministry of Health initiatives supported by the Mpatamanga Project • Ministry for Water and Sanitation & Southern Region • Review, approve and participate to the education, health and water Water Office arrangements implemented by the Project for the resettlement sites C2 Governmental Agencies (National and Regional MDAs) Ministry of Labour Labour and working conditions; Labour Influx; Occupational Health and National - Safety Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Gender, Gender Based Violence (GBV), vulnerable persons National - Welfare Ministry of Mining Quarries, borrow pits, blasting National - Ministry of: • Ensuring policy direction, statutory compliance, security, financing National - • Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development and coordination • Development Planning and Cooperation • Provide advice on policy as well as implementation and other • Local Government matters • Establish technical, safety and quality standards with which the Department of: • Land, Housing and Urban Development project must comply, and monitor their compliance • Impact on natural resources (as applicable) • Department of Energy (DoE) • Management, maintenance and conservation of protected and • Department of Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change wildlife areas and natural resources (as applicable) • Majete and Elephant Marsh and Wildlife related issues (as applicable) • Department of Fisheries • Input into National Parks falling within the Catchment (Liwonde, • Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) Majete, Lengwe, etc) - Biodiversity dependant on the Shire in • Department of Forestry Liwonde and Majete • Department of Irrigation • Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) (Biodiversity, EIA): • Department of Water Resources • National Red List Working Group C3 Government Emergency Services • Police and Fire Departments • Emergency service providers in Malawi, responsible for responding to • Blantyre - • Chikowa Health Centre emergency incidents District • Chimemebe Health Centre • Capacity to respond to emergencies, including GBV incidents • Neno district • Queen Elizabeth Community Hospital (QECH) • Information and data sharing, technical input Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-6 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) • Neno District Hospital • Chifunga Health Centre • Luwani Health centre • Tedzani Health Centre • Dziwe Health Centre • Victim Support Unit (Chileka) D Other Future Large Infrastructure Projects MoMa Interconnection Line At the time of writing, resettlement was underway across Mwanza, National - Neno, and Balaka. Some impacted villages are close to the MHPP site • Shire Valley Transformation Project (SVTP) Biodiversity work and linkages with SVTP NRM Work Chikwawa - District • Malawi Watershed Services Improvement Project World Bank-funded watershed management in tributaries of the National - (MWASIP) Middle Shire • Malawi Resilience and Disaster Risk Management Project (MRDRMP) • Kapichira Hydropower Rehabilitation Project Reconstruction of the dam may involve a biodiversity management Chikwawa - plan and potential offsets District • Blantyre Water Board Abstractor of drinking water from the Shire River close to Nkula HPP Blantyre - for use in Blantyre City. Currently developing a new pumping station District E Non-Governmental Agencies and Faith Based Organisations (FBO) E1 Project Related Witness NGO Recruited by MHPL to act as an independent observer in the phased National - RLRAPs preparation and implementation process International Accountability Project and Coalition for In February 2022, the NGO published a Memo to the International National - Human Rights Finance Corporation (IFC) and World Bank - Mpatamanga Hydropower Project: Community Complaints and Grievances and Recommendations Supplementary to the Project Community-Led Research Report. E2 Conservation • Elephant Marsh Association, Community Conservation • Contribute knowledge to help improve the management of impacts National - Areas Committee • Play a role in implementing or monitoring project activities • Lilongwe Wildlife Trust • Act as project accountability mechanisms on behalf of the affected • Centre for Environmental and Policy Advocacy (CEPA) community • Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi (WESM) • Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust • Association of Environmental Journalists Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-7 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) • Shire Basin Environmental Support Trust • National Youth Network on Climate Change • Concern Worldwide, • United Purpose, • Centre for Integrated Community Development E3 Human Rights • Oxfam • Contribute knowledge to help improve the management of impacts National - • Mary’s Meals • Play a role in implementing or monitoring project activities • Income Generating Public Works Programme • Act as project accountability mechanisms on behalf of the affected (Blantyre) community • Partners in Hope • Partners in Health • Cadecom (Mwanza) • Save the Poor Foundation • Hands of Hope • Gender Support Programme • Malawi Human Rights Commission • Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation • Development Aid from People to People • Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO) • National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) • Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi (WESM) • Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) • Neno Active Youth in Development (NAYODE) • World University of Canada (WUSC) • Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) • Youth for Environment and Sustainable Development (YSD) • Women for Fair Development (WOFAD) • Community Action for Sustainable Development Organization (CASDO) • Malawi Environmental Endowment Trust (MEET), Coordinator • Neno Civil Society Network • Youth Action for Environmental Management (YAEM) • Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-8 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Group Interest in the Project Administrative Traditional Authority Level (where applicable) E4 FBO • DanChurchAid • Contribute knowledge to help improve the management of impacts National - • Evangelical Association of Malawi • Play a role in implementing or monitoring project activities • Act as project accountability mechanisms on behalf of the affected community F Academic and Research Institutions • Universities in Malawi • Contribute knowledge to help improve the management of impacts National - • South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity • Play a role in implementing or monitoring project activities • International Union for the Conservation of Nature • Act as project accountability mechanisms on behalf of the affected (IUCN) Freshwater Biodiversity Unit community • Bat Without Frontiers • Malawi Fisheries Research Institute • Forestry Research Institute of Malawi • National Herbarium and Botanical Gardens • Malawi Plant Genetic Resources Center and Museum Department G Donors, Lenders and Investors • World Bank • Consistency and coordination for aid initiatives in the Project area International - • IFC • Monitor the performance of the Project • British Investment International • Norfund • Crossboundary • United States Agency for International Development (USAID) • United Kingdom Department for International Development • European Union, Millennium Challenge Corporation Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-9 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement 7.3 Documented Record of Stakeholder Engagement Engagement Prior to 2022 A Pre-feasibility Studies (2015 – 2019) Under a World Bank-supported Energy Sector Support Project (ESSP), pre-feasibility feasibility studies, including a preliminary ESIA, were undertaken during 2015-2018. During 2016 and 2017, AGRI-PRO Ambiente Consultores SA and CENOR Consulting Engineers facilitated stakeholder meetings. Meetings were held with stakeholders, including ESCOM officials, the district executive committees, traditional leaders, members of parliament and councillors for the project area, influential leaders, village heads, and VDC/ADCs. During 2018 and 2019, stakeholder meetings were mainly facilitated through MultiConsult and TBC. A range of professionals, local government officials, farmers and fishermen were consulted during a rapid socio-economic screening for the e-flows assessment. To inform the preparation of the framework BAP, consultation meetings were held with reserve management, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, the Department of Fishers, the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, IUCN, Bat without Frontiers, and local authorities. Stakeholder input from the Blantyre District Commissioner, Mwanza District Authorities, traditional authorities and chiefs, and affected households informed the development of the framework RAP. B 2021 ESIA (2020 – 2021) In August 2020, Mott Macdonald and C12 were appointed to complete the ESIA, BAP, and RAP for the Project and meet Government of Malawi (GoM) regulatory requirements for permitting. As part of RAP development, the DoL closely coordinated asset surveys with local authorities. Household socio-economic surveys of some of the affected households were undertaken. The ESIA and RAP studies, as well as the asset survey, were suspended during 2021. The 2021 ESIA prepared by Mott MacDonald summarises the key engagement and public participation activities that previously took place between 2016 and 2017 (mostly by AGRI PRO, Ambiente Consultores SA and CENOR Consulting Engineers) in addition to those that took place between 2018 and 2019 by ESIA consultants MultiConsult and TBC. From 2020 to 2021, additional stakeholder consultations were largely undertaken by Mott MacDonald and C12, accompanied by DoL and other local authorities. Stakeholders that were consulted included ESCOM officials, district executive committees, traditional leaders, members of parliament and councillors for the project area, opinion leaders, village heads, VDC, ADC and potential Project Affected Peoples (PAPs) impacted by the main reservoir as defined in the original ESIA. C Development of a Protocol for a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (2022) Some concerns and issues were raised by local communities to NGOs during community-led research (International Accountability Project and Coalition for Human Rights in Development, 2022a) in 2021 and subsequent consultations in 2022 (International Accountability Project and Coalition for Human Rights in Development, 2022b). In response to the issues raised by the communities and the local NGO, the GoM, through the MoE prepared a Protocol for a Stakeholder Engagement Plan that guided stakeholder engagement during the project preparation stage (P-SEP-P) in 2022. In accordance with the P-SEP-P, MHPL has since July 2022 undertaken regular and on-going engagement with Project-affected communities and other key stakeholders. Subsequently, the Project disclosed a revised SEP in December 2023, which is available via the MHPL website (https://www.mpatamangahydro.com/). Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-10 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement D Summary of key issues during the period (2015 to 2022) The below is a summary of stakeholders’s issues raised during the preliminary ESIA processes (meetings in 2016 to 2017 and 2020 to 2021). The main potential impacts raised by stakeholders were: • Impacts on downstream water users: The potential impacts of the project on downstream water users, particularly the impact of the project on Kapichira HPP, the SVTP’s intake in Kapichira Dam, and other downstream water users who extract water downstream of Mpatamanga, such as sugar cane estates; • Sedimentation and Soil Erosion on HPP efficiency: The potential impacts of sedimentation and soil erosion on the efficacy of the project itself; • Influx: Potential negative impacts of influx, including increased GBV and sexual harassment, increased crime, and the impacts of influx on community dynamics; • Impacts on biodiversity: Potential impacts to biodiversity, including the impact on trees and plants in the inundation area, potential impacts on migratory fish, as well as potential increases in poaching in Majete Wildlife Reserve due to project-related influx; • Labour and employment risks: Potential negative impacts relating to labour and employment risks, including the risk of poor labour conditions and the potential risks of child labour and human trafficking; • Community safety risks: Potential risks to community health, including safety risks connected to construction sites, as well as risks relating to variations in water levels, particularly at the regulating dam; • Impacts on livestock farming: Potential impacts on livestock farming including access to water for livestock and access to grazing land; • Cultural heritage: Potential impacts to cultural heritage, both specifically around the relocation of graveyards as well as potential impacts on intangible cultural heritage such as the Gulu Wamkulu cultural practice; • Risk of dam failure: The potential impacts of dam failure on the populations of Chikwawa and Nsanje districts; • Impacts on power structures/chieftaincies: The potential impacts of the project on traditional power structures and current chieftaincy regimes; • Air quality: Potential negative impacts on air quality; • Risk of double displacement: The potential risk of ‘double displacement’ relating to the MoMa project, whereby PAPs of the MoMa interconnector line may be resettled within the Mpatamanga project footprint and may risk being displaced for a second time by the Mpatamanga project. Engagement post 2022 The current phase of stakeholder engagement activities commenced in July 2022, when MHPL was formally created and the GoM met with the Blantyre and Neno DCs and traditional authorities from Blantyre District. This section describes the stakeholder engagement activities undertaken since July 2022. Monthly Community and Quarterly Stakeholder Meetings (MHPP) Since December 2023, the P-SEP has been superseded by the Mpatamanga Hydro Power Project Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), which details the MHPP’s Community Engagement Strategy for the project development phase up to the mobilisation of Early Works (i.e. October 2023 to May 2025). The strategy entails monthly community meetings at GVH level, and quarterly and annual meetings at GVH and TA level. Annex 7-2 summarises the MHPP’s ongoing stakeholder consultation activities between July 2022 and March 2024 and key concerns relating to potential negative E&S impacts of the project. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-11 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Quarterly Project Newsletters (MHPP) Since October 2022, the MHPP has distributed quarterly newsletters in English and Chichewa to communities as part of their regular stakeholder engagement processes. The newsletters provide a written record of project activities during the project's development phase, including a review of technical studies undertaken and stakeholder engagement activities. The Newsletter also details the Grievance Redress Mechanism and the various avenues for reporting grievances. A separate GRM Brochure is distributed on a periodic basis which summarises grievances. Stakeholder Engagement Undertaken as part of the 2024 ESIA Process A ESIA Scoping Meetings in November 2023 During the scoping mission, meetings were held with a wide range of stakeholders, including: • Communities within and close to the future reservoir areas; • Communities within and close to the future transmission line wayleaves; • Communities living close to and between the proposed main dam and the regulating dams; • Project-affected people who live off-site; • Local leaders at TA, GVH and VH levels from TAs impacted by the project, the access roads, or the transmission lines; • Local government officials from directly affected districts (Blantyre and Neno) and government officials from indirectly affected districts (Balaka, Zomba, and Machinga); • The MEPA; • Key GoM Ministries, Departments and Agencies based in Lilongwe; • Academic and Civil Society Organisations based in the Southern Region; • Civil Society Organisations based in Lilongwe; • African Parks (responsible for Management of Majete Wildlife Reserve); • Robin Pope Safaris (responsible for the management of Mkulumadzi Lodge); • Representatives of the management teams of the sugar estates located downstream of the Mpatamanga dams. During the meetings, MHPL and its E&S consultants presented: • The objective of the ESIA Scoping Meeting; • The project facilities and operating mode; • Key dates for project development and the ESIA process; • The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process, including - Physical displacement, loss of land, and access to land - Reservoir sediment trapping and downstream erosion - Hydrology and water quality - Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration - Air, Noise, and Light Pollution - Community Health and Safety - Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain - Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. • The planned approach for assessing these potential environmental and social implications. This talk was followed by a round of questions and answers. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-12 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-2 provide a summary of the stakeholders met during the 2023 ESIA Scoping process with Figure 7-2 showing the photographic evidence. The minutes for each scoping meeting can be found in Annex 7-2. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-13 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Figure 7-1: Location of Scoping Meetings in November 2023 • MEPA 28 Nov. • Lilongwe-based NGOs 29 Nov • Lilongwe-based MDAs and MWASIP PIU. Leaders 24 Nov. Mbemba 23 Nov. Nsalawatha 22 Nov. Chikira 23 Nov. Chaswanthaka Felemu 21 Nov. 21 Nov. Divala 21 Nov. • Districts Councils & MDA 27 Nov. Mkulumadzi • Non-Community Based PAPs 24 Nov. Lodge 26 Nov. African Parks 25 Nov. Sugar Estates 20 and 24 Nov On-line meetings Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-14 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-2: November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings Date Stakeholder Project-affected Area Venue Form of presentation 20-Nov pm Sugar Cane Estates: PressCane, Agricane (Kasinthula, Phata and Downstream of the Online Meeting PowerPoint in Kaombe) Regulating Dam English 21-Nov am Divala Community, Blantyre District Regulating reservoir, Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa Construction facilities pm Chaswanthaka Community, Blantyre District Main reservoir, Construction Village School Verbal in Chichewa facilities 22-Nov am Feremu Community, Neno District Main reservoir Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa pm Nsalawatha Community, Neno District Transmission line, Main Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa reservoir 23-Nov pm Chikira Community, Blantyre District Main reservoir Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa pm Mbemba Community, Neno District Transmission line, Main Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa reservoir 24-Nov am Sugar Cane Estate: Illovo Downstream of the Online Meeting PowerPoint in Regulating Dam English am Non-Community-based PAPs, Blantyre Transmission line, Main Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in reservoir English pm Leaders Meeting (TA/GVH/VH): Kunthembwe TA, Kuntaja TA (Blantyre All project facilities Zalewa Lodge PowerPoint in District) + Mlauli TA, Symon TA, Phalula TA (Neno + Balaka Districts) Chichewa 25-Nov am Majete Wildlife Reserve/African Parks Downstream of the African Parks Office Verbal in English Regulating Dam 26-Nov pm Mkulumadzi Lodge/Robin Pope Safaris Regulating Dam Mkulumadzi Lodge Verbal in English 27-Nov am Southern Region Academic Institutions + NGOs working in Neno and All project facilities Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in Blantyre Districts English pm Southern Region Key Stakeholders: DCs (Blantyre, Neno, Balaka, All project facilities Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in Mwanza, Zomba, Chikwawa, Nsanje, Machinga) + Southern Region MDAs English 28-Nov pm MEPA All project facilities PIU Office in PowerPoint in Lilongwe English 29-Nov am Lilongwe-based NGOs All project facilities PIU Office in PowerPoint in Lilongwe English pm MDAs, MWASIP PIU All project facilities PIU Office in PowerPoint in Lilongwe English Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-15 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Figure 7-2: Photos of the November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings 07 11 09 06 1 Divala 2 Chaswantahka 3 Felemu 14 13 4 Nsalawatha 08 03 5 Chikira 6 Mbemba 7 Non-Community- based PAPs, 10 05 Blantyre 8 Leaders 01 02 9 Majete Wildlife Reserve 04 10 Mkulumadzi Lodge 11 Academic Institutions & NGOs 12 District Councils 12 & MDAs 13 MEPA 14 Lilongwe-based NGOs and MDAs & MWASIP PIU Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-16 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement A.1 Summary of the Feedback Received from Community Stakeholders The main issues raised by communities at the November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings, included: • Influx affecting marriages in the local community: Influx may cause social disruption by increasing the likelihood of relationships, including transactional relationships between workers on the project and local women, which may lead to an increase in pregnancies and divorces. The risk of family upheaval due to women or men leaving their families having received cash compensation or increased earnings from jobs offered by the Project, women leaving husbands as they would no longer be financially dependent, and the risk of men using compensation or earning to marry additional wives. • Impact on agricultural practices: The project may impact agricultural practices in the area. People could lose access to the fertile land plots located close to the Shire River, which would be flooded by the reservoirs, where they can currently farm without fertiliser. They may also lose the land on which they currently graze livestock. Fishermen may lose their livelihood because of access restrictions to the future reservoirs. • Employment/working conditions: Concerns included a lack of skilled labour within communities limiting job opportunities, the risk of low wages for unskilled employment being insufficient to buy food, the risk of favouritism and corruption in job placement, and the potential for delays in payments by contractors/the project. • Loss of status/chieftaincies: Community leaders were particularly concerned about displacement and resettlement leading to their loss of chieftaincy, explaining that there may be challenges in retaining their positions if they are resettled in another chief’s area of control. Chiefs also mentioned the risk of people using their compensation to emigrate or move very far away, thus reducing their number of subjects below the requirement for chieftaincy (30 households). • Increased human-wildlife conflict: The favourable conditions created by the reservoirs could increase the population of crocodiles and hippos, causing an increased risk of human-wildlife conflict, including in areas like the Lisungwe branch of the main reservoir, where few human-wildlife conflicts are reported at present. • Impact on cultural heritage: There is concern about the preservation of cultural customs such as Gule Wamkulu, initiation rites, and shifting graveyards. • Impacts on education: Relocation may affect children’s access to schools as well as educational interruption due to the transition process into the new schools. • Influx or project-induced in-migration may result in an increase in human trafficking, particularly for children. A.2 Summary of the Feedback Received from Institutional Stakeholders The main issues raised by institutional stakeholders at the November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings, are summarised below: • Dam integrity: Various institutions raised concerns about the risk of dam break, asking if the Mpatamanga dams would resist an exceptional flood event such as the Ana cyclone. The need to evaluate downstream damages that may occur in the unlikely event of a dam break was also emphasised. • Influx: A large number of job seekers will almost certainly lead to an increase in illegal activity such as crime, theft on construction sites, child labour, sexual harassment, poaching, and tree cutting. • Increased access and influx leading to increased deforestation: The new access road between the main dam and the regulating dam, in particular, could increase poaching and the sale of charcoal and add pressure on the Majete Wildlife Reserve, necessitating the installation of new checkpoints and community development initiatives. • Risk of increased poverty among PAPs: The risk of project-affected people who receive compensation being left worse off. Stakeholders discussed the need to ensure financial stability, such as introducing banking agents into the area, particularly when compensation payments are distributed. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-17 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement • Light and Noise Pollution at Regulating Dam: Mkulamadzi Lodge was especially concerned about light and noise pollution, as well as sediment flushing, if any, from the main dam. They promote nature as a product, and their customers come searching for natural lighting, a peaceful environment, and a glimpse of wildlife. • Risk of lost investment opportunities if the project does not go ahead: Farmers are concerned about the project's uncertainty, which has led them to postpone certain investments. • Gender equality and mental health services: Appropriate steps should be taken to ensure gender equality and the mental health of those impacted. There is an urgent need to create an environment where women have equal access to jobs. A deliberate assessment of impacted persons' psychological preparedness may ensure a healthy transition to new settlements. • Risks to Biodiversity: To preserve biodiversity, ecologically friendly measures during building and power generation must be considered. If borrow pits are built, suitable measures should be taken to cover them up after construction. Solid and liquid waste such as carbon and methane should be reduced to protect the environment. • Impacts on downstream water users: The time it will take to fill the dam needs to be clarified, as this will impact individuals who use the water downstream. B Biodiversity Action Plan Meetings Several forms of engagement were undertaken as part of the development of the BAP in order to a) enhance the understanding of the potential impact zones, b) verify stakeholders, and c) meet and coordinate with relevant government and non-government representatives, these included: • Scoping Meetings with Institutional Stakeholders: - Institutional stakeholders engaged during the January 2023 BAP Scoping Meetings organised by TBC are summarised in Table 7-3. The objectives of the meetings were to provide an overview of the project, discuss possible impacts, obtain insights on mitigation measures, and map a way forward for stakeholder engagement. • Focus Group Discussions (offset strategy) - To better understand the feasibility of an offset, Focus Group Discussion (FGDsO were also held with 21 communities located around three tributaries of the Shire River (i.e. Mkulumadzi, Lisungwi and Nkalazi) between 9 and 25 May 2023). These discussions informed the technical, social, operational, and institutional feasibility of possible offset activities in the catchment areas. Table 7-4 provides the list of the May 2023 Offset Feasibility Community Meetings. • Workshop - To ensure full transparency of the Project and seek stakeholder feedback, a workshop was organised on 3 and 4 October 2023 at The Makokola Retreat, Mangochi to discuss the preliminary results of the biodiversity offset feasibility study and offset strategy. The participant list is provided in Table 7-5. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-18 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-3: January 2023 TBC Scoping Meetings Date Stakeholder Venue 23 January 2023 amLandowners Mount Soche Hotel 25 January 2023 amMajete Wildlife Reserve Park Majete Wildlife Reserve Manager 25 January 2023 am Kaombe Sugare Estate Nsanje Community Liaison Officer 25 January 2023 pm Southern Division Manager for Department of National Parks and the Department of National Wildlife Lower Shire Division Office – Parks and Wildlife and Research Lengwe National Park Officer 26 January 2023 am African Parks – Park Manager Thawale Camp and Conservation & Research Manager 26 January 2023 pm Chaswanthaka Community Chaswanthaka Meeting 27 January 2023* am Mkulumadzi Lodge Mount Soche Hotel * A follow-up meeting was held on 2 February 2023 as one participant could not attend the entire meeting Table 7-4: May 2023 Offset Feasibility Community Meetings Catchment Village Males Females Lisungwi Mpunga 7 6 Nchena 6 4 Luwani 6 9 Nkhande 11 10 Nkhombe 10 9 Mkavu 7 9 Malimba 10 7 Mwetang’ombe 10 10 Nkalazi Kubala 10 10 Dziko 8 10 Zamkutu 9 13 M’bwinja 10 9 Mandebvu 10 13 Mkulumadzi Chipindu 4 5 Khokole 5 4 Mkomaliwiro 5 7 Aphingo 4 6 Muwangawokhota 6 7 Dambe (Chitika) 9 13 Matandani 4 5 Mchenga 10 6 Total 161 172 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-19 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-5: Biodiversity Offset Workshop Stakeholders African Parks Lengwe Park Tourist Manager C12 MEPA Crossboundary MHPL Department of Fisheries Mpatamanga HPP PIU Department of Forestry MultiConsult Blantyre District Council MWASIP Chikwawa District Council NWRA Neno District Council SLR DNPW (National) SVTP DNPW (Regional) TBC EDF World Bank IFC - Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-20 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement C Cumulative Impact Assessment Meetings Institutional stakeholders engaged during the 2023 CIA Scoping Meetings organised by MultiConsult are summarised in Table 7-6. Records of the meeting form part of the CIA Scoping Report. Social consultation activities undertaken during July 2023 are summarised in Table 7-7. Table 7-6: July 2023 CIA Scoping Meetings (Institutional) Date Stakeholder Venue 11 July 2023 pm AgriCane Video Call 13 July 2023 am Director at Lengwe National Park Lengwe National Park 15 July 2023 am Shire Valley Transformation Shire Valley Transformation Programme Programme Offices, Blantyre 17 July 2023 am National Water Resources Authority National Water Resources Authority Office 17 July 2023 am Department of Water Resources Regional Water Supply Office Management 17 July 2023 pm Environmental Affairs Department Environmental Affairs Department Office 18 July 2023 am Fisheries Department Telephonic 19 July 2023 am Department of Forestry Department of Forestry Office 19 July 2023 pm World Bank Video Call 19 July 2023 pm Department of Irrigation Video Call 20 July 2023 am Department of National Parks and Department of National Parks and Wildlife Wildlife Office 20 July 2023 pm Malawi Human Rights Commission Video Call 21 July 2023 am Department of Museums and Department of Museums and Monuments Monuments Office Table 7-7: July 2023 CIA Scoping Meetings (Community) Date Location 9 July 2023 Symon 9 July 2023 Mkoko 10 July 2023 Ntingala 10 July 2023 Feremu and Kambalame 11 July 2023 Lukhubula 12 July 2023 Mwanza 13 July 2023 Nyenyera D Qualitative Social Surveys Between October and December 2023 Between October 2023 and December 2023, qualitative socio-economic surveys were undertaken in the study area. The objectives of these surveys were to collect baseline information to inform the ESIA. Unlike the scoping or disclosure meetings, these engagement activities were not recorded through formal minutes of meetings, but attendance registers were taken. The project activities were presented as an introduction to each meeting. The discussion was then guided by an interview grid that allowed for an informal discussion. Therefore, while these surveys aimed to provide a high-level overview of the project to inform the engagement, its outcomes differ from a stakeholder engagement process. The distribution of these surveys (village-level, GVH-level, TA-level and District-level) and more details on the methodology and feedback received from stakeholders are given in Chapter 5. However, the following serve as a short summary of engagements: • Focus Group Discussions (FGD): Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-21 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement - A total of 58 FGDs were held with 565 participants (51% male and 49% female) as part of the social surveys. - A total of 11 FGDs were held with 72 women as part of the community health surveys. • Key Informant Interviews: - A total of 41 individuals participated in 31 key informant interviews as part of the social surveys. - Seven key informant interviews were held with a total of 43 individuals, 50% being female, as part of the health surveys. • Institutional Meetings: - A total of 19 meetings were held, with 52 respondents, of whom 48% were female. • Ad-hoc Informal Interviews - A total of 15 ad-hoc informal interviews were held as part of the social surveys, with 20 persons, of which the majority of the respondents were male (85%). Various study teams have operated in the study area since 2016, leading to local stakeholders' confusion and frustration. Stakeholder expectations are high, especially among Project-affected persons who want to obtain information about the resettlement and compensation process. During the 2023 surveys, communities living near the main reservoir were aware of the Project. However, villages located downstream of Kapichira Dam or along the Transmission Line or S137 routes were unfamiliar with the Project activities as they had not been consulted before the 2024 ESIA. Disclosure of the 2024 ESIA Findings A Description The presentation of the findings of the 2024 ESIA to the project-affected people and the other interested parties was undertaken in July 2024. Table 7-8 below lists the stakeholders, with venue and date, consulted in July 2024. Annex 7-2 provides the records of 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings, and Figure 7-4 entails the photos of the July 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-22 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Figure 7-3: Location of ESIA Disclosure Meetings in July 2024 Mbemba & Josephy 18 Jul. Nsalawatha 19 Jul. Chikira 19 Jul. 9 meetings along the S137 Road • GVH Nkata & GVH Solomini 15 July. • GVH Mchenga & GVH Mvundula 16 July. • GVH Kadikira & GVH Mkunje 17 July. Chaswanthaka Felemu • GVH Kuthembwe & GVH Gwadani 18 July & Mpindo 09 Jul. • GVH Kaliati 19 July. 10 Jul. Nkhwali 09 Jul. Mbwinja Mkulumadzi & Divala Lodge 13 Jul. 10 Jul. • Districts Councils & MDA 11 Jul. • Southern Region Academic Institutions + NGOs 11 Jul. • Non-Community Based PAPs 12 Jul. Majete Wildlife Reserve 13 Jul. Chikwawa District Commissioner + TA Kasisi + TA Mlilima 12 Jul. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-23 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Table 7-8: 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings Date Stakeholder Project-affected Area Venue Form of presentation 09-Jul am Nkhwali Community, Neno District Regulating reservoir, Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa proposed Neno conservancy Area, S137 pm Feremu Community, Neno District Main reservoir Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa 10-Jul am Mbwinja & Divala Community, Blantyre District Main reservoir Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa pm Chaswanthaka & Mpindo Community, Blantyre District Main reservoir, Construction Village Open Space Verbal in Chichewa facilities 11-Jul pm National and Regional Ministries Departments Agencies (MDAs) All project facilities Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in District Councils and Community Leaders from Key Districts (Blantyre English (TA Kuntaja, TA Kunthembwe), Neno (TA Symon, TA Mlauli), Chikwawa (TA Kasisi, TA Katunga), Other World Bank Projects pm Southern Region Academic Institutions + NGOs working in Neno and All project facilities Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in Blantyre Districts English 12-Jul am Non-Community-based PAPs, Blantyre Transmission line, Main Blantyre Hotel PowerPoint in reservoir English pm Chikwawa District Commissionner + TA Kasisi + TA Mlilima Downstream of Kapichira Chikwawa, Zonse PowerPoint in Lodge English 13-Jul am Majete Wildlife Reserve/African Parks Downstream of the African Parks Office PowerPoint in Regulating Dam English pm Mkulumadzi Lodge/Robin Pope Safaris Regulating Dam Thawale Lodge PowerPoint in English 15-Jul am GVH Nkata S137 Road (Blantyre District) Kachere CBO Verbal in Chichewa pm GVH Solomoni S137 Road (Blantyre District) Chigumukire school Verbal in Chichewa 16-Jul am GVH Mchenga S137 Road (Blantyre District) Mchenga Verbal in Chichewa Headquarters pm GVH Mvundula S137 Road (Blantyre District) Andiseni Roman Verbal in Chichewa Catholic Ground 17-Jul am GVH Kadikira S137 Road (Blantyre District) Chikuli CBO Verbal in Chichewa pm GVH Mkunje S137 Road (Blantyre District) Tagwirizana Verbal in Chichewa Orphanage 18-Jul am GVH Kuthembwe S137 Road (Blantyre District) Roman Catholic Verbal in Chichewa Church am Mbemba and Josephy villages Transmission Line Mbemba Clinic, Neno Verbal in Chichewa Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-24 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Date Stakeholder Project-affected Area Venue Form of presentation pm GVH Gwadani S137 Road (Blantyre District) Kunthembwe Roman Verbal in Chichewa Catholic Church 19-Jul am GVH Kaliati S137 Road (Blantyre District) GVH Kaliati residence Verbal in Chichewa 19-Jul am Chikila Meeting Transmission Line Verbal in Chichewa Verbal in Chichewa 19-Jul pm Nsalawatha Meeting Transmission Line Nsalawatha Primary Verbal in Chichewa School, Neno Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-25 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Figure 7-4: Photos of the July 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-26 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement B Summary of the Feedback Received from Stakeholders The main concerns raised by communities at the July 2024 ESIA disclosure meetings were: • Influx and Project-Induced In-Migration: Stakeholders raised concerns that the Project is expected to cause an influx of people seeking employment and opportunities, leading to increased migration and impacting host communities. Also, concerns were raised about sub-contractors migrating into an area to conduct work and how this affects the community’s safety. • Employment Opportunities: Questions were raised about who will be responsible for hiring for the job opportunities—whether it will be the village chiefs or the Project team. There is apprehension that local community members may not be considered for job opportunities, with workers potentially being brought in from other districts. Historically, local communities impacted by projects often get overlooked in favour of hiring from other districts. Given the high unemployment rate in the local community, there is an expectation that the Project will prioritise employing locals, thereby ensuring they benefit from the development. • Women and Employment Opportunities: There is apprehension about whether women will also be considered for the job opportunities. Concerns were raised about protecting women during the recruitment process to ensure they are not asked for sexual favours in exchange for job opportunities. • Psycho-Social Impacts: Stakeholders raised concerns about the psychological impact of the Project and requested to receive psychological support. • Cultural Heritage: The planned graveyard relocation was mentioned to be unclear, particularly regarding handling older graves versus recently buried ones. It was clarified that the Department of Museums and Monuments (DoMM) will manage the graveyard relocation according to regulatory frameworks and international standards. Existing graves will be exhumed and reburied at a new site, while new burials will continue until the Resettlement Action Plans are implemented. An inventory of each cemetery will be made, and the exhumation and reburial process will involve community participation and coordination with relevant departments. The relocation will happen in parallel with the overall community relocation, and a detailed strategy is being prepared. • Resettlement and Compensation Time Frame: There is a strong need for transparency about the resettlement schedule to allow the community to understand how the process will be managed. Stakeholders also requested clarity on the timeframe of the resettlement process. Also, stakeholders from Chaswanthaka and Mpindo feel that the phased displacement of houses in Chaswanthaka and Mpindo raises uncertainty, as only 35 houses will be addressed initially. It was said that this delay in the Project hinders the village's development, with primary school construction and new borehole drilling stalled due to the impending displacement. This affects children's education and access to clean water, prompting a call for expedited project preparations to ensure adequate classrooms and improve the community's future prospects. • Compensation: Stakeholders requested clarification on the compensation process and types that will be offered to PAPs. • Livelihood Restoration Measures: Stakeholders sought clarity on the kind of livelihood restoration measures are being planned and what to expect. • Off-site PAPs: Commercial farmers not currently living on their land but planning to move there feel unfairly excluded from the compensation plan. They dispute that they are heavily affected and should not wait until 2027 for compensation. Delaying compensation might result in losing viable land within the catchment area to those compensated earlier. Stakeholders are urging simultaneous compensation to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for resettlement. This was clarified by explaining the phased approach that will be undertaken to resettle people. Ranch owners with significant investments in the project area are facing uncertainty due to delays in resettlement and compensation timelines. They request a review of the compensation schedule, as waiting until 2027 or beyond disrupts their ability to plan and develop their land, leading to financial and logistical Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-27 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement challenges. They are committed to relocating but require clear and timely compensation to move forward effectively. • Shire River Access: Stakeholders raised concerns about limited or no access to the Shire River for their livestock. • Road Surfacing Improvements for The S137 Road: The tarmac will extend from Chileka Airport to Nkula Turn-off. Concerns include why the tarmac stops at Nkula Turn-off when the Project extends to Shire, and why the road beyond Nkula Turn-off, which becomes inaccessible during the rainy season, will still use gravel. Additionally, there is a preference for the tarmac to extend from Chileka Airport to Chikuli Trading Center, with gravel being used only beyond Chikuli. In addition, stakeholders mentioned concern about dust for the sections of the S137 road and the potential health-related impacts. • Biodiversity: A number of biodiversity concerns were raised by the stakeholders. Detailed actions to mitigate impacts on biodiversity in Majete Wildlife Reserve were presented, including proposed biodiversity offsets such as establishing buffer zones and conservancies. Initiatives to support conservation efforts, like tree nurseries and community engagement, were also discussed. Concerns about sediment accumulation at the confluence of the Shire and Mkulumadzi rivers and its impact on hippos and crocodiles were addressed with assurances of the adaptability of these animals. Regarding sand accumulation in the reservoir, it was noted that sand will accumulate in the upper part, with no immediate need for removal. Erosion concerns between Kapichira and the bridge after 30 years will be monitored, and interventions will be implemented to mitigate consequences. The importance of engaging the District Environmental Sub-Committee (DESC) for additional input was emphasised. • The management of invasive alien species, particularly water hyacinths, is a significant issue in Malawi, impacting many people and creating problems for the energy sector and is recognised as an impact of the Project. • Stakeholders mentioned concerns about the protection of animials against poaching and specifically the protection of pangolins • Hydrology: The Project will impact water systems through reservoir sediment trapping and downstream erosion, raising concerns about changes in river flow. To address these issues, sedimentation modelling has been conducted to predict sediment loads and transport, with measures discussed for managing sedimentation and erosion, including integrating various water uses and tributaries in the models. Monitoring and interventions are planned to manage erosion and maintain access to water. • Noise Pollution: Concerns about the Project's noise levels affecting wildlife and local communities, particularly at night, which could impact the ability to see animals and the overall experience at lodges. • Uncertainty about the start date of the Project: Stakeholders are concerned that the lack of precise dates and times for the Project's start in 2026 may be hindering people from planning other activities • Distribution of Benefits from The Project: There is a concern that the local communities will not benefit from the Project. Concerns were raised that in previous electricity projects, such as the Nkula Project, only people living in towns and cities have benefited from electricity connections. While the improved road is appreciated, there is a need for clarity on how the project will address electricity access for the local communities. • Lifespan of the Project: Stakeholders mentioned concerns about the lifespan of the machinery installed after the concession period. Specifically, there is worry that the machinery might reach the end of its operational life just as the project transitions, leaving the Malawi government with non-functional equipment. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-28 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement 7.4 Grievance Redress Mechanism The MHPP recognises the importance of establishing a robust and culturally appropriate grievance mechanism to meet Good International Industry Practice requirements, prevent and address stakeholder concerns and grievances about the Project’s social and environmental performance, reduce Project risks and enhance Project benefits, and establish and maintain a social license to operate. A Project-level GRM was developed as part of the Project SEP to receive and address concerns and complaints related to all Project phases. A simplified process diagram is included in Figure 7-5. The Project level GRM defines the overall procedure to manage grievances, including three possible levels of resolution: (i) the firsts is the Group Village Grievance Redress Committees, (ii) the second being the Project Grievance Redress Committee and (iii) the third is a Grievance Review Board. Figure 7-5: Simplified Project Grievance Management Procedure The Project GRM Procedure considers communities’ literacy levels and focuses on in -person interaction with complainants using Chichewa, and/or other relevant local languages, in addition to English; to ensure that processes, decisions, and outcomes are clearly understood. There are a number of avenues or access points, which can be used by community members and other stakeholders to submit feedback, questions, comments, concerns and/or complaints regarding the Project. All community and stakeholder feedback received through the above avenues or access points is screened to determine the appropriate management procedure. Community and stakeholder feedback received through listed channels/access points will be reviewed to identify general stakeholder concerns that should be addressed through ongoing engagement. In addition, the MHPP has established five Group Village Grievance Redress Committees (GVGRCs) and two GVGRC Sub-committees in Blantyre and Neno Districts. Additional GVGRCs will be established when needed. GVGRC members act as a Channel’ or ‘Access Point’ for receipt of Project-related feedback from project-affected communities. They receive, screen and address community queries, concerns, complaints and grievances, as possible. Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-29 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Annexes Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-30 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Annex 7-1: Summary of MHPP's Monthly Community and Quarterly Stakeholder Meetings from 2022 – 2024 Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-31 DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED July 2022 District And Community Blantyre DC The DIE asked how long it would Risk of reduced In response, the team explained Traditional Leaders take to fill the dam, considering the access to water that the project's design Stakeholder’s requirements of downstream users for downstream considered all requirements in the Engagement Meetings such as the Shire Valley users River cascade, including the SVTP Report Transformation Project and and that during dam filling, the Blantyre and Neno DCs environmental flow project will maintain the required July 2022 flow for power generation and other downstream users, including the e-flow July 2022 District And Community Neno DC The question was asked by Risk of “Double” In response, it was stated that Traditional Leaders Charlotte Neema, Environmental displacement ESCOM was involved in the project Stakeholder’s District Officer (EDO). The EDO of PAPs: first by and would be the transmission Engagement Meetings noted that the project's MoMa and then line's owner; as such, it was their Report transmission line would connect to by Mpatamanga role to vet the line's route. The Blantyre And Neno DCs the Phombeya substation from the participants were informed that July 2022 main powerhouse and will be parallel once the designs for the to the MoMa Interconnection transmission lines were completed, project transmission. She informed the project would be shared with the meeting that the MoMa the DC interconnection project is currently compensating PAPS along the corridor, and the project is constructing houses for some of the displaced people. She was, therefore, worried that some PAPS compensated under the MoMa project would settle in the planned corridor for the Mpatamanga Transmission line and would be required to be reallocated. She wanted to know if ESCOM was involved in the Mpatamanga project to ensure that such issues were taken on board at an early stage DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED July 2022 District And Community Neno DC The District Nutrition and HIV Risk of In responses, it was stated that the Traditional Leaders Officer indicated that he did not increased STD potential risk of the spread of STDs, Stakeholder’s hear much about the risk of the transmission. including HIV and Aids and the risk Engagement Meetings spread of Sexually Transmitted Increased risk of an increase in incidences of Report Diseases (STDs), including HIV and of sexual sexual harassment within the Blantyre And Neno DCs Aids, and the potential risk of harassment project area were among the major July 2022 increased sexual harassment as a impacts of the project and that negative impact of the project. He they were covered under noted that the nature of the project Community, Health, Safety and will increase the risk of such impacts Security impacts in the Draft ESIA Report (Mott MacDonald) 27th Jan Quarterly Stakeholder DCs from Zomba, Have you considered in the project Risk to Two fish studies were conducted in 2023 Engagement Meeting Machinga, Chikwawa any migrating fish? biodiversity 2015 and 2020, and another one is With DC, January 2023 and Nsanje upcoming. Mitigation Measures are still being discussed 27th Jan Quarterly Stakeholder DCs from Zomba, Is the project not going to affect the Impact on It will not. Hydropower is not 2023 Engagement Meeting Machinga, Chikwawa flow of water at the Kapichira Dam? downstream water-consuming compared to With DC, January 2023 and Nsanje water users irrigation systems, which is why we (Kapichira) have about three hydropower stations along the Shire River 27th Jan Quarterly Stakeholder DCs from Zomba, Lack of rehabilitation of borrow pits Community No answer provided 2023 Engagement Meeting Machinga, Chikwawa in reference to projects in Nsanje health and With DC, January 2023 and Nsanje (children are dying playing around Safety on the pits) and also there is a need for Construction consultation of such borrow sites to site authorities because if not consulted, it leads to difficulties in supervision DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 27th Jan Quarterly Stakeholder DCs from Zomba, Cultural dilution- people coming in Influx: Impact No answer provided 2023 Engagement Meeting Machinga, Chikwawa from different countries leading to on community With DC, January 2023 and Nsanje exposure to various activities (need dynamics to orient visitors on the dos and don’ts) 27th Jan Quarterly Stakeholder DCs from Zomba, Has the project put something in Impact on flood Weather patterns change, and 2023 Engagement Meeting Machinga, Chikwawa the design to contain water flow management studies on how these are changing, With DC, January 2023 and Nsanje when we have disastrous effects? and their impact are being undertaken. We have managed to change the design of the turbines to be running 7 hours a day, turbines producing more water downstream, they will also help in bringing the dam levels down in a controlled manner. 100 years flow included in Climate change studies 20th Quarterly Stakeholder MHPL, PIU, The Project should ensure the Risk of No answer provided January Engagement Meeting Department of management of tributaries and increased soil 2023 Minutes: Blantyre MDAs, Fisheries, Ministry of smart farming technologies erosion January 2023 Water and introduced to substantial farmers on Sanitation, SVTP, good farming practices to avoid soil MNREE erosion and also advise on the project to go for long-term planning as they provide long-term solutions to project challenges 20th Quarterly Stakeholder MHPL, PIU, There are some tapping water Risks to With the experience of the existing January Engagement Meeting Department of projects that rely on the flow of the downstream hydropower stations, hydropower 2023 Minutes: Blantyre MDAs, Fisheries, Ministry of Shire River. Won't this project Water users is not water-consuming compared January 2023 Water and impact the flow of water in the Shire to irrigation and farming Sanitation, SVTP, River? MNREE DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 20th Quarterly Stakeholder MHPL, PIU, The catchment of the water in the Risk of No immediate engineering solution January Engagement Meeting Department of Shire River is very high, and since sedimentation for the project 2023 Minutes: Blantyre MDAs, Fisheries, Ministry of Malawi is becoming bare, there is an There are Interventions to manage January 2023 Water and increase in sedimentation, e.g. through promoting immediate Sanitation, SVTP, Kapichira. Is the Mpatamanga Hydro catchment by working with MNREE Power Project implementing any communities and institutions by technical innovations to address the EGENCO. The ‘kwa neba kuwale issue? project’ (supplying free electricity to one's neighbour to avoid cutting down trees for energy use) January Report on Stakeholder Malawi University of What Measures have been taken Risk of A sedimentation study has been 2023 Engagement meetings, Business and into consideration to manage sedimentation/ instituted as part of the design. In January 2023 Applied Sciences siltation and soil erosion in the erosion addition, there are also other (Academia) design studies on biodiversity which will come up with an action plan for biodiversity management and monitoring. ESIA studies will also look into the issues January Report on Stakeholder CSOs How is the project considering the Influx: Risk of The project will engage a GBV 2023 Engagement meetings, issues of GBV as experience of GBV service provider and Labour influx January 2023 other projects in Neno has not been consultant pleasant due to labour influx. Many Has a Grievance Redress workers in such projects have left Mechanism (GRM) where incidents children behind with no care can be reported Will develop a GBV prevention, management and reporting plan DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED January Report on Stakeholder Forestry Research There is a need to look into broader Risk to The project will look into studies 2023 Engagement meetings, Institute and catchment management for the Biodiversity that are already taking place in January 2023 Botanical Gardens Shire River in terms of all tributaries, other projects on catchment as whatever happens there affects management the Shire River The BAP studies will look into that There is a need to look into species of trees in the areas that will be affected and their replacements as, in most cases, the replacement trees are not of the same species and may have different impacts January Report on Stakeholder Mkulumadzi Concerns have been raised about Influx: Increase There will be a specific influx study 2023 Engagement meetings, the potential increase in poaching in poaching in to understand how to mitigate and January 2023 due to the influx of foreign Majete manage potential impacts from individuals and the proximity of the influx into the area. The current potential resettlement area to workforce is estimated at 2,000 to Majete 3,000 during construction – to feed into ESIA A study was done during the fauna study, including wildlife crime and poaching, where the study found rampant poaching in the area around Majete, and experts proposed mitigation studies, which will be stated in the ESIA and E&S management plan Resettlement – people not to be resettled towards Majete but within the existing area, especially Chaswanthaka and Feremu DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED January Report on Stakeholder Dept of Museums Mpatamanga is a site of cultural Impact on The project will support the 2023 Engagement meetings, and Monuments heritage significance in Malawi with Cultural department in conducting Cultural January 2023 many cultural resources, and as Heritage Heritage Impact Assessment such, care must be taken to (CHIA) and developing mitigation safeguard the resources measures, including relocating graveyards. The department will work in collaboration with the RLRAP consultant and regional lands January Report on Stakeholder Min of Labour Experience has shown that some Labour and No answer provided 2023 Engagement meetings, contractors threaten their workers employment January 2023 not to report chance finds to avoid risks delays. So, workers don’t report for fear of being fired. Encourage the contractors to report chance finds January Report on Stakeholder Min of Labour Interested to know what procedures Labour and A local labour management 2023 Engagement meetings, are in place for workers’ rights and employment procedure has been developed and January 2023 labour management procedures to risks will be shared be used The project will engage a labour Contractors need to register with influx consultant to develop a the Ministry of Labour labour management plan Labour management plans to include all categories of labour, including casual labourers January Report on Stakeholder DPNW The project needs to ensure that Impact on No answer provided 2023 Engagement meetings, there are emergency rescue plans Wildlife January 2023 for Wildlife in times of cyclones and experiences with other dam failures DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 18th May Stakeholder Feremu Village Graveyards. Issues relating to Impacts on There is a Cultural Heritage survey 2023 Engagement Meeting graveyards are never highlighted in Graveyards starting next week Minutes, Feremu Village, the newsletter, is it that the project May 2023 thinks they are irrelevant 19th May Stakeholder Ngwenyama Village Social welfare by contractors in Labour and We have an Employment policy 2023 Engagement Meeting terms of employment to avoid employment that is shared with all our Minutes, Ngwenyama abuse. What policies are put in place risks contractors, and we monitor their Village, May 2023 to avoid abuse? activities to ensure compliance May 2023 Quarterly Stakeholder DCs- Zomba, The project's design shows that it Risk of Dam There is a special consideration, Engagement Machinga, Nsanje, will hold a huge volume of water. Failure which is why we are heavily Report (May 2023) Chikwawa, Mwanza From a disaster perspective, what invested in Geotechnical studies mechanisms are put in place in case The dam design is a roller compact of overflowing so that people from concrete dam lower Shire areas—Nsanje—are not There is such a big height between put at risk? the Maximum flood level and the actual top of the dam There is a buffer within the dam that acts as a flood control measure and is designed for a 10,000-year flood, and the spillway for 1,000 years n-1 Cyclone Freddy and other cyclones have given us an idea of how best to do the design DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED May 2023 Quarterly Stakeholder DCs- Zomba, We have been having issues with Risk of There are two tunnels, and it’s a Engagement Report Machinga, Nsanje, our erratic power supply because sedimentation peaking plant designed to operate (May 2023) Chikwawa, Mwanza the sediments are blocking the only during peak hours and not 24 machine. Has that been considered hours a day. Should there be a in the dam design? problem, one tunnel can run while the other one is being fixed The location of the intake structures is far away from the spillway/watercourse Will also allow sediments to pass through so as not to starve the fish downstream May 2023 Quarterly Stakeholder DCs- Zomba, Impact of the water level of Impact of Tedzani is at a higher level than Engagement Report Machinga, Nsanje, Mpatamanga dam on Tedzani. inundation on Mpatamanga. The outlet for (May 2023) Chikwawa, Mwanza upstream water Tedzani is at a higher maximum user reservoir level than the one at Mpatamanga May 2023 Quarterly Stakeholder Off-site PAPS What have you considered about Risk of Important topic on the Lisungwi Engagement crocodiles, which are already increased tributary and will be related to BAP Report (May 2023) problematic in the Lisungwi area? At human/wildlife offsets where surveys are currently the confluence of Lisungwi/Shire, conflict underway there is this problem already May 2023 Quarterly Stakeholder Off-site PAPS Child Labour – Young people who Risk of Child Human rights risk assessment Engagement are not attending school may be Labour picked up issues of labour Report (May 2023) tempted to look for jobs. Some youths are actively involved in charcoal activities DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED June 2023 Report On Monthly Chikila Village – Snr It is important to consider Risk of Impacts No answer provided Community Chief Kunthembwe graveyards as areas where many on Cultural Engagement Meetings activities occur apart from burial. He Heritage (28th June – 30th June said that when it comes to 2023) relocating graveyards, which are a cultural heritage, the project should also consider cultural activities like Gule Wamkulu. This is because graveyards are homes to Gule Wamkulu members August Community Meeting GVH Namputu After relocation, will the Risk of impact It will depend on where they 2023 Minutes – Chikira chieftainship be maintained? on traditional relocate. If it is within Blantyre and Village, 1st August 2023 power there are 30+ households, the structures chieftainship will progress and still be under the Blantyre District payroll. If the relocation is outside Blantyre, then it will cease August Community Meeting Mbemba Village – How can we ensure people's safety Community There are mitigation factors and 2023 Minutes – Mbemba Community when the dam water levels fluctuate health and controls that will be put in place to Village, 1st August 2023 members during heavy rain? Some people, safety risks – regulate the river's flow, for especially children, enjoy swimming variations in example, closing the opening of the in the river, and animals rely on the water levels gates, and there is also a dam river for water safety management plan. People are not allowed to be doing activities in the dam – compensation will be paid to all people in the inundation. However, flooding will be controlled through the opening and closing of the spillway DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 22 August Quarterly Stakeholder Blantyre MDAs The studies are done in the Risk of Some developers like USAID are 2023 Meeting Minutes: catchment area but find riverside Sedimentation working on deforestation, and the Blantyre and Neno sediments. Even though several project will benefit from that. Also, CSOs studies have been done on these, the project is organising Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- what will the project do to mitigate sensitisation/capacity building on 2023-08-22 these effects? these issues and livelihood restoration plans for the community 23 August Quarterly Stakeholder Off-site PAPs How will you handle the impact of Risk of increase HSSE teams will do community 2023 Meeting Minutes: Non- labour influx that may result in high in STDs/HIV & health assessment Community PAPs STD /AIDS rates? AIDS Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- 2023-08-23 23 August Quarterly Stakeholder Off-site PAPs They might also be thieves coming Influx: Risk of We have engaged with the Ministry 2023 Meeting Minutes: Non- in with the labour influx. Are you increase in of Defence and private security Community PAPs looking into having a Police Unit in crime companies regarding their roles in Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- the project area? this project, especially during the 2023-08-23 construction phase DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 23 August Quarterly Stakeholder Blantyre and Neno What measures will be taken to Impact on You may recall that a regulating 2023 Meeting Minutes: CSOs ensure that Mpatamanga doesn’t downstream dam was introduced to regulate Blantyre and Neno flood Kapichira, and how will you water users: flow downstream. The flow CSOs ensure that contractors follow them Kapichira downstream will be the same as Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- if the measures are in place? the flow upstream into the Main 2023-08-23 dam There is a tender design. The contractors will be supervised throughout the construction process For a HPP, emphasis is given to the final product There are instruments in the project to ensure that there are no negative effects of the project Tender design will be robust enough to attend to contractor compliance issues during construction 25 August Quarterly Stakeholder Chikwawa, Nsanje, Were any assessments done to Risks of The peaking operations at 2023 Meeting Minutes: Balaka, Mwanza and determine how the Project might impacts on Mpatamanga will release a lot of Chikhwawa, Nsanje, Zomba DCs affect water levels downstream of downstream water downstream to ensure Balaka, Mwanza and the Shire and any measures put in users constancy in flow. Nonetheless, the Zomba place to prevent floods? effect on flow will only be Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- noticeable between the Main Dam 2023-08-25 and the Regulating Dam. In fact, the Regulating Dam was only factored into the design due to, partly concerns related to maintaining the original water flow downstream of the Shire River DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 25 August Quarterly Stakeholder Chikwawa, Nsanje, How is the project managing the risk Labour and At the moment, E&S monitoring 2023 Meeting Minutes: Balaka, Mwanza and of human trafficking? Employment focuses on variables similar to that. Chikwawa, Nsanje, Zomba DCs Risks: Risk of In due course, the human rights Balaka, Mwanza and Human study will further inform the project Zomba Trafficking on such issues. Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- 2023-08-25 25 August Quarterly Stakeholder Chikwawa, Nsanje, Are there any Air Quality Risks to Air The Traffic studies include Air 2023 Meeting Minutes: Balaka, Mwanza and Assessment Studies? Quality Quality Assessments. The baseline Chikwawa, Nsanje, Zomba DCs studies will also include noise, light, Balaka, Mwanza and and dust. During project Zomba implementation, Air quality Ref: MHPL-MR-QS- assessment will be key 2023-08-25 4 Quarterly Stakeholder Mbwinja village – Is there any foreseeable risk to Reduced Assessments will be conducted, September Meeting Minutes: Community fishing and grazing pastures? access to the outcomes will be 2023 Mbwinja Introductory members grazing land communicated to affected people, meeting and fishing and ways forward will be discussed Ref: MHPL-MR-CM- 2023-09-04 9 - 12 Monthly Community Mbwinja village – Employment opportunities are Project benefits Employment opportunities are October Meeting Minutes Community limited and must be rotated to allow based on activities, and the 2023 Mbwinja, Chikira, members everyone to benefit contractor decides the number of Nsalawatha, Feremu, people required Mbemba, Chaswanthaka Chikira Village – In the past, there was a Livelihoods Yes, you can grow any crop. You Community communication that people could are encouraged to continue with members grow /cultivate only seasonal crops. your livelihood until a cut-off date Are we allowed to grow any crops is announced now? DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED Feremu Village – Has the relocation site been Resettlement Yes, the village chiefs were Community identified yet? consulted to determine a members resettlement site and a new graveyard Mbemba Village – Mkulumadzi and Lisungwi are both Flooding There will be two dams to regulate Community inlets for Shire. How will the project the water flow. Therefore, there members impact the Shire River? won’t be any flooding. Mbemba Village – We want to do irrigation farming in Agriculture According to the Ministry of Lands, Community Lisungwi farms, won't this affect us? that part isn’t affected. members 9 October Quarterly Chiefs Blantyre When getting the soil samples, they Agriculture Soil samples are taken to the lab 2023 Meeting were taking it in people’s fields. Will for testing to determine whether people need to cultivate in their the soil is fertile, etc. People should fields this year? continue cultivating their fields as usual. 13 October Quarterly Chiefs Neno Consultation meetings should be in Stakeholder Noted 2023 Meeting the afternoon because people are Engagement busy farming and are busy with their work. So, consider coming in the afternoon What are your thoughts/plans on Child Labour Currently, the project is girls and boys on this project? What and youth continuously sensitising the youth mitigation factors have you put in employment about various issues, especially place to deal with potential girls. impacts? DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED 21 – 23 Monthly Community Mbwinja village – Since the project is helping fix the Public We have displayed A1 pictures of November Meeting Minutes Community main road and the road linking the Infrastructure the S137 road that will be upgraded. 2023 Mbwinja, Chikira, members main dam to the regulating dam, will This picture is also included on slide Nsalawatha, Feremu, the project also fix smaller roads like 18 of the presentations distributed. Mbemba, the one coming to this village? A total of 52km of road will be Chaswanthaka upgraded, of which 8.6km will be surfaced road and the rest will be gravel We would like you to remember that these are the current plans. The plans are liable to change, and any changes made will be communicated in due course Will electricity be accessible to Electrification MHPL only makes electricity, villagers in Divala and Mbwinja? ESCOM decides where the electricity goes At present, we are not aware of any plans for ESCOM to bring electricity here As a project, we have discussions with the community to set priorities, and electricity supply may come out from there Where will villagers herd their cattle Reduced We will be able to answer once the after the land is submerged under access to research is complete and we have water by the dam? grazing land findings to share DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED Feremu Village – The presentation mentioned that Public Rehabilitation works are ongoing Community the two dams will have bridges over Infrastructure and being performed by the GoM. members them, which will be used to cross The new Bailey Bridge will be the river. One bridge is currently installed before the end of June being fixed. Does that mean the 2024. The bridge that will come on bridge being fixed will be broken top of the dam will be permanent, down or useless? considering that the Bailey Bridge will be removed and the land submerged under the dam. Nsalawatha Village – While the project will create jobs, Project Benefits Since December 2022, some Community members of Nsalawatha were short-term and medium-term members concerned that: employment opportunities Lack of skilled labour means they supporting the Project’s technical cannot access certain jobs. studies have been provided to local Low payments (as low as MK1,200 a communities within Neno Districts day) for unskilled labour, not even and/or near the works being enough to buy food undertaken. Priority for recruitment Favouritism and corruption when will be given to the affected providing job offers communities. Recruitment will Late payments for jobs; for example, follow the MHPP Labor the job agreement may be to pay Management Procedure, which every fortnight, but payments come aligns with Malawi’s relevant in months after the job. This results regulatory requirements. in children being sent back from school as parents are not able to pay fees on time DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED Mbemba Village – Farmers depending on the Shire and Livelihoods The current livelihoods of PAPs will Community Lisungwe Rivers and those fishing be assessed as part of the members will lose their livelihood. resettlement processes, and livelihood restoration programs will be developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after resettlement. Chikira Village – The project may affect these beliefs Cultural No answer provided Community we have: Heritage members Gule Wamkulu culture. Initiation ceremonies (chinamwali). Will graveyards be moved according to our cultural, social and religious norms? 28 February Monthly Community Mbemba Village – It is a norm that when the project Contractor This is noted. The project has put in to 1 March Meeting Minutes Community starts, there is consistency in Management place a labour management 2024 Mbwinja, Chikira, members employing the impacted villages. procedure that will be followed up Nsalawatha, Feremu, What measures have you to the end of the project Mbemba, implemented to ensure that the Chaswanthaka contractors will follow the same thing? Nkhwali Village – Nkula and other hydropower Access to People will not be stopped from Community stations in the area are well public using the bridge/road. members protected. Will the local community infrastructure have access to the bridge, or will another one be constructed? DATE EXTRACTED FROM: STAKEHOLDER ISSUE RAISED/QUESTION POTENTIAL RESPONSE REPORTED (IF ANY) GROUP NEGATIVE IMPACT IDENTIFIED Nsalawatha Village – With the advent of technology, Stakeholder This is noted and will be taken into Community many people do not listen to the Engagement / consideration members radio. As a project, can you use Employment other methods, like WhatsApp groups, to advertise for jobs at the project? Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Annex 7-2: Records of 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-32 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2 – November 2023 ESIA Scoping Meetings: Attendance Registers and Record of Questions & Answers Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. A – Sugar Cane Estates - PressCane, Agricane Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Downstream Water Users Location: Teams-MHPL offices Date: 20 November 2023 Time: 1:30 pm – 3:15 pm Attendees (groups): Kaombe Kasinthula Presscane Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken Online attendees: 1. Mphatso Grin -Agricane -Kaombe 2. Robert Nyirenda – Agricane - kaombe 3. Mavuto Shaime – Presscane 4. Million Hera – Kasinthula (Agricane) 5. Chris Mathews – Kaombe (Agricane) MHPL conference attendees: Downstream water users 20-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Downstream Water Users_MoM_20nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Is the water intake of the Shire Valley Transformation Program in the Yes it is. During operation, the Project is not expected to alter the Shire River Kapichira reservoir being considered in the impact assessment baseline flow downstream of the regulating dam in normal operation. During conducted by the Mpatamanga Project? reservoir filling, there could be a reduction of downstream river flow. The ESIA will calculate the minimum flow to be released downstream of the Mpatamanga dam during reservoir filling in order not to impair downstream irrigation. Comments from participants: • Coordination between MHPL and downstream users ahead of the reservoir filling period will be required: The sugar cane plantation operators will need to plan their operation accordingly, and work with MHPL if the proposed reduction affects their irrigation efficiency. • All sugar cane companies plan to install pumping stations in the SVTP canal when it is ready. The plan is to decommission after a few years the pumping stations currently installed along the Shire River, basically when the Sugar Cane companies are confident that pumping water from the SVTP canal works well. The Illovo team is very crucial and needs to be consulted on this. Illovo has been invited but could not make it today. They will be engaged on Friday 24 Nov 2023. How will sediment accumulation into the Mpatamanga main Most of the sand and suspended solids transported by the Shire River will be reservoir be managed? trapped in the Mpatamanga main reservoir. The reservoir dead volume has been designed to preserve the reservoir capacity for decades and avoid impairment of hydropower production. The Mpatamanga project technical team is currently studying what are the additional solutions to manage the sediment accumulated in the future reservoir. In terms of timing, when does the project actually start? When does • 2024 - Preparation: Detailed technical, environmental and social studies; construction start? Selection of construction companies • 2025 to 2029: Construction: S137 road upgrade in 2025; Main construction works from 2026 to 2029. • 2030 onwards Operation: Start of power generation at the two powerhouses; To be operated by MHPL for 30 years, then transferred to the Government Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Downstream Water Users_MoM_20nov2023_OK Page 2 / 3 Comment/Question Response (if any) We are promoting Community Conservation Areas (CCAs) in Elephant The potential environmental and social impacts of the Mpatamanga project Marsh areas. Will the Mpatamanga project examine what its impacts operation on the Elephant Marsh will be examined in detail by the Cumulative on the preservation of the marsh, bird species, and people living Impact Assessment team. there are? Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Downstream Water Users_MoM_20nov2023_OK Page 3 / 3 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. B – Divala Community, Blantyre District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Divala Community Location: Divala village Date: 21 November 2023 Time: 11:00am – 12:45pm Attendees (groups): Blantyre District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives MHPL team Group village head Traditional Authority representative Men and women of Divala village Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Divala 21-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Divala Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Since the project is helping fix the main road and the road Alternatives for the route of the new road linking the main dam to the regulating dam linking the main dam to the regulating dam, will the project is currently being studied by the Project’s technical team. MHPL will return to the also fix smaller roads like the one coming to this village? Divala Village and explain the proposed layout and design when this information is available. Will electricity be accessible to villagers in Divala? The Mpatamanga Project’s objective is to produce electricity and deliver it to the national grid. The current design does not include low-voltage power lines that would supply electricity from the future Mpatamanga powerhouses to the local villages. MHPL will be a power producer, not a grid operator. In Malawi, ESCOM is the organisation in charge of planning the construction and operation of transmission lines that connect villages to the grid. We are not aware of ESCOM plans for the Project area. MHPL plans to financially support some local community investment initiatives (CSR) in the project-affected area during construction and operation. In due time, local communities will be consulted on their priorities. This can be a topic discussed at that time. Where will villagers herd their cattle after the dam submerges It is too early to conclude that that pasture will be lost. The project must first finalise (i) the land under water or the road isolates the pasture? the design and layout of the new road linking the main dam to the regulating dam and (ii) the footprint of the construction areas close to the proposed powerhouse. The Project must also complete the land surveys in this area to understand who would be affected by loss of land. This will be done in the next months and when available, this information will be presented to the Divala village. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Divala Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 2 / 3 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Divala Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. C – Chaswantahka Community, Blantyre District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Chaswanthaka Community Location: Chaswanthaka village Date: 21 November 2023 Time: 2:30pm – 4:00pm Attendees (groups): Blantyre District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives MHPL team Village head Mpingu Village head Chaswanthaka Traditional Authority representative Men and women of Chaswanthaka village Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\chaswanthaka 21-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chaswanthaka Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Will people get compensation or not? The Project has not yet been approved and therefore we cannot tell you whether or when compensation will be provided. However, the current environmental and social (E&S) and technical studies are needed as part of the approval process. The Project commits to keeping you informed of all Project developments, including Project approval. If the Project is approved, compensation timelines will differ depending on the Project phase under development. Due to the scale of the Project, the Project must adopt a phased approach for land acquisition, compensation, and resettlement that aligns with the construction phases. Affected persons and communities will be kept informed. No compensation will be provided in 2023 or 2024. We heard that the project would fund soft loans for the The project has not made commitments to providing soft loans. project-affected persons – Is that correct and when will the soft loans be available? I was surveyed in 2020-2021, what should I do with my These cards are still valid. PAP card with my unique ID number The card shows the unique identification (ID) number that is used to identify a household and its affected land and assets. It is important that Project Affected Peoples (PAPs) keep their PAP card so that they can be identified during the land acquisition process and for compensation. The unique numbers on PAP cards should be referenced when PAPs have a query or complaint about any household surveys conducted or any other land acquisition-related issue. Unique PAP numbers will be saved in the Project’s land acquisition and resettlement database. Please keep them safe and present them to the RLRAP team when requested (these should only be provided to RLRAP team members for verification purposes). Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chaswanthaka Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 2 / 3 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chaswanthaka Community_MoM_21nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. D – Felemu Community, Neno District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Felemu Community Location: Felemu village Date: 22 November 2023 Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm Attendees (groups): Neno District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives Department of energy representative MHPL team Group village head Village heads Men and women of Felemu village Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Felemu Community 22-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Felemu Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 1 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) It was mentioned in the presentation that the main dam will have Rehabilitation works on the S137 road bridge over the Shire River are being bridge over it which will be used to cross the river. There is currently performed by the Government of Malawi and are ongoing. the original bridge being fixed. What is the point of fixing the original This new Bailey Bridge will be installed before end June 2024. That bridge will be bridge if it will end up under water? Will we have two bridges in the built no matter what happens with the Mpatamanga Hydropower project, so if end? the Hydropower project is delayed in any way, the bailey bridge will be present. When the Mpatamanga main dam is built, it will be used as a bridge for the S137 road, and the public traffic will be redirected to that bridge. The bailey bridge will then be closed to public traffic, and possibly dismantled, before the main reservoir is impounded. Post construction, only one bridge will be operational, it will be the dam-bridge. Community leaders encouraged the people that would be affected by In accordance with Malawian legislation and international environmental and physical displacement to not opt for cash compensation but to social (E&S) standards, Project Affected Persons (PAPs) that are affected by choose in-kind compensation (i.e. new house). physical and/or economic displacement will have a choice between cash or in- Quoting that a person who is given maize seed is better off than the kind compensation and/or a combination of cash and in-kind compensation, as person who receives a single bucket of maize which he will eat in a relevant. very short time, the chief referred the people to consider that their In-kind compensation is planned to comprise replacement land and improved mud huts can be replaced by cement block good houses like the ones structures of equal measure and at least equal value as the land and structures Malawi Interconnect project (MOMA) is building close to Felemu. lost to the Project. The feasibility of offering replacement land to all eligible PAPs is yet to be assessed. In order to safeguard their interests and livelihoods, eligible Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be strongly encouraged to prioritize selection of in- kind compensation; instead of cash. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Felemu Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 2 / 3 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Felemu Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 3 / 3 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. E – Nsalawatha Community, Neno District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Nsalawatha Community Location: Nsalawatha village Date: 22 November 2023 Time: 2:40pm – 4:00pm Attendees (groups): Neno District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives Department of energy representative MHPL team Group village head Village heads Men and women of Nsalawatha Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Nsalawatha 22-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Concerns were raised by community members about physical The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part displacement and loss of land, saying that the place for relocation of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be may be different and less favorable than where they are living. It will developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after take time for people to adjust to changes and figure out ways to resettlement. make a living. If graveyards will be moved it will be convenient to inform people Given that no cut-off date has been declared it is very important that all people beforehand where the new graves will be. This is because moving a affected by the planned land acquisition for the Project, including those who relative’s remains is not only expensive but also not a normal thing. were surveyed in 2020-2021, continue with their usual household and livelihood activities until they are compensated, formally advised of the need to relocate, and agree on the timing to relocate. It was emphasized that the community will be greatly affected by the The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part loss of natural resources like trees which they depend on to make a of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be living through making and selling charcoal. This may equally affect developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after access to meadows for cattle grazing. resettlement. Some concerns and comments were also raised on influx or project- The negative effects of potential influx of job seekers as well as the presence of a induced migration: large workforce, mostly made of male workers, on local communities, will be ● When the project ends, there may be a lot of children in the studied as part of the 2024 ESIA process. Measures aiming at avoiding or area made with workers who came for work and then left the minimizing these negative effects will be defined and implemented during the worksite. project construction. ● Marriages will be disrupted because men with money may steal wives of villagers. Women who have been employed by the project will have their own money and not respect their husbands. ● When men get compensation for resettlement, they may disrespect their wives or marry new and younger wives. While the project will create jobs, members of Nsalawatha were Since December 2022, some short-term and medium-term employment concerned that: opportunities in support of the Project’s technical studies have been provided to ● Lack of skilled labor will mean that they don’t get access to local communities located within Neno Districts and/or in proximity to the works certain jobs. being undertaken. Priority of recruitment will be given to the affected ● Low payments (as low as MK1,200 a day) for unskilled labor communities. Recruitment will be undertaken in accordance with the MHPP not enough even to buy food. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) ● Favoritism and corruption when providing job offers. Labour Management Procedure (LMP) that aligns with Malawi’s relevant ● Late payments for jobs for example the job agreement may regulatory requirements. be to pay every fortnight, but payments come in months after the job. This results in children being sent back from school as parents are not able to pay fees on time. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_MoM_22nov2023 Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. F – Chikira Community, Blantyre District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Chikira Community Location: Chikira village Date: 23 November 2023 Time: 10:30am – 12:10pm Attendees (groups): Neno District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives Department of energy representative MHPL team Group village head Village heads Men and women of Chikira Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Chikira 23-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chikira Community_MoM_23nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) The project may pose a lot of challenges to agricultural practices. The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part These are the issues that were raised by participants: of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be • The land along the shore is fertile and we are able to developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after cultivate without using fertilizer. If we move upland, we will resettlement. have to buy fertilizer which is very expensive. • Rainfall in Neno is poor, we take water for our crops from the Shire River. Will we have access to water for irrigation after being moved? Our treadle pumps will become useless if we cannot irrigate. • We may suffer food insecurity when we move upland because the soil is not as fertile, and our produce may not do well. • We feed our livestock along the river shore. If moved, where will livestock drink or feed? The project may affect these beliefs we have: Gravesites that will be impacted will need to be relocated in consultation with • Gule wamkulu culture. affected people • Initiation ceremonies (chinamali). • Will graveyards be moved according to our cultural, social and religious norms? How will chieftaincy be handled during resettlement? Will the host Several chiefs have raised issues on chieftaincy during the community scoping villages accept those who move to their village? meetings. It is noted. We would like access to electricity. The Mpatamanga Project’s objective is to produce electricity and deliver it to the national grid. The current design does not include low-voltage power lines that would supply electricity from the future Mpatamanga powerhouses to the local villages. MHPL will be a power producer, not a grid operator. In Malawi, ESCOM is the organisation in charge of planning the construction and operation of transmission lines that connect villages to the grid. We are not aware of ESCOM plans for the Project area. MHPL plans to financially support some local community investment initiatives (CSR) in the project-affected area during construction and operation. In due time, local communities will be consulted on their priorities. This can be a topic discussed at that time. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chikira Community_MoM_23nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) There is likely to be corruption in the jobs. Sometimes people ask for All adults above the age of 18 years are eligible for employment on condition that money in order to give you work. they are able to fulfil the work requirements. Discrimination on grounds of race, tribe, gender, religion, social status and/or disability is prohibited. Recruitment will be undertaken in accordance with the MHPP Labour Management Procedure (LMP) that aligns with Malawi’s relevant regulatory requirements. Can we take a loan on the compensation money we will be given in The list of households affected by loss of house, and/or loss of land is not yet the future? known. To avoid people being irresponsible and reckless with compensation In 2023, additional studies have been performed to verify the data already can the money be given in phases instead of all at once? collected in 2020-2021 in the main reservoir and some other areas. The eligibility and entitlement principles will be defined, as well as the implementation arrangements, resettlement assistance, and measures to support the restoration of the livelihood of those affected. These 2023 surveys do not establish a cut-off date for the eligibility for compensation, which will come at a later stage. In 2023, no asset surveys will be conducted nor cut-off date established and declared. No compensation will be paid in 2024, as a result, no speculation should be made by the people consulted as part of the project studies on if and when they will receive compensation. If the Project is approved, PAPs affected by resettlement will be provided with compensation options: in-kind (replacement land and structures); cash-only; or a combination of cash and in-kind. Other forms of resettlement assistance and livelihood restoration support will be provided. Support measures will be defined during the next stages. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chikira Community_MoM_23nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Chikira Community_MoM_23nov2023_OK Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. G – Mbemba Community, Neno District Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Mbemba Community Location: Chikira village Date: 23 November 2023 Time: 2:44pm – 3:45pm Attendees (groups): Neno District Council representatives Ministry of Lands representatives Department of energy representative Department of planning and development MHPL team Group village head Village heads Men and women of Mbemba including Mbemba Village, Liyenda vollage and Nkoka village Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Mbemba 23-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Mbemba Community_MoM_23nov2023 Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) When a lot of water increases, how will we be protected from floods Upstream of the main dam, people living close to the proposed Mpatamanga and drowning? How will livestock, children and old people be main reservoir will not be affected by incremental floods resulting from the protected from harm at the dam? presence of the Project. The Project team will evaluate what would be the maximum level of the main reservoir water level during exceptional flood events and this information will be used to define the project’s land take area. Sub-daily fluctuations of reservoir water level will be calculated and described in the 2024 ESIA, they are not expected to represent a hazard for communities or animals. Downstream of the regulating dam, people living close to the Shire river will not be affected by incremental floods resulting from the presence of the Project. This is only within the regulating reservoir that there could be a safety hazard as the reservoir water level would significantly vary several times per day. This is an issue that is being examined as part of the 2014 ESIA process. Farmers depending on Shire and Lisungwe rivers and those fishing The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part will lose their livelihood. Will the resettlement areas be of the same of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be quality as those we are leaving? developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after resettlement. The people moving to the area because of the project may bring This is a potential effect that will be examined as part of the 2024 ESIA process. diseases? What about marriage disruptions because of more men coming in? Impacts resulting from project-induced in-migration will be examined in the 2024 ESIA. When we move to the resettlement area, will we remain chiefs Several chiefs have raised issues on chieftaincy during the community scoping there? meetings. It is noted. Access to drinking water where we are going may be a problem. The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part Where we live, we have boreholes. Will there be boreholes at the of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be resettlement site? developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after resettlement. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Mbemba Community_MoM_23nov2023 Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) Will schools for our children be built in the places people will be relocated to? The dam will create an environment for hippos and crocodiles, Increase of human-wildlife conflicts is indeed a potential impacts due to the crocodiles may increase and harm us. presence of the reservoir that will be examined. We know that we will be moved. Where we go, will it be the same The current livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will be assessed as part quality as ‘madimba’ land along the Shire? People who cultivate by of the resettlement processes and livelihood restoration programs will be the river banks. The reservoir will take up their land. developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after How will we make sure that trees cut down in areas where resettlement. powerlines cross are replaced? Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Mbemba Community_MoM_23nov2023 Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Mbemba Community_MoM_23nov2023 Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. H – Sugar Cane Estate: Illovo Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Illovo sugar company Location: Mount Soche Date: 24 November 2023 Time: 8:00am – 8:45am Attendees (groups): Illovo Nchalo MHPL representative Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken 1. Stephen de la Harpe – Estate Support Manager - Illovo Nchalo 2. Stella Mdyanyama – Safety, Health, Environment, Risk and Quality manager - Ilovo Nchalo 3. Thokozani Chakhwantha – SHERQ Officer – Illovo Nchalo 4. Jackie Strong – Partnerships Manager -Illovo Nchalo 5. Jaco Burger – Agricultural Manager - Illovo Nchalo 6. Simbarashe Mapfume – Agricultural Engineering Manager - Illovo Nchalo 7. Manasseh Matemba – MHPL 8. Talumba Mkandawire – IT engineer - Illovo Nchalo 9. Dominique Buffin – SLR 10. Patricia Nayeja – MHPL 11. Elizabeth Molloy – C12 12. Ulemu Chiyenda – C12 PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Illovo_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) To what extent have measures been taken to ensure the integrity of The Mpatamanga dams will be designed based on the best practices in terms of the dam? dam safety in compliance with the ICOLD (International Commission On Large What is the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) capacity at the Dams) standards. moment? The PMF data will be shared later (in the 2024 ESIA report), as the hydrological assessment is on-going. What measures could be put in place to mitigate the potential The risk of bank erosion is currently being studied. The available information on problem of soil erosion in irrigation water intakes along the banks? the extent and location of potential downstream erosion will be included in the 2024 ESIA studies. If there is a risk of riverbank erosion downstream of Kapichira that could expose the existing pumping stations, Illovo and the other sugar cane plantation operators will be engaged to identify relevant solutions. There will be impacts on the basin area on Shire and Mwanza banks. In normal operation, the Mpatamanga project will not generate a higher flow Will the risk increase, decrease or stay the same downstream to the downstream of the dam than the baseline situation.. hydropower? Please share the ortho photos and LiDar survey with Ilovo Nchalo. This is noted. During the construction period (2026-2030) are they managing the An Upstream cofferdam will be constructed to allow contractors to work in the construction in such a way that should a flooding event occur during riverbed in dry conditions. Any high flow in the Shire River will pass either construction, the works will be able to handle that (thinking of the through the diversion canals, or for exceptional floods, through the dam sites. SVTP intake wipe out before it was finalized)? This will not create a flood event downstream which is greater than the baseline. Comment/Question Response (if any) For Consideration: We have seen an increase in criminal activity Noted. (especially theft) where there are increased economic activity and job seekers - we are starting to coordinate with CONDURIL (SVTP construction company) among other key stakeholders experiencing issues. It is important for construction contractors to build security measures into their management plans. We would be happy to share strategies we are developing for lower shire (working with community policing forums, police, public awareness campaigns, etc) What sedimentation control or water treatment practices do you We have sand traps along the transfer canal but there is no special sedimentation apply at Nchalo (Illovo) to treat the water extracted from the Shire control or water treatment post-pumping. We have a drip irrigation system where used for irrigation? Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Illovo_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) we filter water in the drip pumps. There is a sedimentation system only for domestic water. Does Illovo intend to extend the plantation area and will the Yes. additional production be irrigated using the SVTP canal? In the future In Phase 1 of the SVTP project, we will connect the first 70% by 2026. And then do you plan to get irrigation water from the SVTP irrigation canal? Do the balance by 2028 (Phase 2). The entire irrigation scheme will be dependent on you hope to take 100% of your water from here or some from the the SVTP before the MHPP is completed, except for one pumping station that will shire? be maintained (down south) as a contingency or backup in case something happens and the SVTP cannot deliver enough water. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Illovo_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Illovo_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. I – Non-Community-based PAPs, Blantyre Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Non Community-based PAPs Location: Mount Soche Date: 24 November 2023 Time: 10:00am – 12:30pm Attendees (groups): Farmers - Lisungwe and Shire rivers MPHL Ministry of Energy Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Non community-based PAPs 24-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Non Community-Based PAPs_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) How is a notification of events and communication to this Non- There is a WhatsApp group for this team to which you will be added, you will also Community-based PAPs group done? be given an How much water will be taken from the river? The Project will not reduce the quantity of water flowing downstream of the dams, except during reservoir filling. The duration and magnitude of river flow reduction during the reservoir filling period will be estimated in the 2024 ESIA. Sometimes when things happen, we don’t know what is happening. These were surveys undertaken by the E&S team for the aquatic ecology and the For example, we had people in a boat catching fish and putting them LIDAR survey. We will find a way to keep you posted the same way we do with back in the water. The other event was a plane flying low over the community leaders if it happens again. land several times. On our farm, we have a lot of crocodiles and hippos, we need to This is noted. provide you with such information to protect your teams. Cars driving through some farms or the bridge at Chifunga health center to be able to pass through during the rainy season. Would you like any contribution from our community towards this? Crocodiles always come out around 3-10pm. Any reason why the road is gravel and not tarmac? The Project does not need a tarmac road (S137) for construction or operation. The cost of asphalting the S137 is high and would affect the tariff of the electricity produced by the Project, which is not in the interest of Malawi. With regards to security, what will happen to people who steal from Increased criminality during the construction period is an issue raised by several the construction sites? stakeholders. It is taken seriously by the Project. About cutting down trees, as long as we do not have alternatives to There is a charcoal value chain study currently being done. It is a complex issue, fuel for cooking or heating, the problem will not end. If it is in the and we hope these studies can help us understand the context and define project’s capacity, consider giving people an alternative to earn a relevant solutions. living. Can you explain resettlements because this is our home. We planted For trees lost on land because of construction or reservoir filling, there will be a trees along the bank and the trees protect from soil erosion. Where compensation process. The loss of biodiversity value associated to the loos of will the trees be replanted because that’s a loss? trees is considered in the Biodiversity Action Plan. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Non Community-Based PAPs_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) People will lose things they have invested in for a lot of years. What A community development fund will be available to help the affected positive things that may attract people to still live there? community. How the fund will be used and who will benefit is yet to be decided On the reforestation plan, what will be done and how will people be and this will be communicated to the affected people for feedback. motivated to plant more trees. Can we access soft copies of the presentation and English versions? All the presentations will be accessible through the MPHL website in a few weeks, and the video is already available on YouTube. The delays and conflicting information has caused us to stop or hold We have taken note of your concerns about the timelines. As of now these are off some investments. Because farming is a business, we need to plan the timelines we are using: our activities and investments. • 2024 - Preparation: ─ Detailed technical, environmental and social studies ─ Selection of construction companies • 2025 to 2029: Construction ─ S137 road upgrade in 2025 ─ Main construction works from 2026 to 2029 • 2030 onwards Operation ─ Start of power generation at the two powerhouses ─ To be operated by MHPL for 30 years, then transferred to the Government. Given that no cut-off date has been declared it is very important that all people affected by the planned land acquisition for the Project, including those who were surveyed in 2020-2021, continue with their usual household and livelihood activities until they are compensated, formally advised of the need to relocate, and agree on the timing to relocate. What is the lifespan of a dam since this dam will be handed over to A hydropower project such as the proposed Mpatamanga project can last for the government in 30 years? many decades. There are many dams in the world that are older than 100 years. There is a need to have a contract that ensures that machines are Your concern about the conditions of the dam and powerhouse on transfer to well-functional at the time of handover to the government. the GoM are noted. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Non Community-Based PAPs_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Non Community-Based PAPs_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. J – Leaders Meeting: Kunthembwe TA, Kunteja TA (Blantyre District) + Mlauli TA, Symon TA, Phalula TA (Neno + Balaka Districts) Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Leaders meeting Location: Nkunkhu Lodge Date: 24 November 2023 Time: 2:30pm – 4:20pm Attendees (groups): Community leaders (Tas, GVHs, and VHs) and district officials from: Balaka Blantyre Neno Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Leaders meeting 24-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Leaders meeting_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 1/ 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Because people will lose farming land along the shore, we would suggest Noted. providing the community with irrigation schemes for them to continue farming. We are worried about being moved considering that we will be very old by Since community meetings recommenced in August 2022, the then. Government of Malawi and the MHPP have repeated the message that all Project Affected People (PAPs) must continue their usual livelihood and household activities as the Project has not yet been approved and a cut-off date has not been formally declared. Take into consideration that the dam will cause a rise in water level. Crocodiles Increase of human-wildlife conflicts is indeed a potential impacts due to are likely to follow the water, which will increase the number of crocodiles the presence of the reservoir that will be examined. moving to the dam, which poses a risk to people. Lisungwe is a big river so if you build a dam, will the river not flood? One of the two branches of the main reservoir will flood a short section the Lisungwe River. Balaka is on high ground but if there was a flood, would we not be affected? Balaka will only be affected by the Phombeya substation, not by the How prepared is MHPP on this? main reservoir. For those being moved because of road construction we think there is no Noted. threat because procedures will be followed to ensure that there these people are compensated or relocated appropriately. Because of infux (project-induced migration), what will be done about human Noted. trafficking (not forgetting children). Also, the theft of animals, how will that be controlled. Perhaps there is a need to include immigration officers, police and relevant stakeholders in these discussions. Will we still have access to the river like we do now simple things like taking a Access or access restriction to the main reservoir and the regulating bath in the river? reservoir will be examined in the 2024 ESIA I am grateful that the Chileka road will be fixed, however, my question is will it At present, the plan is to have a surfaced road from Chileka to the be a tarmac road or the same dust road we have? intersection with the S138 only. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Leaders meeting_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question We use water for domestic purposes as well as drinking. After the dam is Access or access restriction to the main reservoir and the regulating built, will we have access to water? reservoir will be examined in the 2024 ESIA What about the safety of animals and access to water for providing water to livestock? What will happen to our chieftaincy when we move to other places or Several chiefs have raised issues on chieftaincy during the community when our citizens are moved away? scoping meetings. It is noted. When we move to a different place how will you ensure that our culture, The current livelihoods and culture of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will social activities, agricultural practices are maintained where we go? be assessed as part of the resettlement processes and livelihood We are dependent on agriculture for our livelihood. restoration programs will be developed. The Project must ensure that PAPs are not worse off after resettlement. The timelines do not show when the compensation will be given and The Project has not yet been approved and therefore we cannot tell you when people will be moved. if or when compensation will be provided. No speculation should be made on whether you will receive compensation or not. In any cases, no compensation will be paid in 2024. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Leaders meeting_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Leaders meeting_MoM_24nov2023_OK Page 4/ 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. K – Majete Wildlife Reserve/African Parks Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Majete WR Management Team Location: Majete administrative block Date: 25 November 2023 Time: 7:30am – 10:00am Attendees 1. John Adendorff – Park Manager – Majete Wildlife Reserve (groups): 2. Martin Awazi – Operations Manager – Majete Wildlife Reserve 3. Dominique Buffin – SLR 4. Patricia Nayeja – MHPL 5. Victor Kasuweni -MHPL 6. Ibrahim Mitole - MHPL Ulemu Chiyenda – C12 Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_MWR_AP_MoM_25nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question 1. Presentation of potential E&S impacts that require detailed examination: • During construction: ─ Noise levels and light pollution that could affect the Mkulumadzi Lodge operation; ─ Influx of job seekers who could increase pressure on the northeastern part of the Majete Park (e.g. poaching, illegal logging). • During operation: ─ Influx of people due to the presence of the development and the new access from the main dam to the regulating dam. This could increase pressure on the northeastern part of the Majete Park (e.g. poaching, illegal logging); ─ Light pollution that could affect the Mkulumadzi Lodge operation; ─ Noise from sirens if used as early warnings prior to peaking at the main dam. Concerned they can be heard from far away (Kapichira sirens audible at Thawale, i.e. 5km distance). ─ Risk of peaking power releases at the regulating dam as it is equipped with turbines; ─ Sediment flushing/management at the main dam that would offset the downstream environmental benefits of reservoir sediment trapping. 2. Discussion about potential mitigation measures: • From all mitigations proposed by the Project to minimise the effects of influx on the park, AP believes that priority should be given to securing the eastern (left) bank of the Shire River with official gazettement; AP would need assistance from the Project to obtain from GoM the proclamation of the left bank part of Majete Park; This proclamation was supposed to be undertaken within 20 years of AP taking over the management of the park, but it did not happen; That strip of ~1-2 km width and ~13 km length on the left bank is crucial for the future of the Majete Park. It allows the Park to include and control both banks of the Shire River, which means managing the river habitat and the fauna using it (e.g. hippos, elephants, crocs, birds); Without the eastern part of the park, the fence currently installed on the left bank would have to be relocated to the right (west) bank of the Shire River: Threatened fauna would lose access to the River, and this would severely affect the capacity of AP to conserve existing biodiversity; Before 2003, i.e. before AP took management control over the reserve, local communities could access the Shire River on the left bank and use the river water (including for cattle watering). When the fence was installed, they lost that access and boreholes were installed to compensate for that loss; • AP believes that more people could come into the left bank as a potential result of the Project’s construction and operation. Influx could result from the construction of the new road linking the proposed Mpatamanga main dam and the regulating dam. It could also result from the new access track built (MHPL) and maintained (ESCOM) by the Project along the proposed 132 kV transmission line. But it could also result from influx along the existing road located on the eastern part of the Shire, running parallel to the Shire, and linking the S137 (at Kuthembwe) to Kapichira. AP’s community development programme presently includes the communities living along that existing road, as they are the communities which lost their access to the Shire River when the eastern fence was installed. • The combination of more pressure from the project-induced influx on the northeastern part of the park and AP’s risk of losing control of the eastern part of the park in the absence of a proclamation, could result in a significant negative impact on biodiversity conservation. This should be considered as the risk n°1 identified by AP as a result of the Mpatamanga Project development. Additional poaching resulting from influx is risk n°2. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_MWR_AP_MoM_25nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question • This is the reason why AP advises that the Project should focus its mitigation effort on: Assisting AP to obtain the proclamation of the eastern part of the park; and Assisting AP in its community outreach activities around the northeastern and the eastern sectors of the reserve, including additional boreholes and other water-resources facilities, to anticipate additional pressure on the Park from project-induced in- migration and people looking for increased access to water. • The other forms of possible assistance such as support to enforcement activities in the northeastern sector of the reserve, or support to implement the fire management plan, are welcome and necessary, but would be less effective in terms of mitigating the project’s potential impact on biodiversity conservation, should no proclamation of the eastern part be obtained. • Outside of the Majete WR, in the area between the main dam and the regulating dam, AP believes that there are pangolins and that the existing habitat is suitable for pangolins. The risk with project-induced in-migration is that pangolins will be poached more than they are now and sold to be exported to countries where they have a high cultural value. This should be an area of intervention for the Project and AP could assist in that. • There is no park fence across the Shire (it would be washed away in high flow season). Threatened animals (e.g., hippos) do escape from that opened corridor. They will continue to do so with the Project and could reach the regulating dam area, increasing existing human-wildlife conflicts. If these animals go into the regulating reservoir, they would be exposed to hydraulic safety hazards, as is already observed in the Shire River because of Tedzani peaking power releases. AP suggested a solution that would be for the Project to fence the two riverbanks between the existing Majete fence and the regulating dam, parallel to the Shire riverbanks. • Summary of AP’s Proposed mitigation strategy: ─ Action 1: Assistance to AP in obtaining proclamation of the eastern bank. The Project will have more leverage than AP to achieve that objective. ─ Action 2: Support to community outreach activities around the northeastern sector of the reserve, especially with improved access to water for both human and animal consumption. ─ Action 3: Install a fence parallel to the Shire River banks between the Majete WR northern boundaries and the regulating dam to prevent increased human-wildlife conflicts and threatened animal mortality in the regulating reservoir. ─ Action 4: Support enforcement activities in the northeastern sector of the reserve, e.g. new outpost, robust pedestrian bridge over the Mkulumadzi or the Shire River that resists flash floods, to manage and patrol around the new outpost. ─ Action 5: Outside Majete, install two new checkpoints across (i) the new Main Dam - Regulating Dam road and (ii) the existing road parallel to the eastern bank of the MWR. These would be managed by AP rangers with forestry department staff seconded to AP. ─ Action 6: Operate the regulating dam as run of river (no peaking) as planned. Demonstrate physical measures that would prevent hydropeaking beyond the 30-year PPP duration. ─ Action 7: Involve AP in the E&S induction of EPC workers. ─ Action 8: Implement a sensitisation programme with local communities north of the Majete reserve on why and how pangolins should be preserved. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_MWR_AP_MoM_25nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_MWR_AP_MoM_25nov2023_OK Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. L – Mkulumadzi Lodge Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Majete WR Management Team Location: Mkulamadzi Lodge Date: 26 November 2023 Time: 11:50am – 12:40pm Attendees 1. Sarel de Bruin – Lodge Manager – Robin Pope Safari- Nkulumadzi lodge - sareldb@gmail.com (groups): 2. Dominique Buffin – SLR 3. Patricia Nayeja – MHPL 4. Victor Kasuweni -MHPL 5. Ibrahim Mitole – MHPL 6. Ulemu Chiyenda – C12 Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Mkulumadzi_Lodge_MoM_26nov2023_OK Page 1 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Sarel de Bruin explains that: • During construction of the Mpatamanga dams, there could be blasting and drilling that may create noise. • Even after construction activities like a siren when gates are opened may also cause noise that will affect our business. • We get light pollution from Blantyre. • We sell nature as a product, and this means natural lighting, peace, and quiet environment. • Noise and lighting during construction could affect our business. • Labour influx or project-induced migration could put pressure on nature by increasing wildlife poaching, and tree cutting • Cyclone Anna in 2022 destroyed a lot. The lodge had to rebuild half of the camp. The island was underwater and so was our pool. These floods are backflow from Nkulumadzi. We often lose the bridge. It was washed away in 2016, 2019 and 2022. Cyclone Ana made the situation worse. Water from one river drains into the other. • Our biggest concern is erosion, we are concerned about how much of the bank we may lose because of the Mpatamanga Project. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Mkulumadzi_Lodge_MoM_26nov2023_OK Page 2 / 3 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Mkulumadzi_Lodge_MoM_26nov2023_OK Page 3 / 3 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. M – Southern Region Academic Institutions and NGOs working in Neno and Blantyre Districts Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Southern Region Academia and NGOs Location: Mount Soche Date: 27 November 2023 Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm Attendees (groups): CSO networks MPHL Ministry of Energy Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Southern region CSO 27-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Southern region Academia and NGOs_MoM_27nov2023 Page 1 / 4 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Why does the Project need to build and operate a new 400 kV Two transmission lines will be built and operated for the Mpatamanga project. Transmission Line? Could the existing Kapichira and Tedzani The new 132kV line that evacuates power from the regulating dam will connect powerlines be used to evacuate the power generated by the to the existing Tedzani Kapichira transmission line. However, the existing grid Mpatamanga power plants? does not have the capacity to evacuate the power generated by the main dam. This is why a second new transmission line (400kV) is required for the Project. How many women will be in the camp? The main construction period will not start before 2026. It is not known how Please advertise for the professional roles in the newspaper for many women will be completed in the main construction camp yet. female professionals like engineers to access. Also, please consider the inclusion of youth (people 35 years old and Providing equal job opportunities for women is a primary concern of the less) in the recruitment process. Mpatamanga Project. Recruitment will be undertaken in accordance with the MHPP Labour Management Procedure (LMP) that aligns with Malawi’s relevant regulatory requirements. Looking at the size of land needed to transmit electricity, are there The width of the wayleave has already been reduced to its minimum (55m for the any plans to plant new trees to replace those that will be cut down? 400kV transmission line and 35m for the 132 kV Transmission line). The route of Maybe consider reducing the width of the land to be covered by the 400kV Transmission Line has also been adjusted close to the main transmission lines to reduce the number of trees cut. Project-Induced powerhouse to avoid forested areas and minimise tree cuttings. The loss of trees In-Migration may increase deforestation. Can the project budget for and potential impacts on livelihood will be examined as part of the land reafforestation? acquisition and resettlement process. The ESIA team will examine the potential loss of biodiversity associated with tree cuttings. I would like to suggest that ESIA public consultations with This is well noted. communities invite civil society organizations in the areas and not CSO networks can play a role in sensitizing communities about building near just the government. Can the role of civil society organizations be transmission lines for safety. clearly defined in terms of how they can assist. During resettlement processes, there is a need to properly engage Noted. the community leaders and government officials to avoid several people claiming to own the same piece of land. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Southern region Academia and NGOs_MoM_27nov2023 Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) Have affected communities been consulted on the plans to construct Yes, communities living along the proposed transmission line corridors are transmission lines and have they been sensitized on the project? included in the communities met by MHPL every month, and further Has the scoping exercise also consulted community leaders and consulted by MHPL in November 2023 as part of the ESIA Scoping government officials? Meetings. Likewise, community leaders and district officials are being regularly met. The Lisungwe river has been affected by erosion because of deforestation Well noted. along the river because of similar projects in the past. With time the river has even changed route. A construction company involved in the railway construction left some borrow pits in the ground which now pose health and safety risks to the community. We expect Mpatamanga to do better. There should be mechanisms to prevent community leaders from being Well noted. corrupted into allowing certain shortcuts to be taken by the construction company. The influx of labour seekers and business opportunists may cause a change Well noted. in culture, particularly the behaviour of the youth, who are easily impressionable. We appreciate your inclusion of our various organizations and consistent The role of CSOs in the E&S measures implementation will be examined as updates. We request that you engage relevant CSOs in community health part of the 2024 ESIA process. outreach programs. Can MHPL share with us common Gender based violence issues that come up through the grievance’s committees? Consider introducing a GBV coordinator for the project. We are currently working on 16 days of activism against GBV and would like MHPP to be a part of it. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Southern region Academia and NGOs_MoM_27nov2023 Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ Southern region Academia and NGOs_MoM_27nov2023 Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. N – Southern Region, District Councils and MDAs Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Southern Region Key Stakeholders Location: Mount Soche Date: 27 November 2023 Time: 2:00pm – 5:30pm Attendees (groups): Government officials from: Balaka Machinga Zomba Blantyre Neno MPHL Ministry of Energy Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\Southern Region Key stakeholders 27-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 1 / 6 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Why is construction taking up to 4 years? Can it not be done in a Actually, 4 years of construction for a project of that size and complexity is quite shorter time, say 2 years? Is the problem finances or capacity? short. It is not an issue of money or capacity. The construction activities will be severely slowed down during the rainy season. How do we manage people’s expectations since this work will take a That is a challenge for the community. For example, people may be selling their long time? land with the expectation that they will be compensated. The project has information brochures and meetings with the community to sensitise potentially affected persons about the fact that the Project has not yet been approved and that villagers should continue with their usual household and livelihood activities. On the S137, is it the construction of a new road or simply the This is an upgrade of the existing road. The first 6.1km from Chileka will be tarmac upgrading of an existing road? while the rest of the road will be gravel. How long will it take to fill the reservoir and what are the implications The duration of the reservoir filling will be calculated to avoid impairment of of those downstream to the power plant? downstream water uses, including irrigation and hydropower production. Will the regulating dam completely resolve changes in water level or The regulating reservoir has been designed to restore the natural flow of the maybe just reduce the effects of the changes? Shire River. Apart from the reservoir filling period, the main reservoir inflow will be similar to the regulating reservoir outflow. What technical aspects of the project ensures that there is The dams will be designed and operated as per international standards. In preparation in terms of dam failure? What’s the risk of dam failure? particular, the dams will be designed per the ICOLD guidelines on Dam Safety (International Commission on Large Dams). What will be the difference between the time when MHPL will be The only change will be the change in ownership. Operations should remain the running the plant as opposed to when it is handed over to the same. government? What areas along the Majete wildlife reserve will be affected by the The regulating Dam will not displace people. The new road between the main MHPP? dam and the regulating could resulted in project-induced in-migration which in turns could increase the pressure on the Majete WR (e.g. poaching, illegal logging). Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 2 / 6 Comment/Question The interventions that have come up in response to grievance redress A common grievance received has been poor awareness of job opportunities management (GRM), can they be extended to other districts such as because of limited advertisement. The scope of advertisements has since been Balaka, Zomba and Machinga? expanded. Eagerness to receive cash compensation for resettlement and food insecurity because of people stopping farming is also a common grievance. In response, MHPL issued brochures to provide information to PAPs and the public and is actively informing communities on expectations in each of the monthly comminuty meetings. MHPP has received grievances from Balaka district which were meant for the Malawi Mozambique Interconnect (MOMA) project. What is the project doing to ensure gender equality? The main construction period will start on 2026. This is when most job opportunities will occur. Gender equality is one of the main concerns of MHPL. The Project will work on how to maximize the number of job positions offered to women in the construction contracts. Communities need to be prepared psychologically for displacement. Well noted. A lot of sensitization and awareness need to happen between now and the time that relocation is confirmed. Take into consideration the mental wellness of the people being moved including pupils and parents. Ensure smooth transition of the schools when relocating children Gender related issues may arise for example: Well noted. ● Disruption of marriages because people feel they have more money than their partner. ● Sexual harassment may also be a problem. ● Marginalization of women in job recruitment ● Intimidation of female workers in male dominated workplace Need to establish financial safety by introducing banks/agents in the Noted. area to allow people deposit their money and keep it secure. There is a need to take into consideration the livelihoods of fishing Noted. communities. Can you share with us the ESIA presentation so that we can give Yes, this will be done. feedback even after we leave the meeting? During the study, please assess these same effects in the upstream Noted. and downstream stream areas too. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 3 / 6 Comment/Question Generation of solid and liquid waste including carbon and methane Noted. from the reservoir may be damaging to the environment and proper deposition of these should be planned. In the past we have had experience where contractors use methods that are not environmentally safe for example when Conduril was building the Liwonde barrage they put sand into the river and this sand is still there today. There may be loss of biodiversity. Noted. ● There is a need to consider critical habitats and species of interest should be protected e.g. rhinos, vultures etc. ● Introduction of alien invasive species. ● Consider how migratory fish will survive in the river with the introduction of the dam barriers. ● Drowning of wildlife in the reservoirs. ● Exploitation of minerals and natural resources. There may be a decline in fish because of a change in temperature, water levels and water composition. I would suggest that among your studies do an assessment of aquatic life and even after the project is done do a review of changes in fish species and potential evolution of these fish. Apart from pressure on social services, displaced individuals may lose Noted. access to social services: schools, hospitals, boreholes. Provide awareness on work safety and peoples, rights to care and Noted. treatment if they have been injured on the duty for employees during construction work. In the project’s resettlement processes, take into consideration issues Noted. of inflation, devaluation, and late settlement of compensation fees. Loss of chieftaincy may pose challenges in the communities. Noted. In the project planning consider the following for effective Noted. community mobilization and engagement: ● Inclusion of village action plans in project planning. ● Involvement of relevant district councils Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 4 / 6 Comment/Question The biggest challenge we face is failure to implement the ESIA and Noted. ESMP we are developing now. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 5 / 6 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Southern Region Key stakeholders_MoM_27nov2023 Page 6 / 6 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. O – MEPA Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: MEPA Location: Mpatamanga PIU Office, Plaza House, City Centre, Lilongwe Date: 28 November 2023 Time: 1:30pm Attendees (groups): MHPL, SLR, C12 Consultants, MEPA Note Taker: Elizabeth Molloy Attendance: 8. Margaret Sikwese, MHPL 1. Khumbo Lungu, GoM PIU 9. Victor Kasuzweni, MHPL 2. Bryson Msiska, GoM PIU 10. Jessie Kalitera, MHPL 3. Prisca Kutengule, GoM PIU 11. Linda Kalolokesha, MEPA 4. Dominique Buffin, SLR 12. Cathy Mussa, MEPA 5. Elizabeth Molloy, C12 13. Bruno Kamanga, MEPA 6. Tamya Kerr, MHPL 14. Biswick Mlaviwa, MEPA 7. Patricia Nayeja, MHPL 15. Tiyamike Salanjira, MEPA PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions and answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) The Mpatamanga Transmission line will be between MoMa ESCOM has validated the proposed line, and ESCOM will operate it, after MHPL builds it. and an existing 66kv ESCOM line. Will there be room for the We can’t yet 100% confirm that the resettlement locations of MoMa PAPs are definitely Mpatamanga line? How much resettlement will be required outside the Mpatamanga TL wayleave. The risk of ‘double displacement’ will be for the transmission line, as the line may fall within the examined in the 2024 ESIA. already acquired corridor. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ MEPA_MoM_28Nov2023_OK Page 1 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) Can the wayleave of the Transmission line be reduced to The wayleave that has been proposed is 55m. It is defined based on voltage and reduce the impact of displacement? proximity to other rights-of-way. This is less than what is required in France, for example. In Oct 2020, EAD issued ToRs based on a Mpatamanga Project An email was sent to MHPL confirming MEPA’s position with respect to the quarries and Brief submitted in 2020. In March 2023, MHPL were told that how they should be addressed in the ESIA process. these ToRs were still valid. MHPL have now submitted project brief for the quarry areas 1 month ago. What is MEPA’s decision with respect to the Quarry Project Brief submitted by MHPL? How far are the proposed two quarries from each other? Less than 1 km. Do the quarries on the map include the borrow pits? The EPC contractor will describe the area of the borrow pits. They will be permitted when their location is known and will require rehabilitation afterwards. The ESIA will explain how the issue of the borrow pits will be managed. Can MHPL submit the ESIA to MEPA after World Bank review, MEPA review can be done at the same time as the WB review. The 2024 ESIA can be but before public disclosure? submitted to MEPA simultaneously as it is submitted to the WB. The reason MEPA are asking to receive the report at the same time is because the World Bank has requirements that MEPA do not have. MEPA can approve the ESIA while the WB is still considering it. It can be submitted before public disclosure as MEPA does not require disclosure, MEPA only requires consultation. It is important that MHPL gets the ESIA to MEPA ASAP, in case MEPA needs to engage with any stakeholders on any issues. Can MHPL submit the proposed detailed table of contents of Yes, you can submit a detailed table of contents for our review. the MEPA ESIA report to you for prior approval? On the example ToC provided in the MHPL PowerPoint presentation, “Resource Evaluation” can be merged with “Project Description”. What are the critical issues and findings you have learned For communities, one of the biggest issues is influx. The communities have experience of through the scoping exercise? MoMa, including tension with workers, and increase in crime, which they are concerned about in the Mpatamanga project. Around the Lisungwe River, there is a concern of increased human-wildlife conflict as there may be an increase in hippos and crocodiles in the Lisungwe tributary due to the inundation of the reservoir. For institutional stakeholders, gender including equal employment opportunities, and risk of GBV has emerged as a big concern. For Majete, the way the project manages communities on the Majete northeastern border is a concern. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ MEPA_MoM_28Nov2023_OK Page 2 / 4 Comment/Question Response (if any) For the downstream sugar cane plantations, we were confirmed that they intend to use the SVTP canal as their main source of water for irrigation, which means that Kapichira dam, where the SVTP intake will be, is a key downstream receptor. The project is of high political interest. Are you engaging the The risk of transboundary impacts, whether positive or negative, is yet to be examined. If parliamentary committees or other countries such as it is predicted that the Mpatamanga Project may have downstream effects that extend Mozambique? beyond the border, a specific procedure will be triggered by GoM to inform the affected country, as required by the Lenders' policies. In terms of informing Mozambique about the potential A letter was sent to ZAMCOM via the Ministry of Energy to inform them of the project. downstream impacts of the project, maybe MWRA will have regulations on how that can be done. There is also a SADC protocol on shared water courses. Apart from National and Lender requirements there might be other regional conventions with their own requirements. The project should get advice from the relevant ministries e.g. Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on how to engage Mozambique. We have a parliamentary committee on Natural resources Thank you for the suggestion. The parliamentary committee on Commissions, State and Climate Change. Would it be important to loop them in Entities, and Parastatals has already visited the project site. at this stage? There is also a committee dealing with social issues. On the EPC Contractor, we have had bad experiences with the There will be E&S specifications in the EPC contract, and enforcement clauses and use of contractors as contractors sometimes change certain potential sanctions including payment withholding if E&S requirements are not followed. things. Why is the project using an EPC contractor? Within the contract, there are terms to control the EPC contractor, and the regulatory body will go and monitor. What are some of the benefits of using an EPC contractor? The project intends to award 3 EPC contracts: Civil works, Electromechanical and Transmission Lines. The project will consider not just the form of the contract (EPC), but also who the EPC contractor is. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ MEPA_MoM_28Nov2023_OK Page 3 / 4 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_ MEPA_MoM_28Nov2023_OK Page 4 / 4 Mpatamanga HPP – 2024 ESIA – Scoping Meetings Report Annex 2. P – Lilongwe-based NGOs, MDAs, MWASIP PIU Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA Scoping Meetings Report_Rev A_V18Dec2023 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Lilongwe based NGOs, MDAs and MWASIP Location: PIU offices Date: 29 November 2023 Time: 9:15am – 1:00pm Attendees (groups): Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation Malawi Watershed Services Improvement Project (MWASIP) MPHL Ministry of Energy Ministry of water and irrigation Department of national parks and wildlife Ministry of Gender and Social welfare Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Total land care Note Taker: Ulemu Chiyenda Attendance Register Taken ..\Attendance sheets\LLbasedNGO 29-11-23.pdf PRESENTATION FROM MHPL As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and operating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined in detail during the ESIA process have then been described, including (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (iii) Hydrology and Water Quality, (iv) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration, (v) Air, Noise, and Light Pollution, (vi) Community Health and Safety, (vii) Labour Working Conditions and Supply Chain, and (viii) Loss of Aquatic and Terrestrial Habitats. The method proposed to assess these potential environmental and social impacts was presented, including how the findings of the impact assessment would be presented later in 2024 as part of the meaningful public consultation process. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to each participant. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_LLbased NGOs MDAs and MWASIP_MoM_29nov2023 Page 5 / 5 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) How will mental health and gender issues be handled? What about MHPL has simply provided a first aid post to allow project employees to access provision of an ambulance? basic health care while on site. To cover for mental wellness, MHPL have plans to engage Malawi Association of Counsellors so that MHPL employees have access to therapy and possibly a toll-free helpline to call when under stress. In terms of mental health, the Project will be initiating gender health community outreach activities. Mental health will be one of the topics. Who is involved in community engagement meetings? MHPL involves everyone whether a PAP or not. There is a need to make a deliberate effort for PAPs to be present. For those too vulnerable to attend meetings, MHPL have made efforts to visit How often are communities engaged? I’m curious about how GRMs them. can be efficiently captured. Once a month MHPL meet with communities, but MHPL have also established Has the project considered engaging a GBV service provider? GRCs who are in the community. In terms of GBV service provider, currently activities on the ground are minimal compared to how they will be during construction, especially since our geotechnical contractor, Geomechanics, has demobilised. Both MHPP and CHRR have not received GBV grievances, MHPL therefore feel the risk is low and we hope by the time we get larger contracts, the service provider can be engaged. The capacity trainings for GRCs include a component of GBV which is delivered by district level gender officers. Perhaps next time, when making the presentations on current The E&S studies will be disclosed to you when they are ready. technical and E&S studies, please provide us with intial feedback so we have some idea of what is going on. What is the challenge behind finalizing the stakeholder engagement The SEP is still being drafted. There is feedback coming in from the social plan? Perhaps share a draft and update it as things change because surveys which guides these plans thus the delay. this document is not static, but it continues to change. What was the point of taking the aerial pictures at high resolution The images help provide proof of where exactly settlements are located. Initial and what are the projected numbers of RAP-affected persons from estimates show that fewer than 200 households may need to be physically this? displaced along with 5 cattle ranches, 2 schools, 5 graveyards and some business premises. These numbers will be reviewed and confirmed in 2024 upon completion of relevant studies. In the event that dam failure occurs, how big is the area that will be Dam failure is a very unlikely risk, the dams are designed to resist to an affected? With pre-existing dams, what effect do these dams have on exceptional flood event safely. However assessing the consequences a dam the dams MHPP intends to build may be affected by dam failure from failure is good international practice and will be undertaken by the Project. The Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_LLbased NGOs MDAs and MWASIP_MoM_29nov2023 Page 2 / 5 Comment/Question Response (if any) other dams’ failure of other dams and the irrigation schemes study will generate flood maps to show areas that will show areas at potential upstream to the dam. risk in the event of a dam failure. How are social and cultural issues being captured in the social There are three types of surveys underway which explore social and cultural surveys? issues: Qualitative investigations, quantitative surveys, and a socio-economic survey. A quantitative socio-economic survey entails a questionnaire to document the household composition, means of livelihood, use of natural resources, and other socioeconomic and demographic information. This socioeconomic survey must be undertaken to establish a baseline and allow for monitoring the status of the affected households during the Project implementation. It will also support the MHPP to define livelihood restoration measures and other assistance to be provided by the Project. In addition, there is a specific cultural heritage study that is being conducted through the PIU. Consider how issues of sexual harassment will be covered, for This is a potential impact of project-induced in-migration from job seekers and example, raising awareness among both men and women. opportunists. The ESIA 2024 will examine this issue. Consider establishing devices such as piezometers to monitor Noted increase in ground water levels and quality of water over time. This can be included in the community development fund by creating boreholes. Upgrades to be done on S137 seems to be more on the Blantyre side, The S137 upgrade works will be only on the Blantyre side. This is because the what does that mean for the Neno people? Project will not need to use the Neno side during construction or operation. Is it not a shame that the road is gravel and not tarmac since this is a The type of upgrade (gravel road and not asphalt) selected by the Project is the long-term investment? most cost-effective. A higher standard would have cost implications which would impact the tariff of electricity generated by the Project. The road upgrade programme has been approved by the GoM. There will be a community investment fund as part of benefit sharing with the community. If upgrading the S137 is a priority for communities in Neno, they may decide to direct the community investment fund to that. However, the community investment fund will be limited and there is a need to consider some essential services so that the community benefits most. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_LLbased NGOs MDAs and MWASIP_MoM_29nov2023 Page 3 / 5 Comment/Question Response (if any) Common challenges we foresee include project-induced population Noted influx causing social tensions between workers and the community. Take into consideration psychological problems in health and safety, as well as equal opportunity for jobs. The construction and project-induced in-migration may increase risk Noted of child labour and theft in affected areas. Will the road along the dam not weaken the dam structure? No – The dam will be designed to safely accommodate a road and the associated future traffic. Wildlife in the area may be at risk for the following reasons. Noted ● Increased poaching due to market availability and influx of people who may want to eat or sell the animals. ● Human wildlife conflict over resources. ● Negative effects on the elephant marsh. There may be negative impacts on farming downstream because Noted reduced sedimentation may result in reduced soil fertility. The reservoir filling will affect flow downstream. The water requirements for the SVTP canal is very important. The project will What is the current water requirement in the SVTP? How will it affect plan the reservoir filling and the associated downstream river flow carefully to SVTP water intake? avoid significant impacts on the downstream operations and water uses. There is risk of competition for water use. This is critical because: ● SVTP is used for irrigation. ● SVTP is used by sugarcane companies for agricultural production. ● Water board draws drinking water for the same SVT. There is a risk of deterioration of livelihoods of PAPs post Noted displacement because of poor monitoring of livelihood restoration activities. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_LLbased NGOs MDAs and MWASIP_MoM_29nov2023 Page 4 / 5 Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_LLbased NGOs MDAs and MWASIP_MoM_29nov2023 Page 5 / 5 Mpatamanga HPP - ESIA - Chapter 7 - Stakeholder Engagement Annex 7-3: Records of 2024 ESIA Disclosure Meetings Confidential - 901.30.1_Mpatamanga HPP_ESIA_Chapter 7_Stakeholder_31Jul2024 Page 7-33 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Nkhwali Community Meeting Location: Nkwali Date: 09/07/ 2024 Time: 10:20 am – 12:30 pm Attendees (groups): Neno Government officials Ministry of Lands representatives Evidence for change (GBV Service Provider) MHPL team C12 Traditional Authority representative Nkhwali village community members Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register TakenD:\Aasia\NKHWALI\NKHWALI COMMUNITY MEETING ATTENDANCE.pdf Presentation from SLR Consulting and C12 Consultants As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this community (ii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (ii) the proposed offsets for the project. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation covered: - S137 Road works - Biodiversity Conservancy Area - Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement - Project-induced population influx and community health - Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) You have said that the dam will be fenced here in Nkhwali. That is an impact of this project to this community. There will be no access to water from the That means there will be no access to water for the river for community members and livestock. There will be discussions between the project and community and our livestock. Where will our livestock the community to find solutions on how we are going to restore access to water in the drink water? community. The situation here will be similar to that of Majete. People living around Majete cannot access the river because it will be fenced. Since there will be construction work happening, there will The construction are going to produce some dust and noise, and there will be measures taken be fumes or dust that will come from the construction site, to mitigate some of this. The fence which will be constructed in this area is not a big construction what measures have you put in place to safeguard us? so it won’t produce much dust. Since there will be construction of the regulating dam in The project has decided to access the construction site from the Blantyre side not Neno side, this village, and we know big cars are going to be using the the construction trucks will not drive part of Neno. This stipulation will be included in contractor existing roads, how are you going to help those whose contracts. houses are close to the access road, since they will be affected by the noise and dust coming from the construction cars that will be using this road? Several assessments have been conducted on our land, As we said the message has not changed, you can continue using the land, until the project what will happen if during the assessments it was recorded goes ahead and the land has been demarcated on the ground with physical makers. that the land has no structure, but when the project is starting you find a structure on the land? All the previous assessments were done for planning purposes, in Chaswanthaka, Nkhwali and all the other villages, the formal compensation process will not start until the lands have been demarcated on the ground and a cut off date is issued. If you want to build new houses, you can build, there will be final assessment on the land. No ‘cut off date’ has yet been issued. You have said, there will be people coming to work on the We know this is a risk, but we can’t tell today exactly where these new people will settle in, we project in this village, which means more people will be don’t know if they will be settling in Nkhwali or Feremu or the other side. It’s unlikely for the added to the population, what’s your plan when it comes people to settle in Nkhwali or Feremu because most of the construction will be happening on to environmental conservation since the environment is the other side. already disrupted by the few people that are in this village, what if more are added? The project has planned constraints on influx with the contractor, to minimize the number of people that will be coming to seek for jobs. This is not the end of the process, the project will come again to the District Office, to discuss how prepare if new comers are coming. Remember the main construction work is not for at least 2 years, starting in 2026, so there is time to prepare for this. Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_Nkhwali community meeting Page 1 / 5 Comment/Question Response (if any) Question posed by Veronica Chimesya from NENO District The project will help the people living close in the area to be identified by the contractor, so labor office. they can easily apply for the jobs, the project will facilitate the relationship between EPC contractor and the communities. You said the project (MPHL) and the contractor will be responsible for the recruitment of workers, are you not But in terms of your question, the mechanism is not quite yet clear about what role the district going to involve the government during the recruitment labor office might play. What we are ensuring is that when we are giving them contracts, they process? employ local people in unskilled jobs, but we are not yet fully clear on what the role of district labor office will be. Even unskilled labors, we need to have a registration for those people so that we know how many people have been We know from EGENCO, that the district labor office was very involved in Kapichira, so we will employed. learn lessons and experience from that. You said that most of the construction activities will That is the current plan, if this changes you will be informed, but the current plan is to have happen on the Blantyre side but not in Nkhwali, does that everything on the Blantyre side. mean that Nkhwali will not have access roads? When you’re employing people, you talked more of kaliati It’s not legally possible to oblige the contractor to take people from one area over another. The village, does it mean most people that are going to be project will work with the contraction contractor as much as possible to recruit people from the employed are from Blantyre side than Neno side? villages affected by the project including Nkhwali. The priority will be the people from the villages affected by the project. Unskilled labor will be hired from the vnearbyillages, and also the semi-skilled people if we the required skills are available locally. We want also to encourage women to be involved in the activities, we will make sure they are also given opportunities not only the men. Another point is about job readiness, we may have job readiness training in advance of the recruitment process to give local people best chance of being recruited Since Nkhwali is least affected, how are we going to know We will continue to have communication engagement programs, like the one we are having that the construction work has started? now, the newsletters the ones that comes out every quarter, through Community liaison officers and through village focal points, to share the progress of the project that will be across the project area. The preference is to employ people living near where the project is happening. Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Nkhwali Community Meeting_09 July 2024 Page 2 / 5 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Nkhwali Community Meeting_09 July 2024 Page 3 / 5 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Nkhwali Community Meeting_09 July 2024 Page 4 / 5 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Nkhwali Community Meeting_09 July 2024 Page 5 / 5 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Mpindo and Chaswanthaka Meeting Location: Mpatsabwire Primary School, Chaswanthaka Date: 09/07/2024 Time: 14:15 – 16:30 Attendees (groups): SLR Neno Government officials Ministry of Lands representatives Evidence for change (GBV Services) MHPL team C12 Traditional Authority representative Men and women of Chaswanthaka and Mpindo villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken..\Disclosure sheet\Mphatamanga Esia Disclosure_Mpindo and Chaswanthaka Attendance Sheet.pdf As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 2. Project-induced population influx and community health 3. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) The papers you provided to us during the household The timing of the schedule of displacement will follow the timing of construction activities, with assessments you conducted, it was written that all the main works starting in 2026. The displacement will occur before the start of construction assessments have been completed, so my question is on activities in 2026, but the project we need to secure the funding for the project to progress. As whether we are going to be displaced or resettled this we said during the presentation, the days we are giving you are tentative dates, we will year, next year or 2026? continue to inform you as we progress, as we have been doing for the past years to update you as soon we have new information. We acknowledge that you been hearing about this for a long time. We know you’re not happy about this, but these projects are complicated, until we can go ahead, we can only give you the information we are giving you today. We will continue to come back starting from September this year, to keep you updated, and continue the discussions to prepare things in advance as soon as we have more information. I heard that some people in Mphindo and Chaswanthaka Yes, Chaswanthaka and Mphindo people will be touched by the main works. At this moment, will be settled sooner than others affected. Can you we cannot specify how long the resettlement process will take. I understand that about two provide the time frame for their resettlement? weeks ago, an assessment was conducted on two types of compensation: in-kind compensation and cash compensation. You have the option to choose either money or in- kind compensation, but no one has made a choice yet. We haven’t reached the phase where we determine the type of compensation you will receive. Therefore, if you ask about the timeframe, we cannot provide an answer at this point. Once we reach that phase, we will determine the number of people opting for in-kind compensation and those opting for cash compensation. My colleagues indicated that the resettlement will be phased, with project construction expected to take 54 months. We will phase everything within these 54 months. All the work will not commence simultaneously, as we want to complete the resettlement before starting construction. C12 Consultants have conducted household assessments The household assessments conducted by C12 Consultants were intended to identify the area and collected data for all the houses in this village. affected by the project, determine how many houses are in that area, and ascertain how However, during your presentation, you mentioned that many will need resettlement. For instance, if there are 115 houses in a village, it doesn’t only 35 houses will be affected by the project. What about mean all 115 will be resettled. Only those directly impacted by the project will require the other houses that were assessed? What will you tell resettlement. those residents? For example, the local school will not be affected by the dam construction; the dam’s water will not reach the school. However, since the water will be within 100 meters of the school, there are safety concerns for the children. Therefore, the decision was made to move the school for safety reasons. Additionally, considering the recent impact of Cyclone Anna in Malawi, if another cyclone were to occur, the school could be at risk due to its proximity to the dam. This is why we decided to relocate the school, not because the dam construction directly impacts it, but to ensure the children’s safety. I hope this clarifies the situation. C12_Mpat ESIA Disclosure_Mpindo+Chaswanthaka_09.07.24.docx Page 1 / 8 You mentioned that only 35 houses in Chaswanthaka and I believe the Chaswanthaka Village chief can attest to this. Since we began coming here, we 25 in Mphindu will be displaced, and that the have consistently communicated that all development activities should continue. Those with displacement or resettlement will be done in phases. Are land should keep farming, and those wanting to develop their land are free to do so. you saying that the first phase will involve the 35 houses, However, there will come a time when we may instruct you to stop using the land. We have and the other houses will be addressed later? communicated this clearly, and all development activities, such as building new school blocks and boreholes, should not be halted. We will also arrange a meeting with those interested in On another note, you might think we are impatient about developing this area to give them the go-ahead for their projects in the villages. the project’s start, but the real issue is that the project is hindering the development of our village. Our primary Regarding resettlement, as my colleagues mentioned, we are following the project’s plan. school lacks enough classrooms, and new construction is Even if we secure funding now, the money will be released in phases by the funders. First, we on hold because we’ve been told a displacement project need to find a resettlement site, and the village chief will assist in locating suitable land. is coming soon. The same applies to new boreholes; Those requiring new houses will be resettled there. Afterward, we will bring in the drilling activities are stalled due to the impending construction machinery, which necessitates building a road to the construction site. The project. Our children are struggling to learn properly second phase involves constructing this road, with some sections being tarmac and others because we don’t have enough school blocks, and this gravel, to ensure the machinery can reach the site safely without damage. Do not be project is delaying the construction of new ones. That’s surprised if resettlement and compensation begin during road construction because we why we are impatient and urging you to expedite the cannot start the project without the road. Thus, establishing resettlement sites and building project preparations, so our school can have sufficient the road are the initial stages of the project. Those directly affected will be resettled first. We classrooms, and our children can have a brighter future. have communicated about the project for several years, so do not be surprised if some people are compensated before others; this is due to the early works. After these initial stages, the main works will include constructing the dam, the powerhouse, and the regulating dam. Before the main dam’s construction begins, those affected will be resettled. Water collection will start after the dams and intake construction are completed, which will take about a year and a half to fill the entire dam. The resettlement process will conclude once everyone affected by the main dam’s construction has been relocated. The resettlement process will occur in three phases. For those living near Tedzani, if you see or hear that others are being compensated, don’t worry—your time will come. Remember, nothing works without a plan, and even with a plan, sometimes things succeed and sometimes they don’t. My colleagues mentioned that the compensation money will come from the government, which will secure funds from the World Bank. We are fortunate because the World Bank has agreed to provide us with a grant, which means we don’t have to repay the money. The funds will be secured by May 2025. Currently, we are preparing to determine how many people prefer in-kind compensation and how many prefer cash. Once the funds are secured, we will begin the work. We expect to have financial close by October 2025. These are just plans, and anything can happen. If we secure all the funds by October 2025, everything will start right away, with main construction works beginning in 2026. This doesn’t mean construction will start in December 2026; rather, 2026 marks the start of the main works. By October 2025, we will have completed the road construction, started building the new school at the identified site, and begun constructing the houses. The construction period for the main works is expected to be four and a half years, depending on whether we start in late 2025 or early 2026. The construction period will end in 2029. I hope you will honor the promise you made to us, that I believe that was a comment or a reminder. This issue is similar to the construction of the we will also benefit from the project and be supplied road, as all works require electricity. During the road construction, electricity will be supplied with electricity. We don’t want people from distant areas to those houses near the road, not those houses who are 2 or 3 km away. But I assure you we to be the only ones benefiting while the members of this will keep the promise. village lack electricity. You made this promise, so please ensure it goes according to our agreement. Another thing, please let’s share the information we got today with those who couldn’t make it, they should also be informed of the progress. Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 2 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 3 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 4 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 5 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 6 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 7 / 8 Mpatanga_ESIA Nkhwali Community meeting-09 july 2024 Page 8 / 8 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Feremu + Kambalame Community Meeting Location: Kambalame Date: 09 July 2023 Time: 1:30pm – 3:30pm Attendees (groups): Neno Government officials Ministry of Lands representatives Ministry of Energy Evidence for change(GBV Services) MHPL team C12 Traditional Authority representative Men and women of Kambalame village Men and Women of Feremu Village Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken..\..\Videos\Mpatamanga_ESIA Scoping Meeting_feremu + kambalame community meeting attendance.pdf Presentation by SLR Consulting and C12 Consultants As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. S137 Road works 2. Biodiversity Conservancy Area 3. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 4. Project-induced population influx and community health 5. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Question posed by GVH Feremu. Yes, you should continue your normal farming activities, we will let you know when the land will Should we continue to cultivate on our land or not? be demarcated. You mentioned of 2026, can you please provide the exact You’re right, you want to know the exact date. You have the right to know it as well, but we also dates and time when the project will start? People are don’t know. We understand that you’re upset about that, but this is the reality, before the funds unable to plan other activities because we don’t know the are secured we are not sure of the schedule, we will be sure after securing the funds. precise start date of the project. Additionally, can you inform us whether the project has failed or not. As I said the funds for the project will be secured in early 2025. The current plan is to secure the money in 2025 and the construction to start in 2026 You said you will give us cattle, goats and lambs and you Access to water will be available everywhere except in the two exclusion zones, so it won’t be a also mentioned that the river would be fenced. So, where problem. Exclusion zones are small, only 500 meters from where you can access the river. will our livestock drink water? We are concerned about the bridge and school situation. Responded by Mr. Brighton Mphinga from the Ministry of Lands in Neno district The children have not been able to attend school since the bridge was destroyed by water. From the meeting we had Regarding these issues, we should remember that these were not promises made to you these you promised to provide free transportation for these were just suggestions, we were suggesting possible solutions to the problem, the first step we children and temporary school for the village while the took was to record the names and ages of the children not attending school to have supporting bridge is being reconstructed, however nothing has been data to present to the district education office. done so far. Tell us the truth if this will happen or not? Next, we proposed several suggestions, during the meeting we had with you. These were just suggestions, not promises, as you mentioned: 1. The first suggestion was to reconstruct the bridge, though were unsure how long the reconstruction would take. 2. The second suggestion was to build a temporary school while waiting for the bridge reconstruction to be completed 3. And the third suggestion was to find a transporter to take these children to Chimbamira Primary School, which is somewhat distant. We promised to give you an update on the progress once we received feedback and we presented all these suggestions to Neno district council education office and the Government, they told us they will come back to us with feedback. However, we still haven’t received any feedback. We mentioned the same during our last meeting with you when the same question was raised. Unfortunately, we still have not gotten any feedback. Of the three suggestions, the only one currently in progress is the reconstruction of the bridge. I understand how frustrating this is for you, and we share your concern. Rest assured, we will update you as soon as we receive feedback. Some of you might have seen me speaking with our visitors, we were discussing this same issue. The plan is to complete the bridge construction by December. However, please note that this is just the plan and not a guarantee. Thank you for your question and I hope this clarifies the situation. Page 1 / 6 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Feremu_Kambalame Community Meeting_09July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Feremu_Kambalame Community Meeting_09July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Feremu_Kambalame Community Meeting_09July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Feremu_Kambalame Community Meeting_09July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Feremu_Kambalame Community Meeting_09July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Divala and Mbwinja Community Location: Divala Village Date: 10/07/2024 Time: 10:00 – 12:06 Attendees (groups): Blantyre District Council representatives Blantyre District labor officials Ministry of Lands representatives Ministry of Energy C12 Consultants MHPL team Village head Diwala Village head Mbwinja Group Village Headman Kunthembwe Traditional Authority representative Men and women of Diwala and Mbwinja village Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken - Yes As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 2. Project-induced population influx and community health 3. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Vincent Ngozi ( Mbwinja village Councilor) Thank you I just want to thank MHPL and C12 consultants for their excellent work since 2023. Your consistent updates and information have kept us well-informed about the projects progress. Additionally, I would like to express my gratitude for collaborative effort. Through our joint work, we have a clear understanding of the project’s development. We are also aware that further assessments will be conducted in September. Please continue to keep us informed and updated. Thank you My name is Joseph Donasiyano from Mbwinja Village, I just want to thank you for explaining how Thank you displacement will be handled. We had many questions about displacement but your presentation addressed all of them. Additionally, thank you for clarifying that we should continue using and cultivating our land as usual. You assured us that you will inform us when it is time to stop using the land. I appreciate this clear and helpful communication. Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 1 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 2 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 3 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 4 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 5 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 6 / 7 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Divala and Mbwinja_10July2024 Page 7 / 7 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: CSOs/NGOs/Academia Location: Blantyre Mount Soche Hotel Date: 12/07/2024 Time: 13:40pm-16:50pm Attendees (groups): SLR TBC MHPL C12 Mpatamanga PIU Blantyre CSO Network Neno CSO Network WESM Chancellor College MUST Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation International Accountability Partnership Partners in Hope Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: ..\Desktop\Disclosure sheet\Mpatanga ESIA_Disclosure Quatary Meeting With CSOs Attendance sheet.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR and TBC As an introduction to the meeting, TBC and SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the findings of the ESIA assessments (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (iv) the proposed offsets for the project. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iii) Hydrology (including primary reserve) (iv) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (v) Noise, Light and Visual Issues (vi) Community Health and Safety (vii) Climate Change (viii) Biodiversity (ix) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was provided to each participant. Minutes Name Comment/Question Name Response (if any) Anthony We have heard that the project is going to affect What we did last year in 2023, and what we have finished now, is to Mkupira 200 households, but how many people are going prepare what we call a resettlement policy framework, to estimate (Blantyre Civil to be affected? And again, disaggregated data, the impacts, the resettlement impacts, and define entitlements and Society) how many will be men and how many will be plan for the actual resettlement activity. women? And even further, the status, probably households, is it female-headed households or Last year we did surveys and a census of the households in the main child-headed families? Especially with that reservoir here, and the main works. It means that we have some good estimates and good figures, including on women-headed households, distribution of gender, etc. We have that for the main reservoir and the main works. This is included in the documents which will be disclosed on the internet, so we can go through them when they are available on the internet. For the two transmission lines and the road, we have not done any detailed survey yet. Because when we did the investigation 2 last year, the design was far from being finalized, and while for the main reservoir we know where the dam is. We know where the lake would be, if it changes a couple of meters, it’s not changing much. For the transmission line and the road, it was more uncertain. There still will be the detailed design which will adjust some of these elements. Another reason to not do detailed surveys on these linear components was to not raise expectations or concerns in the local communities too early in the process. At a future point, we’ll go and tell them that the project will come and we’ll acquire land. But as the design was evolving, and as the project is still working on a number of things, we thought it would be better to come to them only when we were sure that they would be affected. Hence, all the estimation for the linear components, the transmission lines, and the road, we can only provide estimated figures without knowing exactly how many women headed households or the gender disaggregation of the affected persons. We can extrapolate from the percentages we have in the main reservoir and the main works. In the main reservoir and the main works, we have approximately, it varies from one area to another, but between 30 to 40% of the families affected who are headed by women. In total for the main reservoir and the main works, we have a total of 666 landowners and 55% of them are male. The other 45% are women. This is for the main reservoir and the main works. We cannot provide this detail for the other components because we have not done any detailed survey. What we did for the other components was direct site observation using aerial pictures but not going through a detailed census. This will be done, as we explained earlier, when we demarcate the land and we start the land acquisition process, and it will be staged, as we explained. So, if you want, you can access the full resettlement policy framework which has all the results of the socio-economic surveys, etc. This will be expanded in 3 the Resettlement Action Plans which will be disclosed as well when they are prepared when the land acquisition starts. (Charlotte) Maybe just a point to add that when the ESIA is publicly on the web, disclosed, it will have information about the baseline, the broader socio-economic baseline for the project, which will give more of an insight into the level of impact. (Clement) This part of the presentation is focussed on the households directly affected, those who lose their land. For the broader environmental and social impact assessment, we also surveyed a broader area, so larger groups, where we have the bigger picture, not the district level, but the TA level, we have more information available. Stanley Moyo First of all, I would like to thank the presenters Clement So, first, the graveyard relocation is managed by the Department of (Chair for for presenting the document. My first question is Museums and Monuments, according to the regulatory frameworks Blantyre Civil on graveyard. You have said that there will be and international standards. So, there are two things, as you pointed Society) relocation of graveyard. I don’t know what type out. Let’s call them the existing cemeteries, which may have to be, of relocation are you going to conduct, because with remains to be exhumed and buried in a new place. And then you some were buried in that graveyard some years have all the new deceased persons which will have to be buried in a ago and the others have just been buried. What new place. The current message that we are conveying to the local type of relocation are you going to conduct? communities is continue to use your cemeteries, continue to use the current cemeteries before displacement, because all the cemeteries will be affected by the main reservoir. So, it will come at the end of the construction, 2029. We do not want to move the cemeteries too early, because as with every big construction project, there might be delays. So, what will happen is that the Department of Museums and Monuments will make an inventory in each cemetery. They will identify each individual grave, find the custodians of each grave, and then agree on the exhumation and reburial process on the new site, engaging with the Department of Health, Department of Police, all 4 the departments needed. And it will be done in a participatory manner. Then, for the creation of the new cemeteries, this will also be done in a participatory manner with the affected communities and the relevant departments. And the only question is, now, when will it happen? So, the Department of Museums and Monuments is working with the rest of the E&S team. And we are coordinating with them so that this graveyard displacement is aligned or is going in parallel with the overall relocation of the community. Graveyard relocation will happen in parallel with the overall relocation of the community so that it does not happen too soon or too late. The idea is to have it going on in parallel. And the Department of Museum and Monuments will prepare a detailed strategy, but it’s not finalized yet. Secondly, I would like to ask you about the Your point on the amenities on the resettlement site is well noted, relocation of the people themselves. As people and yes, we do not want to repeat the same mistakes as previous are being relocated, according to experience in projects. One thing to keep in mind is that the resettlement sites to Malawi, people are relocated to a place without be developed are in the same village. So, a part of a village will be basic amenities. What have you planned? For moved into the same village, but in a new area of the same village. basic amenities, we are looking at a school, a Hence, they will have access to the same amenities. On top of that, health facility and whatsoever. Are those things for the village in Chaswanthaka, the Mpatsabwiri School, which will in your plans? be closed to the main reservoir after the main dam is flooded, will be moved onto the resettlement site in Chaswathakaka village. We do not want to have the school staying right next to the reservoir because of the hippos and crocodiles, because of the waterborne diseases and this type of thing. So, it will be moved, and a new school will be provided in Chaswathaka village. For the resettlement site in Kambalame, this is also the plan, to build a school on the resettlement site in Kambalame. Then, as they are staying in the same village, they will have access to the same 5 amenities as the other villages, and any community investment activities done in these villages will also benefit the resettlement sites. In addition, we will also consider access to water and other amenities during the design of the resettlement site, which we are starting through a participatory process with the affected persons themselves. So, we are going to engage them and define the agency of the resettlement site, and considering all the amenities as well with them. (Charlotte) Firstly, Clement’s team has done an assessment of the resettlement sites at the moment in terms of what grading might be required, what the access to water is like, things like that. His team has done an assignment for us in the last several weeks on trying to get an assessment, particularly for Chaswinthaka, because Chaswanthaka will be first, on how many people are actually interested in living in a resettlement site. We will be encouraging affected people to choose in-kind compensation where it’s relevant: for physically displaced people to choose houses rather than cash, and replacement land if that’s available also, again, rather than cash. We would ask your support in helping us for people to understand the benefits of in-kind compensation, so houses, for example, rather than cash. Because I think we are all aware of the risks of people choosing cash, and you can see from the map the current estimates of physically displaced people and economically displaced people. And there are more along the road also. 6 And thirdly, I was looking at the security. I am Dominiq There will be guards on the construction sites, and the materials and happy that you mentioned about security. But ue things like that, they will be protected. This is also an issue which has looking at other major projects that are been raised by the people locally, especially south of the main dam. happening in Malawi, there is a lot of theft in The project is also going to sponsor the creation of a new police fuel. And that theft definitely affects the projects. station, which is not usual in a project of this kind. For a project like how prepared are you to prevent this type of this, you don’t do that usually, but this has been recognized as an malpractice? issue here. You also have the checkpoints, the new police station, the support of the project, and then, during negotiation with the EPC contractors, that’s going to be also a strong point to remind them, as they will be based in the area. But the police station is also more to protect the communities than the EPC contractors. And lastly, I would like to commend you for Noted. Thank you. biodiversity research support on the southern region. This is where we lack most, because most projects, they don’t have this component. But having a research team is a plus to the nation. So, I would like to urge you to fund such a research team. Those research teams should be funded and their results be disseminated so that we know whether we have a problem or we don’t have a problem. Thank you. Edgar Nkoka Mine is a question about the presentation about Leah Regarding the question on water hyacinth, we’re aware of the issue, (WESM) biodiversity. You said about invasive alien and it has been identified as a potential risk for the Mpatamanga species. So, this issue, it’s a big issue in Malawi, Reservoirs. What is planned right now, since it is a risk, is to monitor and it is devastating to a lot of people. So, how the development of water hyacinth, and if it becomes an issue, that are you planning to manage the invasive alien we would implement, first of all, buoys to collect the water hyacinth, species that grow in the dams? Because we have and then any mechanical measures to remove it, and maybe some a problem of water hyacinths, which is valorization on the other side of that organic material. So, it’s kind of devastating, and it is giving headache to energy like classic measures of dealing with the development of the plants. Both, we’re concerned about it, both from an operational 7 sector like ESCOM. So, how are you planning to perspective, meaning not getting the water hyacinth going into the manage those? powerhouses, but also, as the community health issue, the development of snails, in particular, in the water hyacinth. So, the project would monitor and then remove them, and we’re also aware that there are some initiatives to use biocontrol to control water hyacinth, and the project is open to working with those types of protocols, if they become developed enough to be approved and applied in Malawi. Moses How much is the estimated budget for the plan? Dominiq All the documents that are being prepared are going to be disclosed Chabuka Because we have seen on the page 10 of your ue on internet. There will be a first disclosure, so probably in September. (Secretary for presentation, you have just indicated that there If it’s not in this round of this internet disclosure, that will be in the Neno Civil will be a level of restoration. Level of restoration next one, but at the end of the day, that will be transparent in terms Society will be provided by MHPL, all affected of budget allocated to the various components. That is a requirement Network) households, collective level of restoration, this of the World Bank. and that, but there are no specific figures in terms of the resources that have been set aside Now, again, there is no guarantee that this will come with the first to address these issues. disclosure because there are still discussions with the project management, how we allocate the funds and how we can optimize it I’m asking this question because we understand and so on, as you can imagine. But when the project is ready, that will that environmental and social management plan be disclosed. is regulated by the Environmental Management Act, which means as representatives of the civil (Charlotte) society, as well as the citizens, have the right to On the oversight aspect that was mentioned too. We have talked demand transparency and accountability on how previously about resettlement working groups. They will be formed. the resources that have been set aside for the We haven’t started that process yet because we don’t want to start it implementation of the plan have been utilized. too early. But they will be involved in engaging and overseeing to an And I also would like to know what measures extent or commenting on the effectiveness of the various land have you put in place to make sure that there is acquisition and resettlement activities as part of the representation oversight and there is inclusive monitoring and from district government level and communities level. There’ll be a tracking of the resources that have been set civil society representative also. So that will be part of the measures aside for this plan? Thank you that are involved in oversight. 8 Also this project will have many lenders. World Bank, we’ve already talked about. IFC, you already know about. We might have six others that are still being discussed and planned, both international lenders and there will be some local lenders too. I expect in the future, there will need to be, maybe in construction or maybe into, probably into construction phase, quarterly monitoring reports. I mean, there will be lots of reports about the project that will be publicly available. So, this project will have a level of transparency that probably, that you may not have seen before on other projects that have not had that many international lenders involved. Russell Msisya I’m very happy for this innovation, the (3D) map Dominiq During construction, the road used by the project trucks would be (Executive here. This really tells us the whole thing. This ue watered regularly, I mean, outside of the rainy season. This is typically Director for creativeness is amazing. Love you guys for this a measure that you do. It’s important for community health, but also Beyond Our initiative, we love it. And this is the way to go. for safety, because you want to see trucks coming or children crossing Heart the road. During operations, that’s another story. During operation, Foundation) And I want to thank the Mpatamanga team for the S-137 is a public road, and will be handed over to the Roads the updates, as well as the Prisca. They normally Authority. share what is happening. I love that kind of engagement, we are very happy. A few months ago, we complained about it and there’s a tremendous change. So, we’re working together as a team. As CSO, we are very happy. I’m a bit worried about the Chileka road, as there won’t be a tarmac load. I know because of budget, so we’re not going to go beyond that. But I know there are big cars coming, going and coming, there will be lots of dust coming into the villages. Would you kind of have a deliberate plan that you water those, you water the road so that there should not be dust all over the village and people should not get TB and other diseases. 9 The other one is how do we make sure that we maintain our dam very safe and the water tables have to be always at a higher level? There’s a lot of deforestation in Neno. We are coming from there, we know what people do. In that one, we have projects as Beyond Our Hearts. World Vision they have projects as well, we have a project in the tree planting. MWASIP as well as the government, they have a project called smart agriculture. So, if there’s no funds for tree planting, we can divert our catchment area to plant, just give us that area; “this is the area that you’re going to plant”. You can plant it for free, we have the seed, we have volunteers so we can do that for free as part of our contribution to the project. Apart from that, we talked about safeguarding issues. I’m happy that we engage with the team and we’re making some strides. And we’re sharing the report of GBV, that we normally share, all of those. So, I’m just very happy today, no issues. Elias Chika, So, regarding the impacted villages, you did Dominiq During the scoping meeting, this was already announced, and Chikila International mention there are three, Kambarame, ue was not mentioned among the affected villages during the scoping Accountability Chaswanthaka and Mpindo. But in any meeting. So what happened between the previous studies or the Patrnership information that you shared with us, there was previous studies up to 2020 and 2021? What happened between then Chikila village, and I didn’t see it being mentioned and now? What happened is that the project environmental and here, and Mpindo seems to be a new one. Could social team worked with the engineers and the technical team to you please explain on that? And secondly, reduce the impacts of the project. After that, Chikila village were not regarding the villages that will be, or at least the directly, or the houses in Chikila village were not in the flooded area. households, that will be impacted by the They were in a 100-meter buffer around the flooded area. What transmission lines, what kind of engagement has 10 been done or are you planning to do with these happened is that this 100-meter buffer around the flooded area has households? been reduced through discussions with the engineers. We do understand that from 2019, we have been And this is also why we are saying it’s an estimate, because as long as engaging with the three other villages that I we have not demarcated the lands on the ground, between now and mentioned that will be impacted by the dams the time when we demarcate things on the ground, a few new houses themselves, but we haven’t had any information may be constructed. If we do it next year or in two years, you know, that’s regarding any kind of engagement that has people are still living their lives. They’re married, they have children. been done or will be done by the households that So, if we come back in two years, there may be one, two, three will be economically displaced by the houses in Chikila that may be impacted. But the current estimate is transmission lines. So could you please share a that the houses in Chikila village would not be impacted. little bit more about that? There will be lands impacted, and people will lose lands and farming lands as in the other villages. But no physical displacement as per the current estimate. I’m stressing this again, because as with every reconstruction project, things may evolve. Then for Mphindo village: All the previous surveys were focusing on the main reservoir, because at that time, this was the only project component defined. What happened since then is that we had this area, the main works area, defined with the engineers. And we discovered that Mphindo, or a large part of Mphindo village, is either inside this main works area or right on the service road, which will link the main dam area here to the regulating dam. And for safety reasons, they are too close to the road to stay there. This road, it will not be like the main road. Here, there will be trucks coming and going all the time between the main dam and the regulating dam during construction. So, it won’t be safe if they are on the edge of the road, so it’s not safe for them. So, this is about Mphindo. And it is just that the previous studies did not consider this area. Now, if I’m correct, the next question is about the engagement with the transmission line, and let’s talk about the engagement along the road as well. 11 On the transmission line, to clarify what I explained earlier regarding the surveys, they have not been engaged as part of the resettlement studies. However, as part of the impact assessment studies, there were socioeconomic surveys and engagement with the group village leaders, the village development committees, along the transmission lines. So to clarify, they know the project is coming. They know there will be a transmission line, but they do not know who will be impacted inside the villages. And it was clearly explained to them, and we will continue to convey this message as we continue regular engagement with the affected communities. And this was explained as well to the district authorities and the TAs from these areas. So, the message about the project has been conveyed, but we did not do any census on the ground in order to not raise concern or expectations too early in the process, and to avoid speculations and things like that. Just keep in mind that for the main reservoir, people have been told as early as 2017 or 2016 that they would have to move. And since then, they are waiting for the compensation. We do not want to repeat the same thing for the transmission line. That’s just what it is. Then next week, we are starting what we call community sensitization along all the villages along the access road to explain them that as part of the project, the road will be improved. Then, tentatively in September, October, but later this year, there will be further consultation, so we’ll go back to all these communities to explain what’s going to happen, the schedule, and these type of things. (Charlotte) You can see it [the presentation] says S137 Road, Blantyre District, because when we talk about the early works for the project, we don’t talk about the work for the S137 in Neno District, because Neno 12 District is later from a project schedule perspective. So the work that Clement is talking about that’s going to start next week in terms of engagement with villages is on the Blantyre side, not on the Neno side. There was some discussion, I should say, we tried to have some reference in the village meetings we had in Kambalame and Nkwali as part of informing the Neno side about the S137 Road and timing, and also the bridge aspects. So that was the way that there was some engagement done in terms of S137 on Neno side at this stage. (Prisca) In the past, we used to say that we have engaged Chikila, and today it wasn’t mentioned that we’ve been engaging Chikila. Chikila has been engaged from day one up to now, only that this time around, the focus was on Chaswanthaka, the other side, Neno, for this disclosure. But we have been engaging Chikila from day one up to now, and we’ll continue engaging them. And for the transmission line, some parts have been engaged. I think Neno side, we have been engaging some people who will be affected with the transmission line. But for Balaka, we haven’t engaged the communities per se because we’re waiting for what Clement has just highlighted. But still, we have engaged the traditional authorities from Balaka on the project. And we did mention that after the line is firmed, then we’ll have to engage the communities as well as forming the Grievance Committees. (Charlotte) Another point about Chikila, and about the timing for the engagement in September. September, I guess we’re planning for the resettlement policy framework, more specific engagement on the proposed eligibility and entitlements aspects, things like that. So then there would be more specific engagement with Chikila and all the other affected communities at that time. And we do understand that Chikila is a particularly sensitive case. We understand there’ve been money sharks, for want of a better word. So we do understand that 13 there are some complexities with Chikila that need to be managed carefully. Shola Kauluka I want to ask about the terrestrial biodiversity Jessica In terms of threatened species, we have not found any threatened (Partners in issues, which we saw in the presentation. I’m Hughes plant species or tree species in the project area. We have found some Hope Neno interested in each of the animals. I wanted to protected species of tree. District) know if you have some type of animals, or a category of animals, which are on the highest But in terms of fauna, the only threatened species of fauna outside risk than others. within the project footprint area is largely the hippo, obviously outside of Majete. There’s reports of pangolins outside of Majete as And if so, I don’t know if your protection well. And then we have also confirmed that there are highly measures have been based on that risk of threatened vulture species, white-backed and white-headed vultures, each animal. which occur in Majete and fly between Majete and Liwonde. So they do fly over the project area. Those are the main ones within the Also, I don’t know if you have some cases of project footprint in the direct area of impact. cause of death, for example, issue of the poaching cases, like maybe pangolin, and We have planned mitigation measures, largely influx-related control those other animals, which we maybe have measures to protect Majete’s boundaries. And then there’s additional seen in terms of the post-natal. Thank you measures to look at increased awareness and protection and monitoring for pangolin as well. But I think one of the measures that Suzanne’s spoken about, is the protected conservation area that’s being proposed would help to protect additional pangolin habitat outside of Majete as well to reduce, basically to create a buffering effect, but also to reduce the risks of increased influx and pangolin hunting in that area. 14 Dennis All right, thank you so much for the Dominique So for livelihood restoration, we have individual, collective, individual Mwafurirwa opportunity to reflect on this, and for the livelihood restoration measures, collective livelihood restoration (CHRR) presentations. I have a few things that I measures, and measures for vulnerable households, again, affected wanted to get more clarification on. The first by resettlement. And measures for vulnerable households, again, one is on livelihood restoration. I wanted to affected by resettlement. understand what kind of livelihood restoration being planned for the So, these individual livelihood restoration measures, first, they will communities. include support to open a bank account to receive the compensation amount, training for the sustainable use and management of And then, the second one, under downstream compensations. erosion, you had mentioned about independent review panel. I just wanted to There will also be transitional support provided, and this will be in- understand more about that panel, and how it kind. It will be a basket of staple food provided during a six-month is going to be working to address issues. period so that the affected households are secure, food security during the first year after displacement, during the time that will be And then, under community health, as well as needed for them to restore their farming production on the new migration, I didn’t see any grievance redress plots. Then there will also be support to existing farming activities in mechanism as part of the strategy. So, I the form of the provision of, in-kind provision of agricultural input wanted to get clarification on how issues during the first year after displacement. This is, again, to help them related to these areas would be addressed. I restore their farming systems and farming production on their new know there is already existing GRMs, and plots. This will include fertilizers, seeds provided, again, only during whether these would form part of that the first year of displacement. process. There will also be, at the household level, support to develop And on the same, community health. Last alternative livelihood activities, and by that we mean off-farm time that we had discussed the scoping, we activities such as small businesses or any type of off-land activities. It had made a suggestion to say, can we add a could be established potentially through microcredit schemes with a component of psychological impact under this partnership with microfinance institutions or things like that. Then, in study? I know there was a mention that there each household, one of the household members of working age will is a separate study that is going to focus on be eligible to priority in terms of local recruitment by the contractors. this one, but we had made that suggestion because of its significance in the area. So, I We have the list of affected households and we ask the contractors to wanted to get that clarification as well. first look into this list to find workers. It’s not granted because we cannot oblige the contractors to take these persons over other persons. But we will establish the priority. And they will also benefit 15 And then, with the information that has been from training, as we mentioned earlier. So, this was for household- given to the communities before, there was level livelihood restoration measures. high expectations in terms of what is going to come out of the project in terms of Then, collective livelihood restoration measures. We will have compositions and the like, but also when that support to farming activities through the implementation of what we composition would be coming. So, in terms of call farmer field schools, training on improved agricultural techniques, stability of people’s lives, that has been demonstration plots, this type of thing. disrupted already. Other collective livelihood restoration measures will be focused on There was high expectations in terms of what the main reservoir and main works. Because along the transmission is going to come out of the project in terms of line and the access road, the collective impacts will be more limited. compensation and the like, but also when that As we’ve seen under the transmission line, the land can still be used, compensation would be coming. So in terms although not for trees or houses, but they can still farm under the of stability of people’s lives, that has been line. disrupted already. Are there any initiatives that could be done to address the impacts Along the road, it will be a small portion of the land plots right on the that have already been made because of the edge of the road which will be taken. So, at the collective level, the communication that was happening before? level of impacts will be less important along the linear components Thank you. compared to the main reservoir and main works. Hence, for the main reservoir and main works, there will be first a support to develop green charcoal production. There are already NGOs doing this type of activity elsewhere in Malawi, so this is something that we will provide. Again, it will be at the collective level, village level. Then, we mentioned safe access to the reservoirs. This is under the livelihood restoration. On safe access includes restoration of access to water for domestic and drinking purposes, as well as access for livestock to water. There will be also support to develop some safe access to water for farming. We’ve seen that there cannot be irrigation canals taking water from the reservoir, but boreholes or solar systems or small things will be developed, in collaboration or in a participatory manner with the affected communities so that they have robust systems that can work 16 even if the project goes away. Hence, it will be sustainable and they can manage it themselves. But the technical solutions are not yet defined. It will be defined through consultations with the affected communities. And finally, there will be also, for the communities around the reservoir, support to develop fisheries activities. Then, for vulnerable households, those moving physically, those having to build a new house, we will encourage them to choose in- kind instead of cash because it will secure their replacement housing. Then, we will help them to move physically with a truck or to move to the new location. During the first year of displacement for the vulnerable households, the project will provide assistance for the land clearing on their farming and on their replacement lands. It will help them prepare agricultural fields so that the work is easier for them. There will also be additional support such as development of activities like beekeeping or other activities that can provide additional income. Again, we have lots of NGOs doing this type of things in Malawi that can help with this type of support. These are listed in the documents that will be disclosed. The Grievance Redress Mechanism is already established and functioning in the villages around the main works and main reservoirs. So, it’s functioning and it will continue to be used throughout the project. (Dominique) Yes, so the independent review panel’s role will be first to review the methodology and the outcome of the monitoring side of the project. Because if it’s only the project that monitors and interprets the results, there could be some allegations about the transparency of the whole thing. So, the first thing is to make sure and report on the 17 fact that the monitoring has been well done and that the results of the monitoring are correct. The second role of this panel would be to attend the meeting with MHPL, the meeting where the project will report on the monitoring. So as any question coming from the authorities or leaders addressed to the panel and not to MHPL can respond. Thirdly, the panel will also review the grievances. So, the panel is not going to manage the grievances as MHPL, the Grievance Reverse Mechanism. But the panel will look at what sort of grievances have been lodged into the Grievance Reverse Mechanism managed by the project, and whether there is a trend related to potential impact on riverbank incision and consequences on the floodplain. And fourthly, the panel will provide an expert opinion on whether, considering the outcome of the monitoring and considering the grievances, whether there is a trend materializing that, as an effect, the project will have impact downstream. Remember that this is a very long process, the downstream erosion. It’s going to be decades. So, we are going to find, the project will find an approach so that this panel is mobilized once a year. Probably will change over decades, unfortunately, but there is some sort of continuity. 18 Shadreck I just want to ask you, what are the measures Jessica In terms of sanctions, look, we haven’t directly engaged on that, but Sambani (GOFO) you have been putting in place so that if there the EPC contractor would obviously have to be monitoring what its are some people that are found poaching or own construction staff are doing and how they regulate their cutting down trees, what are the punishments activities. But we have been proposing to put in additional sort of that you are going to give them, those people roadblocks and additional security measures working with law like them? enforcement agencies to restrict access into the project area, particularly down to the regulating dam where there is more woodland habitat left and to increase the surveillance of who’s moving in through that area and what they might be transporting and to work with law enforcement agencies around appropriate penalties, let the law take its course. 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: District, Regional and National MDAs Location: Blantyre Mount Soche Hotel Date: 11/07/2024 Time: 09:00 – 12:30 Attendees (groups): Blantyre District Government officials Zomba District Government officials Neno District Government officials Regional Government officials Central level government officials MHPL C12 GoM PIU MEPA Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Disclosure sheet\Mphatamanga ESIA stakeholder meeting attendance sheet.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR and TBC As an introduction to the meeting, TBC and SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the findings of the ESIA assessments (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (iv) the proposed offsets for the project. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iii) Hydrology (including primary reserve) (iv) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (v) Noise, Light and Visual Issues (vi) Community Health and Safety (vii) Climate Change (viii) Biodiversity incl. specific mitigation actions for Majete (ix) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was provided to each participant. Minutes Name Comment/Question Name Response (if any) Wafulirwe I’ll go straight into the issue. Very well Leah I’m answering the question because I’m working with the technical Msukwa presented issues. What I’ve observed, as team on the EPC contractor requirements, which is where we’re going someone from the employment and labor to specify the labor recruitment policy and requirements for them. (Ministry of sector, is that I think the issues of labor are not We have integrated in our requirements that we’re finishing up this Labour) coming out very clearly. You have articulated month the requirement to favor local employment and to favor, in very well the issues relating to the community. particular, the communities that are affected by the project. So that And what I’ve observed is that that’s normally will be detailed in the requirements for the contractor, with also a what these projects do. And then they wake up, requirement to maximize the employment of those people, and then once they start implementation, we omitted only after that to seek Malawians to fill in the rest of at least the some very, very important issues. And then also unskilled labor positions. As Dominique mentioned, recruitment will the issue of making sure that you have strict only be done off site, so that we are not going to be recruiting on site control over contractors. I think that has been and encouraging people to come to the construction site. And there another problem. We see a lot of abuses, not will also be requirements for the EPC contractor to include training because of the owners of the project, but those for local community members, so that they can be prepared to apply they have contracted to do their work. So, we for the jobs in a qualified manner. would love to see those come out very, very clear. Thank you. (Charlotte) I just want to add one point that it would be good if we could get your feedback on during, maybe over lunch. One of the topics that we’re 2 discussing internally is around employment of women, having targets, like maybe a 20% target, or maybe 30%, or 15%. We haven’t quite landed on the idea of a target for female employment. So if anybody has any views about that, if they can share them with me or Leah during the lunch break, that would be very helpful. (Dominique) The contractor and management. Just to add on that, it’s a key concern of MHPL, including the level of subcontractors. So, there may be a high level of subcontracting. And we all know that the main contractor is always OK. The problem is the subcontractors of subcontractors. So, there is a real effort from MHPL to detail everything in the main contract, and also to impose audits of the supply chain. So as all the targets, which are done for the construction company, are cascaded to the last subcontractor of the supply chain. Just also to add that the, what we call the sponsors of MHPL, including Electricitie de France, have been through various big construction sites in other countries in Africa. So, all these problems are known. I mean, there is no one solution. But I can tell you that they are anticipated. And the team is working hard to try to avoid mistakes made in the past, and to learn from the lessons of the recent construction sites in other countries and in Malawi. Maya To add on to what he said before I can ask my Dominic Waste management. So that is correct that we haven’t talked about question. What he said is very important. waste management. But honestly, there was plenty of other topics Experience from other projects. When we talk that we didn’t raise today, because you see how it was long to talk of unskilled laborers 100% being Malawian, about this. But that’s also an important aspect. And I can tell you that what I’ve seen is, in most cases, the actual the World Bank is pushing a lot on this also. So we have to be quite locals from the area may be omitted. So, I think prepared for that. So there has been an audit of the existing waste there, it should not just be local Malawians. management facilities in Blantyre and the area. And the conclusion Because the locals feel that these people who has been taken that we would require the construction companies to are coming from, yes, Malawi, but are not from install and operate, during the construction phase, their own waste 3 the site, benefiting from the project. So I think management facilities to the international standard. So, there is a that should be taken into account. control of the conditions in which they are disposed of and treated. And you will see, because it’s transparent, you will see it when the Now coming to my questions. I am not seeing report is on the internet. There is a clear requirement for hazardous issues of waste management coming out in the and non-hazardous waste management. So, there is no room for presentation. That’s just a comment. interpretation and, obviously, pollution of groundwater and adjacent But my question is on compensation for villages areas due to waste management. where villages have to be reallocated. When we (Clement) are talking of relocation of villages, are we talking of the whole village with its chief and On the resettlement question, we have three villages where a their graveyard? Or graveyards being significant part of the village will be relocated. I’m only going to talk considered separately from the village? That’s about these three villages because, outside of them, the physical my question number one. relocation, which is people losing their house, will be very minimal. So, outside of these three villages, it’s only household by household Then question number two. Somewhere I heard management. about a conservation area being suggested to be managed by some conservation agency or These three villages are Chaswanthaka and Mphindo in Blantyre NGO. This, I think, is just some assumption that District and Kambalame in Neno District. Chaswanthaka and Mphindo there’s going to be some NGO. What exactly do will be affected by the main works, so the main dam and construction you have in mind? Thank you so much. activities. And Kambalame in Neno District will be affected by the inundation of the main reservoir. That said, for the three villages, it’s not the whole village or the whole settlement that would be moved. It’s just part of the village. And so we have started the discussions with the local communities and the villagers about how this would be managed. The current plan is to move the households that have to be moved from the part of the village which will be affected to the unaffected part of the village. There is already one resettlement site identified in Chaswanthaka village and another one in Kambalame village. In Mphindo village, we’re in the process of either identifying a resettlement site or just displacing people in other places in the village. And the discussion has started with the affected persons and these communities. 4 Now, the displacement of the graveyards. This is managed according to the regulatory framework by the Department of Museums and Monuments. And the replacement sites for the graveyards for the graveyards affected in each village will be in the same village. So there will not, there should not be any impact on the shift on sea level. OK. Again, this is a current plan and this may change. For instance, if all the affected persons choose cash over in-kind compensation, the situation might be different. But this is a current plan. Suzanne Thank you for your question. The question was, for the private conservancy, how is that going to be managed and who is it going to be managed by? We’re still in development. It’s quite early days but we have had a number of discussions with WESM;the Wildlife and Environment Society of Malawi. They’re a small organization, but they have a huge number of volunteers, and they could potentially build up a team to do the management. That team might not be in existence at the moment, but it would be an NGO vehicle to bring the people together to do that management with the expertise that is needed. That’s one discussion that we’re having there. Also, the DNPW would be involved. So, it could be a combination of management, but there would be one entity, NGO, that would do the main management. And then also, we’ve been talking to the current managers of Majete, because the conservancy is very close and is touching at the northern border; that’s African Parks. And they have also said that they are interested in supporting the development of the conservancy and having a supporting or oversight role during the development while it’s getting up and running. They’re also very experienced in, obviously, managing an area, and so it would be good to re-manage that expertise. There’s also going to be a community element of the management of that park or the conservancy. And there would be opportunities for employment for the local community members if they were interested in doing so, which I’m 5 sure there will be. So, there would be representation of the different stakeholders around that area. But the most likely model is that we would bring and we would find expertise. It doesn’t maybe exist now, but it could be done through existing NGOs in the area. Veronica You talked about the access to vocational Charlotte On this vocational training question: access to vocational training is (Neno district training. I don’t know for how long will that going to be picked up as part of the community investment strategy, labor office) training be conducted. local area development planning, which has not yet been specified in significant detail. But it's an intention at this stage. And we have done And the other thing, you said you employ 100% initial investigations in March of 2024 with some of the key of the locals. How will the employment be institutions, that are based in Blantyre, and I think also the long way done? How will it be done? Will it be done by remotely, to try and get some initial information about who locally you or will you involve the government offers training. officials? The other thing we've talked about as an idea is having a process prior to 2025, 2026, when the main works will start recruiting, the main EPCs will start recruiting. We have talked about possibly having a process to mobilize a service provider to work with us. To check the existing qualifications of people in the communities and possibly validate those. So that there are some ideas underway, but it's not yet crystal clear about how that will happen. Just that there is a commitment to maximize employment opportunities for local people through the project, as we have already been doing for the last 18 months or so, since we started to have geotechnical works. On the employment, how the employment will be done, I guess that's related. We know that we're going to build a system. We know that we're going to build on the lessons learned from Kapichira, in terms of the involvement of the district labor officers. So, the actual procedures have not yet been developed because it's still a way off. But certainly, we recognize that there's a 6 very valuable role the district labor officers can play. We too intend to engage with you more specifically on that topic, the relevant districts. David Mine is on the proposed acquisition of Thank you. So, regarding the acquisition of the land for the (Department conservancy land in Neno. How will this biodiversity conservancy area, the first step is to acquire the land and of irrigation) acquisition be achieved in terms of will it be then to manage the area. So, for the first step, the land acquisition made public or to be private? And also, how is itself, as soon as the boundaries are finalized and the overall it attached to RAP? How will RAP be handled approach is approved and signed off by all the parties, this area, the here? biodiversity conservancy area on the Neno side, will be included in the Resettlement Action Plan process. If you go back to the slide Second is to do with the other speakers who where we presented the phased approach with the four stages of talked about the gender issues. We all realize land acquisition, the four Resettlement Action Plans, this area will be that a project of this nature, when it comes to included in one of these four phases. All the entitlements and all the construction, it comes with a lot of social level of restoration measures that we presented for the risk and benefits, which also have its own implications. action plans will apply for the people affected by the biodiversity Now, there could be some friction between the concern area. This is for the land acquisition. Now, when the land is locals and the incoming population. So how will acquired by the project, the intent is to have it privately managed. So we be addressing these grievances within the the current plan is to have it privately managed so the land would be communities? fenced and it would become privately managed. The last one is to do with the construction. (Charlotte) There will be some sort of borrow pits around, which could be used by the contractors to We're planning a detailed processes of engagement in September on source materials for either the dam, the dam the resettlement policy framework, including the draft proposed structure, or the access roads. How will this be entitlements and eligibility for different categories of compensation, handled in terms of will they be declared public cash and in-kind compensation. So that will include that land in those land? How will these borrow pits be handled? areas, assuming that we all agree that this is the right approach from And also, restoration after the project. a biodiversity perspective for the project. (Clement) The question was specifically mentioning tensions between local communities and newcomers and gender-based violence issues 7 arising from these tensions. What I'm about to explain applies for this specific case of gender-based violence arising from tensions from newcomers and local communities, but it will apply also to all gender- based violence issues. So first, we have, as Dominique explained in the presentation, we have a number of topic-specific gender measures, I mean at minimizing GBV, we have a GBV, a Gender-based violence service provider, they are here in the room today, to establish systems to prevent and manage GBV cases when, if, when they occur. So, these systems are outlined in the environmental and social management plans that is part of the ESIA, they will be further developed as the project progresses, and then they will be, these systems will be enforced onto the contractors, the project company, and there will be also communication to the local communities neighboring the worksites, on how to use these systems to report any gender-based violence issue, or to report any grievance, and then how it will be handled and resolved. There is already an existing grievance redress mechanism in place in the villages around the project. So, this grievance redress mechanism is already in place, what is missing and what will be developed, you know, in the coming months, is the integration of a specific treatment for GBV cases into these grievance redress mechanisms. (Charlotte) As Clement mentioned, we are in the process of finalizing the appointment of a GBV service provider. We've been through a tender process in conjunction with the PIU. What I wanted to mention was that we're not planning to wait until construction to mobilize that activity because we want to make sure that the communities are aware of the types of issues that may arise in advance and also as Dominique mentioned earlier on, we may have some work starting prior to that, for example on a resettlement site in Chaswanthaka, 8 maybe this year or next year, and the same with the road upgrade. So although the main work's not starting until early 2026, January 2026, there would be activities in 2025, potentially Q4 2024, with a resettlement site that may trigger some of these issues. My point is to reinforce to you that we are preparing and planning to manage these aspects and awareness raising now. (Dominique) On the borrow pits: this has also been an issue raised by the during the scoping meeting with the committees because the experience with the MoMA construction line, there have been plenty of borrow pits left open that then become dangerous for cattle and even for children. We've taken this into account in post-scoping meetings, and there is a very strong requirement in the contractor specifications, basically, for this type of site as for any site being open for construction, the contractor has first to map the site that they want to work on and to specify how they want to rehabilitate this before they even start the work. Then when it's mapped, and you have the rehabilitation process, it's all a matter of inspection. So, there will be weekly inspections from most of the sites during construction, and specifically at the end of construction, before the contractor demobilize, before the excavators are sent away, making sure that all the borrow pits are probably leveled, drained, and revegetated. So, yes, it's a concern of the local population. And this has been taken into account in the documentation. 9 Placid I wanted to find out from the terrestrial Jessica In terms of endangered species, I think the question was largely Mpeketura biodiversity survey whether they have referring to flora species. We looked at all the data that had been (from the identified any endangered, endemic, or rare gathered from the previous early impact assessments, going actually University of biodiversity in the 2,600 hectares that will be back to 2016, assembled all the data that we could get, and we Malawi) earmarked for the project. And if at all those conducted, additional surveys as well in representative habitats in the have been identified, any plans around seed reservoir and around the regulating, reservoir as well. No endangered banking or germplasm banking so that those species were recorded. could be conserved or preserved for posterity? Thank you We also, as part of the baseline survey, screened 171 threatened species that could potentially occur in that region, and none of those have been confirmed. We have in the impact assessment described around four species which are potentially near threatened or vulnerable that could potentially occur but have not been confirmed. There was a protected species, dull bottom. It's called Burgia melanoxylon, which is, I think it's vulnerable. That was quite a widespread species in various habitats in the reservoir area, and that was mainly the one of conservation concern that was highlighted in the report. So no, we haven't looked at requirements for seed banking, germplasm for those species, but none of them have been confirmed as being endangered. Innocent My question firstly was just a follow-up on Clement Because of time constraints, we did not include the school question in (Department relocation. I’ve been attending these meetings the presentation. But yes, you’re right. The plan is still to move the of Fisheries) for the past probably one year now and there primary school located in village, just next to the site in village. So it was one submission of relocating a primary will still be in the same village and yes, it will be moved by the project. school and during the presentations I was This school is not directly affected by the project land needs, hence it attentively listening and probably trying to find is not in the project footprint. But the reason to move it is because it out if this is still ongoing or we have dropped will still be close to the main reservoir during operation and to the the whole issue altogether but I know there road once it is upgraded. So, it’s better to move it for safety reasons was this a challenge and plan that we need to for the children and the teachers. So yes, we did forget to mention it relocate the primary school because I think of in the presentation. Sorry about that. 10 water levels is this plan still ongoing and if it is why is it not here? Thank you Solomon My understanding is that the flow downstream Leah Basically the Mphatamaga main down is creating a very large Karima (via of Mpatamanga Dam and Kapichira dam will be reservoir as we’ve talked about. That’s the first point, and I think Mictrosoft maintained to the current flow regime due to you’re aware that there’s a lot of sediment coming into the Shire Teams) the balancing effect of the greater dam. In this river, mostly sand, and it’s being transported by the Shire River we’ve case, how come are we having high erosion seen that in Kapichira that the reservoir has been filling up with downstream of Kapichira dam if the flow will be sediment and then they had to dredge to get that sediment so that maintained between the greater dam and attest to the amount of sediment that’s transiting in the in the river. Kapichira dam? I believe the impacts And in Mpatamanga reservoir is going to trap in the reservoir all of downstream of Kapichira dam are to do with the sediment coming from the upstream watershed. And that operation of Kapichira dam, not Mpatamanga sediment is going to get stuck, if you will. In the upper part of the project. There is need to consider the operation reservoir, and it will not be able to make it out of the dam. Because of the Kapichira dam in terms of identifying the that sediment is being trapped in the upper part of the reservoir, the Impact of Mpatamanga downstream of the Shiri water that is transiting downstream will not be carrying very much River, e.g. impacts on Elephant Marsh and to do sediment, because most of it’s being trapped in the reservoir at the with the Tiger fish, among others. manga and not water as it is full of energy is going to look to kind of pick up sediment as it’s moving downstream, and so that is what it’s going to cause the incision in the riverbed and the downstream impacts so yes, we are not modifying the downstream hydrology downstream of the regulating down that was that’s an important point to make also about the another question. So the flows coming out of the regulating down are the same as what will be coming into and but the manga so we’re not modifying those flows, however, we are modifying sediment transport, which is going to make it so that downstream of it. We’re not modifying those flows, however, we are modifying sediment transport, which is going to make it so that downstream of 11 it. There will be incision there will be sediment being picked up by the river, because of the sediment being trapped in upstream. However, that being said, the impacts, the way that we have understand them now will not go beyond Chikwawa so there’s no impact on elephant marsh. And I think in that same question that was also mentioned of the tiger fish. I just wanted to say, that right now, as far as we know, tiger fish is only present in the Zambezi the lower part of the Shire, but not above Kapichira falls and Mpatamanga dam is not going to have a fish pass and normally there will be no way whatsoever that in Mpatamanga will be able to contribute to tiger fish moving upstream and it will actually be a very formidable barrier to any tiger fish. Harold Yapua My question was with respect to the hydro Leah There are two dams and two powerhouses. The main dam and the (from MUST) peaking regime that you have highlighted. So main powerhouse; its role is to do hydro peaking to be able to I’m already looking at Kapichira Hydro as a provide peak energy. When it there’s the most demand, so there will fragile system arising from the effects that we be periods, where that powerhouse is running full force 550 cubic saw with Ana and Freddie. And then meters per second producing energy and there’ll be periods, where somewhere you mentioned that we may have there’ll be no energy being produced at that powerhouse and so no peaks of between two to 550 cubic meters per flow coming out. We put in to the design a regulating dam second. That is now going towards Kapichira. So downstream of that powerhouse whose sole role is to catch that I just wanted to understand what climate water when we’re peaking store it and smoothen out the flow that resilience design considerations you have comes downstream so that it’s constant. Same flow coming upstream, included in the project that would offset this same flow coming downstream with no hydro peaking signal coming massive outflows from the project from the main dam, so downstream of our regulating down there’s no Hydro peaking. There will be some margin of variation that will be allowed to allow the operators to have the flexibility, they need to operate the gates and operate their powerhouse, but there will be no hydro peaking. So, anything that happens downstream of Kapichira would be a result of Kapichira’s operating regime. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Chikwawa District Commissioner Location: Chikwawa, Zonse Lodge Date: 12/07/2024 Time: 15:50pm-16-20pm Attendees (groups): Chikwawa District Commissioner: Mr. Nardin Kamba MHPL C12 EGENCO Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Yes Presentation from SLR and C12 As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii)the findings of the ESIA assessments (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (iv) the proposed offsets for the project. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included: (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iii) Hydrology (iv) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (v) Noise Pollution (vi) Light and Visual Issues (vii) Biodiversity (viii) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to African Parks. Minutes Name Comment/Question Name Response (if any) DC You said there will be accumulation of sand in Dominique The sand will accumulate in the reservoir, there will be no need to the main dam, how do you intend to dispose remove it, the sand will accumulate on the upper part. the sand? DC You also talked that the project may have an Dominique The answer to that is no, this is part of the investigations that are effect on the bridge in 20 years to come, have starting now. These are the newest assessment results we have you already come up with an assessment where received. That’s why you have not heard of it before this. you have a guarantee that in 20 years the project will have an impact on the bridge? And have you worked with our roads authority so far? DC You said there will be an erosion between Dominique First there will be monitoring to understand where and when it is Kapichira and the bridge after 30 years, how do going to happen, if it’s coming and there will be interventions in 20 you intend to overcome this? So that the years or before, to help people to restore access to water, through erosion does not impact the communities? small scale irrigation, and fisheries industrialization. Erosion is unavoidable, we can mitigate the consequences, but the physical process will happen. So, its unavoidable because there will be no more sand transported by the river. DC You said the sand will accumulate in the Dominique There will be no impact on the reservoir but it will have an impact reservoir, so there will be no impact on the on Tedzani after 30 years. Maybe after 30 years they will start reservoir? removing it. 2 DC Are other parties like, Egenco and Tedzani Dominique EGENCO and Tedzani are aware of the development. There is a ,aware of the development plan to remove the sand when required, but it is a slow process but it’s going to happen. DC I asked about the impact on the bridge, then I Dominique That’s the plan and also Ministry of Transportation. It is very mentioned about Roads Authority. I suggest important. This is part of the process. The team will hold further that you get in touch with them so they know consultations in October. that after 20 years there will be an impact on the bridge because of the reservoir. DC On the 100% unskilled jobs for Malawians, Charlotte + One of the activities that are going on is the development of many companies, organizations and Dominique contracts, so we are putting clauses in the contractor’s contracts institutions, have always preached about 100% that unskilled labor should be 100% local. Malawians when it comes to unskilled labor jobs. But when the actual implementation of MHPL will help the local people with training to maximize the the project comes, we see a lot of importation employment opportunities. of labor. What assurance are we getting here We can’t force the contractor to hire someone they don’t want, that it will be 100% Malawians? We have Shire but we can provide training to maximize their opportunity of being Valley Transformation Project which is employed. The company has already identified vocational training importing unskilled labor from China, which a centers in Blantyre and Lilongwe, on how they can come and train Malawian can easily do. people on site. So, when the contractors come in two years’ time, there will be a list of candidates ready for use. This is the plan, and we are putting everything together to achieve it. We will prioritise locals, especially from Blantyre and Neno, as there are not much construction activities happening in Chikwawa. But because of potential impacts Chikwawa has now been included in these additional consultations. 3 Charlotte I know this meeting came at a short notice, and DC I would advise if you can also engage the DESC, as I said I am not we haven’t yet talked to the DESC. Do you want someone who really understand much issues of Environment, but I us to do anything more before October? We are have people in the environmental department, they might have expecting a full district council meeting in some input on what you’re telling me. October. Do you think this is enough between now and October? Charlotte Dominique may have mentioned the time DC So long as you inform us, I will arrange a team. If you write to us, frame. The reason why we have these meetings the environment officer will set up the date. is that we are preparing a version of the ESIA to provide to the World Bank by the end of the month, would you be available if we can come back in the next two weeks? 4 5 6 7 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: Chikwawa Traditional Authorities Location: Chikwawa, Zonse Lodge Date: 12/07/2024 Time: 16-30 – 17:20 Attendees (groups): SLR MHPL C12 TA Kasisi TA Mlili TA Katunga Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Disclosure sheet\Mpatamanga disclosure attendance sheet with the Traditional Authorities.pdf Presentation from SLR and C12 As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii)the findings of the ESIA assessments (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (iv) the proposed offsets for the project. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The environmental and social impacts for Chikwawa that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included: (i) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (ii) Hydrology (iii) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion (iv) Noise Pollution (v) Light and Visual Issues (vi) Biodiversity (vii) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to the TAs. Minutes Name Comment/Question Name Response (if any) T/A There are fishponds around the riverbanks. You Dominique Today it is very difficult to predict. But we will have monitoring mentioned that mitigation measures will only be + Charlotte gadgets in the fishponds to determine if the water levels are applied once the impact is felt. Why wait until dropping or not. These gadgets will be sending us information the project’s impact is evident to implement regarding that. these measures? Especially since the project might affect the shire river water levels. Why First, we need to understand areas that will be impacted first. If wait until the fish dams dry up? We rely on the these studies show a risk to the fishing ponds or indicate that flooding of the shire river for the dams to fill, and some will be affected earlier than expected, then the interventions people depend on these dams. will start before the waters drop. The main dam construction will commence in 2026, and the dam filling will start in 2030. The twenty years we were talking about begins from 2030. This is a very dynamic project and anything can happen before it starts, such as cyclones. The construction will start in 2 years, and dam filling will start 2030. Therefore, in the case of natural disasters, it will not be the impact of the project. 2 T/A Kasisi Thank you for the clarification. We have two Dominique Thank you rivers, the Likhubula also known as Gumbwa and the Lisuli, that depend on shire river seasonal flooding. My concern was about what would happen if the water levels drops. Thanks for explaining the interventions that will be applied if that happens and how the water levels will be monitored. I am satisfied with the answer. TA Mlili I don’t know the processes you have followed. Dominique The monitoring will be conducted on both the upper and lower Every TA has its own boundaries, so I ask you not part of the Shire River. Currently we don’t know which part will be to be political affiliated. I am unhappy that you impacted, so we will monitor the Shire River. Once the impact is had a meeting with the District Commissioner, determined, the interventions will be carried out in all the affected without including us the T/As. areas. The Kamuzu bridge and Lisungu are within my boundary, which makes me equally affected by the project. When I was young Shire river used to be very deep, but now, due to the accumulation of sand, we have floods. It seems like the development is focused on one Traditional Authority, T/A Kasisi, but my area will also be affected. Another issue I want to discuss with you is about the Kamuzu bridge. The middle pillar of the bridge has shifted. I informed the Government about this, but they did not take any action. I mentioned this because the project might inherit a problem it did not cause, so I urge you to inspect the pillar. 3 T/A Mlili I understand your point, but from your Dominic There are no commitments now, but this is noted. TA Mlili did not explanation, it seems that your boundary is the appear because we don’t have the boundary maps, but we will get Kamuzu bridge, which is in my area. However, the boundary maps from the District Office. you only mentioned T/A Kasisi, implying that the interventions will go to TA Kasisi and not T/A Mlili. T/A Mlili should also be included among the affected TAs and on the map. I want to be involved in all the meetings because the project will also impact my area. The Kamuzu bridge is in my area and given all these uncertainties, TA Mlili should be included. 4 5 6 7 8 9 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: PAPS based Off-site Location: Blantyre Mount Soche Hotel, Capital Room Date: 12/07/2024 Time: 9:30pm-11:30pm Attendees (groups): Non-Community based PAPs MHPL C12 Consultants EGENCO Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: ..\Desktop\Disclosure sheet\Mpgatamanga-ESIA_Disclosure meeting with the District Commissioner.pdf Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (iv) the proposed offsets which will impact this specific group of stakeholders. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. S137 Road works 2. Biodiversity Conservancy Area 3. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 4. Project-induced population influx and community health 5. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Name Comment/Question Name Response (if any) Robert I would like to know the current estimated cost of the Charlotte The cost of the project, to my awareness, hasn’t changed. It’s Namondwe projects and how much the partners are going out with somewhere around a billion USD, maybe a bit more. One of in monetary value? the key variables is the EPC contracts, the big Engineering Procurement construction contract. There has been a quite a I would like to know the life span of the power lot of work done in the last 5 months, to try and get a better generating plant? Because my fear is I heard something benchmarking of how much those contracts might cost and like a partnership is for 30 years. So, I think we do not therefore how much the project might cost. The short answer want a scenario whereby the plant span is 30 years, and is it hasn’t changed from the original estimates, around a the partnership is also for 30 years. billion possibly a bit more. Until we actually finalize, launch the tenders, finalize the contracts, sign them, I don’t think we’ll have a precise figure. Interm figures of how much the partners are putting in, are also still under development. So, you heard that the World Bank is part of the project and that there are four parties developing the project together. There is MHPL which is a joint venture, EDF and Scatec, a French energy company and a Norwegian energy company. So, there is MHPL which is the lead developer, which is developing the project in coordination with the government and also the IFC. So those four parties currently have a shareholding, We have meetings every month, where we present the progress of the project, everybody asks the questions, we agree on the budgets or a regular basis. So, four parties are currently developing the project. We’ve mentioned the World Bank as a major proposed lender, so currently the World Bank provides some funding t the government to support their participation in the project. But 2 the intention would be a much larger grant and this is why we are working on all of these documents. All these documents that were working on are part of securing the financing for the project. First the World Bank, they would be the first one to give funding, then there’s at least five or maybe six others, international lenders, who are expressing interest in being involved in the project and providing financing to the project, that process is being worked through, they need to do their own due diligence on the project, which is not going to start before fourth quarter this year. So, in terms of the whole question of the monetary value of the partners are putting into the project, the number of partners is still evolving, so I can’t really answer that question. I guess what I can answer is there are the current four co- developers, MHPL representing two, plus the government, plus the IFC. The World Bank is looking to be a major contributor to the project. And then there are at least five or six other international financiers from different countries, America, France, Germany, Netherlands plus the UK. Then there will be some local financing also, so all of that picture will come together, I think, over the next probably twelve months or more, but it’s not yet clear To add to my response, in terms of financing for the project, I just wanted to make one more comment which was there’s a lot of focus that we and the government together and the IFC and the World Bank, everyone is very focused on the affordability of the project and the tariff, so there is a lot of focus going on into what money is borrowed, at what rate, so what timeframe, from who, how much is the grant, how much 3 is the loan, all of that type of things to make sure the project is affordable. So just to give you some awareness that the cost of the project is being managed and monitored closely by everyone. Spencer If I heard him correctly, after the concession, he asked Khumbo I just wanted to respond to the life span of the project. Zinyemba about the lifespan of whatever will be installed there. (PIU) Because I think the concern is that you may come to a Globally, a hydropower plant life span, when you are planning point where the transition is done, and that coincides it, is pegged at 40 years, so in developing this project, the with the end of the lifespan of the machinery and partners have signed a relationship agreement. So in that whatever it is, then what happens. The Malawi relationship agreement, it has been agreed that when we government doesn’t want to be left with something start operating after between 25 and 27 years of operation, that is not working when all the partners have moved there will be recapitalization of the power plant, this means a away. major overhaul of the maintenance overhaul of the whole plant, so that when that is finished in the 27th year, for the remaining three years, we can monitor the performance of the plant after the overhaul, and then on the 30th year, they handover to the government. The interest of the government in this company will be represented by EGENCO, because EGENCO has the experience of operating hydropower plants, so EGENCO will be part of this from or during the construction, when we start operation, until when they handover. In addition to the financing of the project, as Charlotte said, we have four developers, Government, we have International Finance Corporation, then we have the EDF and Skatec. These are the shareholders of the company, amongst this, government has 30% shareholding, IFC they have 15% and then the EDF and Scatec, because they are a consortium, they 4 have a total of 55% but each one shared equally between them. In essence, I would say government has the highest shareholding, because it’s a PPP, we look at EDF and Scatec as a consortium, because if we separate them, then the government will have the highest shareholding, which is against the PPP law. Esion I am talking about the 30% shareholding by the Charlotte Yes, it’s included. It’s part of the compensation. All land is Kakhome government, does this include the 37 km of land which + Khumbo planned to be paid using the monies provided by the World this project is going to occupy? Is this 37 km of land Bank and the livelihood restoration activities will be funded costed to be part of capital investment? by MHPL, so all within the project cost. (Khumbo) So basically to reach this stage, we started in 2015, doing the initial feasibility studies up to the point when we wish to say, let’s go ahead planning this project. The government has been spending money together with IFC before we procured the sponsors. Now in the relationship agreement, we have divided the cost to preliminary development cost, and when sponsors came in, we are saying development cost. So, all these costs, each they have been accounted for and each partner, what is pending now. When we reach financial close, which is likely in October next year, all the preliminary development cost and the development cost will be capitalized into equity. So, for example, we reach financial close, we know how much EPC contract will cost, now the government, you have 30%. How much was your preliminary development cost? Let’s say it was 65 million, from 300 we have 235, this is what the government has to pump in as your equity. 5 But it will also look at project financing, look at equity and debt, how much is the equity? And how much is the debt? You multiply, then find actually how much will be needed from the government as equity. Cecilia During the presentation you mentioned that if you are Khumbo If you have, I don’t know, a farm. You have your farm Chawuluka living in Blantyre, your house will not be compensated manager who lives there in a house or any other development because you’re not affected. But I think people who you have done on that. If it is affected, we are taking that have farms and businesses there had these buildings land, including all the developments. That will be for workers who are stationed there so how is that compensated. But what we meant when you live in Blantyre, going to be handled? what we meant is if you stay here, the house which is in Blantyre will not be affected. But whatever property is on that project site and it is affected by the project, either we have to take it or for safety reasons move it further, that will be compensated 6 Methusela I want to complement the same question, some of us Clement + Thank you for your questions. The questions like this are the Mwangalika farmers, on our initial plan we wanted to move from Khumbo + very purpose of this meeting. And so first, I would like to the city to where our farms are, but you said because Prisca apologize because the presentation was not clear enough. we are not living there we are not being affected. That So let me clarify a few points. We do acknowledge that you thinking has to be taken away, because we have been are affected. It’s not what we meant to say. heavily affected even more than the people who have been living there. On the presentation you indicated What we meant to say is that for the villagers living in the the furthest of resettlement, so it seems like the last local villages who will lose their house, they will be offered people to be compensated will be in 2027. the possibility to have a replacement house provided by the project. It does not mean that the houses for the workers I don’t know why you have come up with this decision, will not be compensated. It does not mean that we think because in my case I know for sure I am 100% affected, you are not affected. No, no. my land is in the middle of the dam, so one way or another am affected. It’s just that the people having their house flooded by the reservoir in Chaswanthaka and Kambalame village will be Why would I wait till 2027 for me to be compensated? offered the possibility to choose to have a house, a If that’s the work plan do you really think about us? replacement house built by the project. Because we acknowledge that some of them are quite vulnerable. They If you give me our compensation in 2027, in case maybe do not have the financial means to rebuild a new house. And we might find some land within the catchment area we they are not used to manage huge amounts of cash. can settle, then it means if some people are being compensated in 2025, they will take this viable land. So, what we see on all big projects like this is people We all have to be compensated at the same time, so it’s receiving lots of cash at once because they are compensated up to the individuals to see how they can utilize the for the land, for the houses. It’s huge for them. Some of money or where they can settle, I think that has to be them drink it all. Some of them go and leave part of their considered family there and go, I don’t know, in Lilongwe or Blantyre. So, this is why we want to have specific treatment for these people there. It does not mean that you are not entitled to anything less. It means that we need to work with them to find something. Because they do not have the same capacities as you, we need to work for them on this replacement housing. It does not mean that it would be mandatory for them. It means that there would be a choice. 7 (Prisca) What we are saying for those that are going to be affected, the villages that are going to be affected, is not to undermine their capacity to manage the compensation, but we are conscious, based on experiences from other projects, how people have behaved after receiving a huge sum of money. Others have ended up being destitute after receiving the money. So as a safeguard that they shouldn’t be poorer than before, we want to assist. We are not going to force them, but we will provide as much information as possible on the advantages of choosing in-kind compensation. Clement On timing of compensation, we have to plan for things. And the first step will be to secure the funding of the project. The fundings will be secured in early 2025. And the financial clause will be in October next year. That’s the current plan. So, we will know only in early 2025 if the funds are secured and the project is going ahead. This is the first step. So, we cannot make any compensation before that. Because if we acquire land before that, we pay compensation, and then for any reason there is a large delay or a problem, then we will have acquired land for nothing. (Dominic) To get the funds, we need to have this type of meeting to inform you. We can’t leave you ignorant about everything and come back in 2027 and say, OK, I’m ready now, next week you’re going to be paid. The World Bank, before they say, yes, we will finance the project, they require that we come to you, that we tell you that your land is going to be 8 partly acquired, how it’s going to be acquired, and then they decide to fund. So, it’s chicken and egg stuff, but we need to come to you and have this discussion to get the funds. (Clement) Now, this is the first step. Now, then, we have to phase things because it will be a huge construction process. It will span over a number of years. And land acquisition and compensation and resettlement, it is complicated. So, one way to manage these complications is to do things in stages. So, the road will come first. So, we know we need to have the road to put the machinery onto the site, et cetera. There will be some impacts. We need to compensate them before the road starts, et cetera. Now, for the rest, we say that for the main dam, the impact will be at a later stage. So, this is why the current plan is to do the compensation at the last minute. Now, this is the principle. We cannot go into each village and deal with every person individually. You see, at this stage, we are only defining principles which should apply. If we start to look at every individual case, you’ve seen the numbers. We have more than 2,000 landowners affected in total. If we start looking at each individual case now, it will take ages. But if you have a specific situation, there is no reason why your specific situation cannot be accommodated. This is why we are starting these discussions. If some of you want to move at once before this date, let’s discuss. Because to compensate you, et cetera, we first need to have the funds. We first need to see how it works with the whole project schedule. But these are the principles, and we can discuss further. (Prisca) 9 We are looking at the PAPs in general. We have seen through experience that if you compensate people earlier than the works start, sometimes people refuse to move after they have received compensation. So that’s why we would want to plan it carefully. But what Clement has said, based on your individual case, who will be sure that when they are compensated, they will not refuse to move, then we can always discuss. But we have seen that communities, most of the times, after they have received compensation, come two, three years down the line, they will say, you have to compensate us again. So where will the money come from? So, we really have to have a good plan to make sure that when we compensate, people have the time to move, and then we proceed with the activities. Eric Kabambe Thank you very much. I think she brought in an Charlotte The general principle of good land acquisition and interesting point, the fact that some people will be resettlement is that you disrupt people or you move people ready to move out even before the works start. And she as late as possible, with the idea being that why move said that that will be open to negotiation, because people three or four years before you have to? Why create that’s probably a case that is not a normal one. What I upheaval and social disruption and everything else? So wanted to say is, some of us, certainly myself, I have that’s a general principle. I think we mentioned that there is already moved. I moved when I was told that I would going to be four main documents that we’ve been working no longer be required to be there. So, if I have moved, on as ENS safeguards documents. This is the ESIA that we it means I have incurred a lot of costs to resettle myself are presenting today. The Resettlement Action Plan/ from there to wherever I have gone. Now, that means Resettlement Policy Framework, The Biodiversity Action probably I have been put in a very difficult situation Plan and the Cumulative Impact Assessment. So those four where I have some debts or expenses that were not documents, and they’re the four documents that we’re planned initially. I am not sure what will happen, moving through, we’ve talked about the fact that there will although you’ve said that will be discussed individually. be more sort of detailed and specific consultation and But I know for certain that my place will be 100% taken engagement on the Resettlement Policy Framework, which over by the dam. And I heard that the dam, the people is what we’re now calling it. We used to call it the that will be affected by the dam will probably be preliminary RAP, in September. So that’s when we’re going compensated towards the end of the project. Now, that to go through the eligibility and entitlements framework. 10 puts us in a very big fix. I'm not sure how that is going And that is a draft. So that is the chance to be able to to be addressed. influence what that document says, because it’s a draft, before it’s finalized, before it goes to the World Bank, before it goes in for the financing. There will be more specific opportunities to talk about the content of the Resettlement Policy Framework, and whether the principle of the people in the main dam, but whether there are some aspects of the phased approach that need to be reconsidered, given the scenarios of 2020, 2021 that we all are aware of. There will be an opportunity at that time to provide more specific comments on the phased approach that is being proposed. More broadly, obviously, we need to get to financial close. At the moment, financial close is late October 2025. For the project to progress, it needs to have money to proceed. It needs to have all the lenders say, yes, this is a good project. Yes, the environmental and social risks are being managed. Yes, it’s affordable from a cost perspective, et cetera, before we have money to pay compensation. So, if there’s any compensation to be paid next year, it would be in relation to the road, pretty much, because the World Bank would provide that, in principle, as a no regrets funding. So, my point is that we need to get the project through to the lenders. You can comment on the phased approach when we consult on the resettlement policy framework. If you have specific circumstances that you, for example, in your case, or in our other colleagues’ case, where they say they would want to move early, you have to put them in writing. You have to write a letter or write a document, whatever is appropriate. Put it in writing, make a case, and then they can be treated specifically. And I think we have said that also in previous meetings. You have to use the grievance mechanism or put it in writing, and then we can actually 11 engage specifically on specific, with specific people, because that’s the process and the way we need to work. And that letter is being addressed to who? Charlotte It can be addressed to MHPL and the government together. You can address it to me, you can address it to Omori, you can address it to Khumbo if you want. We have an office in Blantyre. On our contact cards, we have our physical address for MHPL, there’s a physical address for the PIU, there’s an email address also. So use those mechanisms and put things in writing, please. 12 David Mulipa It’s a quick one just to make things easier for you as Prisca On how we manage this. Already, you are being treated regards to this particular group of stakeholders. We’re differently. You are both PAPs, even together with the dwelling on this a lot. A simple reason is that we’ve villagers, but they feel that we treat you differently. You are invested quite a lot around that area, that site. So even a special group. We meet you in hotels, while we meet them in your presentation, there was a key difference in the in the village. We want to manage this process carefully. sense that there were people residing in the villages They will also say, what about us? We would want to help there and then there’s your group. Just to make things you. We know you have already moved. We know you have easier for you as we move ahead, it’s actually due to already incurred some costs, but we have to manage this the fact that if we are going to resettle, because thing well, so that it doesn’t backfire. obviously we’ve got a large number of livestock, everything that we’ve invested years and years and years down there, we are not against the actual phasing out of the project, of the settlement payments. It’s just the timeline that basically is If we say 2027, God willing, 2030, is it start construction or finishing of construction, 2030? 2029 should be finished, right? We’re just asking that you reconsider the time frame in between those two moves, in essence, because that’s where the point of contention is. In his case, he’s already moved because the messages in the past were completely mixed. So we’re not trying to put blame on anyone, but some have moved, some are not developing their land, we’re not making any progress, simply because we’re waiting. What do we do? And also to do that, to make that next step, obviously we’ll need that. And don’t worry, we’re moving. We’re not going to say after you’ve paid us, oh no, we’re not going anywhere, because we will definitely move. So it is going forward that is going to be one of the key issues, just to be aware of. But thank you for telling us the process we put our grievances in and move forward, but just be aware of that. 13 Don Whayo For the government, my request is, be careful how you handle this. What happened to my colleague here was going to happen to me because of your attitude. Before you go on informing people to move or whatever, you should try to get more information. If this thing was going to come from the World Bank, you should find out what does the World Bank need. My boys were told, don’t grow anything from now onwards. That was 2018, 2017. This is 2024, 7 years. My daughter was developing something that I would have been benefiting from. She refused. But in the future, I know it won’t be that you have retired, but put something in your system that when you are going on big projects like this, get all the facts before you come to us. What happened to him? It’s not right. It also happened to other people here. Because, I can tell you, we can make noise here, the World Bank can go away. We can make noise, but we don’t want to do that. We want this development. Yeah, I said, we can make noise. We can have an injection to the World Bank. 14 Chichiri On part of the aquatic biodiversity impact, there’s a Dominic There’s no fish pass so the project will not be allowing Kahumbe mention of possible alien species spread. Australian red and invasive fish to travel to Lake Malawi. And then there is claw, tiger fish. I don’t know. What mitigation aspects Charlotte clearly a risk that local villagers introduce them directly in or prevention measures have been put In place in case the dam because it’s interesting to fish tiger fish. So first we this happens? Especially a risk to native fish on Lake have identified this risk that the local villagers may Malawi. introduce it. We’ve got in all our management plans we’ve got a reservoir fisheries management plan to try to organize the fisheries so fisheries associations first to avoid outsiders like from Lake Malawi to come and try to fish in the new lake. And secondly to avoid or to convince people that this is really not a good idea to introduce alien fish species. So there will be some sort of control. So you’ve got structural and non-structural measures. So you’ve got awareness, education showing the interest of villagers and then you’ve got a number of control measures but they are always limited in terms of efficiency. Because everything we do at this stage is to identify the risks secure budget to implement the things show the strategies but then there will be next steps to come again to the people. This is identified we must find a solution there are some strategies already put in the report but they will need to be refined and adjusted probably through consultation. Charlotte The project is not yet approved. I think one of the messages that we had to the communities was until the land is delineated and there is a cut off date a written cut off date issued you should still be using your land to do whatever you want. I think we are moving in the right direction in terms of what the World Bank wants we are and other lenders we are doing what we can with this process and to have good quality consultation and disclosure you will have more I think we said in September on the resettlement 15 policy framework in particular but as a general principle I think as you know you need to be able to use your land until such point as there is a formal cut off notice and delineation of the land. I know there is historical aspects that are problematic but I just wanted to reinforce that point in this meeting because we are hoping that end of October 2025 we will be at financial close but earlier than that first quarter next year the World Bank will approve the project and that will be a big tick for the other lenders to give their approval so you know there is always a risk with projects they get delayed or whatever it is so you need to keep being mindful of using your land the way that you want. Chipiliro The question is what is the criteria currently used to Clement Thank you for this question. There will be a valuation Gombwa determine compensation amounts and what will be process done by accredited valuers when we start the used to determine the compensation amounts during compensation process after the land has been delineated the resettlement process? How do you get your the compensation rates this is what you are referring to we compensation amounts? have some tentative rates that can be done now but there will need to be whatever rates we could come up now they I just wanted to make sure that the message is clear, will need to be updated if we do this in one year time two about the amount we are going to be offered and how years’ time. We will do this valuation process and we will its calculated give you the total amount of the compensation you can receive at that time. We have several categories of assets to be compensated we have structures, houses, we have crops, trees, land. For example, if we want to compensate the land. For each of the phases we will come to you and explain exact compensation rates. I know this is long time already, but the project has to be approved first. 16 Just to add, the documents that are going to be disclosed this year, will have estimates, there will be some rates, because we need to estimate the budgets for the compensations. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: African Parks Location: African Parks Board Room, Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikhwawa Date: 13 July 2024 Time: 08:00 Attendees (groups): African Parks: John Adendorff, Martin Awazi MHPL: Charlotte Bisley, Israel Chokuwenga, Johnnie Ntakula, John Nyirenda, Beatrice Pemba, Ibrahim Mitole EDF: Leah Beche SLR: Dominique Buffin, Clement Rupassard, Jessica Hughes TBC: Suzanne Livingstone C12: Elizabeth Molloy Note Taker: Elizabeth Molloy Attendance Register Taken – Yes PRESENTATION FROM SLR and TBC As an introduction to the meeting, TBC and SLR made a presentation of (i) the findings of the ESIA assessments (ii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (ii) the proposed offsets for the project. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included (i) Physical displacement, Loss of Land and Access to Land, (ii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iii) Hydrology (including primary reserve) (iv) Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion, (v) Noise Pollution (vi) Light and Visual Issues (vii) Biodiversity incl. specific mitigation actions for Majete (viii) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets (ix) Proposed Supporting Conservation Actions This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was given to African Parks. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Page 5 / 11 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Displacement and relocation content from disclosure presentation was We would like to also touch on displacement, and labour. Where is the labour presented. coming from? Displacement might affect us. Where are the people going? Do you acknowledge charcoal making as an industry? We don’t recognise it as an industry, as its illegal. In the RAP, we recognise it as an income source of affected people. It is one of the main sources of income in the affected area. Have the resettlement figures been ground truthed? Particularly the 132kw They have been ground truthed in the main dam footprint, where we transmission line, because they look excessive to say there are 70 – 80 HHs conducted surveys. On the transmission lines and access roads, the current living there. We are very familiar with the area. figures are an estimate. These figures include people who are using the land – not just formal land parcels. If the estimates are wrong and there are fewer people affected, it will be a good thing. On the service road to the regulation dam, even if it is a private road, it will Both the service road and the 132kv line will increase access to Majete not be respected. People will use that road. There is very little distinction which will impact Majete. The ESIA is proposing measures to limit influx between a private road and a public road in this country. including the installation of checkpoints at the junction between the S137 and the service road, and two other locations which will act to curb wildlife poaching and the charcoal trade. When developing the ESMS, the details of the checkpoints will be worked out together with stakeholders including African Parks. You say that the negative impacts can be managed, and it’s all well and (Leah) Our project is also funded by other international funders, so any good to say they will be monitored, but what are the consequences of not non-conformity – They are going to question MHPL on that and will hold sticking to the agreements? We see it every day with Kapichira and SVTP, us to account for that. where agreements have been made, they do not stick to them, and there are no consequences. Projects that have many International Finance Organisations tend to be very strict with holding projects to their commitments. Their reputations are at stake, so the consequences can be quite extreme. (Dominique) The fact that the monitoring is disclosed is important, because if there is an issue, you can write to the president of any of the agencies to complain. You won’t have to fight to prove if there are non- conformities, because the data is there. The data will be publicly disclosed on the internet. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Is the area with high levels of water variation going to be fenced off? (Leah) The most dangerous area is going to be fenced – from the main Because it is quite dangerous. dam to the beginning of the reg reservoir – because of spillage from the main dam, and because of the powerhouse. The reservoir will fill slowly, it’s progressive, so its not going to have sudden changes. How did you take the SVTP canal into consideration in your models? When I All of the water uses were integrated into the model, including the speak to EGENCO etc, there doesn’t seem to be alignment between the 16m3/s that will be abstracted by the SVTP canal. But we are talking projects. about coarse sediment transport – most of that happens during high water events, so the SVTP canal doesn’t impact that. Did you factor in the Mkulumadzi in your sedimentation modelling, as that All the tributaries were integrated into the sedimentation modelling. plays a big role in carrying sediment? That’s why you still have some deposition happening, as that sediment is coming from Mkulumadzi. The erosion in Majete is predicted to be positive, as currently many pools which are required by aquatic species are filled with sediment, but it’s predicted that these erosion impacts will improve that. Currently water levels are very high in the Shire. We have Elephants trapped Mpatamanga Dams will not improve or change water flows. for 146 days on one side of the river, as the water levels are too high for them to cross. They have resorted to eating the baobabs trees. Another project has constructed a building to measure sediments inside the We did modelling of predicted sediment loads and transport for various park. However, nothing materialised. Kapichira is a good example. Flushing scenarios into the future. We only need the top 0.5m – 3m for exercises were done with little notice, and that’s when you recognise the operations. In 100 years, the sediment still wouldn’t have an impact on importance of sediment. The capacity of Kapichira was really affected. production. This is different to Kapichira where it’s a small reservoir, and Although this is a larger dam, what’s going to happen in the future in terms it fills up very quickly and you end up just using the flow of the river. of sediment? Kapichira will benefit from Mpatamanga, as the vast majority of their sediment comes from the middle shire above Mpatamanga Mkulumadzi is a concession until 2028, like AP. AP is in the process of renegotiating a 15 year extension. When that happens, Mkulumadzi will get an extension under AP. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 How do you factor noise? Because with Kapichira, we can sometimes hear The contract with the EPC contractor will include stipulations that include the reversing of the Kapichira vehicles from 4km away. The wind conditions activities such as no blasting or no piling at night. However, there are and many factors affect this. The levels to which miombo woodland buffers some activities that happen at night because it’s too hot during the day. sound is also a factor. In the full ESIA, it describes the consultation process that will happen For AP noise pollution is not a big issue, but it is for our partners, between AP and the EPC contractor to negotiates the practicalities of Mkulumadzi, and if it impacts them, it impacts us. noise etc and what activities can happen at different times and to what level. The reality is that if the project falls behind schedule, there are pressures from government, and then work will happen at all times of day and night. We received a letter from Gov informing us that we should not stand in the way of increased in the pace of work (for Kapichira). For noise, it will actually be to our benefit if noise levels discourage animals from remaining close to the fence and construction site by noise. The siren is only at the main dam? Correct For the lights, is there a baseline by which we can compare impacts later Absolutely on? Discussions included having fencing all across the river, as we want to avoid We can show you the proposal for the fencing, as it has been designed hippos and crocs getting into the dam taking all of your previous suggestions into account. There are opportunities in the Conservancy to set up a lodge, and employing Because most of the infrastructure is on the Blantyre side, this is an people from the local community, would give real benefits to the local opportunity for Neno to also benefit. community. There needs to be a lot of sensitisation. These community conservancies have worked elsewhere. There are opportunities to engage GVH Felemu on this. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Buffer zone is going ahead, with or without the Mpatamanga project. We Thanks, we have presented these issues in the documents. are having the chiefs coming in on Monday for a meeting. The PIU and MHPL team have had concerns about whether this approach It’s not a [shared] community benefit, it’s the landowner who benefits. We has the potential to cause social conflict, so it is being further examined, say instead of doing agriculture/charcoal, if you conserve it, we will pay you but right now, the conservancy is being explored as the first option for the charcoal/agricultural value. So, it’s the landowner who must police that. terrestrial habitat. Most people want it. Who wants to farm in dry and barren land when you can get the same benefit for conservation activities? We are working to dispel the idea that we are taking over land. We are not doing that at all. We will expand this conservation footprint over time, so more community members will benefit over time. It will take time to change to mindset, but as long as people come on willingly, it can work. We work very closely with communities. It’s planned as a 6 year intervention. We have identified the hotspots and are targeting those, but we have 90% buy in of people wanting to be involved, because it’s a difficult climate for agriculture and people would prefer to have this. We are widely recognised as the best model of community engagement in Malawi. We have a board and committee, and 53 wildlife groups around Majete. Conservancy would be our third choice of terrestrial offset. East bank would The issues of gazetting the East Bank was discussed at the offset be the first choice, then the unofficial buffer zone, and then the workshop with DPNW. We provided a document detailing the issues conservancy. around the gazettement to DPNW. This was shared with you. We have heard from the PIU that DPNW will be discussing this issue next week. The conservancy may end up like Lengwe, where it’s not managed properly. Who will have the mandate? We have seen similar issues in Mulanje; If you The issue has always been there, but the project has shone a light on it. don’t have the mandate, you can’t make it work. Your conservation area, if you don’t have proper mandate, it will fail. Our big concern, as AP, is for the East bank. We don’t have the mandate for it, and if we lose that, we will lose Majete. We have 5 very active TAs including TA Kanduku and TA Chapananga who are extremely supportive. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 On the Gazettement, we will push as hard as we can, but we don’t want to We agree and are also working towards this goal. MHPL have already affect our relationship with DPNW. We are experiencing increasing been doing as much as they can to support that. problems with pressure on the east bank. This issue is not going away. We would rather deal with it now while Kandewo village is still small. There’s also an opportunity with the Kapichira issue to also support the same things. {On the potential for WESM to manage the conservancy} We work with We need to look at the modalities and how it would look from legal WESM. At the moment, they’re struggling to make ends meet, but this terms. would help them, and this is something we would support. The land will be acquired by the project. It will belong to the project for We have these incubator projects, and this could fall under that. I’m not 30 years, but after that it will be retroceded to GoM. The agreements sure if AP would take this on officially as an incubator project, but it with WESM should include exit plans and strategies for how it will be definitely meets many of our criteria. handed over to the end. It would be managed as a private conservancy, and then handed over after 30 years. We work well with WESM, but we need more Malawians involved. A lot of the people involved, beyond Tiwonge, are expats, but they need to get more Malawians involved. They must not be under illusions of how easy this will be. Tiwonge must come and talk to this about it. Acquiring the land will be great, as you will have the mandate, but if you have too many parties, it will get difficult. In general, we would definitely be on board. Pangolins – we need to consider whether its feasible to work with We spoke previously about pangolins being very territorial, so if you communities on pangolin conservation. Once the syndicates move it, move them to the reserve, they will try to move back. Is that a risk? pangolins will not be safe. It would be irresponsible right now to leave pangolins in the community, until we have done intensive sensitisations. Recently we had two tagged pangolins in the reserve, and within weeks both have disappeared. This has also happened in other reserves. By tagging, you are actually putting a beacon on that animal, and the syndicates can then track them. [On the issue of pangolins not liking to be relocated] We had a reintroduced pangolin walk 34km over two days and then settled within the reserve. We have reintroduced 80 pangolin into the reserve, and we will reach a saturation point, so that’s why we were considering the community option. However, are they going to be safe there? Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 WESM has a demographic issue, as the vast majority are expats. The MSc interventions will also work on increasing the numbers of Malawians who are interested and engaged in biodiversity work. On pangolins, we have to be careful on how much exposure we give them, as it can also make people more aware of how valuable they are and put them at risk. It’s a process and we have to do it responsibly. If we could get Lengwe properly protected then we could move rhinos to A potential action is to put pre-emptive actions in place for rhino Lengwe. But right now, we cannot move them there, as the risks are too protection in Liwonde NP. high. Majete currently has a deficit of $1.2 million USD. We would see some of the biggest gains in the MSc programme We are not seeing the gains for Majete. They have been cut from the offset The increased patrol activities are still there. programme? We would like to see the suggestions for fencing and gates around the north The proposed fencing plan for the HPP and proposed conservancy was boundary described. Will you outright acquire the land for the conservancy for the project? Yes We might have to draft an MoU for the use of the little piece of land around Noted. There could also be an MlU in place to agree on access for the reg dam. crossing the river using the reg dam. When I came to Majete, I was told that there was a 5km buffer zone, but I got legal opinion on it, and there’s no legal backing for it. We have a lumpsum of $8,000 this year to test out the voluntary ‘unofficial buffer zone’ model, and to prove that it works. On tree nurseries, we move around 90,000 seedlings from our own nurseries, and we have 3 community nurseries. Right now we have community managers checking success rates, we are using Survey 123 for this. We don’t want to be planting trees, we want to be saving trees. The seed base is still there, the trees have just been felled. There are opportunities to include bee hives for the unofficial buffer zone. This year we have processed 8,000kg of honey. We are selling in major retailer in Blantyre and Lilongwe. The idea is to export AP honey eventually. In the past Kapichira had excellent E&S guidelines, but it all came to nothing. With the high water levels in the lake and the river, if managed properly, the dam might improve the situation. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_African Parks - Majete_MoM_13July2024 Location: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa Date: 13 July 2024 Time: 14:00 Attendees (groups): Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope: Johan Van Backstrau, Anneri Van Backstrau MHPL: Charlotte Bisley, Patricia Najeya, Israel Chokuwenga, Johnnie Ntakula EDF: Leah Beche SLR: Dominique Buffin, Jessica Hughes TBC: Suzanne Livingstone C12: Elizabeth Molloy Note Taker: Elizabeth Molloy Attendance Register Taken - Yes PRESENTATION FROM SLR and TBC As an introduction to the meeting, TBC and SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design, particularly the regulatory dam (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will impact Mkulumadzi Lodge (ii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (ii) the proposed offsets for the project. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included: (i) Hydrology: Changes in River Flow (ii) Downstream Erosion Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion (iii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iv) Noise and Landscape (v) Biodiversity incl. specific mitigation actions for Majete (vi) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets (vii) Proposed Supporting Conservation Actions This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was sent to the Robin Pope Safaris team after the meeting. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaris_MoM_13July2024 Page 5 / 5 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) We have access to Mkulumadzi from the North Gate but we don’t know the There’s some track improvements planned, and also a plan for a state of the road. bridge/crossing point across the Mkulumadzi. It’s not confirmed what form that bridge may take yet. A question we had previously is how is flow going to be affected? Changes in river flow topic covered in the presentation (With noise levels) We will have to drive further to see the animals. The problem is during the night, not during the day. Contractors are required to list the activities they will do at night and to do a noise risk assessment for these activities. There will also be regular meetings with Mkulumadzi, AP and MHPL at which issues can be raised. Currently, we don’t have many sand banks in front of the lodge. It’s mainly That accumulation of sediment is unnatural, and you will start to slowly at the confluence of the Shire and Mkulmadzi. see a reduction, but we’re not predicting significant impacts for hippos and crocs because they are very adaptable. (In terms of incursions into the park) We’ve had two people walk through The proposed conservancy will add extra protections against influx and camp over the last month. incursions to the Robin Pope Concession. Will the water level come up quite quickly after the powerhouse? The variation is between 6 – 8 m twice a day, but the rate of increase in water level is slow. We are predicting a rise of 1cm per minute. We will restrict activities in the regulating reservoir to limit risk of stranding. We see between 0.5m and 1m in water level variations at the moment. Currently water level fluctuations are less than normal because of the high wate levels coming from the lake. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Location: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa Date: 13 July 2024 Time: 14:00 Attendees (groups): Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope: Johan Van Backstrau, Anneri Van Backstrau MHPL: Charlotte Bisley, Patricia Najeya, Israel Chokuwenga, Johnnie Ntakula EDF: Leah Beche SLR: Dominique Buffin, Jessica Hughes TBC: Suzanne Livingstone C12: Elizabeth Molloy Note Taker: Elizabeth Molloy Attendance Register Taken - Yes PRESENTATION FROM SLR and TBC As an introduction to the meeting, TBC and SLR made a presentation of (i) the project design, particularly the regulatory dam (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will impact Mkulumadzi Lodge (ii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts (ii) the proposed offsets for the project. The environmental and social impacts that were described, as well as the proposed mitigation measures for each, included: (i) Hydrology: Changes in River Flow (ii) Downstream Erosion Reservoir Sediment Trapping and Downstream Erosion (iii) Influx: Project-Induced In-Migration (iv) Noise and Landscape (v) Biodiversity incl. specific mitigation actions for Majete (vi) Proposed Biodiversity Offsets (vii) Proposed Supporting Conservation Actions This presentation was interspersed with, and followed by, Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation was sent to the Robin Pope Safaris team after the meeting. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaris_MoM_13July2024 Page 5 / 5 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) We have access to Mkulumadzi from the North Gate but we don’t know the There’s some track improvements planned, and also a plan for a state of the road. bridge/crossing point across the Mkulumadzi. It’s not confirmed what form that bridge may take yet. A question we had previously is how is flow going to be affected? Changes in river flow topic covered in the presentation (With noise levels) We will have to drive further to see the animals. The problem is during the night, not during the day. Contractors are required to list the activities they will do at night and to do a noise risk assessment for these activities. There will also be regular meetings with Mkulumadzi, AP and MHPL at which issues can be raised. Currently, we don’t have many sand banks in front of the lodge. It’s mainly That accumulation of sediment is unnatural, and you will start to slowly at the confluence of the Shire and Mkulmadzi. see a reduction, but we’re not predicting significant impacts for hippos and crocs because they are very adaptable. (In terms of incursions into the park) We’ve had two people walk through The proposed conservancy will add extra protections against influx and camp over the last month. incursions to the Robin Pope Concession. Will the water level come up quite quickly after the powerhouse? The variation is between 6 – 8 m twice a day, but the rate of increase in water level is slow. We are predicting a rise of 1cm per minute. We will restrict activities in the regulating reservoir to limit risk of stranding. We see between 0.5m and 1m in water level variations at the moment. Currently water level fluctuations are less than normal because of the high wate levels coming from the lake. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_Mkulumadzi Lodge – Robin Pope Safaries_MoM_13July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Nkata Location: Kachere CBO Date: 15/07/ 2024 Time: 10:30:11:50 am Attendees MHPL (groups): SLR C12 GVH Nkata VH Botoman VH Singano ADC Chairman Kuntaja Men and women of Nkata, Botoman, and Singano villages Note Taker: Grace Kaiya Attendance Register Taken...pictures\S137_Community Sensitisation Attendance Register for Nkata, Singano, and Botoman Villages.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) The overview of what the MHPP is all about, (ii) the shareholders of the MHPP, (iii) the importance of the MHPP to Malawi, (iv) the layout of the dams, (v) the surveys that have already been done in preparation for the MHPP. The purpose of the S137 community sensitization meeting included (i) the introduction of the S137 road, (ii) the importance of the S137 road, (iii) the activities that will be implemented, (iv) the project’s facilities and operating mode, (v) the anticipated impacts of the S137 road on the people in the communities around it, (vi) the government’s standard road reserve, (vii) the possible land acquisition, compensation and resettle- ment of the people in the road reserve. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported below. A copy of the project newsletter was given to participants. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) You said the road will go from Chileka Airport and will cut off at Nkula turn off? Why is that? Yes, the tar road will start from Chileka Airport and will cut off at Nkula turn off, this is because this part of the road is bad during rainy season which makes it hard to travel along. There will also be a tar road section in Chikuli Market. We have heard of what the compensation and No, we are not going to help the people resettle that are in the road reserve. This is be- resettlement arrangement will be like, but are you cause land compensation will not be provided. However, whoever is affected will be as- going to help the people resettle? sisted to have their property restored in its value, that goes for structures, crops etc I also just wanted to comment that we would all be Just like you we would like for this project to be approved and become successful. This is really happy if this road development became because Malawi will benefit a great deal from the success of this project especially where successful. This is because the road being built will eradicating issues of power shortage is involved. benefit us in many ways. I would like to ask a question on employment. When The contractors that are in charge of building the road will be the ones that are in charge the time comes who will be responsible for hiring us of the employment processes. However, at MHPL have a recruitment process that needs for these possible job opportunities? Is going to be the to be followed by the contractors. For example: people may get firstly informed about chiefs or will you guys be responsible for that these vacancies then interviews will be carried out to select the best candidate for the po- personally? sition. No one can force a core contractor to hire anyone but policies will be in place to prioritise local employment for unskilled labour. There are times when people are asked to pay money Even though the contractors are the ones that are in charge of the employment, MHPL if they want to be employed and women are asked for are putting policies in place for core contractors in terms of the employment processes. sexual favors in return for employment. How are you There have going to make sure that this does not happen when the time comes. I would like to comment that it would be great if you Let us all hope for the best. built us this road since you seem not to be sure if this project will be approved or not. This is because we are tired of these dusty roads and we would like the development that this road will bring. I would also like to plead with you to make sure that That would indeed be great. Be assured that if this project is approved the surrounding this project is approved. I believe that with the communities will be the ones that will be considered for the unskilled labour. availability of jobs will reduce the crime rates in our community since most people have nothing to do. 2 3 4 5 6 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Solomoni Location: Chigumukire School Date: 15/07/ 2024 Time: 02:30 – 03:45 pm Attendees MHPL (groups): SLR C12 GVH Solomoni VH Ntantha VH Jerani VH Mwansambo ADC Chair Kuntaja Men and women of Solomoni, Ntantha, Jerani, Mwansambo village Note Taker: Grace Kaiya Attendance Register Taken…pictures\S137_Community Sensitisation Attendance Register for Solomoni, Ntatha, Jerani, and Mwansambo Villages.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) The overview of what the MHPP is all about, (ii) the shareholders of the MHPP, (iii) the importance of the MHPP to Malawi, (iv) the layout of the dams, (v) the surveys that have already been done in preparation for the MHPP. The purpose of the S137 community sensitization meeting included (i) the introduction of the S137 road, (ii) the importance of the S137 road, (iii) the activities that will be implemented, (iv) the project’s facilities and operating mode, (v) the anticipated impacts of the S137 road on the people in the communities around it, (vi) the government’s standard road reserve, (vii) the possible land acquisition, compensation and resettle- ment of the people in the road reserve. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported below. A copy of the project newsletter was given to participants. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) When should we expect the road to start being built? As we stated earlier the project has not been approved yet. Indeed, we have completed a couple of surveys in preparation for this project, but project is still yet to be approved. Once we are done with the preparations and the project is approved, then we will be able to know when exactly this road can be expected to start being built. Why is the tarmac only going up to Nkula turn off, We noted that this part of the road is especially bad during rainy season. We are not done when your project is all the way up to Shire? with the designs yet but this part was one of the parts that were prioritized because of how bad they get during rainy season. I am sure you will agree with me that traveling through this part of the road during rainy season is not always safe. There have been people before that have come to us We are not aware of any arrangements that you made with the government or any other and promised to build us this road including the organizations concerning this road so we will speak for ourselves. The main purpose of government, but none of them ever lived up to their building this road is not charity, we are building this road because we will need it when promises. How are we to trust that your organization our project starts. So if we do not end up building this road it will be because our project will indeed follow through your promise and build us was not approved, but if our project is approved, then rest assured that the road will be this land. built because our project will also need it for transportation. 1 You mentioned that with the coming of this road For any job opportunities that require unskilled labor, it is MHPL’s policy to consider the people will get job opportunities. Are we also going to people in the communities that the project is in. Also note that no one can force a core be considered for these job opportunities or you’re contractor to employ anyone but in MHPL's recruitment polices sourcing unskilled labour going to bring in your own people for these from the local communities are a priority and this will be written into the contracts opportunities. between MHPL and the core contractor too. You will indeed see other people that are not from your community as part of the labor, and these people will be considered for the skilled labor since they are the ones that were especially equipped that that specific expertise. What did you say your organization’s name was We are called Mpatamanga Hydro Power Limited (MHPL). Our organization partnered again? We want to make sure that no one, who is not with the government and international funders. supposed to, claims to be the one that has built the road when the time comes. When you start building this road, will you close off When roads are being built the whole road is never closed. The road is usually built from the whole road? Or are you going to find a way for us side to side. This means that only one side of the road is closed and the other side is left to still travel? Because if the road is closed then our to be used by people. So to answer your question, the road will not be fully closed and businesses will be put on hold. you will be able to carry on with your businesses. I remember a while back, we saw you digging the We did dig up some holes in the road, and if you noticed this we did it systematically. road a couple of times, what kind of surveys were This is because we were collecting soil samples so that we can prepare on how best to going on at that time? build this road when the time comes. Before you build a house, you don’t just build it before you know whether it will hold the foundation or not, it is the same with building a road. We need to know what kind of soil is there to prepare for how to build the road. On the possibility of the job opportunities that this Yes, women will also be considered for these opportunities. MHPL follows the road will bring, will women also be considered? government policies of gender balance in employment. There will most likely be jobs that women can handle and they will be considered for those. With all the information that you have provided to us We are hoping just as much as you are that this project will be approved. This is because you have given us a hunger for many things such as the success of this project will greatly improve Malawi especially where quality of the availability of a good road, job opportunities and possible business expansions, we plead with you to do electricity is involved. all you can to make sure that this project is approved because we are now very hopeful. 2 3 4 5 6 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Mchenga Location: Mchenga Headquaters Date: 16/07/ 2024 Time: 9:20 – 10:30 pm Attendees MHPL (groups): SLR C12 Senior Chief Kuntaja GVH Mchenga GVH Kuntaja GVH Solomon ADC Chair Kuntaja VDC Chair Mchenga Men and women of Beni, James and Mchenga villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken...\Desktop\Disclosure sheet\Mpatamanga Community Sensitization meeting attendance sheet, TA kuntaja.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR made a presentation of (i) the purpose of the ESIA Scoping Meeting, (ii) the project facilities and op- erating mode, (iii) key dates for the project development and the ESIA process. The potential environmental and social impacts that will be examined This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the project newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response During the road construction, will the road between Blantyre and Mwanza be closed? There was a bridge The road will not be closed and the S137 will remain a public road. A bridge crossing connecting people from Blantyre to Mwanza, but it the Shire river will be reconstructed so that will enhance connectivity to Neno's side. was washed away, making travel difficult. Will you build us a new bridge to restore the connection? As mentioned during the presentation the only available information is about S137 road, with the tarmac starting from Chileka airport to Nkula Turnoff. However, since it has I want to request that in the first phase of road been requested, we will include it in our reports. construction, the tarmac should be laid from Chileka The Tarmac is prioritized for parts of the road that become inaccessible during rainy airport to Chikuli. In your presentation, you season, while other parts will have gravel. The design is not yet finalized, and we will mentioned that the tarmac road would start from update you with more information as it becomes available. Chileka Airport to Nkula turnoff. However, during the We will also include the issues of schools and hospitals in our reports and update you as rainy season, the road from Nkula turnoff to Chikuli soon as we have more information. The project Is still in the development stage, becomes inaccessible. Many people from our village assessments are ongoing, and it has not yet been approved. go to hospitals in Chikuli, and the major market we There will be more community engagements meetings to update you on the progress rely on is also there. Additionally, we need schools, as there is no national secondary school in T/A Kuntaja. And we also need hospitals. Beside road construction, what else is the project going to do for us? You mentioned that there will be employment opportunities due to the road construction. However, MHPL's labor recruitment policy is to favor local employment and most times you end up hiring people from other particularly communities affected by the project, it also has been incorporated in EPC districts leaving out those from the communities that contractor requirements. The aim is to have 100% of the unskilled labour from the local have been impacted by the project, what strategies are communities. you going to use to make sure that people from this community have a chance of being employed? Regarding corruption and sexual harassment. We strongly encourage women to You also mentioned that interviews will be conducted participate. Additionally, community grievances committees will be established for during the recruitment process, but we have seen people to voice out their concerns and complaints. There is also Environment and Social instances where the recruiters asking for money or Action plan department will also address various issues in the project. demanding sex from women in exchange for employment. What strategies will you implement to On the issue of electricity connections, we understand your concerns, but for now, the insure this doesn’t happen? main focus is on the road. We are not in a position to provide more information on electricity connections at this time. Once we have updates, we will share them with you. Additionally, we have seen electricity projects like the The project is not yet approved, which is why we can’t provide more details, currently Nkula project, where only people living in town and the only information available is about the road. cities benefit from electricity connection. What strategies will you use to ensure that people in this community also get connected to the electricity and benefit from the project? We need your assistance with the bridge issue, we (Senior Chief Kuntaja) have another bridge down there, it was washed away I will address this bridge issue. There is a big river called likhubula, and the bridge was during the cyclone, we can’t access the mill due to the washed away. I have informed the OPC, and they are still searching for contractors to bridge being out. Please help us resolve this. rebuild the bridge. But these people are here today because of the road and electricity project in Mpatamanga, those who built structures within the road reserve did so without informing the village chief. Now you have heard that these structures will be demolished due to the project. If you had informed us before starting construction, we could have advised you on where to build. Page 1 / 14 - - - - - - - - - - - - - Mpatamanga S isclosure Meeting: H Mvundula Location: Andiseni Roman Catholic ground Date: 16/07/2024 Time: 1:30 – 14:50 Attendees (groups): MHPL SLR and C12 Senior group Mvundura GVH Chikumbu GVH Mbanda Chikumbu VDC Chairman Mbanda VDC Chairman Men and Women from ,Chikumbu,Malire,Mbanda and Mvundula Villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken:..\Disclosure sheet\Mphatamanga ESIA_Community Sensitization meeting_Attendance sheet for Mvundula,Malire,Mbanda and Chikumbu.pdf PRESENTATION FROM SLR As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation (1} S137 upgrade (i} Activities to be implemented (ii} Potential posit- ive impacts and enhancement (iii} Potential negative impacts and mitigation measures (2} Main dam Construction (i} Activities to be implemented (ii} Potential positive impacts and enhancement (iii} Potential negative impacts and mitigation measures (3} Processes and Procedures to be followed. This presentation was then followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported in the next page. A copy of the project newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) There are structures along the road built for business During the presentation, we mentioned that those with structures in the road reserve will purposes that we rely on. How do you plan to support receive compensation for the structures, trees, and crops located there. However, since the those who have structures within the road reserve? road reserve land belongs to the government, there will be no compensation for the land itself. Additionally, further assessments will be conducted on the structures within the road reserve. You mentioned that the tarmac will extend from Chileka As we mentioned, the design is not yet complete. The project engineers are aware of the road Airport to Nkula Turnoff. However, beyond Nkula conditions and areas that become inaccessible during the rainy season. Turnoff, the road becomes inaccessible during the rainy For now, the only information we have about the road is what we have provided to you. season. Are you still planning to use gravel for this section My question is about compensation. Will you simply Specific processes will be followed according to international standards. As part of this assess the shop and decide how much to pay for it, or process, we will conduct a market survey to determine the current cost of materials and will you discuss with the owner to determine how much compensate accordingly. was spent on building the structures? The compensation provided will enable you to rebuild the structures elsewhere. However, as mentioned, the project is not yet approved. If it gets approved, there will be more meetings to discuss the entitlement metrics. More details will be provided at that stage. What about those structures that are just 2 or 3 meters That level of communication will be provided once the project is finalized and progresses. We from the road reserve? Will these also be displaced, and will communicate this in advance when we reach that stage. These considerations will be part will their owners receive compensation? of the process. The design has not been finalized yet, and more assessments will follow. I have a comment. I want to thank you for coming and sharing the information clearly and for providing thorough answers to the questions posed. That is very satisfying. Please continue to update us whenever you have new information Will the compensation be paid before road construction Compensation is typically paid before construction begins. Additional assessments will be begins or after it is completed? conducted, and we will keep you updated as new information becomes available. You mentioned there will be no land compensation, but As we mentioned, further assessments will be conducted, and we will provide updates as new there are individuals who have occupied the land within information becomes available. However, it’s important to remember that all land belongs to the road reserve before the road was established. What the government, and the dimensions of the road reserve are also set by the government. will be done for those people? Page 2 / 12 Page 3 / 12 Page 4 / 12 Page 5 / 12 Page 6 / 12 Page 7 / 12 Page 8 / 12 Page 9 / 12 Page 10 / 12 Page 11 / 12 Page 12 / 12 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Mkunje Location: Tagwirizana Orphanage Date: 17 July 2024 Time: am Attendees (groups): GVH Makunje VDC Chair Makunje Men and women of Makunje village SLR C12 MHP Note Taker: Vicia Chilikwako Attendance Register Taken – Yes Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and its consultants made a presentation on the following topics: A. S137 Road Upgrade i. Activities to be implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. Main Dam Construction i. Activities to be Implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. RLRAP: Processes and procedures to be followed Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Mkunje _MoM_18July2024 Page 5 / 4 Question/Comment Response How far did you say the road will go? The tar road will start from Chileka Airport to Nkula turn off, then from there it is gravel up to Chikuli Market and a portion of tar in Chikuli Market and then gravel again until we get Mpatamanga. The final road design is not completed yet, this is the information we have for now. I wanted to plead with you to extend the road, don’t We cannot promise you anything, but be assured stop at Nkula turn off, connect it all the way to that your request will go into the meeting Chikuli. minutes. I also wanted to make a comment but it is also more The road does not only benefit you, it also benefits of a plea. Please make sure that you don’t hastily build the Project, as we will also be using it the road, we’re hoping for a road that will last. to get to the MHPP, be assured that the durability of the road is as important to you as it is to us, and the plan is to make it as durable as we can. We have heard of what the compensation and The compensation and resettlement arrangements resettlement arrangement is for the people that are will be different because the two in the road reserve, is the arrangement the same as situations are different. The ones along the Shire river the one that you are making for the people that are own those lands while the people in affected along the areas that you are planning to the road reserve are on government land, the land build the dams? does not belong to them. Would you clarify on why you are saying the We are following the standard laws that were made compensation between the people that are affected by the government as far as roads are along the shire and the ones that are in this supposed concerned. When roads are made, the government land reserve will be different? Because initially the informs the chiefs about these laws road was made inside people’s lands. Most of the and it is the responsibility of the chiefs to inform people that are in the supposed road reserves are their people about these laws. If this citizens of this community and they and their families road was made inside people’s lands, then the people have been here way before the land was even made. must have protested when the land was being made. But if no protests were made at that time then this road cannot be claimed by anyone because it is a road that is recognized be the government, therefore the standard rules of roads will also apply to it. Are we going to be considered for the job MHPL is committed to employ unskilled labor in the opportunities that you mentioned about earlier? We communities where the have noticed that there are times when a project is project is happening. Be assured that even though going on in our communities and they bring in people we cannot employ everyone, but you to do jobs that we can also do without any trouble. will be considered for the unskilled labor. We usually have interviews to make the selection fair so even if you cannot write you do not have to worry about it because you will not be expected to write. Will people still be allowed to carry on with their No one would be allowed to do anything in the road businesses along the road? reserve if the project is approved and the road is built. However, anything that is done outside of the road reserve will not be controlled by the project. On the possibility of the job opportunities that this Yes, women will also be considered for these road will bring, will women also be considered? opportunities.. With all the information that you have provided to us you have given us a hunger for many things such as We are hoping just as much as you are that this the availability of a good road, job opportunities and project will be approved. This is because Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Mkunje _MoM_18July2024 possible business expansions, we plead with you to the success of this project will greatly improve do Malawi especially where quality of all you can to make sure that this project is approved electricity is involved. because we are now very hopeful. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Mkunje _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Mkunje _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Kadikira Location: Chikuli CBO Date: 17 July 2024 Time: am Attendees (groups): GVH Nkhumba, VH Mkwezalamba, VH Chikhandwe, VH Kadikila, VH Nkhumba and VH GalufuVillages. Also in attendance were; Senior Chief Kadikila, VDC Chair Kadikila and Chikuli Trading Centre Market Chairman, SLR, C12 and MHPL Note Taker: Vicia Chilikwako Attendance Register Taken – Yes Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and its consultants made a presentation on the following topics: A. S137 Road Upgrade i. Activities to be implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. Main Dam Construction i. Activities to be Implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. RLRAP: Processes and procedures to be followed Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kadikira _MoM_17July2024 Page 5 / 4 Question/Comment Response I would like to comment that we very much We understand that, but the road is also crucial want this road, especially myself as a to the project if it gets approved. There are businessman. You mentioned that the project various stakeholders involved, including the has not yet been approved, but it is our hope government and private companies like MHPL. that it will be. We’ve been promised this road Additionally, Skatec, EDF, and the World Bank since we were young are involved. The Malawi government owns 30% of the shares, Skatec and EDF own 55%, and the World Bank holds 15%. We will share more information once the project is approved When the project comes to an area, the local 100% of unskilled labor will be from the communities should benefit from the communities that have been impacted by the development. Many people in this community project. In MHPL's labor recruitment policy, are unemployed, so we hope you will prioritize the requirement is to favor local employment employing locals rather than bringing in and particularly communities affected by the workers from other districts. Please consider us project for unskilled labour. for job opportunities. In November last year, an assessment was Yes, there were assessments carried out where carried out, and we were given forms indicating soil samples were collected to determine the that we would be impacted by the project. They type of soil for planning purposes. When a road mentioned that if the project proceeds as is about to be constructed, such assessments planned, we would be affected. We’re unsure if are necessary. That’s likely why you were given it was your team or another company that the forms. It’s also very important to ask for conducted this assessment. the name of the company conducting any activities in the community. If the project gets approved, which will you The road construction will be first because we start with: the road or the dam? need it to transport our machines to the construction site. You mentioned that the tarmac road will start The engineers are responsible for designing the from Chileka Airport to Nkula Turnoff. road, so the information we have now is all we However, we would prefer the tarmac road to can provide. As mentioned, the designs are not extend from Chileka Airport to Chikuli Trading yet complete, and more assessments will Center, and after Chikuli, you can start using follow gravel. We now understand that the road project is being managed by MHPL, not by politicians. Therefore, we should not allow anyone to claim or say that this road is being built by politicians. What is the time frame for the resettlement During the presentation, we mentioned that the project hasn’t been approved yet, so process? continue using your land as usual. More assessments are still underway, and we do not We really want you to clarify the time frame for have a basic design of the project at this time. resettlement. We don’t want to be forced to However, you will be given a notice period for when to move. We will share more information move without prior notice; we need to as our engagements continue and keep you understand how this will be managed. updated throughout the process Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kadikira _MoM_17July2024 Additionally, you mentioned that the project has not yet been approved. All these questions arise from our long wait for this development, and we would be very disappointed if the project does not go forward. My question is about those who are just 2 We will share more details about that as we meters away from the road reserve. What will continue with our stakeholder meetings. The be done for them? design is not yet complete, and compensation is only for those with structures in the road reserves. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kadikira _MoM_17July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kadikira _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Gwadani Location: Kunthembwe Roman Catholic Church Date: 18 July 2024 Time: am Attendees (groups): Senior Chief Kunthembwe Chairperson, VDC Kunthembwe TA Kunthembwe VH Chisembwere Vice Chairperson, ADC Kunthembwe Group Kunthembwe VH Chakhumbira SLR C12 MHP; Note Taker: Vicia Chilikwako Attendance Register Taken – Yes Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, MHPL and its consultants made a presentation on the following topics: A. S137 Road Upgrade i. Activities to be implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. Main Dam Construction i. Activities to be Implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. RLRAP: Processes and procedures to be followed Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Gwadani _MoM_18July2024 Page 5 / 3 Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) When the project starts, we will definitely need materials such as gravel When the project starts, will there be gravel/stones for sale? Can and stones. We are committed to supporting the local economy and will you also buy from us and make us your suppliers? consider local suppliers for these materials. Please provide your details, and we will include you in our supplier database. You mentioned there will be employment opportunities due to We understand the concern regarding employment. We have hired road construction. However, often outsiders are hired instead of locals. How . for various roles, including people locally will this be addressed? cooking. Our labor recruitment policy prioritizes local employment, especially for unskilled labor, which is to prioritise the communities impacted by the project. This requirement is also integrated into our contractor’s hiring practices ensuring the local workforce benefits directly from the project. You stated you’ve hired over 200 people. On what basis are you Our hiring process is transparent and based on the qualifications required hiring these people? What qualifications are required? for specific roles. For unskilled labor, no formal qualifications are needed, and we focus on hiring from the local communities. Skilled positions may require relevant experience or qualifications, which are communicated clearly during the recruitment process. We may not have qualifications, but we sincerely hope this We appreciate your support and understand the importance of this project gets approved. Thank you. project to your community. We are committed to working with you and ensuring the project benefits everyone involved. Thank you for your patience and cooperation. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Gwadani _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Gwadani _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Kunthembwe Location: Roman Catholic Church Date: 18 July 2024 Time: am Attendees (groups): GVH Kaliati, VH Juma, VH Jerasi, and VH Lisangwi Villages. Also in attendance were; ADC Kunthembwe’s representative and VDC Kaliati. SLR, C12 and MHPL Note Taker: Vicia Chilikwako Attendance Register Taken – Yes Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and its consultants made a presentation on the following topics: A. S137 Road Upgrade i. Activities to be implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. Main Dam Construction i. Activities to be Implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. RLRAP: Processes and procedures to be followed Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kunthembwe _MoM_18July2024 Page 5 / 3 Question/Comment Response When the project starts are you going to MHPL is committed to prioritising unskilled consider us for the job opportunities that you labour from the local communites. As part of mentioned would be available? these recruitment policies, this is a priority and something that is also part of the contracts between MHPL and the subcontractors. Once the projects are in your area, you will be informed of the job opportunities that are available and you will go through oral interviews to ensure fairness of the employment processes. The skills that will be provided to you are the ones that do not require special skills and professions. Give us the percentage of the likelihood or the It is difficult to put a percentage on the unlikelihood of the project happening. Could it probability of this project happening or not. be 50/50? Or maybe 90/10? This is because there are a lot of people involved in this project. It is not only us that are involved, so if we put a percentage on the probability of this project happening or not, then will be speaking on behalf of a lot of people whom have not yet put a percentage on the probability of this project happening. We will just stress on the fact that this project has not been approved yet. (Senior Chief Kunthembwe) Comment appreciated I would like to conclude by commenting that this project happening is all our prayer. This is because not only will our communities be developed but as a people we will develop as well. I urge you my people to avoid immoral practices that this project would possibly attract. Let us all look forward to expanding our businesses and having a good road, thank you. Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kunthembwe _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kunthembwe _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Mbemba Meeting Location: Mbemba Clinic, Neno Date: 18/07/ 2024 Time: 10:20 am – 12:30 pm Attendees (groups): MHPL team C12 Mbemba Village chief Men and women of Mbemba and Josephy villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Yes Presentation by C12 Consultants As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. S137 Road works 2. Biodiversity Conservancy Area 3. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 4. Project-induced population influx and community health 5. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) There is another project on the Lisungwi river, an Assessments will be conducted to determine the areas impacted by the project and identify irrigation initiative by the government of Malawi. Will those affected whether through physical displacement or economic impact. Currently, we do your project interfere with this one? not know who will be affected, so everyone should continue using their land as usual. We will hold regular meetings to update you on the progress. Page 1 / 6 Mpatanga_ESIA Disclosure_Mbemba Community, Neno District _18 July 2024 Page 2 / 6 Mpatanga_ESIA Disclosure_Mbemba Community, Neno District _18 July 2024 Page 3 / 6 Mpatanga_ESIA Disclosure_Mbemba Community, Neno District _18 July 2024 Page 4 / 6 Mpatanga_ESIA Disclosure_Mbemba Community, Neno District _18 July 2024 Page 5 / 6 Mpatanga_ESIA Disclosure_Mbemba Community, Neno District _18 July 2024 Page 6 / 6 Mpatamanga ESIA Disclosure Meeting: GVH Kaliati Location: GVH Kaliati residence Date: 19 July 2024 Time: am Attendees (groups): GVH Kaliati, VH Jelasi, and VH Chisembwere Villages. In attendance was; VDC Kaliati, SLR C12 MHP. Note Taker: Vicia Chilikwako Attendance Register Taken – Yes Presentation from SLR As an introduction to the meeting, SLR and its consultants made a presentation on the following topics: A. S137 Road Upgrade i. Activities to be implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. Main Dam Construction i. Activities to be Implemented ii. Potential Positive Impacts and Enhancement Measures iii. Potential Negative Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. RLRAP: Processes and procedures to be followed Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kaliati _MoM_19July2024 Page 5 / 3 Question/Comment Response On the 36 meter road reserve that you are talking Since it’s government land, you will only be about, where you will only compensate for the crops compensated for the crops, structures and trees and and not the land, will you give us other land to farm not the land itself. on When you are just outside the road reserve, what will The 36-meter road reserve will have boundaries. happen with your property which is just outside the When the Project is approved, there will be margin of 36 meter road reserve communications done accordingly considering safety-related issues based on the impact due to proximity to the work fronts. You keep on saying that the Project will either Right now, we can’t quantify the chances since many happen or it won’t. What are the chances of the stakeholders are involved. We understand that Project actually being approved people’s livelihoods are at stake, but we assure you that you will be notified and updated accordingly when it is approved. When the Project is approved, will there be a chance Yes, there will be job opportunities for the for employment for us local people surrounding communities. One of the benefits of this Project is the creation of jobs for unskilled labour. When this Project is approved, what benefit will the Currently, it’s difficult to say whether electricity will surrounding communities gain in terms of electricity? be available here. There are many phases involved, For example, there’s Nkula there, and we do not and we cannot provide details since the Project benefit at all. You said we will get an improved road, hasn’t been approved or started. but what about electricity You mentioned a large dam will be built larger than The bridge will be built big enough for both vehicles the existing two. Will we be using the same bridge, or and pedestrians. will there be another bridge? Will this bridge be big enough for cars or just a small bridge for pedestrians We are used to taking our livestock down to the river We cannot say for sure now. Most details will be to feed and graze our animals. When the Project is communicated to you accordingly when the Project being carried out, will there be a chance for us to still is approved. Different surveys and research are being do this done to address these issues. The road is not as straight as it should be; there are Currently, we are following the already established many sharp corners. Are you going to make it route with a widening and some surfacing straight, or will you maintain the curvy route? improvements. If there are any changes, you will be communicated accordingly. Closing Remarks by VDC Chair Kaliati “We just want to thank you for answering our questions very clearly and for communicating all of this with us. We pray that the Project does indeed get approved.” Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kaliati _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga_ESIA & BAP Disclosure Meeting_ GVH Kaliati _MoM_18July2024 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Chikila Meeting Location: Mbengwe Primary School, Chikila, Neno Date: 19/07/ 2024 Time: 11:30 Am – 1:40 pm Attendees (groups): MHPL team C12 GVH Namputu Chikila Grievance committee V.H. Mwazilinga, Baluwa, Kwapita, Chikila, Chinkunja, Men and women of Chikila, Mwadzilinga, Namputu, Chimpamba, Kwapita and Baluwa villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Yes Presentation by C12 Consultants As an introduction to the meeting, C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. S137 Road works 2. Biodiversity Conservancy Area 3. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 4. Project-induced population influx and community health 5. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. Minutes Comment/Question Response (if any) Who will be the first to be affected by the project? The project will begin with the road construction. Those living along the road reserve will be the first impacted, as this road will be essential for transporting machinery to the construction site. These affected individuals will then be relocated. What will be the process to help people from our villages As mentioned in the presentation, there will be consultations and meetings with village heads get job opportunities, given that there are three villages: to outline the recruitment process. Information about the recruitment process will be Namputu, Mbinga, and Kaliati? How will people from disseminated in the villages through the village heads. Priority will be given to areas affected these villages have the opportunity to find jobs? by the project. The one thousand jobs will require people from the impacted communities, especially for unskilled labor, which will be sourced 100% from these communities. Employment centers will be established within the communities to facilitate this process, favoring local residents for unskilled labor positions Since the project will involve relocating some people, Those who are displaced will receive either in-kind or cash compensation. They are which may put the Village Head in a difficult position if encouraged to find replacement land within the same chieftainship. For example, if they are people decide to move elsewhere, what compensation from Chikila, they should find land in Chikila, and if they choose in-kind compensation, the will be provided to the chief, given that the chief might project will build them a house in Chikila. The project will also identify potential land for lose their village? resettlement sites within the same village for those opting for in-kind compensation. Regarding the Village Head, compensation will only be provided if the chief is directly affected by the project. There will be no compensation solely because people choose to relocate elsewhere. We recently visited potential resettlement sites to support people to build within the same village. I have been wondering about the in-kind compensation. Those affected by the project can choose between in-kind and cash compensation, applicable We need to understand what will be included with the to those whose houses are affected. The project will identify land for potential relocation house, as we might choose this option but find it lacking. sites and will build houses for those opting for in-kind compensation, aiming to keep people We’re unsure of the house’s cost and what it will come within the same village and chieftainship. with, which is why we are struggling to decide between in-kind and cash compensation. Could you clarify what We have seen similar projects, such as the MoMa project, where houses were built for will be included with the house? displaced individuals. The quality and features of the house provided by the project are expected to be superior to what might be built with the cash compensation. Additionally, there will be a livelihood restoration plan to support people for a specific period after relocation to help them get back on their feet. Details on what will come with the house will be provided at that time. Thank you for the explanation. Please correct me if I’m Regarding the road construction, it will be the first phase of the project, as it is essential for wrong: you mentioned that relocation, dam construction, transporting machinery to the construction site. We are still assessing whether the road will and road construction will all start in 2025. Will the road be tarmac or not, and plans may change based on ongoing assessments and feedback. The construction begin alongside the main dam construction? timeline for resettlement will be communicated when the details are finalized Also, how long will the resettlement process take, and what is the timeline for people to relocate? Will you fix the road from Tedzani to Kamwendo, as it is a The project will proceed in phases, with the first phase focusing on constructing the road shortcut from EGENCO to the Mpatamanga site and is from the Blantyre side, which will serve as the main route to the construction site. If the road also used occasionally? from Tedzani to Kamwendo is to be used, plans will be developed accordingly at that time. Regarding electricity, communities should be connected The electricity generated will be very high voltage and cannot be directly connected to to it as the project is taking place in their areas. houses. Therefore, it will first be routed to Phombeya, where it will be reduced to a suitable Currently, the impacted communities do not benefit from voltage before being distributed to homes through ESCOM. it, while others in different cities do. Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Chikila community meeting_19July2024 Page 2 / 6 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Chikila community meeting_19July2024 Page 3 / 6 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Chikila community meeting_19July2024 Page 4 / 6 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Chikila community meeting_19July2024 Page 5 / 6 Mpatamanga_ESIA Disclosure_Chikila community meeting_19July2024 Page 6 / 6 Mpatamanga ESIA Scoping Meeting: Nsalawatha Meeting Location: Nsalawatha Primary School, Neno Date: 19/07/ 2024 Time: 3:30 Pm – 16:40 pm Attendees (groups): MHPL team C12 Grievance committee members GVH Nsalawatha V.H. Kazunga, Malita, Liwonde, Jumbe, Boniface Men and women of Malita, Nsalawatha, Liwonde, Jumbe villages Note Taker: William Rozario Attendance Register Taken: Yes Presentation by C12 Consultants As an introduction to the meeting, C12 made a presentation of (i) the project design (ii) the key environmental and social impacts identified through the ESIA which will affect this specific community (iii) the proposed mitigation actions for the negative impacts. A 3D map was used to describe the project design. The presentation then covered: 1. S137 Road works 2. Biodiversity Conservancy Area 3. Land acquisition, compensation and resettlement 4. Project-induced population influx and community health 5. Access to the Shire River and future reservoirs This presentation was followed by a session of Questions & Answers, the content of which is reported on the next page. A copy of the Project Newsletter was given to each participant. C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 1 / 8 Comment/Question Response (if any) There is a river upstream of the Lisungwe River. Will Strategies will be implemented to regulate the flow of water, similar to the system at Tedzani, activities in the Lisungwe River affect properties along where the water flow is opened and closed at specific times, and the community is informed the banks of the Makali River? about these schedules. The regulations will be similar, involving two dams. The main dam will store water and release it into a reservoir, which will then regulate the flow of water into the rivers. Mine is only a comment. My comment is that you Thank you. mentioned there will be centers in the communities for recruitment. Thank you for this initiative, as it provides everyone an equal opportunity for employment and helps prevent corruption. Those who own land along the riverbanks have been During the presentation I mentioned that those will require to be relocated will receive benefiting from irrigation for their daily needs. However, compensation and will be supported through a livelihood restoration plan for a specific period since they will be relocated, their livelihoods will be of time. While the exact form of this support is uncertain, the plan is in place because the disrupted. What will happen since they will no longer community and individual needs vary. There will be further consultations and assessments. have access to the river’s benefits? Additionally, the project will support community development initiatives. The relocation date will be announced along with when to stop using the land, giving people time to harvest their crops, which will help them after they have relocated. How will you protect the animals in the areas where the There are processes in place to protect the animals, and assessments are being conducted to dams will be constructed? determine if any animals will be endangered. Similar assessments are being conducted for trees to protect the overall environment. Our environmental department is conducting these assessments to ensure no species are endangered. According to our current assessments, no animals will be endangered, but ongoing monitoring processes are being carried out to confirm this. You mentioned that only the road from Blantyre will be The road construction in Blantyre is prioritized because it will be the main route for constructed, but what about this side? It takes about 3 to transporting machinery to the construction site. The project will rely on this road and will not 4 hours on foot to travel from here to Feremu Village and be using the road from the Neno side, based on the current information. As I mentioned in the construction sites. the presentation, there will be a campsite for those who live very far from the construction site. For those who are about 2 hours away, transportation will be provided for the workers to reach the construction site. C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 2 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 3 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 4 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 5 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 6 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 7 / 8 C12_Mpata ESIA Disclosure Meeting_Nsalawatha Community_19.07.24.docx Page 8 / 8 End of this section