EIA and SEA

The process of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Strategic Environmental
Assessment (SEA) are recognised as two of the key tools in support of sustainable development. The
ultimate objective of the EIA/SEA is to ensure that government decision-makers and/or private sector
proponents are provided with information and indications as to the likely consequences of project
activities (Wathena, 1988). In Africa, the introduction of requirements for projects (including policies,
programmes and plans) to undertake an EIA or SEA has historically been driven by the international
donor agency. Over the past decade however most of the Southern African Development
Community (SADC) member states have made significant progress in the development of legislation
and local tools introducing formal systems for the implementation of EIA and SEA.
The evolution of EIA and SEA has provided an avenue through which stakeholders are afforded the
opportunity to engage a government and/or private sector proponents in the decision-making process.
While some view such participation as a necessary moral responsibility of the decision-making
process, effective participation has the added advantage of being able to impart a sense of project
ownership and improve development outcomes as a result. Used effectively, Public Participation
(PP) is able to harness the skills and enthusiasm of the public, leading to better decisions. The process
of Public Participation does not itself guarantee that everyone will be happy with a decision, but can
ensure that individuals are given the right to voice their grievances and needs so that these are
considered during the decision-making process.
The extent of Public Participation required within an EIA or SEA in the SADC region varies from
country to country. Some member states offer greater opportunities for engagement than others in an
effort to promote democratic reform and good governance (SAIEA, 2003). Recognising this, the
Southern African Institute for Environmental Assessment (SAIEA) is undertaking a project over
two years to enhance civil society participation in decision-making in Southern Africa called the
Calabash Project. The objective of the Calabash Project is:
The capacity of, and opportunity for, civil society in Southern Africa to effectively contribute to
decision-making related to sustainable development in SADC through meaningful public
participation in EA is recognized, respected, and enhanced.

SOUTHERN AFRICAN INSTITUTE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT