Assessing the Bujagali Hydropower Project in Uganda

Volume 2 - Issue 4

George Kimbowa¹ and Khaldoon A Mourad²*

Received: January 21, 2019;   Published: January 29, 2019

DOI: 10.32474/MAOPS.2019.02.000141

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Abstract

The development of great dams and hydropower plants increases power supply and access. However, the process is considered a threat to livelihoods, ecosystem and biodiversity because in most cases it brings about human displacement and natural resources degradation. This paper seeks to assess the development of the Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Uganda (BHP) and its compliance with IWRM principles based on water knowledges, societal values, and inter-disciplinary approach. The paper develops a set of strategic interventions for the dam and the BHP based on SWOT analysis, XLRM framework, Multi-sectoral and interdisciplinary development approach, and sustainable management. These measures are deemed socially and ecologically acceptable by all stakeholders including the cultural and historical institutions, societal actor groups, including mega-hydraulic bureaucracies, the private sectors and national politicians. The results show that project developers should always carry out Environment and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA); develop timely ‘Resettlement Action Plan’; carry out informed consultation and participation; promote transparency; and communicate project’s risks, potential impacts and probable mitigation actions to attain sustainability. The paper proposes some policy interventions to be implemented along the project’s lifetime. Furthermore, it presents a sustainable development plan for such projects based on the IWRM principles.

Keywords:Transparency; participation; mitigation measures; policy intervention; conflicts; IWRM

Abbreviations:BHP: Bujagali Hydropower Plant; ESIA: Environment and Social Impact Assessments; GDMHID: Great Dams and Mega Hydraulic Infrastructure Development; LV: Lake Victoria; NB: Nile Basin; AES: Applied Energy Services; WCD: World Commission on Dams; BEL: Bujagali Energy Limited; EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment; SWOT: Strength, weakness, opportunities and threats; PPP; Public-Private-Partnership; ERA: Echelons of Rights Analysis; CDAP: Community Development Action Plan; HEP: Hydro-Electric Power; KOSMP: Kalagala Offset Sustainable Management Plan; NAPE: National Association of Professional Environmentalists; WPC: Water Policy Committee; DWD: Directorate of Water Development; WRR: Water Act and Water Resources Regulation; NEMA: National Environment Management Authority

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