[ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT REPORT FOR THE PANDAMATENGA
[24-28 September 2012] AGRICULTURAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT]
1. INTRODUCTION
The Environmental Audit which was undertaken as per Section 19 of the
Environmental Assessment Act No. 10 of 2011. The audit was also
undertaken to fulfil the obligations of the contractual loan agreement
between the Botswana Government, represented by the Ministry of
Agriculture and African Development Bank (AfDB) on the implementation
of the above mentioned project. The audit was conducted jointly by the
following institutions: Department of Environmental Affairs; Department
of Waste management and Pollution Control; Department of Water
Affairs; Chobe District Council (Roads and Environmental Health); and
Chobe Land Board. The Departments of Mines and Department of
Meterological Services did not participate although they were invited.
2. AUDIT OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the environmental audit were to:
a)
b)
c)
d)
Establish whether the project is complying with the conditions of
authorisation of the EIA report, especially with regard to the
mitigation measures and impact management/monitoring
recommendations outlined in the approved Environmental
Management Plan;
Establish the effectiveness of the mitigation measures and impact
management/monitoring recommendations outlined in the
approved Environmental and Social Monitoring Plan;
Establish whether there are any other impacts that were not
predicted; and
Make appropriate recommendations to address issues that require
corrective actions where applicable.
3. SCOPE OF AUDIT
The scope of audit covered issues related to management of effluent from
the farms; pollution of water, soil and air; resource use; security, health
and safety; and general considerations at the following areas:
o Contractors Camp
o Electric Perimeter Fence
o Road networks
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o Borrow Pits
o Drainage Facilities
o Underground Water Quality Monitoring
Furthermore the audit covered aspects related to health, community
relations, crime and other social issues that the project, nay impact
upon. This is particularly important in that the environmental
assessment of the project had a strong social comoponent.
4. METHODOLOGY
The methodology used for undertaking the audit involved the following:
a)
Literature review
An extensive review of the ESIA report/ESMP that was approved in 2007
was undertaken prior to the actual audit in order to confirm the impacts
that were predicted together with the recommended mitigation measures.
The minutes of the ESMP Monitoring Unit meeting were also reviewed to
assess effectiveness of the aspects such as project implementation
structures and the level of implementation by the various role players in the
ESMP.
b)
Pre-audit site visit
DEA Team undertook a pre-audit site visit on the 24th September, 2012.
This was a reconnaissance visit for the Team to familiarise themselves
with the project set–up and activities in order to inform the scope of the
audit, audit plan and logistics. The observations and information
obtained during the pre – audit visit was also used to determine the audit
scope and guide the actual audit.
c)
Physical site audit
During the actual audit the Audit Team undertook site inspections,
interviews, reviewed and analysed documents to verify information.
5. AUDIT TEAM
The audit team comprised the following officers from the participating
institutions:
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Department of Environmental Affairs; Department of Waste management
and Pollution Control; Department of Water Affairs; Chobe District
Council (Roads and Environmental Health); and Chobe Land Board. The
Departments of Mines and Department of Meterological Services did not
participate although they were invited
6. SUMMARY STATEMENT OF THE AUDIT FINDINGS
The audit team wishes to thank the auditee which is the Department of
Crop Production in the Ministry of Agriculture and its associated project
implementing partners, EREIS (Pty) Ltd, (The Environmental
Consultants), DIWI Engineering Consultants and China Jiangxi
Corporation for their cooperation and assistance during the audit
exercise. The audit team was generally satisfied with the measures that
have been put in place to mitigate against the environment and social
impacts of the project. For example the plan for disposing the excess
overburden material from the drainage canals and road network, the
creation of retention ponds which reduces borrow material while on the
other hand creates an opportunity for storage of drainage water for
possible re-use. There is evidence of responsiveness by the Supervising
Consultants on emerging issues.A case in point is the on-going
consultations regarding the impact of construction of road culvert on the
BAMB road on the neighboring farms and dust impacts on the poultry
farm.
However the audit team has identified a number of serious evidence of
non-compliance with the approved ESMP and general disregard to
environment and social considerations. This is particularly evident on
the component of construction works in the borrow pits and the
operations within the contractor’s camp. Major non-compliance issues
are storage and handling of fuels and hazardous waste especially used oil
and used oil filters; liquid waste management and occupational health
and safety especially lack of personal protective equipment for workers at
the workshop, evidence of lack of commitment to workers welfare. It
would seem that there is limited or no commitment on overall
environment and social impacts of the project by senior management of
the construction company – China Jiangxi.
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Furthermore the audit has also generally revealed that there is still alot
that needs to be done to mitigate the social impacts of the project
especially to the village of Pandamatenga. The audit has revealed that the
village leadership does not have a sense of ownership to the project.
Some of the concerns that are obtained within the community are limited
employment opportunities for the people of Pandamatenga, lack of
investments in corporate social responsibility by the contractors of the
project and lack of involvement of village leadership in the project
especially regular briefing about the project. Based on the foregoing it
can be concluded that there is lack of clear established communication
channels among interested and affected parties. There is evidence of
increased pressure on existing services such as health and law
enforcement. The client which is DCP, Contractor and supervising
consultant should engage with the village leadership and other local
structures to develop strategies of making sure that the project is
environmentally, socially and economically beneficial to the host
community.
7.0 AUDIT FINDINGS
The following sections present the detailed findings of the audit.
7.1
CONTRACTORS CAMPS
7.1.1 Fuel Storage Area
There are five tanks for storage of diesel with each tank of twenty two thousand
litres (22 000 l). Two tanks are kept in an open bunded containment facility of
44.33 cubic metres which is less than the stipulated 110% with no drain plug
and oil separators. There was one tank which was found empty. Fuelling point
is not bunded. There are signs of oil spillages in the bounded area and over
spillage probably during refilling. Fuel is leaking from one of the pipes in one of
the storage tanks as a five (5) litre paint container was observed full of diesel
collecting from the leaking pipe. Litter was also observed at the fuel storage
site. Fuel spills observed on the fuel bay. Interviews with fuel handling
employee indicated that he has background in the fuel industry but has not
been trained. Interviews with the SHE Officer revealed that there is no spillage
management plan. Only two small serviced fire extinguishers (4.5kg and 5kg)
were found at the fuel point. There are no adequate warning signs. Electrical
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cables were observed uncovered with the bound wall. Signs of fuel seepage on
the bound wall were observed.
Fig 1: Oil spillages at fuel storage point
7.1.1.1 Recommendations
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A drain plug should be installed on the bund walls fitted with an oil
separator
Fuelling bay should be properly drained, connected to the oil separator
and extended to service all the Tanks
Oil spillage observed at the fuel bay should be cleaned.
All leakages in the fuel storage system should be identified and fixed
accordingly
More fire extinguishers should be placed at the site
Adequate warning signs should be provided.
Electrical cables should be properly covered
All litter should be collected and disposed off accordingly
Bound wall should be properly sealed with impermeable material
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7.1.2 Workshop Area
It was observed that generally most of the staff were not provided with
appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Staff were found wearing torn
overalls and without protective hand gloves. The workshop was not properly
demarcated and poor housekeeping observed. No safety signs, first aid kit and
fire extinguishers were observed. Evidence of oil spillage around the parking
bay was found which may be attributed to repair of vehicles anywhere in the
workshop area. A heap of oil contaminated soil was stored in a plastic
membrane but not contained in proper bund walls.
The area for holding containers (drums) with used oil had bund walls on the
side however, oil contaminated litter was observed around the area.
Fig 2: Scrap materials at Workshop Area
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7.1.2.1 Recommendations
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All Staff should be provided with appropriate Personal Protective
Equipment (minimum of two per employee)
Provide the workshop area with safety signs, first aid kit and fire
extinguishers
Repair/ maintenance of vehicles should be confined to the garage area
which should also be properly drained and connected to an oil separator
The facilities for holding used oil should be cleaned off litter
A proper salvage yard area should be constructed at the site
Oil contaminated soils should be contained in a bunded area and
progressively treated.
All oil contaminated soil spots should be excavated, contained and
properly treated
The workshop area should be properly demarcated and housekeeping
improved
7.1.3 Solid and liquid waste Management Facility
There was solid waste storage facility at the contractor’s camp entrance, on
the road reserve. The refuse cage is full of mixed waste materials. The gate
for the refuse cage was broken. There are no solid waste receptacles within
the camp. Liquid waste from the residential area is directed into the septic
tanks. It was observed that the septic tank is covered with boards on top
with no proper coverage with strong impermeable material such as concrete
with proper inspection chambers. There was an indication of liquid waste
leaking from the septic/conservancy tank. Interviews with the SHE officer
revealed that the inhabitants irrigate their vegetables with raw sewage from
the kitchen and laundry which has the possibility of contaminating the
underground water and causing waterborne diseases. It was reported that
the tanks are emptied by Chobe District Council on regular basis and that
payment has been done for regular emptying.
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Fig 3 : Solid waste storage facility at the contractor’s camp entrance
7.1.3.1 Recommendations
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The waste collection facility should be relocated into the camp plot
(leased area) and properly constructed
Waste receptacles should be provided within the camp and emptied
regularly
Pandamatenga village is supplied with borehole water and therefore
irrigation with raw sewage is not permitted.
The constructed conservancy tank should be properly constructed
and covered with concrete slab.
Regular emptying of conservancy tanks should be done and the Contractor
should ensure that there is no pollution of the environment and the
underground water The contractor should make sure it does not overspill and
there are no leakages
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7.2.0 ELECTRIC PERIMETER FENCE
During the audit, a 2.4 m electric fence was already erected at the periphery of
the new commercial farms on the south eastern part of the existing farms as a
measure to prevent wildlife from invading the new farms. The electric fence
covers a distance of about 50 km and was constructed by a 100 % citizen
owned company, Fourie Investments (Pty) Ltd. Solar power is the source of
electric current of about 6.0 - 8.8 kV that powers the electric fence. The team
audit observed 4 solar power sub stations at strategic locations along the fence,
each servicing 8 km on either side.
Fig 4 : Electric Fence and one of the solar power sub stations
7.2.1 Condition of the fence
The audit team noted that the fencing material particularly the poles were of
low quality as observed by easy breakage thereof when hit by animals. This
was exacerbated by the fact the poles used were the perforated type different
from the ones used in the existing fence erected in 2000 (Fig 4). The team
observed that poles mainly broke at perforations resulting in the fence falling
off in certain areas, i.e the holes in the poles create weak points within the
pole. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) informed the audit
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team that they were not consulted at the design stage of the fence to advice and
have input on the final selection of the fencing material as per the
recommendations of the design documents.
Fig 5 : Perforated Electric Fence Poles
Fig 6 : Pole broken at the perforation
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The electrician from Fourie Investments (Pty) Ltd informed the team that the fence has
been repaired by the contractor on several occasions due to the above. Records on the
maintenance of the fence were said to be unavailable.
7.2.2 Human - Wildlife conflict
The audit team noted several cases of human – wildlife conflict as reported by
the DWNP through the Chobe Wildlife Regional Office mainly due to existence
of wildlife within the new fence area. The DWNP informed the audit team that
they were tasked by the Ministry of Agriculture to mitigate human wildlife
conflict in the Pandamatenga Agricultural Development. Part of the objective of
this exercise was for a total depopulation of wildlife from the new farms being
fenced to reduce the levels of human wildlife conflict. In cooperation with the
Ministry of Agriculture and Fourie Investments (fencing contractors) the DWNP
managed to remove about 450 animals from the new fenced area. Some wildlife
was however left within the fence area after the first removal exercise. Table 1.0
and 1.1 show the animals removed from the new fenced area and those left
within the fence.
Species
Number
Eland
380
Tshessebe
40
Roan
24
Giraffe.
6
Table 1.0 Number of wildlife removed from the new fenced area. (Source, DWNP)
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Species
Number
Roan
8
Impala
5
Ostrich
20
Tshessebe
10
Zebra
10
Eland
2
Giraffe
2
Black-backed
Jackals
2
Table 1.1 Number of animals left within the new fenced area (Source, DWNP)
The team also found out that the Chobe Regional Wildlife Office developed and
submitted to the director of DWNP for approval a work plan and request for
support and equipment to ensure the successful completion of total
depopulation exercise. According to the Regional Office, the plan and request
referred to above were never approved and they have since been compelled to
continue providing water at various points. The team observed 3 watering
points at farm 108QO, 105QO and 100QO where the regional wildlife office
supplies animals with water through a water bowser at regular intervals. This
has resulted in more animals being attracted back into the new fenced area. An
estimated 155 animals were seen inside the fence, during the DWNP patrols
(DWNP). The audit team observed some of these animals within the fenced area
during the audit. According to DWNP, this situation was exacerbated by the
fact that fence gates are always left open. The team further found out that
some farmers were also supplying wildlife with water from their private
boreholes.
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Fig 7 : A furrow used as watering points for wildlife
Fig 8 : A watering trough used as a watering point fro wildlife
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Fig 9: Water pumped from a Private borehole supply wild animals
The audit team established that the presence of wildlife within the fenced area
resulted in a number of human wildlife conflict scenarios. The DWNP through
the Regional Wildlife office reported cases of injuries to wildlife by farmers, crop
damage and livestock predation by wildlife.
It was reported to the audit team that a total of 110 livestock were lost by
farmers due to lion predation since January 2012. These were 58 cattle, 40
goats, 8 sheep, 3 donkeys, and 1 horse (DWNP). A total of P73 517-25 was
paid to farmers as monetary compensation (DWNP). In addition, 1 lion, 1
python and 1 leopard were reported to be injured by farmers in protection of
their property (DWNP). Elands, kudus and tshessebes were also reported to be
problematic with regards to crop damage to farmers who have already started
ploughing. The team established that continued existence of wildlife within the
new fenced area will cause more human – wildlife conflicts as at the time of
audit, more farmers had already started preparing their farms for ploughing.
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7.2.3 Wildlife Mortality
In addition to the above, the audit team further established that there have
since been cases of wildlife mortality due to the erection of the fence. Wildlife
mortality within the new fenced area was mainly attributed to animals hitting
the fence, poaching as well as natural death possibly due to harsh conditions
within the fenced area. The Chobe Regional Wildlife office reported that about
eleven (11) animals were killed by the fence being 4 giraffes, 4 Elands and 3
Zebras. Fig 10 shows the carcass of one the animals killed by the fence as
observed by the audit team during the audit. These cases have also led to more
breakages of the fence.
Fig 10 : Dead zebra within the fence
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7.2.4 Loss of wildlife habitat
During the audit, some farmers had acquired burning permits from DFRR and
were already debushing and clearing their farms to prepare for ploughing (Fig
11). This resulted in less/ reduced forage left for game. Animals are now left
with little space for habitat and were exposed to the scotching sun with little
vegetation to hide in.
According to the Chobe Regional Wildlife office these
animals were getting emaciated and were bound to perish.
Fig 11: Cleared New farms
7.2.5 Occupational Health and safety
The audit team observed a few employees of the contractor putting on
protective clothing. A majority of workers were not putting on any protective
clothing. In addition, the team observed adequate signage around the perimeter
electric fence to warn people of the impending danger (Fig12). The Regional
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Wildlife office reported to the audit team that in order to ensure safety they
provided escort/ protection for consultants as well as Plant Protection
personnel during their surveys/ study.
Fig 12: Signage on the fence
7.2.6 Illegal installation of fence within the perimeter electric fence
Some of the issues that the audit team noted related to illegal construction of a
fence within the electric fence by the owner of farm 94QO (Fig 13). The team
had an opportunity to interview the farmer who indicated that he installed the
fence to limit access and avoid poaching by farm workers from other farms.
DWNP indicated that they were not aware of poaching issues mentioned by the
farmer in that area as they did not record any. The Land Board also said that
they did not grant the farmer permission to erect the fence.
In addition, the Project Coordinator also said the farmer erected the fence
without consulting them. In an interview with the farmer, he indicated that he
put forward a suggestion to the Land Board and DWNP to put gates at the
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entrance of his farm along his fence and lock them. He informed the team that
was once the gates are put up, he was willing to avail keys to all relevant
departments to access his farm. The team observed that the existence of this
fence could affect the functions of the electric fence, encourage retention of
game within the electric and consequently exacerbate the problem of humanwildlife conflicts.
Fig 13
: Illegal fence constructed by owner of farm 94QO within the electric
within the electric fence
7.2.7 Recommendations
In view of the above findings, the following recommendations are made by the
audit team:
 That DWNP embarks on and undertakes a total depopulation exercise to
remove all wildlife trapped within the fence with immediate effect with a
view to:
 Avoiding cases of human – wildlife conflicts
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Reducing incidents of wildlife mortality due to poaching, hitting the
fence and harsh conditions within the fenced area
Reducing fence breakage
No wildlife should be kept within the fenced area to avoid wildlifehuman conflicts. In view of this, game farms should not be
entertained within the area.
DWNP and farmers cease to provide water to wildlife forthwith after
the depopulation exercise.
The contractor progressively maintains the fence to replace broken
poles at his expense in view of the low quality material used. The
DWNP should be engaged in this regard particularly with regards to
procurement of appropriate fencing material. Records of fence
maintenance should be kept.
Gates of the new fence should be secured always to avoid animals
gaining entry into the farm area
Farmers affected by wildlife through crop damage and wildlife
predation should be compensated whilst the depopulation exercise
is ongoing.
The illegal fence constructed by owner of farm 94 QO should be
removed with immediate effect. No wildlife should be entertained
within the fence.
7.3.0 BURROW PIT OPERATIONS
7.3.1 Access Routes
The Pandamatenga Agricultural Infrastructural Development project consists of
the construction of 190 km road network all weather roads within the farms.
The implementation of the project necessitated the need for earth material to
be sourced from identified burrow pits for the extraction of weathered basalt
and decomposed granite material.
The audit team visited Burrow Pit 1(BRP1) and Burrow Pit 2(BRP2) and
observed that bush clearing and stockpiling of stripped topsoil had encroached
outside of the leased area. The burrow pit areas at both sites are not yet fenced
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or demarcated. The audit team noted that burrowing of granite material was
ongoing on site and areas were very dusty. Personnel at burrow pits were not
provided with appropriate protective equipment. Heavy machinery and trucks
on site are not fitted with safety flash lights or beacon lights.
The audit team noticed that there is no road signage along haul routes and
general disregard for road signs and road safety measures. There are no road
signages, speed limit signs and other traffic control measures to warn other
road users of risks particularly at main road access approaches. Material
haulage trucks were observed transporting material uncovered. It was very
evident that dust suppression measures as approved in the Environmental and
Social Management Plan for the project were not being implemented.
Records on any dust suppression measures and their frequency of application
were not availed during the audit. There is no first aid kit available at the
quarry site for emergency injuries. There are no portable toilet facilities for
workers on site thus people indiscriminately use the bush. In addition to the
above, there are no solid waste receptacles on site. The access routes to burrow
pits trespasses’ through other people’s properties.
Fig 14: Haulage truck loaded with gravel material from one of the burrow
pits
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7.3.1.1 Recommendations
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As much as possible clearing should be limited to the area required for
excavation activities
Where possible skirting should be done within the leased area and clear
demarcation of the leased area is required
Vegetation clearing should be done using dozer blade raised above the
soil in order to preserve vegetation rootstock.
The vegetation cleared should be stockpiled appropriately and tree
branches separated from dull dozed soil
The topsoil should be carefully striped from the burrow pit site and
stored in a separate pile from the subsoil and overburden
All disturbed slopes should be maintained to quitter running or
operations.
Excavation should be limited to the leased area and activities should not
encroach outside leased area
All equipment should be maintained to ensure low noise levels
Silencers should be fitted to mobile plant( exhaust and air intake fans) to
reduce noise generation
Operation activities should be planned to avoid prolonged noise
generating activities. All machinery that will be used intermittently
should be shut down during periods of inactivity.
Use of insulators enclosing noise generating equipment (around
processing plants) is a must
Noise monitors should be used to ensure controls are effective
Mining works should not be undertaken on weekends when the majority
of people will be resting
Workers safety must include health screening and should make use of
hearing protectors
Workers should be properly trained on safety measures on quarry site.
Well equipped first aid kit should be on site at all times
Receptacles for solid waste should be provided on site and waste should
be collected and disposed off at designated refuse disposal
Hauling trucks should be covered to prevent dust pollution and gravel
material from falling during transportation.
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Speed limits of 40 km/ hr should be adhered to by construction vehicles
especially along access roads to pit site and the project site
Signs indicating construction and operational activities should be placed
about 100m from the entrance and exit approaches to the site informing
other road users of the risks and presence of turning vehicles.
Contents of portable toilets for the workers should be disposed off at
least twice a week
7.4 ROAD NETWORKS
The project consist of the peripheral road north , west, South , East , East West
Road, Access Roads 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, ARS, BAMB road as well as access roads
within the new small holders farms. Currently the roads under construction
are the BAMB road, Access road 2 and 5, peripheral road East and portions of
the access road 1 and peripheral road West.
7.4.1 Air pollution/ decline in air quality
The audit team travelled along the BAMB road, Access road 2 and 5, peripheral
road east and portions of the access road 1 and peripheral road west where
construction was ongoing and observed that the areas being worked on as well
as the access roads being used to access these areas were very dusty. It was
very evident that dust suppression measures as approved in the Environmental
and Social Management Plan for the project were not being implemented
Adequately. Records on any dust suppression measures and their frequency of
application were not availed during the audit. Dust is a major concern as it can
hamper visibility of drivers and may lead to accidents. Workers may also
contact diseases due to constant exposure to dust.
The dust from the road is also a nuisance to the chicken farm near the BAMB
road. The poultry owner indicated that the dust has affected the chickens as
they have started coughing and that this has implications on her production.
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The poultry houses were observed to be around 1- 2 meters from the road.
Interviews with the Environmental Control officer revealed that the Project
Management and the Contractor are aware of the issue and have been in
consultation with the poultry owner.
It was highlighted by the Project Manager that the BAMB road will be the
busiest road even during operation especially during the harvesting season
hence the dust will continue even after construction. Chobe Land Board
further revealed that more commercial farms have been and some will be
allocated in the area. Residential dwellings particularly BAMB staff houses are
also affected by the dust from the road construction works and will continue to
be affected during the road operation phase. It is also worth noting that dust if
not suppressed will create a problem for the subsistence farmers along the
road as their crops may be covered by dust.
Fig 15 : Dust observed in one of the farm roads
7.4.1.1 Recommendations
 Implement dust suppression measures as per the approved ESMP.
 Consultations with the poultry owner should continue. An assessment
on the health status of the chicken should be undertaken and a
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mitigation measure to prevent dust from affecting the chicken should be
implemented.
 Special mitigation measures to suppress dust along the BAMB road
should be considered for the operation phase
 Additional conditions for allocation of the new commercial farms along
the BAMB road should be considered by the Chobe Land Board so that
the prospective applicants plan ahead to mitigate against dust.
 Adequate dust suppression measures including regular sprinkling of
water especially on loose dirt and stripped surfaces
 Stringent material handling/ overhauling procedures should be put in
place and enforced
 All construction vehicles plying the access road should be tuned and
maintained regularly to ensure that emission levels are kept within
permissible limits
 Employ safe traffic control measures including road signs and flag
persons to warm motorists and pedestrian of construction work
 signage should be complemented by traffic control officer who manages
the traffic during hauling of the materials
 All machinery should be fitted with flashing / warning light
 Trucks hauling material from the quarry site should be covered at all
times
 Trucks loaded with stone and other materials should at all times be
covered from the quarry pit to point of destination
 To reduce dust in loading / unloading areas, consideration should be
given to lowering drop height and use of water mist spray
7.4.2 Occupational Health and Safety
7.4.2.1 Provision and use of Personal Protective Clothing
The ESMP for the project recommended that all employees be provided with
protective clothing. It was observed during the audit that most employees on
site were provided with inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The
workers were observed working in dusty areas with no masks and some with
their own T- shirts instead of the relevant PPE.
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7.4.2.1.1 Recommendation

Workers should be provided with full Personal Protective Clothing and
the SHE officer should ensure and enforce compliance.
7.4.3. Traffic Management and Signage
The audit team also established that there was no traffic signage along the
access roads even where construction was ongoing. This poses danger to
oncoming traffic for the construction crew and the farmers/ public. Most
vehicles on site were driven at high speed despite the conditions of the road.
Vehicles were also observed to have no beacon lights and the head lights were
not kept on though the works were done in a dusty environment.
7.4.3.1 Recommendations



Signage should be provided immediately
Vehicles should be installed with beacon lights which should be kept on
at all times when on site
A proposer speed limit should be observed.
7.4.4 Occupational Risks and Hazards
Haphazard placement of materials on site posed a safety hazards to employees.
Boards with needle points facing upwards were observed on site especially in
area where work was concentrated. It was reported by the Station Commander
that some employees have been caught driving without the requisite licenses.
This poses a danger to the employees and the communities in the project site
as the operator may not be competent in dealing with the machinery they are
using. The audit was also made aware that one of the employees was injured
(when operating) by a grader and the case was never reported .The competency
of the operator was however not established.
It was further established that there was no first Aid station on site even
though the works were carried out very far from the village with a significant
number of employees.
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A section of the game fence on the BAMB road has been opened for
construction and it has been indicated that a cattle grill shall be provided to
prevent animal access into the farms. The team observed that a trench with
safety barricade has been made for the grill. It was however reported and noted
in the Environmental Supervision report of August 2012 that the gap is not
being consistently manned to reduce chances of wildlife gaining access into the
farms during construction. The Department of Wildlife reported that already
there are some wild animals within the farms areas which should not be there
and are a problem to the farmers. Though animals are not expected in this
area, the construction works pose a hazard to them as they may fall into the
pits or be hit by vehicles. The animals on the other hand pose a danger to the
construction workers on site.
7.4.4.1 Recommendations





All materials on site should be appropriately placed
Employees without the requisite licenses should not be allowed to drive
/operate any equipment that requires such.
A mobile clinic should be considered.
The game fence opening on BAMB road should be manned accordingly.
Department of Wildlife should consider removing the animals in the
farms areas as they will continue to be a nuisance to the farmers and
resulting in high mortality rates since (as reported by DWNP) the farmers
are allowed to kill them.
7.4.5 Awareness of the Environment, Health and Safety Policy including
HIV/AIDS Programme.
Most of the employees indicated that they have never been trained on issues
of Health, Safety and Environment. It was also very clear from the records
availed to the audit team that very little is done to train the workers. Only six
meetings with the different sections were recorded since the project started and
there was no evidence that workers were inducted to ensure that they are
aware of what is expected of them in terms of implementing the ESMP
requirements and the Health and Safety Policy. The said policy was also not
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provided to the audit team on request. The workers were not aware of the
aforementioned documents. The ESMP also recommended for an HIV/AIDS
awareness programme for employees to be implemented. The safety health and
environmental officer indicated that he collects condoms from the clinic and
places them in toilets for the employees to collect in private. It was further
established that there were no health and safety committees.
7.4.5.1 Recommendations


All new employees must be inducted prior to starting any tasks
Health and Safety committees must be formed immediately and Safety
,Health and Environment awareness meetings should be held
occasionally with minutes of such documented
7.4.6 Waste Management
Portable toilets were noted along the roads being constructed but were
however not moved to active working points as the construction progresses.
The auditee representatives reported that the sanitary facilities were regularly
serviced and that records were available to that effect. The records were
however not availed to the audit team on request. The audit team also observed
that there were no dustbins provided on site.
Fig 16 : Portable toilets along the roads
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7.4.6.1 Recommendations



Portable toilets should be moved to active working points as work
progresses.
The sanitary facilities should be regularly emptied and proper records
should be kept.
Dustbins should also be provided
7.4.7 Loss of Farm Land and Crops
The construction of the access roads has impacted on the farms especially
the subsistence farm land. It was noted that a culvert being installed along
the BAMB road would direct all the runoff into a field which was reported to
belong to Mr Moyo. The water that would be drained in to the field would
harm affect the owners livelihoods, either affect the way he used to operate
his farm or his harvest. The auditee representatives indicated that they have
noted the impact that would be caused by the culvert and have been in
consultation with the owner. They further reported that the field owner
indicated that he would prefer an alternative farm land instead of cash.
Some portions of commercial farm lands also had to be taken up to give way
for the project especially along farm boundaries where junctions were being
formed and where the road networks were running parallel to the main
drainage systems. On a positive note, construction of the roads is being
undertaken during the fallow season hence no crops have been lost or
affected by the project.
7.4.7.1 Recommendations

Assessments of the impact of flooding of the field due to the culverts (and
other fields upstream the culvert) by Ministry of Agriculture, Supervising
Consultants, Contractor, in consultation with Chobe Land Board.
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7.4.8 Noise Pollution
As it would be expected construction machinery increases the ambient noise
levels within the site. It is however worth noting that the noise levels
observed on site were normal construction levels.
7.4.9 Hindrance of Movement
Construction of access roads as would be expected impedes movements of
farm workers and farm owners within the existing commercial farms. Efforts
were however noted where the constructor provided openings for the
farmers to be able to cross over the access roads being created.
7.4.10 Impact on Archaeological Sites
Two burial sites were observed along the peripheral road west. The audit
team observed fresh tyre tracks/marks very close to the graves as well as
trees which were just felled around the sites. This was evidence that the
construction works encroached into the sensitive areas despite the
barricade tape that was provided to prevent access. It was reported that an
Archaeologist was not engaged after this incidents.
7.4.10.1 Recommendation

An archaeologist registered with the Department of Museum and
Monuments should be engaged to assess the site and establish the way
forward.
7.4.11Soil Erosion
The land scaring activities on site lead to localized disturbance of topsoil
which may lead to soil erosion. There were however no evidence of soil
erosion on site due to project activities. The construction works were also
done at the right time with no runoff to cause and exacerbate soil erosion. It
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is however important the contractor restores or seals erosion features if
observed on site to ensure stability.
7.4.12 Social Issues
The Pandamatenga Agricultural Infrastructure Project is a mega project
with significant potential social issues. During the environmental audit the
following social issues of concern cropped up;
7.4.12.1 Communication with Village Leadership
Consultations with the village leadership indicated that there is no
communication between the Project Management office and the village
leadership. The village Chief indicated that he is not aware of the progress
status of the project except that he has noticed that construction has
already started.
7.4.12.1.1 Recommendation

It is important that the Chief is consulted and briefed on the progress of
the project. This will create a sense of ownership which will trickle down
to the community members.
7.4.12.2 Health services

Interviews with the Pandamantenga Clinic representative’s revealed that
the services available at the clinic could not cope with the project
considering the distances and the resources available. It was highlighted
that the clinic has only one ambulance and very few personnel. The
mobile clinic car that the clinic has is not copining with the increased
farming areas.
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7.4.12.3Disease Prevalence (HIV/AIDS and Malaria)
Statistics provided by the Pandamatenga clinic have shown that there has
been an increase n the number of HIV/AIDS cases in the area. It was
however highlighted that there are many projects in the area hence the
population has grown which could be attributed to the increased
prevalence. Interviews with the clinic further revealed that there has been
an increase in pregnancy cases with an unusual 94 recorded cases by
September 2012. The nurse also said that it was worrisome that women are
not given support by men under these circumstances. The pregnancy cases
indicate that a significant number of the population is at risk of contacting
Sexually Transmitted Diseases. The SHE officer for the contractor Mr.
Mugungu told the team that there is no health and wellness committee at
the contractor. He further said that he normally collect boxes of condoms
from the clinic and put them at strategic locations.
The audit team found out that there has not been any recorded increase in
Malaria cases but were further informed that a possible increase may
happen during the Malaria season with the disease affecting most of the
workers who do not originate from the area hence were likely to be affected
by Malaria.
7.4.12.3.1 Recommendations


The contractor should have a fully functional health and wellness
committee in place.
The SHE officer should constantly liaise with the clinic and invite them to
give educational sessions to the staff.
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7.4.12.4Increase in Crime Rate
The audit team was informed by the Station Commander, Pandamatenga Police
that there has been an increase of crime incidents in the area. He however did
not attribute the increase to the project but to an increase in the population
due to a number of projects that are ongoing. It was reported during the audit
that some of the employees of the Companies contracted in the project were
involved in some of the incidences recorded by the police. Some of the cases
attributed to the project include employment of non citizens without working
permit and driving without licenses. The clinic also revealed that there is an
increase in cases of assault mainly involving males possibly due to an uneven
male dominated population structure. It was also established that one
employee of the contractor was injured by a grater on the 18th September 2012.
The Station Commander told the team that they were unaware of such a case
as it was never reported to his office. The Environmental Supervision report of
August 2012 for the project also recorded incidences where one worker stabbed
another with a screw driver and in another incident a Chinese foreman hit a
heavy duty driver with a metal pipe.
7.4.12.4.1 Recommendations


All incidences should be reported to the police
The SHE officer should approach the Police for them to address the staff
on issues of conduct and the law.
7.4.12.5 Pressure on Limited Resources (Police and
Clinic)
It became apparent during the interviews with the Clinic and the Police
representatives that the increase in population in the area is putting a strain in
the limited resources they have. The officer in charge for Pandamatenga clinic
Ms. Sithole indicated that drug supply is overstretched due to additional work
force and that drugs often run out resulting in disgruntlement of patients. The
team also learnt from the nurse that the clinic is not fully staffed as there is no
pharmacy technician and the doctor is not based in Pandamatenga. She said
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that the clinic qualifies for a doctor to be based there but there is no
accommodation for the doctor in Pandamatenga and the government cites lack
of funds as well.
It was also noted that there is lack of transport as one ambulance has a
breakdown and the clinic is relying on one ambulance that is also not equipped
with life saving kit. This has resulted in some patients losing their lives on their
way to Kasane for referral. The clinic also has inadequate diagnostic equipment
such as oxygen equipment. The Botswana Defence Force camp often assists
with admitting some patients. There is also lack of provision of mosquito nets
since the service remained with the local Council when the Central
Government acquired clinics. It was also cited that most homes are not open to
the spraying personnel and this aggravates the problem of Malaria.
The audit team noted that the Police Office in the area is also facing similar
challenges as the clinic due to increase in population. The station Commander
revealed that the limited resources they have particularly vehicles are
overstretched and this has implications on other departments such as the
Department of wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) which are normally required
to assist with vehicles.
7.4.12.5.1 Recommendations



The Pandamatenga Police should seek assistance from other policing
areas to augment capacity
The project should consider procuring another mobile clinic vehicle to
assist the clinic so that they can cover the additional farms.
Considerastion into provision for accommodation for the doctor and the
pharmacy technician because the farms are going to be a long term
establishment
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7.4.12.6 Labour Issues
The audit team learnt that employees are employed on monthly contract basis.
This arrangement does not favour the employees as they may be easily expelled
from work if the employer feels so. The SHE officer said that these issues were
discussed with the Regional Labour Office and it was agreed that this
arrangement should be ceased but that recommendation has not been
implemented as yet. The team observed that this also had implications on
provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as companies do not usually
provide temporary staff with PPE.
During the interview, the nurse indicated that they have workforce coming to
the clinic at odd hours because they are not released by their seniors at work.
Ms Sithole indicated that a nurse sometimes makes up to ten trips after
normal working hours to attend to emergency patients who could have been
assisted during the day. The nurse further indicated that some patients default
on their medication particularly Anti Retroviral drugs and have often cited
refusal of permission for them to go to the clinic by the senior management of
the construction company. This was said to be dangerous as the patients may
develop drug resistance.
7.4.12.6.1 Recommendations


Labour and social relation issues should be raised with relevant
authorities and should be treated with the seriousness they deserve by
the contractor.
Patients should be given exit permits by the employer to go to the clinic.
7.4.12.7 Impact of Project on Livelihoods
The audit team observed that the construction of the farm roads particularly
the BAMB road has direct impacts on two farms, namely Mr Moyo’s farm and
the Poultry farm near the road. Thr culvert being installed along the BAMB
road would direct all the runoff into Mr Moyo’s field. The water that would be
drained in to the field would affect the owners’ livelihoods, either affect the way
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he used to operate his farm or destroy his harvest. The auditee representatives
indicated that they have noted the impact that would be caused by the culvert
and have been in consultation with the owner. They further reported that the
field owner indicated that he would prefer an alternative farm land instead of
cash.
The dust from the road is a problem to the chicken farm near the BAMB road.
The poultry owner indicated that the dust has affected the chickens as they
have started coughing and that this has implications on her production. The
poultry houses were observed to be around 1- 2 meters from the road.
Interviews with the Environmental Control officer revealed that the Project
Management and the Contractor are also aware of the issue and have been in
consultation with the poultry owner as well.
Fig 17 : BAMB road passing near a poultry house
7.4.19.1 Recommendations

Assessments of the impact of flooding of the field due to the culverts (and
other fields upstream the culvert) by Ministry of Agriculture, Supervising
Consultants, Contractor, in consultation with Chobe Land Board.
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

Consultations with the poultry owner should continue. An assessment on
the health status of the chicken should be undertaken and a mitigation
measure to prevent dust from affecting the chicken should be
implemented.
Maintenance of roads after completion need to be considered through
involvement of Chobe District Council to take over the responsibility of
road maintenance.
7.5 DRAINAGE NETWORKS
Drainage system is still under construction and no signs of erosion were
observed. The drainage channels cover a length of thirty (30) km, a width
ranging from 60-100 m with a gradient of 1: 2000. The servitude between the
farm drainage channels is 15 meters but 30 m is required which will result in
loss of farm land. The retention pond which was not in the initial design, will
be constructed to a maximum depth of 2.5 m. The initial target was to excavate
a maximum of 2 million m3 of soils from the drains. However a total of five
million cubic meters (5 000 000 m3) of gravel / soil will be excavated from the
drains. 3.3 million Cubic meters of the excavated material will be salvaged at
areas identified in the site area. Only 1.2 million cubic of the excavated
material will be used in roads construction. Black cotton soils excavated will be
stockpiled together with the calcrete material. The stockpile will be to a
maximum height of 1 m. Black cotton soils will be placed on top of the calcrete
then vegetated to stimulate growth.
Initial design of the drainage networks indicated use of bunds at the end of
each farm to monitor quality of discharge at each farm to serve as monitoring
points for surface. It also showed that monitoring ponds / wetland will be
constructed to contain effluent before being discharged into the environment
but has since been left open discharging effluent directly into the environment.
This modification has not been revised in the original ESMP.
There is likelihood of transboundary issues related to agrochemical
contaminated water. However timing of operation done during fallow period
and drainage channels done in sections hence minimize disturbance of farm
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operations. Evidence of dusts observed no warning signs for impending dust
and other safety measures. No first aid equipment on site.
Fig 18 : Drainage channel under construction
7.5.1 Recommendations





All modifications to the initial design should be formally communicated
to DEA
Signage on impending dusts and other safety issues should be put in
place.
Baseline information of ground and surface water monitoring should be
collected to monitor the quality of effluent being discharged into the
environment
It is strongly recommended that the issue of transboundary impacts
associated with the project should assess and addressed.
Consultation with Chobe Land Board on the issue of replacing of
servitude with drainage canals should be done
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7.6
GROUND
BOREHOLE
WATER
&
QUALITY
MONITORING
Privately owned monitoring boreholes are used in the farms. There is no water
quality monitoring baseline data on existing boreholes including privately
owned boreholes. DWA has not been provided with documents regarding the
boreholes in the farm areas i.e. borehole location map and certificates.
Fig 19 : A private monitoring borehole in the farms
7.6.1 Recommendations

Relevant authorities to conduct baseline survey and map borehole
locations.

Ministry of Agriculture, DWA, DGS and CLB to consult farmers on issues
of water quality monitoring in the active boreholes.

Develop and implement water quality and hydrological monitoring
infrastructure and program.

Explore potential for establishing participatory water quality and
hydrological monitoring.
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
All the boreholes in the project area should be registered with the
Department of Water Affairs.
7.7
INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY
During the audit it was noted that the institutional arrangements is not very
effective in implementation sectoral functions of the project as outlined in the
approved ESMP of the Pandamatenga Infrastructural Development Project. One
of the shortcomings in implementing institutional functions of the project was
lack of participation during project coordination and steering committee
meetings by concerned departments. Some departments indicated shortage of
funds for performing their roles. Some of the key stakeholders such as the
village leaders, Police Officers and Nurses were not fully engaged in the project
coordination.
7.7.1 Recommendations

Funds should be provided in each participating department financial vote
allocation for each department to satisfactorily perform their
responsibilities

Directors for participating departments should formally appoint officers
who will be responsible for attending project coordination meetings

Schedule for all project meetings should incorporated into the Chobe
Dictrict Council annual schedule of activities
8.0 CONCLUSION
The audit revealed that Pandamatenga Infrastructural Development project is
generally complying with most of the in terms of environmental standards
outlined in the Environmental and Social Monitoring Plan. However, most of
the project activities are still under construction phases. Issues of noncompliance were identified mainly at the Contractor’s Camp. In addition there
are certain areas within the project components which need to be improved to
enhance the environmental performance of the project. The recommendations
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made on this report as captured under each project component need to be
implemented in totality by the Ministry of Agriculture – Department of Crop
Production.
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9.0 APPENDICES
Appendix 1
Minutes of Opening Meeting of Pandamatenga Agricultural Infrastructure
Project Environmental Audit
Venue: Pandamatenga Agricultural Infrastructure Site Office
Date: 25 September 2012
Time: 0900 hours
Rapporteur: Judith Maifala
Attendance register
NAME
1. Khandu K.
INSTITUTION
Chobe Land Board
Wellfield
CONTACTS
72420205/
kantlyn.01@yahoo.com
75765352
Wellfield
75530182
DEA
6801237
Department of Water Affairs
– Maun
Department
of
Environmental Affairs –
Gaborone
Department
of
Environmental Affairs –
Francistown
CJIC
74062695
CJIC
74063641
DIWI Consulting
76066449
2. J. Kamona
3. F. J. Regedzai
4. S. Motsumi
5. A. Chika
6. L. Seakanyeng
7. C. Masheto
3902050
2417330
75428042
8. Shuang Xia
9. Eddy de Graaff
10.
B. Jennings
11.
S. Semetsa
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Department
of
Crop 71392987
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Production
12.
L. Gavor
13.
J. Maifala
14.
Phillip Sandawana
15.
Dolly Mbizo
16.
Mpaphi Mugungu
17.
Khotso Sebeke
18.
Rebaone Tshiamo
19.
Percy S. Kanokang
20.
Mosiami Bagopi
EREIS (Pty) Ltd
Department
of
Environmental Affairs –
Gaborone
Department
of
Environmental
AffairsMaun
Department of Wildlife and
National Parks
71351849
3644642
CJIC
Department of
Waste
Management and Pollution
Control
Chobe District CouncilRoads
Chobe District Council –
Public Health
Trainee – DIWI Consulting
6232113
6801244
6801237
6232066
6250275
6250275
72687503
Introductions
An opening prayer was rendered.
The Environmental Control Officer, Mr Lizo Gavor welcomed everyone to the
meeting and introduced the auditee representatives who comprised of the
Project manager, Project coordinator. This was then followed by introductions
by all present at the meeting. Mr Gavor handed over to the Project Coordinator
to say a few words prior to receipt of remarks by the Department of
Environmental Affairs.
The Project coordinator indicated that the project was funded by the African
Development Bank and that prior to acquiring the funds A Environmental
Assessment clearance had to be acquired from the DEA. He further highlighted
that the Environmental audit is also a requirement by the financier and that
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they would like to know where they may be legging in implementing the project
so that they could put in place some corrective measures to move forward. He
encouraged all to cooperate as the project is the responsibility of all.
Objectives of Audit and Expectations
Mr. Motsumi thanked the client and the project management team for their
presence. He extended the welcome to the technical Departments who were
present to join the Department of Environmental affairs in undertaking the
audit. Mr Motsumi indicated that DEA is responsible for providing guidance in
implementing the Environmental and Social Management Plan for the project
which was approved in 2007. He highlighted that the Environmental
Assessment report for the project was approved under the Environmental
Impact Assessment of 2005 which has since been replaced by the
Environmental Assessment Act of 2011. Furthermore, he highlighted that
section 19 of the EA Act makes a provision for the DEA to undertake
Environmental audit to monitor compliance to the approved Environmental
Assessment report.
The audit team leader, Mr Motsumi informed the meeting that the purpose of
the exercise was to ascertain if the construction of the Pandamatenga
Agricultural Infrastructure Project was being done in accordance with the
approved ESMP. He further indicated that the process also provides
opportunity for other stakeholders to take ownership of the project. Mr
Motsumi highlighted that DEA does not have all the expertise hence the need
to involve other technical departments other technical to do a proper audit. He
further indicated his hope that all the stakeholders will interface with the
project from here forward. He called for cooperation among all the members
and the client urging all to work in a transparent manner to identify the
elements that need to be corrected or enhanced. Mr Motsumi emphasized that
the audit was not meant to be a punitive exercise but to identify challenges in
mitigating the impacts. He highlighted that the project is of national interest
and encouraged all to ensure that there are no gaps that may end up damaging
the positive intent of the project. He indicated to the auditee that at the end of
the exercise the team will submit a preliminary report of findings and that the
main audit report shall be submitted later.
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In laying down the scope of the audit, he explained that the joint audit team
would visit the entire construction site comprising of the Contractor’s camp,
road networks, drainage system, Electric Fence and burrow pits.
Project Overview
The Project Manager Mr. Brian Jennings gave a project overview and indicated
that the project comprises of the following contracts;
-
-
-
-
Supervisory engineering contract which was awarded to DIWI consulting
mainly to oversee the contractor. He highlighted that the consultancy
has sixteen engineers and twenty support staff, four survey team, two
quantity surveyors, a resident engineer and an assistant resident
engineer.
Civil contract which has been awarded to China Jianxu International
Cooperation and comprises of 180km of roads and drains and minor
ancillary works.
Electric game fence contract which was awarded to Fourie Investments.
He indicated that the six months contract was for the 50km fence and
that the company is currently in their six months maintenance period
and have also requested for an extension. The project manager further
highlighted that the fence is for the new commercial farms and that
2500ha have been reserved for the small holder’s farms ranging from
20ha to 100ha and about 17000ha for the new commercial farms at
approximately 100ha to 500ha per farm.
Bush clearing contract at the small holder farms. Mr Jennings indicated
that the tender has been floated and contractor is expected by the end of
October 2012.
Continuing with the overview, the project manager indicated that they are one
year in to the project and efforts are being concentrated in constructing the
farm roads. He highlighted that the intention is to try to get the roads usable
before the rainy seasons. The roads under construction were indicated to be
access road 1, 2 and 5, peripheral road east, peripheral road west, the BAMB
road including the cattle grid. He mentioned that the roads being constructed
are all weather roads and that traffic is low at the moment but expected to be
high during the harvest season especially along the BAMB road.
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The project manager further informed the meeting that the drainage
component for the project was necessary as the area has good soils and high
rainfall. He said the problem with the rainfall is that it is very intense and
localized and often lead to flooding. He highlighted that the drainage for the
project was designed by DIWI Consulting Engineers and the basis is to control
the water. The drains consist of primary drains to collect the water draining it
into the western collector to minimize effects on farm one to ten. In the
Southern plains all drains lead the water to the south and south west. He
further indicated that some of the material being used for the construction is
obtained from the northern and western collectors which are outside the
farming area with suitable material for road construction. Additional material,
he indicated is obtained from four borrow pits identified by the contractor and
licensed by the relevant authorities. It was highlighted that excavations have
been started at pit 1 and that pit 2 has been cleared while clearing of pit 3 was
expected to start on the same day. Mr Jennings also explained that a shortfall
for the earth materials has been derived and require about ten pits which have
already been identified by the contractor. He highlighted that they are to
approach the land board and apply for the relevant permits for such.
In laying down the challenges they are experiencing, the manager indicated
that they have large quantities of unsuitable material that require disposal. He
also highlighted that there are wild animals trapped within the new area which
was recently fenced and also indicated the need to put up monitoring boreholes
and automatic weather stations. Furthermore, he indicated that an estimated
five hundred trees shall be cleared in the small holder’s farms with some trees
reserved on the farm boundaries.
Discussions
There was a concern that the drainage systems presented are different from the
ones approved in the ESMP and that the project has trasnboundary implication
as the water which may have pollutants will drain into Zimbabwe.
In his response the manager reported that the initial design where bunds were
to be developed at each farm have since been changed as there are no bunds
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that will be created. With regards to the transboundry issue, he indicated that
the water will be following the natural lines as has always been the case.
Closing Remarks
In his remarks, the audit team leader advised that more questions shall be
asked during the audit tour. He emphasized the need for cooperation among all
and requested that all the relevant documentation to be availed for scrutiny by
the audit team.
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Appendix 2
Proceedings of the Audit Team Meeting with the Bee-Keeping Officer
Present:
Mr. S. Motsumi (Audit Team Leader, DEA) – Chairing
Ms. Phale (Bee-keeping Officer)
Mr. P. Sandawana (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr L. Gavor (Project Environmental Control Officer)
Ms. C. Masheto (Audit team member, DEA)
Ms. J. Maifala (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Sebeke (Audit Team Member, DWMPC)
Mr. A. Chika (Audit Team Member, DWA)
Mr. M. Mugungu (SHE officer, CJIC)
Mr D. Otsile (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Kanda (Audit Team Member, Chobe Land Board)
Mr. P. Kanokang (Audit Team Member, Chobe District Council)
Mr J. Kamona (Wellfield Consulting Engineer)
Ms. D. Mbizo (Audit Team Member, DWNP)
Mr. L. Seakanyeng (Audit Team Member, DEA) – Recording
The objective of the meeting was to obtain information from the bee keeping
officer regarding the Apiculture component of the Project which is financed by
the African Development Bank (ADB) on a 100 % grant scheme.
Proceedings
Mr. Motsumi welcomed Ms Phale to the meeting and introduced the audit team
to her. He indicated that the purpose of the meeting was to appreciate the
Apiculture component of the larger project proposal.
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Ms Phale said that some farmers who benefited from the scheme and were
provide with 10 hives. She said that 10 colonies inhabited these hives. In
addition, she informed the audit team that men were leading in the number of
colonies and she attributed this to the passion required in apiculture as women
are less passionate about bee-keeping particularly because issues of safety are
involved. Ms Phale specifically informed the team that her office was not privy
to the selection criterion for beneficiaries of hives. She also indicated that there
was a plan to provide more hives.
Explaining the operational aspect of the project, Ms Phale said that the plan
was to practice migratory bee keeping by taking colonised hives from the farm
to the sunflower fields during the ploughing season. She however conceded
that this presented challenges as hives trap the bees and bees end up
absconding from the hives during harvesting. She cited an incident where one
farmer is even reluctant to harvest from the hives due to the risks associated
with the above. Asked about the success rate Ms Phale said that harvesting is
not done often and that one farmer harvested about13.2 kg of honey from 2
colonies.
Ms Phale also highlighted some of the challenges that the apiculture project
was facing and these she indicated as:






Safety and health issues- Naughty kids were reported to be playing with
the hives
Potential of pollution due to use of oil to control bee pests
Potential Air pollution due to use of bee smoke to collect bees
Disturbance of hives by wild animals
Extension services challenged by transport problems as the officer have
to travel from Kasane to Pandamatenga. The ECO mentioned that the
Agriculture project is also constrained in providing the transport but they
often assist
Most beneficiaries are working in government so they do not have time to
look after the bees.
In view of the above, the following recommendations were made:
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


There should be guidelines for allocation of hives to beneficiaries that
clearly spell out the selection criterion for beneficiaries
Redistribution of hives should take into account issues of equity
Monitoring and evaluation of the Apiculture component should be
undertaken and reports to that effect kept
In the absence of further discussion, the meeting was adjourned.
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Appendix 3
Proceedings of the Audit Team Meeting with the Pandamatenga Police
Station Commander
Present:
Mr. S. Motsumi (Audit Team Leader, DEA) - Chairing
Mr. J.K. Mokoti (Station Commander, Pandamatenga Police)
Ms. Mosinga (Police Officer, Pandamatenga Police)
Mr. P. Sandawana (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr L. Gavor (Project Environmental Control Officer)
Ms. C. Masheto (Audit team member, DEA)
Ms. J. Maifala (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Sebeke (Audit Team Member, DWMPC)
Mr. A. Chika (Audit Team Member, DWA)
Mr. M. Mugungu (SHE officer, CJIC)
Mr D. Otsile (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Kanda (Audit Team Member, Chobe Land Board)
Mr. P. Kanokang (Audit Team Member, Chobe District Council)
Mr J. Kamona (Wellfield Consulting Engineer)
Ms. D. Mbizo (Audit Team Member, DWNP)
Mr. L. Seakanyeng (Audit Team Member, DEA) – Recording
The objective of the meeting was to obtain information from the Pandamatenga
Police regarding social issues encountered in the village due to the
implementation of Pandamatenga Agricultural Project.
Proceedings
The audit team and all present introduced themselves to the Officials from
Pandamatenga Police. Mr Motsumi then thanked the officials for agreeing to
meet the audit team despite having been invited at short notice.
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He further explained that the audit team was in Pandamatenga to undertake
an environmental audit for Pandamatenga Agricultural Infrastructure Project.
Mr Motsumi further explained that the environment encompasses the physical,
economic and social aspects. He explained that the reason for having a session
with the police is to address the social component of the environment with the
understanding that the project of this nature would normally bring about both
negative and positive social issues. Mr Motsumi highlighted that the project is
funded by African Development Bank (ADB) and the institution was said to be
particular about conducting audits to report on social issues as well. He also
said that the expectation in this meeting was for the Station Commander to
share their experiences with the project in their policing area so that relevant
institutions could assist in resolving social issues.
The Station Commander Mr. Mokoti told the team that his office is aware of the
project referred to above. He informed the team that they are aware of more
than six companies undertaking construction in their policing area. He then
highlighted common issues that they usually encounter some of which are
directly related to the project and these are:









Employment of non citizens without working permit
Use of vulgar language- 1
Common nuisance
Theft
Driving without licences
Proper loading-4
Safety awareness-1
Accidents- 6 serious accidents (fatalities?) 3 fatalities
Working without permits- 17
The above incidents are for the period January –December 2011 and January –
September 2012. The station commander indicated that whereas they cannot
say that there was an increase in incidences of crime specifically due to the
project, they could attribute this to increase in population due to additional
workforce because normally when the population increase, crime also soars.
When asked about what they do with non citizens without passports, he
indicated these individuals are normally deported to their countries.
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Asked whether there are issues of substance abuse in his area, the Station
Commander conceded that such cases exist particularly during month end
when people have money. He further stated that they are aware of the
provisions of environmental legislation with particularly reference to the Waste
Management Act and they were implementing them. On illegal mining issues
the Commander said his office has not encountered such issues. However, the
Environmental Control Officer for the project Mr. Gavor cited two cases of
illegal mining by the contractor at Panda Quarry.
The team also raised the incident where one employee of the contractor was
injured by a grater on the 18th September 2012 and wanted to know if the case
was reported or not. The Station Commander told the team that they were
unaware of such a case as it was never reported to his office.
The Station Commander then highlighted some of the challenges they are faced
with such as pressure on limited resources due to population increase in the
area. He indicated that the limited resources particularly vehicles are
overstretched and this has implications on other departments such as the
Department of wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) which are normally required
to assist with vehicles.
In addition to the above, the audit team also raised labour related issues and
brought them to the attention of the Station Commander. The SHE officer
informed the team that employees are employed on monthly contract basis.
This arrangement did not favour the employees as it was a ploy to get them
expelled at the end of each contract should the employer feel so. The SHE
officer said that these issues were discussed with the Regional Labour Office
and it was agreed that this arrangement should be ceased but that
recommendation has not been implemented as yet. The team observed that this
also had implications on provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as
companies do not usually provide temporary staff with PPE. The team generally
noted that there were serious issues of labour and social relations within the
contractor.
In light of the foregoing issues, the following recommendations were made
during the meeting:
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 The Pandamatenga Police should seek assistance from other policing
areas to augment capacity
 The SHE officer should approach the Police for them address the staff on
issues of conduct and the law.
Labour and social relation issues should be raised with relevant authorities
and should be treated with the seriousness they deserve by the contractor
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Appendix 4
Proceedings of the Audit Team Meeting with the Health Officials from
Pandamantenga Clinic
Present:
Mr. S. Motsumi (Audit Team Leader, DEA) - Chairing
Ms. F. Sithole (Nurse, Pandamatenga Clinic)
Mr. K. Nick (Nurse, Pandamatenga Clinic)
Mr. P. Sandawana (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr L. Gavor (Project Environmental Control Officer)
Ms. C. Masheto (Audit team member, DEA)
Ms. J. Maifala (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Sebeke (Audit Team Member, DWMPC)
Mr. A. Chika (Audit Team Member, DWA)
Mr. M. Mugungu (SHE officer, CJIC)
Mr D. Otsile (Audit Team Member, DEA)
Mr. K. Kanda (Audit Team Member, Chobe Land Board)
Mr. P. Kanokang (Audit Team Member, Chobe District Council)
Mr J. Kamona (Wellfield Consulting Engineer)
Ms. D. Mbizo (Audit Team Member, DWNP)
Mr. L. Seakanyeng (Audit Team Member, DEA) – Recording
The objective of the meeting was to obtain information from the health officials
regarding social and health issues encountered due to the implementation of
Pandamatenga Agricultural Project.
Proceedings
The audit team and all present introduced themselves to the nurses from
Pandamatenga clinic.
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Mr. Motsumi then thanked the nurses for agreeing to meet the audit team
despite having been invited at short notice. He introduced the project to them
and gave a brief background, indicating that the project is a strategic project by
the Government of Botswana and financed by the African Development Bank
(ADB) to develop Agricultural Infrastructure within the Pandamatenga
Commercial Farms. He said that the Department of Environmental Affairs
(DEA) was interfacing with the project through implementation of the
Environmental Assessment Act to provide coordination, implementation and
oversight. He further said that the DEA however does not have all the expertise,
thus the department assembles a team of officers from other departments to
undertake an environmental audit. Mr Motsumi emphasised that the ADB is
particular about provision of audit reports including reports on social issues as
well. In view of the above, Mr Motsumi indicated that the purpose of invitation
of the health authorities was to allow them to indicate issues that they have
realised due to the implementation of the project.
The officer in charge for Pandamatenga clinic Ms. Sithole indicated that
Pandamatenga clinic services a population of about 2625 people constituted by
1625 females and 1000 males. She said that the clinic has two ambulances
and one has a breakdown. She cited the operational hours as from 0730 to
1630 and highlighted that they however also assist emergency patients on call.
Ms Sithole said that the clinic provides the following services to the people of
Pandamatenga:




Mobile clinic for outreach to all commercial farms
Maternal and child health
ARV clinic
Counselling
Ms Sithole further highlighted some of the issues that they realised due to the
implementation of the project. The audit team noted the following issues from
the nurse:
 Population increase in the area due to male workers who have come for
employment from other areas. This was said to have implications on
available resources. In addition, the population structure has also
changed with the population having more males than females.
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 Overstretched drug supply due to additional work force. Drugs often run
out resulting in disgruntlement of patients. The team learnt from the
nurse that drugs are obtained from Kasane
 Increase in pregnancy cases with an unusual 94 recorded cases by
September 2012. The nurse also said that it was worrisome that women
are not given support by men under these circumstances.
 Increase in HIV/AIDS prevalence.
 Possible increase in Malaria cases as the area is generally faced with
high incidences of Malaria particularly with the Malaria season being
just around the corner. Most of the workers who do not originate from
the area were likely to be affected by Malaria. The nurse indicated that
the clinic emphasises education on Malaria.
 Increase in cases of assault mainly involving males possibly due to the
uneven male dominated population structure.
 Patients defaulting on their medication citing refusal of permission to go
to the clinic by the senior management of the construction company.
This was said to be dangerous as the patients may develop drug
resistance.
 Increased workload for the clinic staff due to increase in the workforce as
well as patients coming to the clinic at odd hours because they are not
released by their seniors at work. Ms Sithole indicated that a nurse
sometimes makes up to ten trips to attend to emergency patients.
 Establishment of new settlements in some farms. This also has
implications on the already limited resources.
The audit team learnt of the challenges faced by the clinic from Ms Sithole.
These challenges were cited as:
 Lack of manpower. Ms Sithole indicated that the clinic is not fully staffed
as there is no pharmacy technician and the doctor is not based in
Pandamatenga. She said that the clinic qualifies for a doctor to be based
there but there is no accommodation for the doctor in Pandamatenga
and the government cites lack of funds as well.
 Lack of transport as one ambulance has a breakdown and the clinic is
relying on one ambulance that is also not equipped with life saving kit.
This has resulted in some patients losing their lives on their way to
Kasane for referral.
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 Inadequate diagnostic equipment such as oxygen equipment. The
Botswana Defence Force camp often assists with admitting some
patients.
 Inadequate drugs since drugs are obtained from Kasane and issues of
lack of transport and population increase exacerbate the problem.
 Lack of provision of mosquito nets since the service remained with the
local council when the central government acquired clinics. It was also
cited that most homes are not open to the spraying personnel and this
aggravates the problem of Malaria.
The SHE officer for the contractor Mr Mugungu told the team that there is no
health and wellness committee at the contractor. He further said that he
normally collect boxes of condoms from the clinic and put them at strategic
locations.
In view of the above issues arising as a result of the project and the inherent
challenges faced by the health service providers, the following
recommendations were made during the meeting:
 ADB should consider financing the mobile clinic and looking into
provision for accommodation for the doctor and the pharmacy technician
because the farms are going to be a long term establishment
 The contractor should have a fully functional health and wellness
committee in place.
 The SHE officer should also constantly liaise with the clinic and invite
them to give educational sessions to the staff.
 Patients should be given exit permits by the employer to go to the clinic.
 Social issues mentioned above should be taken with seriousness they
deserve and should be raised with the relevant authorities for action.
In the absence of further discussions, the meeting was adjourned.
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Appendix 5
Pandamatenga Commercial Farms Infrastructural Development Audit
Kgotla Meeting Minutes
MEETING ATTENDANNCE REGISTER
Name
Lizo Gavor
S. Motsumi
Dolly Mbizo
Abraham Chika
Dikgang Otsile
Kandu K
Percy Kanokang
John Kamona
Mphapi Mugunya
Khotso Sebeke
Chenge Mashetu
D. Mafikizolo
Organization
Environmental
Control Officer
DEA - Maun
DWNP
DWA
DEA- Maun
Chobe Land
Board
CHDC
Environmental
Health
Wellfield
China Jingsu
DWMPC
DEA – F/Town
Tribal
Administration
phone
71351849
e- mail
The Audit team leader Mr. Motsumi Sekgowa started the closed up session with
the chief of Pandamatenga Village by introducing all audit team members. He
stated that the audit team is in Pandamatenga to conduct an audit of the
ongoing Pandamatenga Infrastructural Development Project to determine how
the project has negatively or positively impacted on the environment and the
village of Pandamatenga.
Mr. Motsumi Sekgowa indicated that it is widely accepted that projects of this
nature and magnitude will have both the positive and the negative impacts on
the environment and the social way of life of host communities by increase in
crime rates, substance and drug abuse, HIV/AIDS risks and employment
creation. The team leader further indicated that to militate against these the
Government of Botswana, through the Department of Crop Production was
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required by the law and as finance condition from by African Development
Bank to undertake and develop a social and environmental management plan.
In his response, the Kgosi of Pandamatenga; D. Mafikizolo thanked the team
leader and the audit team for having seen it fit to come to address the village
leadership. The chief stated that when the project started the Ministry of
Agriculture came to the Village Kgotla and created an expectation that the
project will create employment for the villagers’ particularly the youths. He
further stated that this has still not been fulfilled. The chief further decried the
lack of clear communication channels and consultation processes between the
Ministry of Agriculture; the Contractors Company and the Village Leadership
Other critical issues that were mentioned include increase in crimes – public
nuisance; increase in waste production due to an increase in population; lack
of corporate social responsibility by the Contractors Company and Social
cohesion disruption in the village.
The project Environmental Control Offocer, Mr. Lizo Gavor indicated that
indeed there has been a breakdown in communication and committed himself
to ensuring that all relevant stakeholders including the village leadership are
kept informed of the project.
In conclusion, the audit team emphasized that there is need to establish proper
communication channels between the village leadership, the contractor and the
Supervising consultants to address emerging issues. On the issue of
employment, the audit team advised that where possible there is need for the
contractors to always come to Kgotla to profile skills that they would want and
where possible priority should be given to local host community people
particularly for semi skilled jobs
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Appendix 6
Pandamatenga Commercial Farms Infrastructural Development Project
Audit Closing Minutes
MEETING ATTENDANCE REGISTER
Name
Lizo Gavor
S. Motsumi
Dolly Mbizo
Abraham Chika
Dikgang Otsile
Kandu K
Judith Maifala
Lesego
Seakanyeng
Mmoloki
Khukhutha
Phillip
Sandawana
V.K Kabulusa
Caiphas B.
Motshewa
Stanley Sametsa
John Kamona
Mphapi Mugunya
Khotso Sebeke
Chenge Mashetu
E.P de Graaff
Organization
Environmental
Control Officer
DEA - Maun
DWNP
DWA
DEA- Maun
Chobe Land
Board
DEA- Gaborone
DEA
phone
71351849
e- mail
DCP -MOA
DEA
DIWI - Wellfield
DAC
DCP
Wellfield
China Jingsu
DWMPC
DEA – F/Town
CJIC
Mr. Lizo Gavor, who was the meeting facilitator opened the meeting and
emphasized that what has been undertaken by the Department of
Environmental Affairs together with other government regulatory bodies
through the audit process is just the beginning of the process.
In his audit summary opening remarks, the Audit team Leader Mr. S. Motsumi
stated that the mandate of the Department of Environmental Affairs is to see
the overall coordination and mainstreaming of environmental management
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issues into Developmental process. Mr. Sekgowa Motsumi further stated that
as the competent authority in the enforcement of the EA Act, the DEA is
expected to undertake environmental and social audit of the project to check
for compliance. He informed the participants that the Auditing process is vital
to ensure compliance; to ensure that the mitigation measures as identified in
the ESMP are implemented.
Mr. Motsumi indicated that the project is of National interest and that non
compliance to the developed ESMP may have detrimental effects on the
disbursement of funds by the financiers (ADB)
He went on to thank the client, the contractor for the hospitality and
cooperation accorded to the audit team during the audit. He then indicated
that the audit team was generally satisfied with some of the measures that
have been put in place to mitigate against the environment and social impacts
of the project. He further indicated that the team has however identified a
number of serious evidence of non compliance, lack of commitment and
negligence by senior management of China Jiangxi with the approved ESMP
and general disregard to the environment and social consideration by the
contractors particularly on components of construction works in the burrow
pits; access routes; drainage canals and the contractor camp.
Mr. Motsumi Sekgowa indicated that based on the audit findings; there is
generally a lot that needs to be done to mitigate the social impacts of the
project especially on the village of Pandamatenga and to instill the sense of
ownership of the project particularly by the village leadership. Some of the
critical social issues that he highlighted that were obtained from village
concerns included limited employment opportunities; lack of investment in
corporate social responsibility by the contractors and lack of involvement of the
village leadership in the project particularly through regular briefings.
Following opening summary remarks, the Department of Environmental Affairs
(Mr Phillip Sandawana) together with the Department of Waste Management &
Pollution Control (Mr K. Sebeke) presented a detailed presentation of all the
major audit findings with detailed mitigation measures/ actions that could be
considered for implementation.
In his reaction to the presentation, Mr. E.P de Graaff of DIWI Consulting
Company as the supervising consultants stated that he appreciates the
genuine concerns raised and that as the supervising consultant they will work
on the identified concerns and address them accordingly.
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[ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT REPORT FOR THE PANDAMATENGA
[24-28 September 2012] AGRICULTURAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT]
Mr Stanley Semetsa (Department of Crop Production) stated that they are
happy that the audit has been undertaken and has revealed areas that should
be addressed to ensure that the project is economically, environmental and
socially sustainable and is in compliance with all legislations and funding
conditions. He further stated that as the MOA – DCP they are committed to
ensuring that the recommendations of the ESMP are implemented and that
where slight design changes have been made efforts will be made to ensure
that appropriate mitigation measures are put in place.
In conclusion, the audit team concluded that there is need for the client, the
contractors and the environmental control office to ensure that appropriate
action is undertaken with immediate effect and clear coordinated
communication channels among interested parties should be established and
where appropriate the contractor, DCP and the supervising consultant should
engage with local structures to develop strategies of making sure that the
project is economically, socially and environmentally beneficial to the host
community.
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