Mphanda Nkuwa project still dependent on environmental studies

Maputo, 12 Mar (AIM) – The Mphanda Nkuwa hydro-electric project, on the Zambezi river, in the central Mozambican province of Tete, is still dependent on the updating of the environmental and social impact studies that could guide the financial model of the project, although agreements have been signed between the Mozambican government and an international consortium headed by the French electricity company, EDF, for project implementation.

According to the project’s director, Carlos Yum, speaking at a lecture, on Monday, in Maputo, “we are reviewing and updating the technical, economic and environmental studies needed to structure the investment, maintain the downstream environmental balance, and safeguard the needs, land-use planning and safety of the population.”

“We are in permanent contact with the communities to draw up a social programme with key actions or interventions within the communities directly or indirectly affected by the project”, he said.

According to Yum, the agreements for the implementation of the project have already been signed and the office is therefore at an advanced stage in finalizing the documentation.

The project consortium is responsible for mobilizing 1.3 billion US dollars in this phase, which is considered crucial for the progress of the project.

“Agreements are already in place, but there was a need to review the terms of reference for technical assistance to assess the environmental and social impact of the project with international partner institutions, namely the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the European Investment Bank”, he said.

“Contacts are currently being made with the provincial and district government authorities for a consultation process to publicize the project and gather their opinions and set up focus groups in the communities”, he added.

Yum also denied criticisms from civil society that the project administration is withholding relevant information about the environmental impact studies and the lack of inclusion of other interested parties.

The Mphanda Nkuwa project involves building a dam about 60 kilometres downstream from the existing dam at Cahora Bassa, and a power station that will generate 1,500 megawatts of electricity. There will also be a high voltage transmission line running for 1,300 kilometres from the Zambezi Valley to Maputo.

(AIM)

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