The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) Appraisal Environmental and Social Review Summary Appraisal Stage (ESRS Appraisal Stage) Public Disclosure Date Prepared/Updated: 03/04/2022 | Report No: ESRSA01998 Mar 04, 2022 Page 1 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) BASIC INFORMATION A. Basic Project Data Country Region Project ID Parent Project ID (if any) Burundi AFRICA EAST P176396 Project Name Burundi Digital Foundations Project Practice Area (Lead) Financing Instrument Estimated Appraisal Date Estimated Board Date Digital Development Investment Project 3/8/2022 5/18/2022 Financing Borrower(s) Implementing Agency(ies) Republic of Burundi Ministère de la Communication, des Technologies de l’Information et des Médias (MINCOTIM), Secrétariat Exécutif des Technololies de Public Disclosure l'Information et de la Communication (SETIC) Proposed Development Objective To increase broadband internet access, especially to underserved populations and the higher education sector, and improve the government’s capacity to deliver public services digitally Financing (in USD Million) Amount Total Project Cost 91.00 B. Is the project being prepared in a Situation of Urgent Need of Assistance or Capacity Constraints, as per Bank IPF Policy, para. 12? No C. Summary Description of Proposed Project [including overview of Country, Sectoral & Institutional Contexts and Relationship to CPF] Mar 04, 2022 Page 2 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) The proposed project is designed to increase high-speed internet access and to improve government capacity to provide and deliver digital public services, which will help lay the foundations for accelerated development of Burundi’s digital economy. It is composed of three main components: Component 1: Digital Access and Inclusion will focus on creating digitally enabled citizens and expanding the existing consumer base for digital services. This component will support wider access and adoption of broadband, as well as data-enabled services through financing for broadband market reform, investments in local access networks, and digital access enablers. By strengthening the enabling environment for broadband market development, activities financed will help catalyze further private sector investment in infrastructure and services expansion. Increased investment to boost last-mile network coverage will be supported, on the supply side, as will wider adoption among lower-income segments, rural and vulnerable communities on the demand side. Activities under this component will aim to connect more users to broadband internet through local access schemes and address the barriers that currently hinder digital access and inclusion. Proposed sub-components include: (1.1) Enabling environment for broadband market development and digital access, (1.2) Local connectivity access, (1.3) Local access and digital inclusion enablers. Component 2: Digital Public Service Delivery Enablers will focus on creating a digitally enabled government, by strengthening adoption of digital tools by government and introducing the basic building blocks for incrementally scaling more secure and sophisticated digital service delivery. This component will finance cross-cutting digital government enablers that can boost capacity for digital public service delivery. It will adopt a whole-of-government approach to modernize Burundi’s public sector using digital solutions and promote the emergence of simple, efficient, Public Disclosure and transparent government processes. The project will finance hardware, software and TA activities to support laying the digital government foundations with an initial focus on government back-end systems. It will support investment in reusable and shared digital infrastructure, platforms, and governance frameworks to improve and expand government capacity to securely deliver public services digitally, reducing existing fragmentation and supporting incremental movement towards a whole-of-government approach. These will focus on the simplification and digitalization of selected services that have been identified by the Government of Burundi as priority areas. By enhancing the digital capabilities of public administration, through greater access to connectivity, digital tools and system, as well as digital skills amongst civil servants, the project will expand the government’s capacity to provide digital and citizen-centric services. Proposed sub-components include: (2.1) Institutional, legal, governance and technology frameworks for e-services; (2.2) Shared digital infrastructure and public administration capabilities; (2.3) Digitalization of select services and flagship use-cases Component 3: Institutional Coordination and Project Management will finance project management and coordination, including procurement, financial management (FM), monitoring and evaluation (M&E), as well as environmental and social (E&S) safeguards management. D. Environmental and Social Overview D.1. Detailed project location(s) and salient physical characteristics relevant to the E&S assessment [geographic, environmental, social] The proposed operation will cover both rural and urban areas in Burundi to boost country-wide digital transformation focusing on digital enablers but shall have a strong focus on supporting greater access to broadband and digital services in rural areas, among underserved groups and low-income households. Based on the findings and Mar 04, 2022 Page 3 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) recommendations of the Burundi DE4A diagnostics conducted, project activities seek to expand digital adoption, by spearheading a series of innovative digital access and inclusion initiatives. The project shall also enhance Government’s digital service capabilities, equipping GoB with the ability to harness the power of big data and scale e- services based on shared digital standards, platforms, and infrastructure. Finally, the project shall increase Burundi ’s capacity to support digitally enabled innovation, by strengthening the local entrepreneurship ecosystem, supporting tech firms to move from startups to growth and by developing Burundi’s digital talent base. The specific sites for key project interventions are not yet identified, at this stage. Site-specific details shall be identified during the project preparation and implementation, and detailed descriptions and environmental and social assessments of those project/subproject activity locations shall be provided when those details become available. Investments supported under component 1 digital access and inclusion shall stimulate and increase access to the internet for users in rural areas (subcomponent 1.1. &1.3). Beneficiaries shall be able to afford digital devices and different services, and this will generate significant e-waste which needs to be adequately managed in remote rural areas. Activities will focus on increasing access to 3G + compatible smart devices, which can help move users over to mobile broadband networks. There will be civil works to construct new infrastructure (subcomponent 1.2) which will be properly addressed during the preparation of the Project’s ESMF. An expansion of this scenario will occur on various sectors such as agriculture, energy, education, health centers or Hospital, etc. in rural areas. It is also expected some interventions on last-mile infrastructure investments that shall connect the unconnected areas and bridge the digital divide in Burundi, targeting underserved areas, user-groups, and strategic sectors. This component will also support technical assistance activities (integrated digital economy strategy and roadmap, development of a broadband policy and plan, development of shared governance, strategic, regulatory and legal frameworks, etc.), Public Disclosure which will result in increased private sector investment in infrastructure and services expansion. Investments supported under component 2 Digital Public Administration shall finance hardware, software and TA activities to support laying the digital government foundations with an initial focus on government back-end systems. The Sub-component 2.1&2.2&2.3 Government connectivity, shared digital infrastructure and public administration capabilities and digitalization of select services and flagship use-cases will finance the implementation of a virtual network, cost of basic IT equipment and capacity purchase inter alia facilitated through a public-private partnership model. Financing would include software, related hardware, and TA necessary for all selected services. A sub-component 3.3 shall support the public sector’s ability to boost, and retain skills for implementing whole-of- government digital transformation. It shall finance: (i) (operating and staff costs of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), including the recruitment of expert consultants in key areas; (ii) support for stakeholder consultations and M&E work, as necessary; (iii) quality assurance to ensure adherence to best practices on procurement related to technology, facilitate on-the-job learning, and transfer of competencies. D. 2. Borrower’s Institutional Capacity The Ministry of Communication, Information Technology and Media (MINCOTIM) is mandated to lead ICT sector development and flagship digital initiatives and will therefore lead overall implementation of the project. MINCOTIM does have prior experience with World Bank-financed projects from the implementation of the Regional Communication Infrastructure Program – Phase 2 (RCIP-2, P094103) Burundi project that closed in 2015. However, this will be the first project applying the Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) in MINCOTIM, ESF training as well as ongoing direct support will be provided to the client to ensure the requirements of the ESF are satisfied. Mar 04, 2022 Page 4 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) The PIU will be established within SETIC , which will serve as the main implementing agency for the project as it implemented RCIP-2 and it currently oversees implementation and coordination of all ICT-related project and programs that support Government’s existing National ICT Policy. Given its mandate, it is therefore well-placed to implement the proposed project. A detailed capacity assessment will, however, be reconducted during project preparation to assess capacity gaps and propose remedial action, including the recruitment of ESF specialists. Staff requirements will be determined during the project preparation phase. MINCOTIM will chair the project Steering Committee throughtout the project implementation. The PIU shall be appropriately strengthened by recruiting dedicated and skilled staff (E&S Specialists) for supporting effective environment and social risk management of the project three months after effectiveness date. If other government agency or stakeholders will support implementation of some of the project’s sub-components, the environment and social risk management of those institutions shall be assessed during project preparation, as necessary. This may, for example, include the Central Bank of Burundi, in relation to the implementation of digital payments. The staff of those institutions shall also be strengthened and trained on ESF requirements and related instruments, as needed. The Country has not yet specific e-waste regulations in place like other countries but has waste management regulations which entail hazardous and no-hazardous waste. Until now there is not reputable hazardous waste management operators in Burundi. The government will be advised to consider potential generation of e-waste in the area of deployment, operation and maintenance of last-mile digital infrastructure, and to make provision for the establishment of an adequate e-waste management strategy. The Project Preparation Advance (PPA) is supporting the preparation of key ESF instruments and early set-up of the PIU within SETIC three months after effectiviness date. However, until such a time that the PIU is in place, the PPA is Public Disclosure likely to be administered by the Ministry of Finance via the PIU of the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation and Integration Project(P174814). II. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL (ES) RISKS AND IMPACTS A. Environmental and Social Risk Classification (ESRC) Moderate Environmental Risk Rating Moderate The project’s environmental risk rating is considered to be Moderate. These risks and impacts are linked to activities to be funded under Component 1, including the deployment, operation, and maintenance of last-mile digital infrastructure at scale and access to smart devices through innovative financing, and under Component 2, which will involve retrofitting activities in existing buildings to connect local government offices to broadband through the expansion of the ComGov network. Key anticipated environmental risks and impacts may include occupational health and safety hazards for the workforce; environmental pollution from management and disposal of electronic waste (E-waste) as a result of the decommission of hardware and digital devices; generation of solid waste from residual construction materials; soil erosion and vegetation clearance for the construction of the new cell towers, effects of electromagnetic waves on communities from close multiple towers and for the deployment of fiber optic Mar 04, 2022 Page 5 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) cables to be followed closely; the risks to the community and workers during installation and maintenance relate to health and safety disruptions to access to properties and businesses. Road safety and pedestrian safety risks during transportation of digital infrastructure and hardware, and construction activities are also expected. Meanwhile, Components 1 an 2 shall include technical assistance activities (integrated digital economy strategy and roadmap, development of a broadband policy and plan, development of shared governance, strategic, regulatory and legal frameworks, etc.), which will result in increased private sector investment in infrastructure and services expansion. Their potential downstream risks and impacts shall be addressed, and the sustainability of the system strengthened by ensuring that private sectors are adequately regulated by the current environmental policy and institutional framework. Borrower capacity to manage environmental risks and impacts is a factor in consideration of environmental risks, as it has no experience in preparing and implementing ESF instruments. The implementing agency shall require capacity building to adequately manage potential environmental risks and impacts in a manner that is consistent with the ESSs and satisfactory to the Bank. Therefore, the specific capacity building areas along with budget and staff required for ESSs and related aspects of implementation will be assessed during the project preparation. Detailed environmental and social assessments that are proportionate to the potential risks and impacts of the project will be carried out during the project implementation. Social Risk Rating Moderate The initial social risk rating at the Concept stage was substantial. Considering the specification of the project components and activities since then, the social risk rating at this stage is considered to be Moderate. This modification is due to the analysis of the degree of impact of the anticipated risks, whichcan and will be mitigated. Moreover, at the moment, the GBV risk assessment rating is currently low and the risks will be mitigated as prescribed in the Good practice note on Gender Based Violence . Social risks and impacts identified are primarily Public Disclosure linked to the following activities and aspects of the project: (i) possible temporary or permanent displacement in connection with the deployment of digital infrastructure (sub-component 1.2, local connectivity access). However, it is worth noting that temporary and economic displacement are mostly anticipated as land acquisition or permanent displacement of households or businesses is anticipated but minimal as part of last-mile connectivity infrastructure deployment. While the project seeks to actively address digital inclusion and widen access to broadband, digital tools and public services, there is (ii) lingering risk of social exclusion of vulnerable or marginalized populations that will need to be actively adressed as part of targeting, especially in relation to access to networks (sub-component 1.2, local connectivity access) and the various digital skills and device access schemes envisioned (under sub- component 1.3, Access and digital inclusion enablers) to ensure that related populations also gain access to local content supported and key public services that are digitized (under Component 2.3, Digitalization of select services and flagship use-cases).. Furthermore, (iii) worker influx to rural areas could be anticipated in connection with infrastructure deployment; (iv) use of hazardous materials and waste from e-waste handling and disposal from smart devices’ access increase (sub-component 1.3); (v) occupational health and safety related to working with electric magnetic fields, optical fiber, and power lines (sub-component 1.2); (vi) community health and safety from exposure to construction vehicles and transports (sub-components 1.2 and 2.2); (vii) risks related to the management and securing of data privacy such as privacy theft or unintended profiling of individuals (sub- components 2.1 and 2.3); (viii) access to internet can also lead to young children and adolescents have access to inappropriate content and can lead to increase in gender-based violence and sexual exploitation and sexual harassment and/or to fall prey to human traffickers; and (ix) risk of exposure of workers and vulnerable communities to sexual harassment or exploitation;. The project design will have to integrate proportionate social risk management measures to avoid similar issues under this new operation. Mar 04, 2022 Page 6 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) B. Environment and Social Standards (ESSs) that Apply to the Activities Being Considered B.1. General Assessment ESS1 Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts Overview of the relevance of the Standard for the Project: ESS 1 is relevant for this operation due to the environment and social risks and impacts identified in relation to the proposed investment and TA activities under component 1 and 2 of this operation. Investments and TA activities that are anticipated to result in direct and indirect environmental and social risks and impacts include the installation, operation and maintenance of terrestrial and mobile internet infrastructure (fiber cable, satellite towers and dishes, small equipment sheds and boxes), and also to the technical advisory such as developing an integrated digital economy strategy and roadmap, development of a Broadband Policy and plan, development of shared governance, strategic, regulatory and legal frameworks. Key environmental issues related to the installation, operation and maintenance of terrestrial and mobile internet infrastructure, and retrofitting activities in existing buildings to connect local government offices to broadband, are expected to be: waste management and disposal (e-waste and waste from residual construction materials; health and safety risks for communities and workers during installation and maintenance related to health and safety disruptions to access to properties and businesses; soil erosion and vegetation clearance; and road safety and traffic interruptions. Noise and air emissions (mainly dust) may likely be generated from the use of construction machinery and vehicle movement depending on the scale and scope of project activities and this may cause disturbance to nearby businesses and homes. Though some of the project activities may lead to environmental and risks and Public Disclosure impacts, these can be effectively addressed with mitigation measures outlined in ESMF document. Potential positive E&S impacts related to climate change mitigation are identified such reduction of GHG emissions by enabling e-meetings and access to core business services online and reducucing the need for local travel as described more in ESS 3. The assessment of cumulative impacts(through an ESMPs for subprojects during the implementation) will take into account the size of the small innovation fund, the Smart Device Access Scheme and the simplification and digitalization of selected services, including the digitization of government-to-person (G2P), which is expected to have a positive impact by moving gradually to paperless and environmentally friend operations. Based on the scope of the Project’s activities, which includes policy development, technical assistance, capacity building, and infrastructure interventions for which exact locations and extent of the work are not yet known, the Borrower shall prepare and disclose prior to appraisal an Environmental and Social Management (ESMF) in line with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards(ESSs) and the World Bank Group Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines. In addition, a Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF), an Indigenous Peoples Planning Framework (IPPF), a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), and Labor Management Procedures(LMP) shall be prepared and disclosed prior to appraisal. The Borrower shall prepare prior to appraisal a draft Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP) which covers all material measures and actions needed to ensure compliance with the ESF requirements and the Project’s environmental and social instruments as well as implementation details, monitoring and reporting activities. Mar 04, 2022 Page 7 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) The ESMF shall cover an environmental and social baseline of the project; a review of relevant national policies, review of relevant institutional and regulatory frameworks, analysis of environmental and social risks/impacts and mitigation measures; description of project coordination and implementation arrangements; plans for capacity building and training; description of environmental and social screening process; a Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and Sexual Harassment (SEAH) Action Plan oriented to address related risks of the sub-projects consistent with ESS1; terms of reference for the preparation of ESIA/ESMP; mitigation measures to manage e-waste shall be included in the project ESMP of ESMF, as the scope and magnitude of activities and scale of anticipated impacts and risks shall not require the preparation of a stand alone E-waste Mangement Plan document; and relevant guidelines (such as EHS General guidelines), among others. During project implementation, site specific environmental and social standards instruments such as ESIAs, ESMPs, and/or Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) shall be prepared, as required. A separate gendered social assessment (SA) to look at potential gender impacts and recommendations for social and gender inclusion shall be developed, consulted and disclosed during project preparation to inform project design. The project shall also conduct a SEA/SH assessment to identify GBV, including SEA/SH risks and how project activities could create or exacerbate them. The results will be used to update the mitigation and response measures developed in the SEA/SH action plan. The social assessment shall also cover refugees, returnees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and disabilities. The project needs a strong focus on social inclusion to ensure that no-one is left behind as movement online is encourage, by actively seeking to close any gendered, geographical or age-based digital divides. The project’s Labor Management Procedure (LMP) and SEP shall indicate how social inclusion of marginalized or vulnerable groups will be enabled, through communications and outreach to related groups to ensure they are fully aware of project opportunities and do not face social, cultural, linguistic or other barriers to participation in project training, financing and digital access Public Disclosure schemes, as well as related opportunities. Related concerns shall also need to be reflected in the promotion of locally relevant digital content and public digital platforms and services, on the basis of inclusive and user-centric design. ESS10 Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure The proposed project involves various stakeholders which include, remote rural communities, businesses, and public institutions in target areas in Burundi. The proposed project will require inputs from different stakeholder groups, including those who will be directly affected as well as those who have other interests in project interventions proposed. Relevant stakeholders include, but are not limited to: • Government authorities • Development partners; • The private sector • Consumer associations; and • Local communities. Mar 04, 2022 Page 8 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) In consultation with the Bank team, a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) has been developed (before appraisal) with specific provisions for the different project components. The SEP outlines the characteristics and interests of the relevant stakeholder groups as well as the timing and methods of engagement envisioned throughout the project lifecycle. The project will ensure that the needs and voices of vulnerable people (e.g., female-headed households, elderly, youth, people with disabilities, internally displaced people, etc.) are heard through inclusive consultation and participation to ensure that they can equally participate and benefit from the project. The project also includes consultations with civil society organizations (CSOs) and other relevant parties on how to improve access to project benefits for people with disabilities. The project design has mainstreamed respective provisions on gender equality and the mitigation of gender-based violence in digital businesses to be implemented; to avoid potential adverse impacts but also to ensure strong participation of women in the development of the country’s digital sector. The project will establish a digitally enabled Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), integrated into existing GRM structures in communities targeted and with those already managed by the Client, wherever possible. Consultation considered current government restrictions linked to COVID-19, as well as WHO and World Bank guidance on consultations under COVID-19 conditions. The GRM will also serve as a platform for continuous feedback from project-affected communities, and other interested stakeholders. The GRM will pay particular attention to confidentiality, appropriate cultural sensitivities and allow for anonymous complaints. The GRM will be sensitive to SEA/SH incidents and include procedures for the treatment and resolution of SEA/SH complaints in an ethical and confidential manner, with a human-centered approach, as well as is a manner that is proportionate to the potential risks and impacts. Public Disclosure B.2. Specific Risks and Impacts A brief description of the potential environmental and social risks and impacts relevant to the Project. ESS2 Labor and Working Conditions ESS2 is considered relevant to the project. Direct workers and indirect workers including contracted workers are anticipated to be hired under project activities. Anticipated labor risks and impacts are mainly expected in relation to planned digital infrastructure deployment and maintenance works associated with the expansion of access network that build on Burundi’s high fiber density and robust backbone network to expand coverage in remote rural communities and connect education institutions and all related activities (sub-component 1.2. local connectivity access) and government offices (sub-component 2.2. Shared digital infrastructure and public administration capabilities). This shall need to be assessed further to estimate the nature and the scale of works expected. The LMP instrument for the project will ensure that no forced nor child labour is used in the project’s activities. The borrower must provide appropriate measures for the protection of vulnerable groups, such as women, people with disabilities and Batwa and care will be given to both categories to ensure inclusion. Among skilled workers targeted by the project, the majority of those involved will be existing government civil servants. As such, these employees shall remain subject to the terms and conditions of their existing public-sector employment. Meanwhile, a majority of the unskilled workers employed through project-financed direct and indirect contracts will be sourced from targeted project sites but are also likely to require some skilled workers from outside of the project area. Due to the nature of these activities, influx of labor is anticipated albeit at a smaller scale. These individuals will, however, be subject to the requirement of ESS2 in relation to labor and working conditions including occupational health and safety (OHS) Mar 04, 2022 Page 9 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) and grievance mechanisms. Likewise, any technical consultants contracted by the project will also need to adhere to such standards. The LMP shall also include dispositions for community workers if applicable. ESS2 requirements shall be mandated through the project ESMF and site-specific instruments, bid documents, contracts and in the PPP agreement, and supervised by the PIU. Some key OHS risks and aspects related to the Project to be included in the LMP are: (i) construction activities which may lead to falls and injuries; (ii) handling of heavy loads; (iii) electric shocks; (iv) failure to use proper protective equipment during construction; (iv) procedures for safety measures in relation to physical and chemical hazards in the workplace; (v) emergency preparedness and response procedures; (vi) trainings and incident monitoring; and (vii) references to measures to address any potential risks and impacts that may arise from the interaction between project workers and local communities. OHS risks were further assessed during preparation of the labor management procedures (LMP), ESMF and in subsequent instruments(such as ESMPs during the implementation). To ensure the health and safety of workers during the operational phase of the project, the Borrower shall develop and implement a Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) plan that will be included in the site-specific instruments(C-ESMP), in line with World Bank Group Environment, Health, and Safety Guidelines (EHSGs) for rehabilitation works, including contractual provisions specific to address SEAH risks(Code of Conduct). To ensure the health and safety of workers during civil works and operational phases of the project, a Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) plan in line with Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) shall be prepared as part of the Contractor-ESMPs, with general guidance provided as part of ESMF. The plan will include procedures on incident Public Disclosure investigation, recording and reporting of non-conformity, emergency preparedness and response procedures, and continuous training and awareness to workers. In addition, the project developped LMP, prior to project appraisal, that will set out the way in which project workers will be managed during project implementation. There will need to be regular trainings on SEA/SH for all the workers involved in the project, and the project will develop a Code of Conduct (CoC) addressing SEA/SH, including sanctions for related perpetrators. The signing of CoCs will be a condition for employment for all workers. The LMP shall be prepared by the Borrower to identify the main labor requirements and risks associated with the project and to help the Borrower to determine the resources necessary to address project-specific labor issues. The LMP shall include provisions for direct workers (e.g. PIU staff), primary supply workers, and contracted workers as applicable. The project will also include a GRM sensitive to SEA/SH complaints (GRM-SEA/SH) for labor disputes of project workers. The draft LMP shall be prepared and be disclosed prior to appraisal. The PIU shall ensure that the ESS2 requirements are incorporated in: (a) the contracts between the PIU and the Contractor and any entity supervising the project's civil works; and (b) the contracts between the Contractor and any sub-contractors. All project staff will be provided with information and documentation that clearly presents their terms and conditions of employment. ESS3 Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management Mar 04, 2022 Page 10 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) ESS3 is considered relevant to the project . This ESS is relevant for the project given risks related to pollution prevention and management, including the safe disposal of used batteries from smart phones, and other hardware that may contain hazardous e-waste. The operation of certain types of switching and transmitting equipment may require the use of backup power systems, consisting of a combination of batteries (typically lead-acid batteries) and diesel-fueled backup generators for electricity. Operational and maintenance activities envisioned may also result in the generation of electronic wastes (e.g., old cell phones, nickel-cadmium batteries, and printed circuit boards from computers and other electronic equipment as well as backup power batteries and solar panels. Transformer equipment may potentially contain Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), while cooling equipment may contain refrigerants (potential Ozone Depleting Substances [ODSs]). Therefore, the details of this ESS shall be further assessed during project preparation as part of the ESMF process. The management of impacts/risks during transportation, installation of fiber optical cabler, disposal of used batteries and tires and other e-waste shall be included into the ESMF as activities identified to be associated with potential environmental pollution and will be part of site-specific E&S risk management instruments for relevant sub-projects. Plans shall be put in place within the ESMPs and site-specific E&S instruments to ensure that e-waste is disposed in an environmentally sound and safe manner. UNDP is actually supporting the GoB on e-waste policy and management plan, the project shall leverage/build on that support to avoid any duplication . Related technical assistance on e-waste management(EWM) shall be included in the project implementation if needed. The project shall include TA targeting e-waste management, which shall include operational support for rolling out the existing e-waste management strategy, including the development of climate-resilient and energy-efficient infrastructure standards and capacity building for the borrower. Material needed for the construction/rehabilitation works (sand, stones, timber, etc.) shall be obtained from licensed Public Disclosure quarries and certified timber suppliers. Water and energy efficiency measures such as efficient water fixtures, efficient lighting, cooling and heating systems, and other water and energy-related efficiency equipment are a factor in this Project. The ESMF will include specific measures related to water and energy use efficiency during the construction phase of all civil works as well as, during the operational phase and the retrofitted buildings. The project is expected to yield a reduction of CO2 emissions. Based on the nature of anticipated project activities, the project may result in multiple small and diverse sources of emissions, yet individual emissions are not likely to be significant. However, this will be offset by the overall impact expected. By expanding digital access and inclusion adoption and last-mile connectivity (under component 1) and supporting the expansion of end-to-end digital public service delivery enablers (under component 2), the project will reduce the need for physical presence and associated travel (e.g., by car or motorbike), subsequently reducing CO2 emissions. The project shall also consolidate the use of existing digital systems and technology used by various government agencies, which is expected to yield significant efficiency gains based on the re-use of shared infrastructure and thus minimize climate impact. Based on the nature and scale of the proposed activities, the preparation of the project concluded that the emissions generated by proposed activities are not likely to be significant, and the GHG calculations are not necessary for the project. ESS4 Community Health and Safety ESS4 is considered relevant to the project. As noted above, a majority of the unskilled workers employed through project-financed direct and indirect contracts will be sourced from targeted project sites. However, some skilled Mar 04, 2022 Page 11 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) workers from outside of the project area will also be required. Due to the nature of these activities, influx of labor is anticipated albeit at a smaller scale. These activities may have negative risks and effects on the health and safety of the communities surrounding project-related work sites. Anticipated risks and impacts include community health and safety risks associated with construction works, traffic safety, community exposure to diseases (COVID19, HIV/AIDS, etc.), risks related to SEAH, and hazardous materials. The other potential community health risk relates to the potential for spread of communicable diseases due to the influx of people in search of work in the project sites. COVID-19 risks could be exacerbated by the project and need to be addressed through responsible action. The Borrower will put measures in place to prevent or minimize the spread of the infectious disease/COVID-19 to the workers and community in line with WHO guidelines on “Key considerations for repatriation and quarantine of travellers in relation to the outbreak of novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV” as well as the Africa CDC guideline on “Africa CDC Guidance for Assessment, Monitoring, and Movement Restrictions of People at Risk for COVID-19 in Africa”. Such guidelines will be included in the ESMF. The Project will also support information and awareness-raising measures for workers and the community. Also, civil works (even minor) may cause some inconvenience to the local communities as access (particularly road and foot traffic) could be interrupted temporarily. In addition, community health and safety issues are expected to include road safety and pedestrian safety during the digging of small trenches and backfilling operations. Thus, as part of the ESMF and site-specific instruments, traffic management plans may be developed as necessary to address these inconveniences. In addition, the Borrower will be required to ensure public safety through appropriate signage and barriers. The telecom regulator (ARCT- Agence de regulations des Communications et des Telecommunications) Public Disclosure has put in place Guidelines for telecoms infrastructure deployment which includes setting up “Exclusion zones” with minimum acceptable physical barriers and appropriate tower fencing facilities to prevent intrusion. The project does not anticipate any use of security personnel, but the project will follow closely the situation where service providers want to protect their sites during construction and the project shall recommend unarmed security personnel as per the ESS4 requirements. The management of community health and safety issues will be described in the Project's ESMF and will be integrated into site-specific instruments. Contractors will be required in their C-ESMP to install a safety system (fences and safety guards) around the project sites, as well as place the construction equipment in secured storage during the construction period. The borrower will prepare site-specific E&S risk management instruments, based on the ESMF, that includes standard operating procedures and good construction management practices, including those proposed in WB EHSGs, and will likewise address SEAH risk management as well as response to SEAH-related claims. The ESMP will also include mitigation measures for these risks and claims, as well as other potential community health and safety issues to be identified during project implementation. Except the above risks and impacts (which will be managed through preparing and implementing site-specific instruments), the project is generally expected to result in positive community health impacts, specifically for rural communities and schools who will benefit from internet connectivity, access to smart devices, digital skills and new digital services. Possible negative social impacts (subcomponent 1.3) may include typical threats resulting from the exposure to the internet and social media of communities that historically had limited or no access, such as cyber-bullies and online predators. Mitigation measures to be incorporated in project design include educational programs that engage children, parents, and teachers on cyber safety; campaigns to promote the responsible adoption of digital financial Mar 04, 2022 Page 12 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) services; having skilled personnel on how to monitor online activity which may be harmful to children and adolescents and equip the central governments with expertise in managing and monitoring the dark web and online threats to the public and small communities. Additionally, data privacy and data protection risks and impacts shall be mitigated through (i) establishment of a Data Protection Office and related IT systems; (ii) strengthening of national and sector-level (financial, telecoms) Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) to enhance threat intelligence, monitoring, and prevention. All these social risks and impacts will be addressed through Project SA’s instrument for the project. In collaboration with the Bank, the client will develop their own Security Risk Assessment (SRA) and its Security Management Plan (SMP) based on the Security Due Diligence (SDA) drafted by the bank, during early implementation and before activities start on the ground. However, security personnel will unlikely be employed in this program. ESS5 Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement The project will involve civil works connected to the deployment of digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas and underserved communities, to help bridge existing last-mile connectivity gaps on the supply side that exist across the country. Investments are likely to be located in an already modified areas, while the deployment of fiber optic cables is expected to take place on existing right of ways (ROW)s. Footprint of any new cell towers would be minimal. It is expected that some activities will involve restriction on land use and expropriation. Resettlement impacts are Public Disclosure mainly expected to be temporary and largely economical. The Project prepared a Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) before appraisal to inform the land acquisition principles, eligibility and methodology for Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement. The RPF provides guidance on the process for preparing, reviewing, approving, and implementing subsequent Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs), where necessary, and prior to the commencement of any civil works. The RPF also provides guidance on the process required for public consultations, the establishment of a functional GRM, and disclosure requirements. ESS6 Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources ESS6 is considered not relevant to the project while the project has a nationwide impact. Investments are likely to be located in an already modified area at small scale civil works in rural setting particularly, while the deployment of fiber optic cables is expected to take place on existing right of ways (ROW)s to expand rural last-mile connectivity. Footprint of any new cell towers would be minimal. ESS7 Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities ESS7 is considered relevant to the project at this stage. Batwa communities are present across the territory of Burundi and considered vulnerable. Project activities will not disproportionately impact IP negatively. An IPPF has been prepared for disclosure prior to project appraisal project appraisal to provide guidelines on how to avoid adverse impacts of the project on Batwa communities and ensure their access to services and potentially Mar 04, 2022 Page 13 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) participation in the different works and other project benefits. Project activities are not anticipated to cause relocation or impact resources or cultural heritage of Batwa groups. The IPPF and the SEP include provisions for culturally appropriate consultation with Batwa communities. ESS8 Cultural Heritage ESS8 is considered relevant to the project as one of the project activities is the deployment of fiber optic cables underground, where cultural heritage artefacts can be found. Clauses on potential discoveries shall be included in all work contracts, even in cases where the probability is very low. The ESIA/ESMPs shall include a procedure in case of accidental discovery of cultural remains, in accordance with national legislation and in compliance with ESS8 ESS9 Financial Intermediaries ESS9 is considered not relevant to the project at this stage. C. Legal Operational Policies that Apply OP 7.50 Projects on International Waterways No Public Disclosure OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas No B.3. Reliance on Borrower’s policy, legal and institutional framework, relevant to the Project risks and impacts Is this project being prepared for use of Borrower Framework? No Areas where “Use of Borrower Framework” is being considered: The need to use the Borrower’s framework will depend on the scope and scale of activities. Application of the Borrower’s Framework may not be feasible. This will be explored further, including through the review of site-specific safeguards instruments (such as ESIAs/ESMPs) for sub-projects and through the issuance of clearances for their implementation as per the national laws of the Government of Burundi, during project preparation. IV. CONTACT POINTS World Bank Contact: Audrey Anne Alexandra Ariss Title: Digital Development Specialist Mar 04, 2022 Page 14 of 15 The World Bank Burundi Digital Foundations Project (P176396) Telephone No: 5220+34179 Email: aariss@worldbank.org Borrower/Client/Recipient Borrower: Republic of Burundi Implementing Agency(ies) Implementing Agency: Ministère de la Communication, des Technologies de l’Information et des Médias (MINCOTIM) Implementing Agency: Secrétariat Exécutif des Technololies de l'Information et de la Communication (SETIC) V. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT The World Bank 1818 H Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20433 Telephone: (202) 473-1000 Web: http://www.worldbank.org/projects VI. APPROVAL Task Team Leader(s): Audrey Anne Alexandra Ariss Public Disclosure Practice Manager (ENR/Social) David Seth Warren Cleared on 04-Mar-2022 at 08:19:11 GMT-05:00 Mar 04, 2022 Page 15 of 15