Summary of the SGR Phase 2 Risk Assessment by NECSA Kenya
- Category: Policy Work and Legislation
- Date 10-12-2024
The National Environment Civil Society Alliance of Kenya (NECSA-K) plays a crucial role in advocating for sustainable natural resource management across the country. Established as a coalition of over 100 civil society organizations, NECSA-K aims to unify diverse voices in environmental advocacy, ensuring that issues related to sustainable development are addressed comprehensively. By promoting policies that align with Kenya's Vision 2030 and the United Nations' sustainable development goals, NECSA-K seeks to influence decision-making processes at all levels of government and within the private sector. Between 26th to 29th November 2024, NECSA Kenya held a workshop in Naivasha with some its members and representation of National Government officials whose jurisdiction lies in the SGR route. Members and stakeholders at the workshop sough to do a Rapid Risk Assessment of the likely Environmental and Social impacts that the railway would have on residents and ecosystems.
The proposed extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba is a significant infrastructure project in Kenya, spanning 475 kilometers and set to traverse eight counties: Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Nyamira, Kisumu, Siaya, Kakamega, and Busia. This extension aims to link the existing Mombasa-Nairobi line with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of the North Corridor Railway Network. Scheduled to commence in 2025 at an estimated cost of KES 648 billion, the project is expected to take four years to complete and will have substantial implications for trade, transportation, tourism, and agriculture in the region.The railway line will navigate a diverse landscape that includes pastoral lands, wildlife corridors, rivers, agricultural zones, and settlements. Key infrastructural developments such as underpasses and bridges will be constructed to maintain connectivity for communities along the route and to mitigate ecological disruptions. Major rivers like the Amalo, Nyangores, Sondu, Nyando, and Yala are situated along this corridor.
The SGR extension is expected to yield several positive economic impacts. Enhanced transportation capabilities will facilitate regional trade by providing faster cargo movement. The construction and operational phases are anticipated to create numerous job opportunities for local communities. Transitioning from road transport to rail is expected to lower costs associated with transportation and road maintenance while also reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, improved access to tourist destinations such as Lake Victoria will likely stimulate tourism.
However, the project also faces significant challenges and risks. Land acquisition may prove problematic as many residents lack formal title deeds, complicating compensation processes. Additionally, over 30 community projects may face demolition, disrupting social structures and cultural ties. Financing through loans raises concerns about Kenya's public debt if revenue projections fall short. Environmental degradation is another pressing issue; the project could adversely affect prime agricultural land and wetlands. Moreover, the relocation of communities may disrupt established social networks and support systems.
Environmental concerns related to the SGR extension are substantial. Construction activities may disrupt wildlife migration patterns and threaten habitats for various bird species. Rivers along the route face risks of pollution and altered flow due to construction activities. Soil degradation is also a concern due to potential erosion and siltation of water bodies. Wetlands providing essential ecosystem services are at risk as well. Additionally, noise pollution from construction could affect nearby communities, while improper waste disposal may contaminate local soil and water sources.
Lessons learned from Phase 1 of the SGR highlight both economic growth in local communities through job creation and significant compensation challenges that led to grievances among families lacking formal land ownership. Marginalized groups continue to face barriers in accessing economic opportunities.To maximize benefits while mitigating adverse impacts, several recommendations have been proposed. Comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) should be conducted alongside PESTLE analyses to address project risks effectively. Transparent land acquisition policies with fair compensation practices must be implemented to engage local communities meaningfully. Exploring public-private partnerships can help minimize unsustainable debt burdens associated with financing the project. Establishing accessible offices for handling community complaints will facilitate grievance redress mechanisms. Finally, rerouting sections of the railway can help avoid critical community projects and biodiversity hotspots.
In conclusion, while the SGR extension from Naivasha to Malaba presents significant opportunities for economic development and improved regional connectivity, careful consideration of environmental, social, and financial risks is essential for ensuring sustainable progress. By learning from past experiences and prioritizing community welfare alongside ecosystem protection, Kenya can maximize the potential benefits of this ambitious railway project.
Download the Entire Document generated