1

SPHINX ASSOCIATES

PROPOSED CIVIC/ COMMUNITY & COMMERCIAL

DEVELOPMENT,

MOLAPO CROSSING EXTENSION

GABORONE.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

REPORT

MAY 2011

FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS REVIEW AND

APPROVAL

Report prepared by E & P Consultants

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

0: Executive Summary of Report 4

Chapter 1.

1. INTRODUCTION: BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

1.1 Background 11

1.2 Aims and Objectives (EIA Study) 11

1.3 Background and Project Location 12

1.4 Project Description 13

1.5 Scope of Project

1.6 Relevant Legislation 14

2. BIO-PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Climate. 15

2.2 Topography 15

2.3 Geology and Soils 16

2.4 Hydrology and Drainage 16

2.5 Vegetation 17

2.6 Wildlife 19

3. AESTHETIC ENVIRONMENT

3.1 General description 20

3.2 General views off the site 20

3.3 Visual Compatibility 20

4. HUMAN ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Archaeology 20

4.2 Population 22

4.3 Existing land use 22

4.4 Economic base 23

4.5 Social and Economic Services 23

4.6 Infrastructure 24

4.7 Alternative Development Concepts 24

5. FINDINGS FROM COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

AND QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

5.1 Interviews with Key Interested Stakeholders 25

5.2 Interviews with Concerned and Affected Parties 26

5.3 Public Consultation 31

6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS

6.1 Physical environment 32

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6.2 Human Environment 33

7. IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

7.1 Introduction 33

7.2 Impact Analysis 34

7.3 Mitigation 35

7.4 Summary 35

8. PROPOSALS FOR THE PLANNING STAGE

8.1 Physical planning opportunities and constraints 36

8.2 Design Guidelines and measures 36

9. POTENTIAL IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

9.1 Biophysical Environment

9.1.1 Soils and geology 38

9.1.2 Water Pollution 40

9.1.3 Hydrology 43

9.1.4 Vegetation 45

9.1.5 Loss of Habitat 48

9.1.6 Vermin 49

9.1.7 Air Pollution 50

9.1.8 Fires 52

9.1.9 Energy 54

9.2 Aesthetics 55

9.2.1 Traffic 55

9.2.2. Noise 56

9.2.3 Landscape and Visual Aesthetics 60

9.2.4 Waste 65

9.3 Human Environment 72

9.3.1 Expectations 72

9.3.2 Concerns of I & APs 75

9.3.3 Personnel and Supplies 76

9.3.4 Injury to workers 77

9.3.5 Security and Fire Services 77

9.3.6 Archaeology 79

10.0 Conclusion 81

11.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN. 83

12.0 FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS 100

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LIST OF TABLES:

1. Environmental Impact Identification.

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Site Location

Figure 2: Detailed Site Plan

Figure 3: National Museums‘s Certificate

LIST OF APPENDIXES

Appendix A : Code of Conduct for Contractors

Appendix B : Advertisement in Mmegi Tuesday 23rd

November 2010.

Appendix C : Advertisement in Mmegi/Monitor, March 2011

Appendix D : Terms of Reference

Appendix E : Department of Roads Approval Access to site letter

Appendix F : Full Archaeological Report.

ORGANIZATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR).

This EIR is organized as follows:

Section 1(Summary): This section provides a summary of the project description,

environmental impacts and mitigation measures.

Section II (Environmental Setting): An overview of the study area‘s environmental

setting is provided including a description of existing and surrounding land uses.

Section III (Project Description): A complete description of the proposed project

including project location, project characteristics, project objectives, and required

discretionary actions is presented.

Section IV (Environmental Impact Analysis): The environmental impact analysis

section is the primary focus of this EIR. Each environmental issue contains a discussion

of existing conditions for the project area, an assessment and discussion of the

significance of impacts associated with the proposed project, proposed mitigation

measures, cumulative impacts, and level of impact significance after mitigation.

Section V (Monitoring and Mitigation Measures): Possible mitigation measures during

construction and operation

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0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A Summary

0.1 The subject of this Environmental Impact Report is the proposed Commercial and

Civic and Community development on the remainder of Plot 54483 Molapo Crossing

Shopping Centre complex, Gaborone. A detailed description of the proposed project is

contained in Section III of this report.

0.2 This is a middle ranking project that is likely to have some impact on the

environment and that is why it has been deemed necessary to prepare this EIR to support

the plan. An EIA is an information document, which will inform public agency decision

makers, and the public of the significant environmental effects of a project, identify

possible ways to minimize the significant effects, and describe reasonable alternatives to

the project. The purpose of this EIR, therefore, is to focus the discussion on those

potential effects on the environment of the proposed project which may be significant. In

addition, feasible mitigation measures are recommended, when applicable, that could

reduce or avoid significant environmental impacts.

B. PROPOSED PROJECT.

0.3 The proposed project is an extension south of the current Molapo Crossing

shopping complex comprised of offices, shops and civic and community land uses in the

form of a clinic, gym and a school.

C. ALTERNATIVES

0.4 This EIR considers two alternatives to the proposed project to provide informed

decision making according to EIA Draft Guidelines. The alternatives analyzed in this EIR

include (i) No project alternative (ii) Approximately 3,171m2 of commercial/office and

civic and community space plus parking facilities.

0.5 Under alternative (i), the proposed project would not be constructed and the

project site would remain in its current condition, which is scrub land of no commercial

land value; whereas under alternative (ii) the city would get an additional commercial,

office space and civic and community facilities that would help meet a critical need for

retail, recreational and office space in the city of Gaborone.

D: AREA OF CONTROVERSY

0.6 Issues to discuss:-

1. Loss of views by sensitive receivers (e.g. the Molapo Shopping complex)

2. Site access and traffic

E: EXPECTED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION

MEASURES.

(i) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT.

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0.7 The following sections present the various impacts associated with the

construction and operation of the proposed project. Mitigation measures are proposed for

significant environmental impacts, and the level of impact significance after mitigation is

also identified.

The expected impacts and required mitigations were assessed for different phases of the

development. These start with physical planning and detailed design of the shopping and

office complex, construction phases and the operation phase.

0.8 The following studies were carried out for this study (a) Physical (b)

Archaeological, (c) Ecological and (d) Socio-economic. In addition, use was made of

previous studies done for the Molapo shopping center, including a traffic study, flood

study, and a soils study.

To supplement the information collected from the above studies, consultations were

carried out with all affected and interested parties in this project and their inputs have

been factored in the ensuing recommendations for the project.

(ii) PHYSICAL AND HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS DURING THE

PLANNING, CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION PHASES OF THE

PROJECT.

0.9 The majorities of impacts are related to the human environment and the business

environment, and are present in the construction stage of the project.

Added to these are biological impacts. The project contributes to long term, cumulatively

significant unavoidable adverse impacts to biological resources due to loss of vegetation

in the area during construction that leads to soil erosion, loss of habitat, loss of views and

aesthetics.

0.10 Mitigation measures suggested during this stage are particularly important to

reduce the impacts, especially in relation to land and public safety. To this end, an

Environmental Code of Conduct for the contractor (or contractors) undertaking the work

has been drawn up and is included in Appendix A. It should be included in the contract

documents so that there is an obligation on the contractor to respect the environment he is

working in. Where proposals from the contract are required by the Code of Conduct, they

can be requested at tender stage so that the tenderers attitudes to environmental issues can

be assessed as part of the tender adjudication process.

0.11 There are some negative impacts during the operational stage, but the mitigation

measures recommended will reduce their effect to acceptable levels.

(A) PHYSICAL IMPACTS

Loss of Vacant Land - Project implementation will require commitment of

Current vacant land to urban use, and will contribute to the cumulative loss of

un-built land in the city.

Change in Topography- The project will slightly alter the physical attributes

of the site.

Change in Current land use- Once the project is implemented, the land will

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not be returned to its current condition. Therefore, the project represents an

irreversible change to the land uses on the site.

Destruction of vegetation.

The little vegetation on site will be lost forever to be replaced by concrete and

asphalt. However, the area will be fully landscaped as per the TCPA and the

Development Control Code.

Disturbance to soils

Soils will be disturbed during construction.

Cleared top soil

The top soil will be removed during the construction of the project. However,

much will be brought back for landscaping purposes.

(B) HUMAN IMPACTS.

1. Increase in population and employment.

0.12 The coming on stream of this project will lead to an additional people into the

city of Gaborone who will either be employed directly on the project. The development

will result in the creation of between 600-650 job opportunities both during and after the

construction of the complex. Such people will work in the civic and community land uses

units, the shops and also the offices that will create employment, for both professional

and non-professional individuals.

2. Addition to City’s Commercial space stock

0.13 The project will also see an additional 3171m2 commercial space contributing to

greater office space and shopping space in the city of Gaborone.

3. Socio-economic impacts.

0.14 Other impacts will be bringing more business to the Molapo Shopping Complex

and greater recreational needs. Lastly the country‘s economy will benefit by the injection

of foreign exchange through construction investment.

5. Impact on utilities

0.15 There are several impacts on sewerage, solid waste, and water and energy sources.

(i) Sewerage

The development will obviously generate quantities of waterborne effluent, which will

require channeling into the existing city sewerage network.

(ii) Solid waste

The development will generate some solid waste, which should be removed by the

Gaborone City Council from the site on a regular basis as is already happening now.

(iii) Water

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There will also be demand for water during and after construction. Water connections

will be made to the current main water trunk that runs through this area.

(iv) Greater demand for energy sources - Non-renewable resources such as oil and

other non-renewable energy sources will be used in the construction and subsequent use

of the site as a commercial centre. Connections will be made to the main trunk power line

that runs near the site.

NOTE: All utilities are available on site right now.

(C) AESTHETICS

0.16 Aesthetic impacts come from greater traffic flows, air pollution, noise, aesthetic

impacts etc.

(i) Traffic

The development of this area is bound to raise traffic volumes for the roads entering and

leaving the area. These are: The new Molepolole road and the Western By Pass road.

Such traffic was forecasted during the traffic study that was done for the developments of

the Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre as well as for the new 6-lane road to Molepolole.

To-date however, the developers of this area have secured a road access permission from

the Roads Department.

(ii) Air pollution

There will be an incremental increase in air pollution as a result of vehicular emissions

for cars going in and out of the complex.

(iii) Noise pollution

Increased traffic, mechanical and human activity will also result in increased noise and

air pollution in the area.

(iv) Aesthetic

1.17 The development in this area of the city will result in low level noise and light

glare to the people running businesses at the Molapo Shopping center and those living on

the other side of the Western By Pass road. Measures have to be taken to lessen the

impact of aesthetic loss by planting as many tall trees as possible and selective planting

of flowering plans in and adjacent the area. Other features can be added in due course.

MITIGATION MEASURES

0.18 Several mitigation measures can be taken to ameliorate the above impacts, and these

include the following:-

1. Conserving vegetation and soils.

Conserve whatever little vegetation there is on the site at the moment. Plant new

vegetation as part of the landscaping plan for the site.

2. Cleared topsoil and vegetation

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Save cleared top soil and vegetation for landscaping purposes upon completion of the

construction phase.

3.Traffic and safety

Segregate motor traffic from pedestrian traffic in the design.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN.

0.19 An Environmental Management Plan has been prepared for both during the

Construction Stage and Operation Stage.

1. CONSTRUCTION PHASE

0.20 During the Construction Phase a number of Environmental Management Practices

can be instituted to ameliorate the impacts of the construction work.

These include the following:-

(a) Physical Environment

Soils and Geology - Adopt conservation measures

Deterioration of Air Quality - Regular damping down

- Removal of litter

Contamination of Water Resources

- Advance site planning

- Storage of potential pollutants

- Removal of waste

- Grease traps

- Temporary toilet facilities

- Clean up leaks.

Construction Traffic - Advance planning of traffic movements and management

- Warning signs to be put up

- Discourage pedestrians from crossing the site

Noise Pollution - Adhere to normal working hours

- Adopt noise reduction methods

(b) Biological Environment

Disturbance to Flora – Conservation and preservation of adjacent flora.

(c) Socio-Economic Environment.

Unsocial activities

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- Educate workers on impacts of STDs and HIV/Aids

- Increase human presence

Injury to workers

- Advance planning of safety measures

- Adhere to safety regulations

- First Aid facilities

Waste Management

- Adopt waste management practices

- Have collection containers

2. OPERATION PHASE.

0.21 The opportunities for environmental improvement options for the proposed

commercial complex during the Operation Phase can be grouped under the following

categories and practiced in the given areas within the complex:

(A) GOOD PRACTICES

1. Water Management (including conservation treatment)

- Toilets in the offices and also toilets and baths in the old people‘s homes

- Kitchen

- Indoor plants

- Cooling plants.

2. Solid waste management (including reduction, re-use, recycling and

treatment).

- Old people‘s flats and offices

- Shops

- Management and secretarial offices

- Take away

3. Energy Conservation.

- Offices

- Shops

(B) MANAGEMENT TOOLS.

0.22 The opportunities for environmental improvement options for the proposed

commercial complex can be grouped under the following categories and practiced in the

given areas within the complex:

4. Water Management (including conservation treatment)

- Toilets and baths in the clinic, school and old people‘s homes

- Offices

- Shops

- Cooling plants.

5. Solid waste management (including reduction, re-use, recycling and

treatment).

- Offices

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- Shops

- School

- Clinic and

- gym

6. Energy Conservation.

- Offices

- Shops

- School

- Gym

- clinic

(B) MANAGEMENT TOOLS.

0.23 Apart from the above good practices there are additional tools or approaches to

facilitate commercial and retail environmental management. These include Environment

Management Systems, Green Purchasing, Eco-labeling, Good Housekeeping and

Training and Education. These may be applied one by one, in combination, or all

together.

OVERALL RECOMMENDATION.

0.24 In view of the above findings and possible mitigation measures for the expected

environmental impacts we see no long term irreversible impacts that can stop the project

from going ahead.

We would thus recommend that planning permission be given for the project.

1. INTRODUCTION: BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

1.1 Background

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1.1.1 The Sphinx Group intends to extend retail and office development to the south of

the existing centre on the remainder of its plot 54483 at Molapo Crossing shopping

complex currently being vacant land and partly car park. The site is bounded to the

north by the Segodisthane River; to the east by the current commercial

development at Molapot; to the south by the Western By Pass road/Molepolole

Road junction; and to the west by the Molepolole Road.

1.1.2 The current site is overlain with soil that has been deposited here by contractors

who were either building the current Mall and its adjacent car park or those who

are reconstructing the Molepolole road. A field walk on this site reveals builder‘s

rubble, paper, metal and plastic waste and scrubland composed of shrubs, a few

trees and grasses. On one corner can also be found a group of informal vendors

selling airtime, sweets and similar goods to passersby!

1.1.3 The proposed development will comprise of five buildings composed of several

offices, shops, a take away, clinic, school and gym.

A detailed breakdown of areas is as follows:-

Ground Floor – Area

(a) Retail 174m2

(b) Filling Station 145m2

(c) Take Away

313m2

First Floor – Office 866m2

Second Floor: Offices 866m2

Third Floor : Offices 866m2

The parking requirements are as follows:-

Existing = 184 m2

Proposed = 74.78m2

Total Parking Bays Provided = 363 bays more than required. Inclusive of

Disabled Bays = 12 and 6 Loading bays

1.1.4 The project will go a long way in meeting the ever-rising demand for civic and

community facilities and commercial and office space in Gaborone city. The project will

represent a multi-million contribution to Botswana‘s economy.

The outcome of this EIA will aid and inform the proposed detailed layout and design of

the complex as well as the planning approval process.

1.2 Aims and Objectives of the EIA Study.

1.1.5 The objectives of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to ―…define and

evaluate the foreseeable immediate and long term effects on the physical

environment, public health

and welfare of the population affected by a specific project during its entire

cycle and following completion‖ (World Bank, 1984). Environmental impacts of the

proposed development will be both positive and negative. The importance of carrying out

the EIA at the planning stage enables these impacts to be identified and addressed prior

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to implementation of the project. An ensuing Management Plan will provide guidelines

for environmental consideration during the operation stage.

1.1.6 The Terms of Reference for the proposed planning of this commercial

development

require that an EIA is carried out and that environmental recommendations are

incorporated into the design, construction and operational phases of the project. The

main aims of the EIA are:

To analyze the impact of the proposed development and associated access roads

on the biophysical, aesthetic and socio-economic environment.

To recommend appropriate long and short-term mitigation and rehabilitation

solutions to minimize any undesirable effects resulting from the construction and

operation of the proposed development.

To recommend appropriate long and short-term mitigation and rehabilitation

measures to maximize any desirable effects resulting from the construction and

operation of the proposed development.

To liaise with key interested and affected parties and relevant government

departments on issues relating to the proposed development.

1.1.7 The EIA provides a comprehensive evaluation of the potential environmental and

socio-economic impacts of the proposed development project. These impacts can be

positive and negative, long or short term but are likely to be more significant during the

construction periods of the project. Measures to mitigate adverse or negative impacts and

enhance beneficial or positive impacts have been identified and will be incorporated into

the design process.

1.1.8 The EIA study has been carried out during the detailed layout stage and design of

the project so that environmental and socio-economic issues could be identified and

addressed at an early stage of the development.

1.1.9 A significant part of the EIA has involved consultations with the local community

in and around this site. This was important to ensure that the needs of the community are

considered and also so that abortive design work is avoided or minimized.

1.3 Background and Project Location

1.1.10 The approved Gaborone Master Plan has zoned this part of the city as (a) An area

for commercial cum civic and community development surrounded by open

space and civic and community land uses.

Developments in and around the proposed area include the currently operating

Molapo Shopping complex with its various small and big shops, super markets,

restaurants, bottle store, and coffee shops; (b) A petrol station (Engen) some short

distance to the north and fallow land to the west of the Segoditsane river and

Residential development to the east of the site – Phase 2, Gaborone. In terms of

site location, the proposed development will be built south of the current Molapo

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Crossing shopping centre in a piece of land between the Centre and the

Molepolole Road.

Fig. 1: Site Location

Fig. 2: Detailed Site Plan

1.4 Project Objectives.

1.1.11 The private sector in Botswana has often been called to play a leading role in the

development of the country in order to diversify the economy. It is in this vain that the

proposed commercial/office and civic and community complex is being developed to

provide commercial as well as office space that is in great demand in the city currently to

supplement current unfulfilled demand.

1.5 Scope of the Project

1.1.12 The project shall consist of the following sections of work:

Preparation of a layout plan and designs for the proposed commercial and office

complex and its ancillary uses. An architectural/planning firm, ‘Concepts’ was

commissioned to carry out this consultancy and has produced preliminary design

concepts for the development of this area. This EIA will go a long way in

influencing and shaping the final outcome of the detailed design of the site.

Engineering designs are in an advanced stage, and ultimately,

Implementation or construction of the following services:-

- Roads and storm water reticulation, including earth moving and grading, cutting

and lining of drains, compaction, surfacing and finishing;

- Water and water fighting reticulation, including shallow trenching, laying of pipe

work and valves etc, backfilling, connecting to the site and finishing;

- Waterborne sewerage, including trenching, laying of pipe work, construction of

manholes, backfilling and finishing;

- Power reticulation, including installation of poles, conductors and other ancillary

equipment;

- Street lighting, including installation of poles and lamps, cabling and other

ancillary equipment and

- Telecommunications, including installation of poles and/or underground cables

and other ancillary equipment.

1.6 Relevant Legislation and Policies applicable in the development of this site

1.1.13 EIAs have been required for certain major developments since 2005 when the Act

was passed by government. This civic and community cum commercial/office

development certainly falls under those activities that require an EIA. In this

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development, the following acts and legislation have a bearing on the activities proposed

in this area. These are:-

The Town and Country Planning Act 1971

1.1.14 This act is intended to provide ‗orderly and progressive development of land in

both urban and rural areas‘ and establishes controls over the use of residential,

commercial and industrial, recreational, agricultural and forestry land. As this area is

zoned for civic and community as well as commercial development, approvals will have

to be obtained from the Town and Country Planning Department of the Ministry of Lands

and Housing.

The Building Control Act

1.1.15 The act authorizes the making of building regulations for the control of matters

such as the construction of buildings, sanitary facilities, the supply of water, sewers and

so on. This will be in respect of the buildings that will be constructed on this site and

have to conform to the Act.

The National Policy on Natural Resource Conservation and Development

1.1.16 This document is intended to ensure the sustainability of all future development.

Section 7.3 c) states that EIA‘s should be conducted for new development projects.

Hence all natural resources on the proposed site should be conserved as much as possible.

The Monuments and Relics Act

1.1.17 This Act is actually one of the enabling legislation for this EIA. The Act also

enables the government to identify and declare sites of national, historical and

archaeological importance and to protect monuments and relics of national importance.

Thus, it is imperative that an archaeological study be carried for this site.

The Herbage Preservation Act

1.1.18 This Act is aimed at the control of bush fires to protect humans, vegetation and

wildlife. Section 4 prohibits the setting of fire to any land or vegetation. If fire breaks

out, then anyone and everyone present are obliged to assist in extinguishing it. This site is

surrounded by bushes and trees on the western side and care must be taken to prevent any

fires in these area.

The Atmospheric Pollution Control Act

1.1.19 The purpose of this act is to prevent atmospheric pollution. During construction

or operation of this project it is certainly possible that there will be atmospheric pollution

and thus mitigation measures need to be put in place to prevent/ameliorate any adverse

impacts.

The Waterworks Act

1.1.20 ―This Act provides for the constitution of water authorities in townships, to confer

certain duties and powers upon such water authorities, to provide for the acquisition of

existing waterworks and to provide for matters incidental thereto.‖ This act has relevance

to this project in that the proposed development will require potable water as well as will

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generate waste water and sewage and thus these factors have to be taken into account in

the report.

The Waste Management Act

1.1.21 This Act makes provision for the planning, facilitation and implementation of

advanced systems for regulating the management of controlled waste in order to prevent

harm to human, animal and plant life; to minimise pollution of the environment, and to

conserve natural resources in regulating the trans-boundary movement of hazardous

wastes and their disposal; and for matters incidental to and connected to the foregoing.

Related to this Act is the ―Strategy for Waste Management‖. All solid and liquid waste

generated on the site has to be carefully managed and disposed off.

2. BIO-PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

This section provides a description of the existing biophysical environment.

2.1 Climate.

The climate of the Gaborone area is described as semi-arid, with a long-term annual

average rainfall of 526mm with a seasonal variation of 30%. This is combined with a

potential evapo-transpiration rate of 1800mm.

2.1.1 The majority of rainfall occurs in a relatively small number of intense rainstorms,

generally of short duration and occurring between the months of October and March. The

monthly mean rainfall varies from 104mm in October to less than 1mm in July.

January normally has the highest monthly mean temperature of 330C while July has a

mean maximum temperature of 230C. The mean monthly low temperatures vary from

200C in January to 4

0 in July.

2.1.2 Prevailing winds generally have a low velocity from the northeast. The winds

have an annual mean ranging from 0.8m/s in May to 1.6m/s in October. Winds in the area

are generally described as calm.

2.2 Topography

2.2.0 The centre of Gaborone lies at latitude 240 39‘S and longitude 25

0 55‘E . The city

is situated on a vast plain at approximately 968m above mean sea level(amsl) with low

relief and rare isolated hills. Kgale hill is a granite outcrop to the south of the city and is

one of the dominant relief features of the city. In addition to Kgalehill there are 5 other

isolated rocky outcrops in the surrounding area with elevations from 1050 – 1111m amsl.

The proposed site is at the corner of Molepolole road and the Western By-pass, and is

almost flat but slopes from east to west towards the Segoditshane river.

2.3 Geology and soils

2.3.0 A geological and soils survey was undertaken for the entire Molapo Shopping

complex area (part of which is to be used by the new extension) by a firm specialized in

geotechnical work. The fieldwork for the geotechnical investigation, comprising test

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pitting, was undertaken and several test pits were excavated. Soils were profiled in situ

and others were analyzed in a soils test laboratory.

2.3.1 Laboratory tests for foundation engineering purposes were conducted on selected

soil samples taken from the soil horizons encountered in the test pits. The project area is

partly covered by a tarred surface that is underlain by residual soil comprising slightly

silty sand with fine gravel.

2.3.2 The residual soils are masked by transported soils. In most instances, these soils

are identifiable as being of Aeolian origin (silty sands) but in certain areas, their origin,

particularly within the granite rock outcrop areas, appears to have been associated with

deposition of some form of gully wash. In general, the gully wash soils comprise clayey

sands or locally sandy clays.

2.3.3 It is not uncommon for the Aeolian and gully wash deposits, particularly the

former, to be separated from the underlying granite by a horizon of pedogenic soils

comprising poorly –through well developed ferricrete with even hardpan ferricrete being

present. Locally, calcification of the soils has occurred as well. It is apparent that the

pedogenic soils have developed in the pebble marker horizon at the base of the

transported soils as well as in the upper residual granite soils.

2.3.4 An evaluation of the soils indicates that:

The Aeolian deposits are compressible and potentially collapsible soils

The transported gully wash soils are potentially moderate expansive. Surface

heave (and shrinkage) could occur as a consequence of moisture/volumetric

changes in the clay soil.

2.3.5 Potential road construction materials.

The materials making up the typical surface horizons of the ground profile are likely to

be exposed in construction of normal site infrastructure and can be used for construction

purposes.

2.4 Hydrology and Drainage

2.4.1 The drainage system is generally from the east to the west of the site, ending

either at Segoditshane river channel that runs behind this site. The Segoditshane river, to

the west, has water most of the year and does get full during the wet season.

2.4.2 Slope stability and erosion.

The mean gradient of the site is typically less than 10 and therefore no risk pertains to

slope stability considerations. Once the tarred surface has been stripped during

construction, the exposed soils will be subject to wind erosion and as such dust nuisance

could occur due to high winds.

2.4.3 Potential for shallow ground water during construction.

Ground water or inflow into the test pits was absent during the course of the test piting

recently undertaken.

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2.4.4 In places, the gully wash horizons are leached in profile. This fact, coupled with

the presence of pedogenic soils and shallow bedrock conditions underlying large portions

of the site, indicate that shallow perched ground water conditions probably prevail from

time to time during the rainy season, for which provision should be made in road and

service construction contracts. The proposed improvements will significantly decrease

erosion of the site.

2.5 Vegetation

2.5.0 A literature review was conducted to determine the existing conditions

within the Study Area (site area and its surroundings) and to identify habitats

and species of potential importance that may be affected by the Project. The

literature review included Government and private sector reports, independent

and Government published literature, academic studies, vegetation maps and

land use maps. The review included the following:

Gaborone Master Plan – Revised Plan 2009.

Gaborone Urban Development Plan II – 2003-2009

Various EIAs that have been done for projects in and around the site.

2.5.1 Field Survey

The Study Area was defined as the area within 500 meters of either side of the

project area. Following a literature review of available ecological data

characterizing the Study Area, a number of reconnaissance surveys were

undertaken by an ecologist to update and field check the validity of the

information gathered in the review. A number of more focused baseline field

surveys were then proposed to supplement the review findings. The baseline

surveys were carried out to determine the existing environmental conditions,

and were designed to fill any data gaps, and to facilitate an adequate assessment

of the Project‘s impacts upon the ecology and the development of appropriate

mitigation measures.

2.5.2 The information presented in the following sections has been based on

the findings of baseline surveys performed.

2.5.3 By and large, there are no unique plant species that were found on the site

basically because it has been modified a lot by human activities during the construction

of the Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre and its subsequent use. To-date there are only

12 medium size trees on the actual site and the rest are just shrubs. It is projected that the

proposed andscaping of the complex will bring up the tree count to 122 trees.

2.5.4 There are two basic vegetation communities on the surrounding site.

19

(i).Located to south west of the site beyond the shopping center and the Molepolole road,

there is an area of sparsely vegetated area between the shopping center and the

Molepolole road on the one hand and close canopy, medium height (3-6m tall)

microphyllous scrub savanna beyond the road, with the following plant associations:

No. Trees Shrubs

1 Acacia erubescens Acacia tortilis

2 Acacia karroo Antherothamnus pearsonii

3 Acacia robusta Cadaba aphylla

4 Acacia tortilis Carissa bispinosa

5 Azanza garckeana Cassia abbreviata

6 Boscia foetida Dicrostachys cinerea

7 Combretum apiculatum Ehretia rigida

8 Combretum collinum Euclea undata

9 Combretum hereroense Grewia retinervis

10 Combretum imberbe Grewia subspathulata

11 Melia azedarach Protasparagus spp.

12 Peltophorum africanum Sida spp.

13 Sclerocarya birrea Solanum spp.

14 Spirostachys africana Xanthium strumarium

15 Ziziphus mucronata Ximenia americana

Soils in this area are predominantly sandy gravels and clay soils.

(ii)The western and northern parts of the site including the Segoditshane river consists

partly of close canopy trees and shrubs along the river valley and relatively sparse,

medium height, close canopy woodland (in a few spots), with the following plant

associations:

No. Trees Shrubs

1 Acacia erubescens Acacia tortilis

2 Acacia karroo Antherothamnus pearsonii

3 Acacia robusta Cadaba aphylla

4 Acacia tortilis Carissa bispinosa

5 Azanza garckeana Cassia abbreviata

6 Boscia foetida Dicrostachys cinerea

7 Combretum apiculatum Ehretia rigida

8 Combretum collinum Euclea undata

9 Combretum hereroense Grewia retinervis

10 Combretum imberbe Grewia subspathulata

11 Melia azedarach Protasparagus spp.

12 Peltophorum africanum Sida spp.

13 Sclerocarya birrea Solanum spp.

14 Spirostachys africana Xanthium strumarium

15 Ziziphus mucronata Ximenia americana

2.5.6 Grasses and Non-Grasses found in this area.

The ecological study also studied the grasses and non-grass vegetation and the list below

documents the findings.

20

Grasses

These include:-

Aristida congesta

Cenchrus ciliaris

Digitria eriantha

Eragrostis rigidior

Enneapogon cenchroides

Eragrosttis spp

Melinis repens

Panicum maximum

Urochloa mossambicensis.

Non-Grasess.

Abutilon spp

Achyranthes aspera

Amaranthus hybridus

Bidens pilosa

Evolvulus alsinoides

Gomphrena celesioides

Hermannia spp

Indigofera bainesii

Ociumum canum

Sida spp

Solanum incanum

Triumfetta sonderi

Vermonia poskeana

2.6 Wildlife and birds.

2.6.1 Human activity in and around this site has resulted in a profound modification of

the original landscape through road construction and building of the first shopping

complex. The increase in human population density in Gaborone has changed the profile

of the fauna in the area dramatically over the last three decades.

2.6.2 Specifically to the site: There is little evidence of small mammals, reptiles and

birds on the site.

2.6.3 Beyond the site no significant wild mammals, birds or reptiles were observed.

Goats, cows and donkeys however frequent the site and are now almost a nuisance to

shoppers.

3. AESTHETIC ENVIRONMENT

3.1 General description: Visual character of the vicinity.

21

3.1.1 The visual character of the area is composed of vacant land and an area paved and

used as a car park. It is surrounded by built land to the north (Molapo shopping mall) and

east (Western By Pass road and Phase 2 residential development) and un-built land to the

south across the Molepolole road and bushy area to the west towards the Segoditshane

river.

3.1.2 With respect to light and glare, the site is currently lit by lights from the current

shopping mall. Further, some diffuse lighting extends onto the site from the Western By-

Pass Road streetlights and residential houses in Phase 2 and also lights from the newly

completed Molepolole road. Land uses in the vicinity that would be most sensitive to

night lighting are the residences located to the east of the proposed development.

3.2 Visual compatibility.

3.1.3 The area in the vicinity of the project area is characterized by existing commercial

and residential development in a diverse range of architectural styles and themes. The

Molapo shopping mall(two - storey buildings) to the north and single storey houses with

little character in Phase 2 on the other side of the Western By-Pass road. The project

anticipates a three storey building that complements the adjacent shopping center

structures. Hence there will be minimal incompatibility.

4. HUMAN ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Archaeology

4.1.0 An investigation of the impact area was conducted by a qualified archaeologist.

The main method of searching for archaeological, historic and cultural remains, involved

field and/or foot surveys. Archival and library materials were studied prior to visiting the

site. These informed the archaeologist on field methods to use.

4.1.1 The site for development is heavily disturbed, it made site survey options

difficult, and however, as explained below, a fairly good part of the site was

systematically walked. More attention was paid particularly to any evidence of human

activity including artifacts and immovable features such stone walls, house foundations,

house floors and earths to mention a few. Test excavations were not undertaken because

there were a number of places that were exposed by bulldozing activities.

4.1.2 The survey concentrated on the whole development area (100% coverage). The

impact area was surveyed systematically. GPS coordinates of the area were recorded. But

these were not too useful as the proposed site has a plot number.

4.1.3 The surrounding areas were checked for archaeological materials because they have

a National Monument (opposite entrance to the Grand Pal Hotel), existing structures and

are already disturbed.

22

4.1.4. SURVEY RESULTS

The proposed development is located at Molapo Shopping Centre, Plot 54483 as

mentioned in the introduction. Dominant vegetation noted within the proposed plot for

development included acacia tortilis (mosu) and acacia mellifera (mongana). The

vegetation was notably slightly thick and the piece of land under investigation appeared

to be disturbed land.

4.1.5 Nothing of archaeological, historical and cultural significance was observed at the

proposed extension site. A substantial part of the site was disturbed and was covered by

thick vegetation. Lack of archeological, historical and cultural materials suggests that

there is nothing important at the impact area to be preserved and/or rescued.

4.1.6 CONCLUSION

Since no significant archaeological and related materials were observed in and around the

Project Area, there is nothing to preserve in the area. Thus, the proposed development

should be allowed to proceed.

4.1.7 The Project Area is rated No. 5 under the Botswana National Museum

Grading System, which is as follows:

1=Preserve at all costs;

2=Preserve if possible, otherwise extensive salvage work;

3=Test excavations to determine whether further work is necessary;

4=Systematic preventative sampling sufficient; and

5=No further archaeological work required;

The project should be given a planning consent.

4.1.8 RECOMMENDATIONS

Because no archaeological, historic and cultural sites and/or significant distributions were

found in the area of the extension of Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre, a development

Permit has been issued to Sphinx Associates (Pty) Ltd.

4.1.9 However, it should be noted that there were no test excavations conducted to

determine the presence of archaeological materials below ground level. Accordingly, if

archaeological materials are recovered during the construction of the complex in

question, the Developer is requested to notify the Archaeology Division (Salvage Unit) of

the Botswana National Museum and/or the author of this report as required under the

Monuments and Relics Act of 2001.(See Full text in Appendix xxx)

23

Figure 3. A CERTIFICATE FROM THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

4.2 Population

In 1991 Gaborone had a population of 133, 468 residing within the city limits. By 2001

the population had grown to 185891. To-day the population is estimated to be around

200,000. The peri-urban area has witnessed a fast growth rate due to easy availability of

land in the tribal areas. There are no people living on this site. People‘s homesteads can

only be found in adjacent Phase 2 on the other side of the Western By-Pass road and in

Block 6 across the Segoditshane road.

4.3 Existing land use

The site is a partly a vacant site and a car park that is currently used by shoppers who

visit the Molapo shopping centre. On the western side however, is the bush land that

leads to the Segoditshane river and also a skating ring which is of temporary nature.

Much of the site is covered by builder‘s rubble, solid waste such as paper, plastic and

glass. On the corner, there are individuals selling airtime, cigarettes, sweets and such like

items to people visiting the site.

4.3.1 Consistency with city zoning classification and requirements.

The zoning of the area is for commercial and civic and community development and thus

the developments planned for this area are consistent with the GCC Master Plan of 2009;

the Urban Development Standards and the Development Control Code. A layout plan

24

was prepared for the Molapo Shopping Centre and was approved by both the Physical

Planning Committee of the GCC and the Town and Country Planning Board.

4.3.2 However a layout of the extension complex has been put on hold until the EIA

report has been received and reviewed by the concerned authorities.

As the proposed project will not conflict with existing development plan goals and

policies, no impact will result.

4.3.3. Land use compatibility

The proposed retail and office development consisting of offices and several retail

outlets. Included too is a recreational outfit. Clearly these developments would be

consistent with the existing land use pattern in this area and with adjacent properties,

which consist of the shopping centre. Therefore no significant impacts would result from

the proposed project with regard to land use compatibility as the uses belong to the same

Land Use Classification Order(Commerce).

4.3.4 As the proposed project is consistent with existing land use regulations and

adjacent land uses, no mitigation measures are required.

4.4 Economic base

4.4.1 For Gaborone in general, 71.7% of the population falls within the active working

bracket of 15-64 years old. This proposes that there is a broad based economically active

population. Of the total male population 58.5% are economically active while 45.5% of

the total female population are economically inactive. Gaborone has an unemployment

rate of 11% which is less that the national rate (CSO, 2001).

4.4.2 For the people operating businesses at the adjacent shopping center their main

economic base is commerce. People are engaged in both managerial and service levels.

The proposed development should benefit some of the businesses here, as it will draw

more people to the complex. In addition, the project will provide needed employment

opportunities.

4.5 Social and Economic Services

Health

4.5.1 Gaborone has a total of 56 health centres, 1 national referral hospital (Princess

Marina Hospital) and 2 private run hospitals, viz: the new Bokamoso Hospital and the

Gaborone Private Hospital in Broadhurst. In addition to the above there are several

private run surgeries in most parts of the city. In the vicinity of the project site the

nearest health facilities are: three clinics viz: in Block 6, Phase 1 and Phase 2.

Education

4.5.6 There are several educational facilities in the city. In the vicinity of the project there

are 4 primary schools, 1 in Block 5 south; 2 in Block 6 (one of which is a Private English

medium school) and 1in Phase 2. In addition, there are also junior secondary schools in

25

Block 5, Block 6 and an English medium junior and senior secondary school, Legae

Academy. There is also the distance education center, BOCODOL north of the site in

Block 6.

4.6 Infrastructure

Roads.

4.6.1 The project site is bordered by two major trunk roads. The first is the newly

reconstructed and widened Molepolole road that leads to Block 6 to the west and also

extends to Molepolole. This is a very busy road as it also provides a connection to the

Grand Palm hotel and the Gaborone International Conference Centre as well as many

suburbs to the western part of Gaborone. The second is the even busier dual carriage-

road, the Western By Pass road. Current access to the site from both roads is left in and

left out arrangement which is rather inconvenient for some shoppers. The proposed

development will require a better access into the site and will also generate more traffic

both on Molepolole and the Western By Pass roads.

Power

4.6.2 Currently, there is ample electric power supply connection to the Molapo

Shopping Centre . A high tension power line passes to the northern and western parts of

the site.

Telecommunications.

4.6.3 There are also existing telecommunications services on site serving the Molapo

shopping center. Commercial and retail needs can be met easily.

Water Supply.

4.6.4 There is currently adequate water connection on the site. The new development

will be supplied with water from trunk water mains running along the Western By-Pass.

Sewage.

4.6.5 There is currently adequate sewage connection on site. The proposed

development project will thus be connected into the main city sewer system for which

there is planned capacity for the trunk sewer lines running to the east of the site.

4.7 Alternative Development Concepts.

It should be noted that the Revised GCC Master Plan 2009 has been used as a basis for

this report. In this plan, this area has been zoned for commercial and office development

and as such no alternative land uses have been considered.

4.7.1 This report was commissioned to examine specifically the environmental impacts

of the proposed commercial development and not for any other land use. Throughout the

scope of the study alternative development methods and priorities have been suggested to

mitigate impacts as identified.

26

5. FINDINGS FROM COMMUNITY CONSULTATION AND

QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

5.0 Introduction

5.0.1 In carrying out this EIA consultations about this project have been done

through the following methods:-

Interviews with key interested and affected parties and

Focus group meetings with stakeholders

Questionnaire survey – administered to gauge people‘s views and expectations of

this project.

Two Public Meetings

5.1 INTERVIEWS WITH KEY AND INTERESTED PARTIES.

5.1.1 This project is certainly bound to affect people and businesses in and around the

site. Interviews were carried out with physical planners both within the GCC, and the

DTRP; key businesses like the Molapo Shopping Centre and commercial businesses

located at Bonnington Mall and the OK Mall. The list of those institutions and

individuals consulted is given on the tables below.

A. Gaborone City Council (GCC).

5.1.2 A meeting held on 2nd

December, with physical planners at the GCC, ( Mr.

Baleseng Jila and Ms. Godie Gwadi ) to discuss the plight of this site indicated that many

proposals on this site for planning permission have always been submitted to the Physical

Planning Committee of the Council and in all instances the proposals have always been

forwarded to the TCPB for consideration. The main issues have centred on the Civic and

Community component of the site. Some of the proposals sometimes are not clear cut or

in some instances, changes of use have been proposed. Access too has been an issue.

5.1.3 Again, on the 12th

April 2011, as requested by the reviewer from the DTRP,

another meeting was held at the GCC, with Mr. Majama (Tel. 3657496), a planner in the

Physical Planning Department to get clarification on the stand of GCC on the proposals

for this site.

5.1.4 In the meeting it was spelt out that :-

The approved Gaborone Development Plan had zoned the proposed site as full

commercial.

However, following an addendum to the approved plan, this area is now zoned as

Civic and Community use.

The client has been advised to do the following:-

Reclassify the land use.

Make a calculation of the parking spaces as per the designed land use for this

area

Ensure that the ancillary uses(Commercial) should account for a maximum of

15% coverage of the dominant use (Civic and Community)

27

B. The Department of Town and Country (DTRP)

5.1.5 A discussion held on the 15th December 2010 on the proposal with the Secretary

of the Town and Country Planning Board, and other staff at the DTRP yielded the

following points:-

The site as was originally allocated was zoned as 33.40% Commercial and 66.6%

Civic and Community.

However, over the years, several development plans since have been lodged at the

DTRP and the Town and Country Planning Board for change of use to increase

the percentage of commerce, but in each instance the T & C. P. Board approval

has always been either denied or deferred for plan rectification.

Traffic is a main concern due to accessibility from the north. Many alternative

solutions have been proposed for consideration by the Roads department and the

city engineers, but it is still a sticking point.

C. DEPARTMENT OF ROADS

5.1.6 A discussion at the Roads Department centred mostly on the problem of (a) Road

access to Molapo Crossing from the Western By-Pass coming from the north and (b) Exit

heading west into the Molepolole road. Currently there is only a left in and left out from

the Western By-Pass road. This also applies to the newly built Molepolole road. It was

indicated that there are efforts being made by all concerned – the developers, the Roads

Department and the Ministry of Works and Transport to find a lasting solution as the

current access is a real problem. To-date however, approval has been given by the Roads

department for access to the site via a parallel road from the traffic lights at the junction

of the Molepolole Road and the road leading to Block 5 and the Grand Palm Hotel.

Main Public Officers consulted.

1. Baleseng Jila Gaborone City Council Tel 3657457

2. Ms. Godie K. Gwadi Gaborone City Council 71551020

3. Mr. Majama Gaborone City Council 3657457

4. Omphemetse Okaile Dept. Town and R.Planning 72362818

5. Anthony L. Planner 71340100

6. Mr. Boitshwarelo Deputy Director, Roads Department.

5.2 CONSULTATION WITH CONCERNED AND AFFECTED PARTIES.

5.2.1 In addition to the information gathered above, the consultants also solicited

information from several groups of people/agencies that might be affected by the

proposed developments. This was done through a questionnaire that sought project

impacts on (a) Social Aspects (b) Economic Aspects (c) Physical Aspects and (d)

Environmental aspects.

5.2.2 The questionnaire was administered through a random sampling method to gather

the main issues of this project. Stakeholders were shown a drawing design/map showing

28

the proposed location of the scheme and possible impacts were explained to them in order

to clarify technical issues.

5.2.3 In general, the people had the opportunity to air their economic, social and

environmental concerns, whether positive or negative. A few went further as to even

suggest possible solutions to the raised concerns and this was very positive indeed. A

number of Key Issues were raised by all key stakeholders and these have been factored in

the and addressed in this EIA final report (EIS).

DETAILED COMMENTS ARE SHOWN BELOW.

5.2.4 The following persons/agencies were kind enough to either give interviews or fill

up the questionnaire for the EIA.

Concerned and Affected Individuals Interviewed

1. Businesses (Retail and Commercial) operating from the current Shopping

Mall.

Name ID Tel.No.

Prajisha Samson - 71980248,3719945

EDFM Ansah H0933360 75901978

Winnie Ezra ZP002125 71305306 or 3933300

Jaspeet Singh G8836778 75551002

Farooq Ahmed Minhas - 74569999

Thelma Ngatangwe 435526308 75422364

Richard Leepo 904218109 3710040

Thabang Supang - 72269895

Phenyo J.Tsebetsame 575729612 3935927

Issues raised:-

5.2.5 Possible Advantages of the Project

The extension of the mall will boost business even for the current shops at the

Mall. This will obviously lead to competition and this is good for business as

owners will have to work smarter in order to reap greater profits. Customers can

access everything they want in a single location without the hassle of travelling

from one mall to another.

The investments will increase shopping variety.

The extension of the Mall will attract more people to the Centre and the rate of

business failure because of lack of customers will be reduced.

Gaborone is growing at a very fast rate, the extension of the mall will open up the

city and make services accessible to the community. Traffic could reduce since

people would travel less since they can get what they want in one location.

29

More jobs opportunities for locals will be opened up. Shops and offices that will

locate here will need more employees. In so doing this will reduce crime as well

as poverty.

5.2.6 Possible Problems of the Project

The river will be contaminated and destroyed by liquid and solid waste generated

from the mall unless proper care is not taken to deal with waste.

The project might increase crime at the Mall

The project will create more jobs and hence alleviate poverty

Access is still a major problem here. Currently some of the business

establishments are losing business as customers go elsewhere where access is

good.

There are traffic jams and accidents foreseen. It is suggested to build a foot bridge

across the Western By-Pass or at least provide a zebra crossing will electronic

lights control.

There was mixed concerns/views on the location of a tertiary institution as well as

an old people‘s home at this Mall.

5.2.7 All in all 96% of the respondents were for the project.

2. Customers/Shoppers/Visitors to the Molapo Shopping Mall.

Name ID Tel.No.

Lilian Mokgware 962406667 3918185

Onalena Pilane 514823812 71484765

Ame Keogile 889625614 3917740

Gitsemang Lesole 647227302 3918607

Ernest Karabo Mphale 489319817 7465719

Goabaone Mathware 997117412 72847619

Seabelo Mabena 908311106 3936666

Anonymous - 73197774

Mosimanegape Molosiwa - 72233915

Renu Mr. - 71968694

Idah Kesebonye 706928805 71410465

Kefilwe Masole 087424019 71414952

Tlholego Sekolo 730613305 3939317

Moipolai Molefe 0989219502 71475074

5.2.8 Eighty eight percentage of those people consulted are for the project with the

overriding reasons being (a) Revamping the Economy of Botswana and (b) Job creation

and alleviation of poverty.

5.2.9 A summary of the Comments/Issues are as follows:-

Advantages of the new development

The developments will bring more business to the existing establishments

at Molapo.

30

It will lead to a greater shopping variety to meet the ever growing

Gaborone population.

It will create more jobs (especially the youth) and hence more poverty

alleviation. It is recommended to give the construction jobs as well as

other jobs to those people living near the complex.

It will lead to more economic development in the city

It will attract greater local and foreign investors.

This development will reduce shopping overcrowding in other shops in the

city, like Game, River Walk, OK complex etc.

5.2.10 Possible problems

Access to the complex from the Western By-Pass road is a problem.

Pedestrian access is already difficult as traffic on the Western By-Pass

road over speeds and endangers their lives. With more businesses here,

access is certainly a problem.

The complex will attract more traffic to a city that is already congested.

Developments as these should be taken to the outskirts of the city to

reduce congestion. There are suggestions to even locate any new

commercial developments in other towns to even up development.

The development might impact the Segoditshane river and hence pollute

the water and thus needs careful planning and execution

Past flooding of the Segoditshane river have impacted on the current mall,

maybe this mall will suffer the same problems should there be more

heavier flooding in the future.

Many of the respondents are not in favour of the old people‘s home as this

is not suitable and may disturb their health.

Due to the level site, drainage might be a problem unless engineers do

their job properly.

Developments here may cause noise pollution.

Concerns of pedestrian movements during the construction phase; Loss of car parking space during the construction phase;

5.2.11 Altogether, 85% of those sampled were positive about the project.

3. Businesses/Residents in Block 2 and Phase 1.

Name ID Tel.No.

Meela S.Jeelabdeen

(Shop at OK Complex) 875824616 3182294

Japelo Masese

(Internet Café, OK shops) 500123806 72499823

Veram B. Nkashe 824128719 72808048

Moshe Raletsatsi 306812714 71564983

31

Tsecelo Mosinyi 978715104 71739280

Moneedi Magomane 117225813 721616901

Kabelo Moilwe 037714198 71860741

Reginaldi Phokedi 360826909 3912861

5.2.12 A Summary of Issues Raised

Nearly all the people consulted were for the project as long as the problems they

have pointed out are dealt with.

5.2.13 Advantages of the project

People in surrounding areas have easy access to more shops

More jobs and hence more development

This will lead to economic development in the city.

5.2.14 Possible problems of the project.

Construction materials may be dumped in the river.

The development will take the only remaining green area south of the

current mall.

The old people‘s home location is not ideal. Old people need a very quiet

location. The ideal place would be outside the city limits.

Poor accessibility for people living in Phase 2 as they have to cross the

ever busy Western By Pass road.

Safety for pedestrians is an issue here as people will have to enter and

leave the shopping complex.

There could also be a noise problem.

Road access from the BTV circle will need to be sorted out.

A great majority of those sampled were for the project.

5.2.15 Residents in Block 5 and 6.

Name ID Tel.No.

Julius Kegontse 59613708 -

Vincent Abuya A1087577 3913365

Tsephang Baipidi 011515811 72623538

Mmoloki N. Modise 460515915 71234734

Malebogo von Radcliff - 71717419

Samuel Seitshiro 508610603 3936039

Blondie Segomotso 260019215 72666375

Festus Masie 482319713 72968209

5.2.16 A Summary of Issues raised:

Advantages of the project

32

The development will bring more customers to Molapo Crossing and

hence more business

The development will bring more investors to the city

The development will create more jobs and hence lead to poverty

alleviation

The city‘s population is growing in terms of population and hence

services will have to match accordingly.

5.2.17 Possible problems

Developments in this area will affect the environment of the river as

litter may flow into it.

Access from both the Western By-Pass and the Molepolole road is a

problem.

Pedestrian access is a huge problem that needs to be dealt with

possibly by building a pedestrian bridge over the busy Western By-

Pass.

Flooding of the river may lead to soil erosion and cracking of

buildings .

It may also cause pollution as waste may increase

Traffic congestion

5.2.18 In sum, 100% of the people consulted were for the project as long as the raised

concerns are addressed.

5.3 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

5.3.1. To supplement this, as a requirement of the EIA Act, a public meeting was called

in Gaborone on the 15th December 2010 at 10.00 hours at the Sphinx Board Room,

Molapo Crossing shopping Centre(See advert as it appeared in Mmegi press) with

concerned stakeholders and the general public to discuss the potential positive and

adverse impacts that could arise in the implementation of the project, both during the

construction and operation phases. The project was to be presented using power point

presentation and maps and diagrams by the proponents and the EIA process and the

environmental consultants.

5.3.2 Unfortunately, nobody attended the meeting on the material day in spite of the

newspaper notice as well as notices pasted at strategic locations of the mall alerting

people about the meeting and its location.

5.3.3 After hours of waiting for the arrival of the general public members, at 12,00

hours, it was decided to call it a day and use issues raised from the other sources to work

out the main issues to be addressed in the formulation of the Terms of Reference for the

project.

Participants at this meeting included the consultants and the proponent of the project.

33

List of attendees at the Meeting called on 15th

December 2010

Name Organization Contact

S. Erastus

A.Mosha

P.Thebe

Phidelia Dintwe

T. Motlhaping

B. Keathilwe

P.Kereng

Luc Van Casteel

Consultant-Physical Environment

Consultant- Planning

Consultant- Archaeology

Consultant-Archaeology

Consultant –Socio-Economist

Sphinx Associates

Sphinx Associates

Sphinx Associates

72131129

72101422

3915386

71850102

72757442

3710000

3710000

3710000

A SECOND PUBLIC MEETING HELD ON 11th

April 2011.

5.3.4 As requested, and directed by the DEA to hold another public meeting, the

environmental consultants called for another public meeting on the 11th April at the

public Kgotla, Phase IV, Gaborone West. Again, on the material day, nobody turned up

for the meeting except for the project EIA consultants and the project proponents. (See

Copy of Notice of Meeting – Appendix B and C) After two hours of the appointed

time, the consultants could not wait any longer and had to leave.

6. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES/PROBLEMS

6.0 During the information gathering stage a number of existing problems, in both the

physical and human environment were identified. These have been summarized below.

Where possible, mitigation measures or actions to alleviate these problems have been

recommended in sections 8 and 9 of this report.

6.1 Physical environment

6.1.1 The following existing problems have been identified:-

The project area is a partly an unbuilt area and also a car park that is currently

being used by the shopping centre.

Storm water runoff – Within the site the key issues relating to climate are, nature

and rainfall (and the subsequent storm water runoff) and this has to be considered

with regard to rainwater collection and transfer of pollutants into the drainage

system that leads to the Segoditshane river. The cumulative effect of altering the

drainage patterns of the area and increasing the potential pollutants released into

the Segoditshane river must be considered. This means that water should not be

allowed to enter the river system and all storm water management should be

constructed in such a way so as to reduce the potential of pollutants and siltation

entering the stream.

Vegetation on the site and adjacent areas has been removed during the building of

the Molapo Mall. This is increasing erosion potential and reducing the site‘s

aesthetic quality.

6.2 Human Environment

34

6.2.1 The following existing problems have been identified:-

The fact that the site is a visually degraded area, within a greater area of scenic

appeal of the open area along the Segoditshane river suggests that the proposed

development has the opportunity to actually improve, or at least, stabilize, the

aesthetic qualities of the site itself whilst maintaining the scenic qualities of the

area around the site.

The current access of the site via Molepolole and Western By Pass roads is

inadequate, though it s understood that the proponents of the project are in

discussion with the Roads Department to get a better access to the site off both the

Western By-Pass as well as the Molepolole road.

7. IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 This section identifies the anticipated impacts resulting from the proposed project.

Impacts were identified by listing the different activities of three project phases

(planning, construction and operation) and the elements of the environment that are likely

to be affected. The two lists form the two axes of a matrix that allow the identification of

likely impacts on each environmental element by each project activity. The Impact

Identification Matrix is shown on Table 1.

Table 1– Environmental Impact Identification Matrix

Environmental Parameter

Pla

nnin

g P

has

e

Construction Phase

Operation Phase

Const

ruct

io

n c

amp

Bush

Cle

arin

g

Tre

nch

Ex

cav

atio

n

Ro

ads

and

sto

rm

wat

er

Dra

inag

e

Str

eet

Lig

hti

ng

Ele

ctri

city

and

Tel

eco

mm

un

i

cati

on

s

Sew

age

Ret

icu

lati

on

Wat

er

Ret

icu

lati

on

Ro

ads

and

Sto

rm w

ater

Ele

ctri

city

&

Tel

eco

mm

un

i

cati

on

s

Ph

ysi

cal

Pla

nn

ing

&

Imp

lem

enta

ti

on

Vegetation Wildlife Ground Water Surface Water Soils Air Quality Noise and

Vibration

Land Use Environmental

Health

Occupational

35

Health and

Safety

Public safety Archaeology Landscape and Visual Impact

Socio-

Economics

Natural Resources

Effect on

existing

Infrastructure Services.

7.2 Impact Analysis

7.2.1 Each of the identified impacts was analyzed systematically as follows: -

Impact Prediction: This involved the quantification or the qualitative description

of the impacts of the project on the environmental elements.

Impact Significance: The assessments included the description of sources or

causes of impacts, and their severity and significance. The significance of the

impacts was determined by the interaction between the severity of the impact and

the value of the resource affected and the sensitivity of the potential receptors.

7.2.2 The severity of the impact is determined by the degree of change to the basement

environment, and included consideration of the following factors: -

The degree of certainty of the impact

The spatial influence of the impact

The impact duration, permanency and whether it increases or decreases with time;

Whether the impact is controversial or would set a precedent, and

Whether the impact is a threat to environmental and health standards and

objectives.

7.2.3 The significance of the impacts has been graded, very high, high, medium, low

and insignificant. Impacts can be either positive or negative. Significance has been given

to each impact if no mitigation is carried out (the Impact of Significance) and if

recommended mitigation measures were implemented (the Impact Significance after

Mitigation).

A Very High impact would represent a key factor in the decision making process.

These impacts are generally, but not exclusively associated with resources of

national or international importance or highly sensitive receptors. However, a

severe impact on a district, city or village scale would also enter this category.

Typically, mitigation measures area unlikely to remove very high impacts (if it is

negative impact).

36

A High Impact may be an important consideration in the decision making process

at a district, city or village scale. If adverse, these impacts are potential concerns

to the project, depending on the importance attached to the issue in the decision

making process. Mitigating measures, monitoring programmes and detailed

design work may not totally eliminate the impact but should reduce it to

acceptable levels (if it is a negative impact).

A Medium Impact is likely to be important as a local issue, but is unlikely to be

of significance in the decision making process. Nevertheless, these impacts should

be militated against to reduce the impact significance (if it is a negative impact).

The accumulation of medium impacts may lead to an increase in the overall

effects of a particular receptor or resource, giving rise to a high or very high

impact.

A Low Impact may be a local issue, which will be of little significance in the

decision making process. Nevertheless, there may be mitigation measures that

will reduce a low impact further (if it is a negative impact). An accumulation of

low impacts on a particular receptor or resources is unlikely to give rise to a high

or very high impact affecting the decision making process.

An Insignificant Impact will be a local issue, but although there is some impact it

is unlikely that it will be noticeable or measurable. There are not likely to be

mitigation measures for an insignificant impact.

7.2.4 It should be noted that if an impact is identified as positive, it can be enhanced (or

made more positive) by implementing the mitigation measures or recommendations made

for the impact.

7.3 Mitigation

7.3.1 Mitigation measures and recommendations are suggested for the identified

impacts with the aim of avoiding or removing the impact completely, rendering it non-

significant or reducing its magnitude. For each identified impact, mitigation measures

consistent with best practices in their respective field have been proposed. The

development of mitigation options takes into account the following criteria: -

Precedents set by other projects

The effectiveness of different technical solutions;

Their feasibility in planning, construction and operational terms

Their cost.

7.4 Summary

The impacts identified above have been expanded upon using the methodology described

and are included in section 9(Construction and Operation Stages). Section 8 makes

recommendations for mitigating the existing negative impacts identified in the planning

phase.

37

8. PROPOSALS FOR THE PLANNING STAGE

8.1 Physical planning opportunities and constraints

8.1.1 Opportunities

Here is a generally flat site ripe for development

The area has been zoned for commercial(small)/Civic and Community

development in the GCC Master Plan

All major infrastructural services are available adjacent to the site as they were

planned for in the development of Block 6.

Social services can be accessed quite nearby either in Block 6, rest of Block 5,

Phase 1 or 2.

Currently, there is relatively easy vehicular access to the site on two sides except

for vehicles coming from the north.

The presence of a planned/zoned green area behind this site offers a green

solution to aesthetics.

The presence of the Segoditshane river behind the retail/commercial site solves

the problem of water drainage.

8.1.2 Constraints.

Access may be a problem if traffic picks up, and this is likely in the future.

Junctions will be a problem.

8.2 Planning/Design Guidelines and Measures

8.2.1 Site location.

The development of this retail and office complex may have impact on the

environmentally sensitive Segoditshane valley and socio-economic/cultural impacts on

the community. The development will require various infrastructure services such as

electricity, phones, water, pipelines etc. Since these activities have significant effects on

the environment, siting of the complex, construction and operational procedures should

take consideration of the need for environmental protection, especially operations in the

sensitive ecosystem area along the Segoditshane river.

8.2.1.1 Noise during construction, waste disposal, installation of transmission lines,

installation of pipelines, construction of roads and parking facilities would all have to

ensure adequate protection of biodiversity, water resources and other natural attributes of

the environment.

8.2.1.2 Some Site Planning Guidelines/Recommendations.

The land should have a well-maintained drainage system to facilitate storm run-

off and minimize the likelihood of flooding.

The building design, construction material used should not ‗take away‘ negatively

from the natural/original setting or features of the environment.

Aesthetic improvement of the building and surroundings should be promoted, e.g.

use of plants, frequent cleaning and painting of premises, etc.

38

8.2.2 Design Guidelines

As the site is located at a vital urban setting (corner of Molepolole and Western By Pass

road) it demands a thoughtful urban design framework for its development. The future

development of the site must incorporate the following design principles:-

(a) To improve the urban design elements, namely views (especially that facing

the main road and the Segoditshane river), open space, development edges,

activity nodes, access and linkages so that this area links with the rest of

Block 6. The ultimate aim is to strive to merge the urban development in this

area with the semi-rural character of the development in the western part of

the site.

(b) The future development must enhance the existing landscape characteristics

by preserving as many of the adjacent mature tree clusters as possible.

(c) To take advantage of the site topography to furnish itself as both a locus to

attract attention and a setting to appreciate the surroundings.

(d) To reform the site to accommodate anticipated physical changes in the

context to form a congruent framework.

8.2.3 MEASURES TO BE INCORPORATED INTO THE LAYOUT PLAN.

In this section we present major measures to be incorporated in the plan. More detailed

measures are subsequently spelt under each section in Section 9 of this report.

1 The Design to provide high quality landscape treatment and to create a distinctive

character for the new complex development. The buildings must blend with those

in the vicinity (Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre).

2 Design of the setting and layout of the buildings to define and create comfortable

external space. Botswana‘s climate favors external living most of the time.

3. Provision of convenient pedestrian linkages between the new development, the

shopping center and the adjacent residential areas across the road.

9 POTETIAL IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

This section has been presented and laid out in a tabulated format. The impacts for each

receiving environment have been examined in detail. Key issues are identified ‗cross

boundaries‘ between receiving environments, therefore they have been factored into each

table. Some of the detailed impacts in the planning phase have also been included in the

tables for completeness.

9.1 Biophysical Environment.

9.1.1 Soils and Geology.

39

This section presents the potential impacts of this project on the soils and geology of this

area. Practical mitigation measures are recommended, where necessary, to reduce any

negative impacts to within stipulated limits or other appropriate guidelines.

Relevant Acts

1. Mines and Minerals Act,

2. Water Act(Cap 34:01)

3. Waste Management Act (Cap 65:06)

9.1.1.1Soil erosion due to construction works, especially road construction, trenching and

dewatering and improper disposal of construction wastes could result in pollution and

silting channels.

There is also potential for increased soil erosion and contamination due to the

construction camp and construction activities in and around the site.

Impact/Issue SOILS AND GEOLOGY

This table summarizes impacts relating to soils and geology of the

site PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT N/A Local Local

DURATION Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Moderate Moderate

PROBABILITY Probable Possible

SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT

MITIGATION

High Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

Low Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION Soil and

geological conditions on

site will

influence the layout of the

plan and

subsequent

land use.

-Since part of this site is already

cleared and a car park built on it, soil will only be exposed during

construction. During this period

the exposed soil will be prone to erosion by water and wind.

-Stripping and stock piling of top

soil could lead to erosion and

degradation of soil quality -Any blasting could cause

destabilization of surrounding

rock formations -Soil compaction could result

following construction activities

-Storage of materials and fuel could lead to soil contamination.

There may be

increased potential for erosion in the

drainage lines in and

around the site due to increased runoff

from the site.

MITIGATION Take

cognizance of

soil and

-Selective soil stripping should be

done in accordance with the

environmental consultant.

-Soil erosion should

be prevented in

water courses and

40

geological

conditions in land use

planning and

detailed layout

of the site.

-Top soil should be separated

from sub-soil and stock piled -Top soil stockpiles should not

exceed 2 metres in height and

seeded to reduce erosion.

-Blasting should be done only where necessary and advised by

an engineer, geologist and

environmental consultant. -Soils compacted during

construction activities should be

ripped and re-graded to even

running contours -Storage of potential pollutants

such as fuel, oil and chemicals

should be done on a sealed surface to prevent soil

contamination. Fuel should be

stored in an approved container on a concrete plinth

-All soil containers to be removed

off site after construction.

Site preparation -The areas to receive compacted

fill shall be prepared by removing

the few trees on site, debris, existing fill, and soil. The exposed

excavated area shall be observed

by a soils engineer or geologist prior to placing compacted fill.

-All disturbed soils should be

removed and replaced with

suitably compacted/engineered fill capable of supporting the

envisaged foundation loads.

-Any areas containing fill material should be clearly identified and

rehabilitated as part of the

earthworks programme, prior to

construction of foundation work.

drainage lines

created during development by

constructing gabions

and water baffles to

reduce the speed of water runoff entering

existing

Segoditshane water course.

9.1.2 WATER POLLUTION

This section addresses the potential impacts on water quality from the construction and

operation of the designated and potentially designated elements of this project.

41

Relevant legislation and guidelines.

9.1.2.1 The following relevant pieces of legislation and associated guidance are applicable

to the evaluation of water quality impacts associated with the construction and operation of

the Designated and Potentially Designated Elements of the Project.

Waterworks Act , Cap 34:03

Water Act, Cap 34:01

Food Control Cap 65:05

ASSESSMENT

Water Demand

9.1.2.2 The proposed project is expected to generate a limited demand of water per day

for the normal retail and office operations. The estimated water consumption for the

proposed project is expected to be accommodated by the e existing water infrastructure

serving the proposed project area and thus, this service will be provided routinely in

accordance with the water standards. Therefore, the proposed project will have a less than

significant impact upon water service.

9.1.2.3 Because the proposed project would not result in any significant impacts to water

supply or distribution, no mitigation measures are required. However, the following

measures are recommended to reduce the less than significant water impacts of the

proposed project:-

Water Quality – construction related impacts

9.1.2.4 The project construction site will contain a variety of construction materials that

are potential sources of storm water pollution, such as adhesives, cleaning agents,

landscaping, plumbing, painting, heat/cooling, masonry materials, floor and wall

coverings; and demolition debris. Construction material spills can also be a source of

storm water pollution and/or soil contamination.

9.1.2.5 Grading activities can greatly increase erosion processes. Appropriate dust

suppression techniques, such as watering or tarping, are used in areas that must be

exposed. Erosion control devices, including temporary diversion dikes/berms, drainage

swells, and siltation basins, are typically required around construction areas to ensure that

sediment is trapped and properly removed. When properly designed and implemented,

the Best Management Practices (BMPs) will ensure that short-term construction related

water quality impacts are not significant.

Water quality – Long term operational impacts.

9.1.2.5 The proposed development will consume small amounts of water for various

activities, like flushing toilets; small kitchens; watering the green landscape sites etc. It is

estimated that about 10m3/ a day of water will be required.

9.1.2.6 The amount of water consumed is a direct indication of wastewater generated and

treated in the treatment plant. The wastewater from such a development is primarily

42

domestic in nature and hence is not difficult to treat and for this development wastewater

will be discharged into the city sewer system.

9.1.2.7 Lastly, wastewater from temporary site facilities should be controlled to prevent

direct discharge to surface waters. Such wastewater may include sewage effluent from

toilets. Water from plant servicing facilities may be contaminated with oil and other

petroleum products and would have the potential to discharge to surface waters if spillages

are not contained.

ASSESSMENT SUMMARY: WATER POLLUTION

Impact/Issue WATER POLLUTION

This section deals with any impacts as a result of the proposed

development causing water pollution in the surface or ground water of the

site or surrounding area.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT N/A Local Local

DURATION Medium Term Long-term

INTENSITY Moderate Low

PROBABILITY Probable Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION The plan and

detailed layout

may contain

features that

can safeguard

water quality

Construction activities on site

could be a source of water

pollution

The reticulation of

water and waste

water through a

sewerage network

will definitely have

an impact in the long

term operation of this

project.

MITIGATION

(i) Selection

of native,

drought-

tolerant, low

water

consumption

plant varieties

should be used

to reduce

irrigation

water

consumption

- Temporary toilets for site

workers should be available on

site

-All waste shall be disposed of

properly. Use appropriately

labeled recycling bins to recycle

construction materials including:

solvents, water-based paints,

vehicle fluids, broken asphalt

and concrete; wood and

vegetation. Non-recyclable

materials/wastes must be taken

to an appropriate landfill. Toxic

- The close proximity

of the Segoditshane

river means that due

care should be taken

in waste disposal, and

drainage methods.

43

in the new

development

grounds

wastes must be discarded at a

licensed regulated disposal site

-Clean up leaks, drips and spills

immediately to prevent

contamination soil on paved

surfaces that can be washed

away into storm water drains.

-Do not hose down pavement

material spills. Use dry cleanup

methods whenever possible.

-Cover and maintain dumpsters.

Place uncovered dumpsters

under a roof or cover with tarps

or plastic sheeting.

-Use gravel approaches where

truck traffic is frequent to reduce

soil compaction and limit the

tracking of sediment into streets.

-Conduct all vehicle /equipment

maintenance, repair, and

washing way from storm water

drains. All major repairs are to

be conducted off-site. Use dip

pans or drop cloths to catch drips

and spills.

General mitigation

-The site should be drained so as

to ensure that water cannot pond

adjacent or near the structure.

The surface of the ground

immediately adjacent to the

building should fall 75mm over

the first 1.5m. Any paving

should be similarly sloped.

-Limitations on Gardens –

Flower beds, trees and shrubs

should not be planted within

1.5m of buildings and either a

lawn or impermeable apron

should be provided around the

building so as to provide a

surface which will facilitate free

run-off of water.

-Restrictions on the planting of

trees – These should observe the

same point raised above

44

-Services. The following should

be observed: (a) No plumbing

and drainage should be placed

under floor slabs as far as is

practicable (b) The fall of

trenches should be in a direction

away from buildings (iii) All

service trenches should be

located at least 1.5m away from

structures and should be

backfilled with in situ materials

compacted to not less than 88%

Mod AASHTO density (iv)

Sewer and drain pipes and

fittings should be provided with

flexible joints.

9.1.3 ASSESSMENT TABLE: HYDROLOGY

The development on this site will to some extent have an impact on the hydrology

of the area and its surroundings. The possible impacts and mitigation measures are

presented on the table below.

Impact/Issue HYDROLOGY

This table summarizes the impacts relating to alteration of drainage

systems and runoff from the development.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT N/A Local Local

DURATION Short term Short term

INTENSITY Moderate Moderate

PROBABILITY Possible Probable

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION -

- Removal of vegetation adjacent

the site for construction purposes

could potentially raise the water

table in the area (through reduced

evapotranspiration)

- The increased areas of

hard surfaces (parking,

roofs etc) as a result of the

development could

increase runoff into drainage systems.

MITIGATION - -At the start of

site establishment,

perimeter cut-off

drains to direct

off-site water around

the site should

- Adequate storm water

management should take

place in order to minimize

the impact of the

increased runoff on

drainage systems.

45

be constructed

and internal

drainage works

and erosion

and

sedimentation

control facilities

Implemented. Channels,

earth bunds or sand

bag barriers should

be provided on site

to direct storm water

to silt removal facilities.

The design of

the temporary

on-site drainage

system will

be undertaken by the contractor prior

to the commencement

of construction.

All possible adjacent

vegetation adjacent to

the site to be retained.

-Subsoil drainage to be

addressed by

development engineers

- All drainage lines to be sensitively channeled during

construction activity to reduce

potential alteration of drainage

system.

- All vehicles and

plant should be

cleaned before

leaving a

construction site

to ensure no earth,

mud, debris and the like is deposited by

them on roads.

An adequately

designed and sited

wheel washing

bay should be

provided at every

site exits and wash-water should

have sand and

silt settled out

and removed at least

on a weekly basis to ensure the continued efficiency of

the process.

The section of

- Soil erosion should be

prevented in watercourses

by construction of gabions

and baffles in storm water

channels to reduce flow

sped of water entering

existing drainage channels.

- Disposal of potential

pollutants via the storm

water system should be

prohibited.

- Storm water drains to be

clearly marked as such to

discourage dumping of

pollutants by the public.

- Maintenance of vehicles

to be prohibited on the

site during construction. - The sewage system

should not allow any

contamination of ground

or surface water.

- Solid waste disposal as

per recommendations of

the Department of Waste

Management and

Sanitation

Precautions near

Buildings -Limitations on Gardens –

Flower beds, trees and

shrubs should not be

planted within 1.5m of

buildings and either a

lawn or impermeable

apron should be provided

around the building so as

to provide a surface which

will facilitate free run-off of water.

-Restrictions on the

planting of trees – These

should observe the same

point raised above

46

access road leading

to, and exiting from,

the wheel-wash bay

to the public road

should be paved

with sufficient back

fall toward the wheel-wash bay

to prevent

vehicle tracking of

soil and silty water

to public roads

and drains.

Near structures

-The site should be drained so as

to ensure that water cannot pond

adjacent or near the structure. The

surface of the ground immediately

adjacent to the building should fall 75mm over the first 1.5m.

Any paving should be similarly

sloped.

-Services. The following should

be observed: (a) No plumbing and

drainage should be placed under

floor slabs as far as is practicable

(b) The fall of trenches should be

in a direction away from buildings

(iii) All service trenches should be

located at least 1.5m away from structures and should be

backfilled with in situ materials

compacted to not less than 88%

Mod AASHTO density (iv) Sewer

and drain pipes and fittings should

be provided with flexible joints.

9.1.4 VEGETATION

INTRODUCTION

9.1.4.1 This section presents the results of the assessment of potential impacts

from the construction and operation of the retail and office development on

terrestrial and aquatic ecological resources in the Study Area. Field surveys

were undertaken to establish the baseline ecological conditions of the Study

Area. Measures required to mitigate identified impacts are recommended, as

appropriate.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

9.1.4.2 A number of international conventions and local legislation and

guidelines provide the framework for the protection of species and habitats of

ecological importance. Those related to the Project are:

47

Town and Country Planning Ordinance (Cap 32:09)

Herbage Preservation (Preservation of fires) Act

Wildlife Conservation and National Parks Act (Cap 38:01)

United Nations Convention on Biodiversity (1992);

National Conservation Strategy

Wildlife Conservation Policy

National Policy on Natural Resources, Conservation and

Development

Forestry Act (Cap 38:03)

Agricultural Resources Conservation Act (Cap 35:06).

9.1.4.3 The National Conservation Strategy provides for the conservation of

natural resources including soils, vegetation, water, and wildlife and includes

guidelines for their sustainable use.

9.1.4.4 The Agricultural Resources Conservation Act (Cap 35:06) encourages

the conservation of soils, plant life, vegetation, animal life and fauna of

Botswana

9.1.4.5 The Town and Country Planning Act, has provisions for the preservation

of trees and plant life in urban areas.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

9.1.4.6 The potential terrestrial ecological impact arising from the construction

of the hotel in this area may arise from the following:-

9.1.4.7 Construction Phase

Indirect loss of inactive/less mobile/habitat-specific wildlife

nesting/inhabiting the adjacent area;

Direct and indirect impacts to watercourses, including silty run-off and

sedimentation effect, as a result of construction discharge;

Indirect impacts to the surrounding habitat and associated wildlife due to

physical disturbance of this habitat including noise, increased human

activity, or inappropriate storage or dumping of construction material.

Disturbance to rocks – It is likely that underground rocks will have to be

cleared and/or blasted to enable the development to take place.

9.1.4.8 OPERATIONAL PHASE

- Indirect impacts to the surrounding habitat due to increased human

activities/ disturbance associated with the operation of the proposed

Project.

48

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

9.1.4.9 Potential impacts during planning, construction and operation of

the project are presented in the table below:-

Impact/Issue VEGETATION

This section deals with any impact to the vegetation as an ecological

unit as a result of the proposed development

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT Site and Adjacent Site/Adjacent area Site

DURATION Long term Permanent Long-term

INTENSITY Moderate Low Low

PROBABILITY Possible Definite Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

High Negative Low Negative Low Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Moderate negative Moderate Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION -The layout Plan to

be prepared for this

area should take into account the presence

of the various plants

adjacent to this area.

Efforts should be

made to avoid

damage to the little

vegetation on site

and increase the

aesthetic appeal of

the area.

-An environmental

consultant should determine

development

restrictions

- Due to the nature of the

development, a large

adjacent area may be used as a temporary camp

leading to clearing of

vegetation.

- Landscaping may use a

predominance of non-

indigenous plants

MITIGATION - All detailed

planning and design

should be done in

association with a

landscape architect

and environmental

consultant.

- All construction workers

and machine operators to

be clearly informed of

significant trees to be

retained if they have to

venture beyond the site.

- Unnecessary vegetation

clearance to be addressed

in all development construction contracts

- All landscaping maintenance

to be carried out by a reputable

contractor

- A predominance of indigenous

species should be used for

landscaping

- Users of the development

could be educated about the

value of the aesthetic environment through

appropriate signage and

information.

49

9.1.5 : LOSS OF HABITAT

Impact/Issue LOSS OF HABITAT

This section deals with any impact to the loss of habitat for plants and animals in the

adjacent area as a result of the proposed development

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT Site and local Site Site

DURATION Long term Medium Term Long-term

INTENSITY High Low Moderate

PROBABILITY Definite Definite Probable

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative Low Negative Medium Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low negative Low Negative Moderate Negative

DISCUSSION -The only habitat in

this area is beyond

the development

site.

- Construction activity

could negatively impact

on the little habitats on the

adjacent site.

- Site planning should allow for minimum

realistic habitat loss.

- Landscaping should use a

predominance of indigenous

species to provide habitats for

smaller animals and birds.

MITIGATION - The detailed

planning and design

of the development

should be mindful of

adjacent habitat.

- Areas for protection

should be clearly marked

to prevent construction

activities from

encroaching on these

areas.

- Areas not required for

development should be

fenced off.

- Construction site and

work areas to be planned before ground breaking

occurs. Encroachment

beyond this area should

be avoided.

- Developer shall replace

damaged vegetation with

species to be identified by

the landscape architect

- All landscaped and protected

areas should be maintained

throughout the development

lifespan..

-The

Followingmitigation

measures

are recommended

to

minimize

disturbance

to the surrounding

Habitats:-

-Use of quietened

construction plant

and equipment for

the construction of

the hotel to minimise

the noise impact to the wildlife and

birds.

-Treat any damage

that may occur to

individual major

trees in the adjacent

50

area with surgery.

-Reinstate temporary

work sites/disturbed

areas immediately

after completion of

the construction

works, i.e. through on-site tree/shrub

planting. Tree/shrub

species used should

make reference from

those in the

surrounding area.

-Regularly check the

work site boundaries

to ensure that they

are not exceeded and

that no damage

occurs to surrounding areas

-Prohibit and prevent

open fires within the

site boundary during

construction and

provide temporary

fire fighting

equipment in the

work areas.

9.1.6 ATTRACTION OF VERMIN.

Implementation of the project in this area is likely to attract vermin both during the

construction stage as well as during the Operation Stage (due to the amount of waste food

that may be cooked and stored on site).

Relevant Acts:

Public Health Act

Waste Management and Sanitation. Act.

The possible impacts and mitigation measures are summarized in the table below.

Impact/Issue ATTRACTIONOF VERMIN.

This section deals with the attraction of vermin (e.g. rats, baboons) as

a result of the proposed development PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT N/A Site Site

DURATION Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Minimal Minimal

PROBABILITY Possible Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE Low Negative Low Negative

51

WITH

MITIGATION

DISCUSSION Activities of construction workers on

site (and associated food preparation)

along with litter could attract vermin

to the site.

Presence of large

quantity of waste could

attract vermin to the

site.

MITIGATION -Closed and baboon proof litter bins

should be made available on site and

their use strictly enforced. -Control of cooking facilities and

waste disposal should be strictly

enforced.

-waste disposal should take place at

designated sites as agreed by the

Department of Waste Management

and sanitation.

-All waste disposal

facilities should be

stored in closed baboon/monkey proof

containers.

-Waste removal to be

carried out regularly, to

avoid the potential of

bins becoming too full.

9.1.7 AIR POLLUTION.

9.1.7.1 This section presents the assessment of the potential air quality impacts

arising from the construction and operation of the Designated and Potentially

Designated Elements of the Project.

9.1.7.2 Construction activities often produce large quantities of dust especially

in the dry season. This is particularly problematic in highly built-up area such as

Gaborone. Additionally, air borne pollution can be produced by badly

maintained plant and machinery. Airborne particles have negative impacts on

health as they can easily be inhaled, as well as being a general nuisance to

affected residents. Away from the immediate vicinity of the site the severity of

this impact is dependent on the wind direction.

Relevant Legislation and Guidelines

9.1.7.3 The principal legislation for the management of air quality is the Atmospheric

Pollution Control act (1971). The purpose of this act is to prevent atmospheric pollution.

This may require extensive water spraying or reduce dust pollution.

Air quality

(i) Demolition and uprooting tar on the current car park

9.1.7.4 Breaking and uprooting of the tar around the existing car park on which the new

development will be built will result in both noise and dust emission. This will be an

inconvenience to shoppers and workers at the current Mall.

(ii) Construction Impacts

9.1.7.5 Construction activities will generate dust from demolition of existing structures,

from surface disturbance for new construction, and from equipment exhaust from heavy

off-road equipment.

52

9.1.7.6 The project is too limited in scope to cause air quality impact significance

thresholds to be exceeded during construction. Whereas total daily emissions of dust or

equipment exhaust will be less than significant, the very limited distance between on-site

activities and adjacent occupied homes creates a potential for dust deposition soiling

nuisance on parked cars on the Mall‘s other car park, landscape foliage, or outdoor

furniture. It is not a significant impact because the emissions magnitude is very low and

below the threshold levels, and the health impact of soil dust is much less than from

complex chemical species found in urban atmospheres. Mitigation measures that reduce

small diameter, reparable particulate emissions also reduce larger soiling particles.

Mitigation measures for dust control are thus recommended even if the threshold is not

exceeded.

(iii) Operational traffic

9.1.7.7 Daily site-related travel by office and shopping workers and shoppers/customers

will generate approximately 550 vehicle trips and these would generate potentially

significant air quality impact.

(iv) On-site air quality analysis

9.1.7.8 The project traffic contribution to CO2 exposures is less than significant.

Mitigation measures

9.1.7.9 The mitigation measures that are recommended during demolition, construction

and operation of the proposed project are summarized in the table below.

Summary: AIR POLLUTION

Impact/Issue AIR POLLUTION

This section deals with pollution released into the air as a result of the

proposed development PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT N/A Site and local Site and local

DURATION Short term Long term

INTENSITY Moderate Moderate

PROBABILITY Probable Possible

SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate to High Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION The presence of construction vehicles

could increase air pollution due to

diesel fumes, dust and other activities

such as site clearance

If landscaping and hard

standings are not

maintained they could

turn into dusty areas

without vegetation

cover.

-Vehicles belonging to

employees at the Centre and visitors can

increase the emissions

of exhaust fumes

-Air conditioning units

53

in the office and

commercial

establishments could

emit possible air

pollutants.

MITIGATION -The movements of construction

vehicles should be strictly controlled

to reduce the impact of air pollution. -All machinery to be in good working

order to reduce emission levels

-All site rubbish to be contained to

reduce wind blown litter

-All temporary toilets to be

maintained in god order to reduce

smell

-Excavations and other activities to

be carried out as per

recommendations of the EMP.

- Cover any on-site stockpiles of

debris, dirt or other dusty material. -All unpaved demolition and

construction areas shall be wetted at

least twice daily during excavation

and construction, and temporary dust

covers shall be used to reduce dust

emissions. Wetting could reduce

fugitive dust by as much as 50%

-All materials transported off site

shall be securely covered to prevent

excessive amounts of dust

-All clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be

discontinued during periods of high

winds so as to prevent excessive

amounts of dust

-Retention of as much

vegetation as possible

to reduce possible impacts.

-All landscaping and

hard standings to be

maintained to a high

standard

-All rubbish containers

to be maintained to a

high standard to reduce

windblown litter.

-Other measures are

spelt out in the Hotel

Environmental Management Plan.

9.1.8 FIRES

This section deals with impacts that can arise due to fires that may be caused due to the

implementation of this project.

Relevant Legislation.

9.1.8.1Herbage Preservation Act (Prevention of Fires) 1970.

SUMMARY TABLE

Impact/Issue This section deals with the impact of fires as a result of the proposed

development

54

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT Site and local Site and local

DURATION Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Low Low

PROBABILITY Possible Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low Negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION It is possible

to use

creative

design to

prevent or

retard the

impact of

fires

-In an arid climate, it is

possible that fires from site

activities could spread to other

parts of the site and

surrounding areas.

-Fires during construction

could have significant danger

to human life.

-Fires from any

form of

development

activity could

spread to

surrounding areas.

-Fires within the

development will

have significant

danger to human

life.

MITIGATION Design

buildings to

prevent

eruption of

fires

-No fires allowed on site

except in designated areas.

-Fire fighting equipment

should be available at all times.

All workers should be

instructed in how to use the

equipment effectively.

-Proper storage of potentially

flammable substances to be

practiced at all times,

especially fuels and flammable

chemicals.

-Fires should not

be allowed in any

area of the

development.

-Fire fighting

equipment should

be present on site

and all personnel in

institutions to be

trained in its

effective use.

-Sprinkler systems

along with other

fire fighting

methods should be

in place as

statutory codes of

practice.

9.1.9 Impact on Energy

Energy Conservation

55

9.1.9.1 Commercial and retail establishments do consume a fairly large amount of energy

in terms of heating, ventilation and air conditioning. In terms of costs this can range from

25-50% of the total energy costs of a commercial development.

9.1.9.2 Generally, of the type of energy supplied to a commercial and retail

establishments, electricity dominates in terms of both units consumed (Gj) and cost.

Hence measures to cut electricity consumption can result in direct and significant impact

on total cost of energy consumption of a commercial development.

9.1.9.3 The BPC has indicated that there are no service problems in the project area and

that they can accommodate the electricity demands of the proposed project with the

existing infrastructure. Therefore, no significant impacts related to electricity would

occur.

9.1.9.4 However, the following recommendations are suggested in order to reduce long-

term electricity consumption by the proposed project during operation:-

9.1.9.5 The applicant should consult with the BPC during the design process of the

proposed project regarding potential energy conservation measures for the project.

Examples of such energy conservation measures include:-

- Design windows (i.e. tinting, double pane glass, etc) to reduce thermal gain and

loss and thus cooling loads during warm weather, and heating loads during cool

weather;

- Install thermal insulation in walls and ceilings

- Install high-efficiency lamps for outdoor security lighting

- Time control exterior lighting. These systems should be programmed to account

for variations in seasonal daylight times

- Limit outdoor lighting while still maintaining minimum security and safety.

- Use natural ventilations as much as possible.

A SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND AMELIORATING MEASURES

Impact/Issue ENERGY

This section deals with the impacts of the project on energy

sources in the area

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT Site Site

DURATION Permanent Permanent

INTENSITY Medium Medium

PROBABILITY Definite Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

High negative Moderate negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH MITIGATION

Low negative Low negative

DISCUSSION With adequate design

the commercial and

retail development can

With careful choice of

energy sources the

contractor can save a lot

Owners and workers

have to be educated to

conserve energy

56

save energy. of energy

MITIGATION -Design windows (i.e.

tinting, double pane

glass, etc) to reduce

thermal gain and loss

and thus cooling loads

during warm weather,

and heating loads during cool weather;

-Install thermal

insulation in walls and

ceilings

-Install high-efficiency

lamps for outdoor

security lighting

-Time control exterior

lighting. These systems

should be programmed

to account for variations

in seasonal daylight

times

-Limit outdoor lighting while still maintaining

minimum security and

safety.

Use natural ventilations

as much as possible

9.2 AESTHETICS

9.2.1 TRAFFIC AND SAFETY

The proposed development is bound to have impacts on traffic volumes and safety of

people in and around this area.

9.2.1.1 Relevant legislation

The Roads Act

Atmospheric Pollution Control Act – 1971.

Urban Development Standards

Development Control Code

9.2.1.2 Impact prediction

Future traffic from this development will certainly increase both along the Western By-

Pass road and the Molepolole road.

9.2.1.3 Project Construction Traffic.

Construction of the project buildings will take approximately one year. The number of

construction-related trips generated during this period will fluctuate, as the number of

workers needed for the different steps of construction will vary. The peak times for

construction traffic is expected to occur during the final completion of construction for

each building, when electrical, mechanical, plumbing, painting etc. contractors are on

site. At these times, it is estimated that up to approximately 200 workers will be on site.

Although construction traffic is a temporary condition, it is recognized that it may

contribute to traffic congestion on both access roads. The mitigation measures listed

below in the table are required to minimize the disruption and inconvenience to Gaborone

residents, businesses at the shopping mall and other traffic in the vicinity.

Summary of

impacts.

57

Impact/Issue TRAFFIC

This section deals with the impact of traffic on the existing roads as a

result of the development.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT Local and

surrounding

Local Local

DURATION Medium term Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Medium Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

PROBABILITY Definite Definite Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate

Negative

Moderate Negative Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Moderate

Positive

Low negative Moderate positive

DISCUSSION Through ideal

planning, the

impact of traffic

can be lessened

Construction traffic could negatively

impact the roads leading to the site

through road degradation.

-Traffic congestion could be increased.

-Safety of road users and pedestrians

could be compromised on roads

leading to the site.

-Slow construction traffic could cause

problems on the 2 main access roads.

The proposed

development will

impact the area in the

long run

MITIGATION -Ensure the use

of the Urban

Development

Standards as

well as the

Development Control Code.

-Use traffic

calming methods

in design.

-Construction traffic (deliveries)

should be directed along major roads

and off peak traffic times.

-Traffic signs should be erected to

warn motorists and pedestrians of

construction traffic. -No construction equipment shall be

started in or in operation on-site

outside the allowable construction

hours of 8.00a.m. to 5.30p.m.

-Monitor traffic and

take precautions if

problems arise.

9.2.2 NOISE

This Section presents the potential construction and operational noise impacts

associated with Designated Elements and Potentially Designated Elements of

the proposed project.

9.2.2.1 Relevant Legislation and Guidelines

The principal legislation on the control of construction noise is the Noise

Control Ordinance. Government has issued various other technical memoranda

and these should be followed.

58

9.2.2.2 Identification of Noise

In general, the construction activities can be divided into the following main

categories which will include:

general site clearance & demolition works;

construction of sewers and rising mains using open trench

method;

construction of water reticulation lines and some building

foundations and

road pavement and finishes.

During the construction phase of the Project, workers

employed in the works will be the primary source of noise

impacts affecting the surrounding environment.

9.2.2.3 Demolition/Construction Noise Impacts.

Point of sources of noise emissions are atmospherically attenuated by a factor of 6

decibels (dB) per doubling of distance. The loudest construction activities would thus

require almost 70metres of distance between the source and a nearby receiver to reduce

the peak 90dB source strength to the generally acceptable 75dB exterior exposure level

intentionally accepted.

9.2.2.4 Construction activities will have a significant, immitigable noise impact during

parts of the period of construction of this project. Because not every construction day

will necessarily entail heavy equipment operations, the actual number of days of

potentially significant impact is a small fraction of the total period.

9.2.2.5 In addition to on-site equipment noise generation, truck traffic to/from the site

would affect the off-site noise environment. Thus haul trucks will not be allowed on-site

until after 7.00a.m such that all haul traffic will only have daytime impact.

9.2.2.6 Blasting is likely to take place during the construction of sewers, water

reticulation lines and even building foundations. In particular, considering the closeness

of the shopping mall, damage due to vibration caused by blasting is possible if these

activities are not undertaken in a responsible manner.

9.2.2.7 Operational traffic noise impact.

Long term noise concerns from the increased development intensity would stem

primarily from mobile source emissions on the roadways and activities on site.

MITIGATION OF ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Construction Noise

9.2.2.8 Noise emissions from construction activities can be minimized through

good site practice, selecting quiet plant, adopting quieter working methods,

erection of noise barriers to screen the noise source, where appropriate, and

posing restrictions on the use of noisy equipment. The mitigation measures

59

detailed in this section should be incorporated into the Contract Specification in

order to ensure the acceptable environmental performance of construction

works.

9.2.2.9 Contractors may develop a different package of environmental control

measures to meet the required noise standards, but the following illustrates a

feasible approach to mitigate the predicted noise impact during the construction

phase.

9.2.2.10 Good Site Practice

In view of the large number of construction activities and items of construction

equipment considered in the Project, adverse construction noise impacts to the

surrounding environment are possible, unless mitigation measures are applied.

Good site practice and proper on-site measurement are required by Contractors

at all times in order to minimise noise emissions from the works. The following

measures are recommended.

Only well-maintained plant shall be operated on-site and plant shall

be serviced regularly during the construction works.

Machines and plant that may be in intermittent use shall be shut down

between work periods or should be throttled down to a minimum.

Silencers or mufflers on construction equipment shall be utilized and

be properly maintained during the construction works.

Mobile plant shall be sited as far away from NSRs as possible.

Material stockpiles and other structures shall be effectively utilized,

where practicable, to screen noise from on-site construction activities.

Construction shall be restricted to the hours of 7.00a.m to 5.30p.m.

Monday through Friday; and 8.00a.m to 5.30 p.m. on Saturday.

9.2.2.11 Although it is difficult to quantify the level of noise reduction achieved

from incorporation of these practices, the environmental performance of the

works would be improved with these control measures.

Selecting Quieter Plant

9.2.2.12 The use of quiet plant is considered a feasible solution to tackle the

adverse impacts associated with construction works. The Contractor may be

able to obtain particular models of plant that are quieter than the standard types

that are normally in construction projects in Botswana at the moment. The

benefits achievable in this way will depend on the details of the Contractors‘

chosen methods of working. It is considered too restrictive to specify that a

Contractor has to use specific items of plant. It is therefore both preferable and

practicable to specify an overall plant noise performance specification in term

of total SWL on site, so that more flexibility is given to the Contractor for plant

selection.

9.2.2.13 It should be noted that various types of silenced equipment could be

found in South Africa.

60

Survey of properties.

9.2.2.14 Condition surveys of properties adjudged to have any risk of damage

from vibration should be undertaken prior to any work commencing and be

inspected again soon after completion of the works. This will enable genuine

claims to be assessed and compensated, and defend the contractor against

spurious claims. If damage is caused it should be repaired or fair compensation

paid within a reasonable time.

Impact/Issue NOISE POLLUTION This section deals with the noise generated as a result of the

proposed development and the impact of existing noise on the

proposed development. PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT N/A Site and local Site and local DURATION Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Low Low

PROBABILITY Probable Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Medium Negative Low Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Low negative Low Negative

DISCUSSION -The site is adjacent to the shopping

mall and thus any construction

noise is bound to affect the

neighbours. -The construction process,

machinery and site activity is likely

to be the largest generator of noise

from the site.

- Noise from traffic

during operation could

have an impact on site

neighbours

MITIGATION Plan for good

site management -Any specific noisy activities such

as blasting should be carried out in normal working hours -Neighbours should be informed of

any specific activity likely to be

very noisy before it happens

-All site equipment must be fitted

with efficient silencing systems and

maintained to high standard.

-General construction activity with

excessively high noise level should

be confined to normal working

hours.

-Only well maintained plant should be allowed on the site.

-Restrict working hours from 7.00

a.m to 5.30pm.

-Vegetation retained where possible

will dampen sound travel

-Noise on site should

be controlled by local by-laws -An effective system

of communication

should be established

so that site neighbours

can register concerns

over noise levels

61

9.2.3 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSEMENT

9.2.3.1 The proposed project would result in taking away a fair amount of the current

unbuilt site plus the car park. This will affect the vistas to the southern and western parts

of the site.

The proposed project would also create a short-term significant unavoidable adverse

impact due to landform alterations as a result of remedial grading. This would

substantially degrade the visual character of the site.

9.2.3.2. Views from public viewing areas may be significantly impacted with the

build out of the proposed project. Landscaping and other recommended mitigating

measures would reduce impacts to public viewing areas to a less than significant level.

The design of the proposed project has the potential to impact on the surrounding area. In

addition, light and glare associated with the proposed commercial development could

create an adverse visual impact. Mitigation measures herein would ensure a well-

designed built environment. These impacts are considered significant but mitigable.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

9.2.3.3. The relevant legislation that affects landscape and visual impact

include the following:-

Monuments and Relics Act (Cap 59:03)

Town and Country Planning Act (Cap 32:09)

Atmospheric Pollution Act

Waste Management Act.

Development Control Code

Urban Development Standards

9.2.3.4 In most of these acts, codes, regulations and policies, efforts are made to

ensure that the environment is kept clean.

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

9.2.3.5 The purpose of this section is to analyze the aesthetic/visual impacts associated

with the proposed project. The methodology employed in this task consists of two steps:

1. Describing predominant visual characteristics of the project area, including an analysis

of existing views of the project site and areas located around and beyond the site; and 2.

Analyzing the aesthetic/visual impacts of the proposed project upon the surround area.

9.2.3.6 In order to complete the analysis in this section, 2 sources were used:-

(a)-Site reconnaissance visits on the sites provided primary observations on the

relationships between the project site and surrounding area

(b)-Information provided by key informants

62

9.2.3.7 The evaluation measured the existing visual resources against the proposed

action, analyzing the nature of the anticipated change. The GCC Master Plan and design

guidelines were reviewed for policy instruction relative to visual resources and design.

Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures

(A) Visual

9.2.3.8 Implementation of the proposed development has the potential to alter the

aesthetic character of the vicinity through alteration of views from public viewing

locations, introduction of community design elements that may be aesthetically

inconsistent with the surrounding area and introduction of new light and glare generators

into the area. This is considered significant but mitigable impact to aesthetic character of

the area.

Viewing corridor impacts.

9.2.3.9 The site would be visible from two of the main city‘s major roads, the Western

By-Pass and the Molepolole road. Due to its location, flat terrain and lack of intervening

structures and vegetation between these viewpoints the site views will be impacted much.

Landscaping on the site would not fully block views of the development; however, it is

anticipated to soften views by creating additional greenery. Further, to shield the site

from the main road a green buffer has been zoned on the eastern side of the site.

Implementation of the proposed plan would result in a graded, landscaped surface and

structures that would be visible from several off-site viewpoints. Since the planned

development would be highly visible from the two roads, the Plan would result in

potentially significant impacts from this public viewing corridor.

Post project views Of and Towards the Project Site

9.2.3.10 Visibility of the proposed project from adjacent land uses and roadways is

considered to be of significant impact. This is because the project area is visible from the

Western By-Pass, a residential development to the east (Phase 2) and the shopping mall

to the south. The proposed project would result in the obstruction of public scenic views

of the Segoditshane river.

9.2.3.11 While by and large the project is consistent with the permitted density and

building height for the site, the increase in height compared to the existing adjacent

properties in the shopping mall represent a potentially significant building massing

impact in relation to the rest of the buildings on site. Building massing impacts are

considered to be potentially significant but can be mitigated to less than significant by

implementing the mitigation measures in this section.

(A) Light and Glare Impacts.

9.2.3.12 Site illumination provides safety for vehicular and pedestrian movement,

and increases security. It can also serve to interpret the plan arrangement by giving

emphasis to focal points, gathering places, landscaping, and building entrances. Well-

conceived lighting gives clarity and unity to the overall site and to each sub area within it.

At present there is some nighttime lighting of the site from the shopping mall and

63

streetlights at the car park. However, implementation of the proposed project would

require additional lighting that could be visible from the residences located to the eastern

part of the site.

9.2.3.13 Sources of glare that may affect nearby residences would be buildings exterior

materials, surface-paving materials, and vehicles traveling or parked on roads and

driveways within the project area. Any highly reflective façade materials would be of

particular concern, as buildings would reflect the bright sunrays. Nearby residences may

be impacted by lighting and glare generated from the proposed plan land uses and

improvements. These would be considered of little significance since the residences are

some distance away.

Conclusion

9.2.3.14 The proposed plan has minimal potential to alter the aesthetic semi-rural

character of the site vicinity by changing the scenic views from public viewing locations,

introducing community design elements that may be aesthetically inconsistent with the

surrounding area and introducing new light and glare generators into the area.

9.2. 3 15 Due to the increased density of the proposed project compared to the

existing shops on site, the proposed project would introduce a greater amount of

nighttime lighting to the project site. Such lighting sources include interior lighting,

exterior security lighting, and headlights associated with motor vehicles using the

Western By-Pass. Some of the project building materials (i.e. windows) as well as car

windshields also represents sources of daytime glare. Light and glare impacts would be

potentially significant but can be mitigated to less than significant levels by implementing

the proposed light and glare mitigation measures below.

Mitigation Measures

9.2.3.16 The following mitigation measures are required to ensure the proposed

project does not result in any significant impacts relative to building massing and

lighting. Impacts related to the obstruction and partial obstruction of scenic views from

private properties would remain significant and unavoidable.

9.2.3.17 The Plan should include several development standards that would

facilitate visual compatibility between individual land use components on the site, and

between the proposed on-site uses and adjacent off-site uses. The development standards

(architectural and environmental) are listed hereunder.

Architectural and Landscape Guidelines

9.2.3.18 The applicant shall develop and implement Architectural and Landscape

Guidelines for the retail and office complex. The Guidelines shall include clear criteria

and requirements to guide the design, layout, and landscaping of each component of the

plan of the complex. All future development on the site shall comply with the Guidelines.

Enforcement of compliance with the Guidelines shall be the responsibility of the Town

and regional Planning Department.

64

Roofing and feature colour and material

9.2.3.19 The architectural plan shall include colours on structure roofing and other on-site

features that are compatible with the surrounding commercial uses to lessen potential

visual contrast between the proposed and existing adjacent structures.

9.2.3.20 The exterior of the proposed buildings shall be constructed of non-reflective

building materials

Tract lighting

9.2.3.20 Prior to development, proposed lighting shall be indicated on site plans that

demonstrate that spillover of lighting would not affect commercial areas adjacent to the

site. The lighting plan shall incorporate lighting that direct light pools downward to

prevent glare on adjacent and surrounding areas. Lights shall have solid sides and

reflectors to further reduce lighting impacts by controlling light spillage. Light fixtures

that shield nearby residences from excessive brightness at night shall be included in the

lighting plan. Non-glare lighting shall be used.

Compatibility with adjacent uses.

9.2.3.21 The design, scale, and character of the project building architecture shall

be generally compatible with the scale of existing commercial uses next to the site.

Street light limitations.

9.2.3.22 Street lights shall be pedestrian in scale and must enhance safety. They

should not provide widespread illumination.

- All exterior lighting should be designed as part of the overall architectural concept.

- Fixtures, standards and all exposed accessories should be harmonious with the

building design, the lighting design and hardware of the public open spaces, and the

overall visual environment of the city.

- Lighting should be used for safety and security to illuminate building entrances,

parking and loading areas and pedestrian walkway areas.

- All lighting with exposed light fixtures should be avoided

- All light fixtures should be shielded to confine the spread of light within the site

boundaries.

Wall and fence articulation

9.2.3.23 Long expanses of walls (including sound walls) or fences should be

interrupted with offsets and provided with accents to prevent monotony. Landscape

pockets should be provided. Walls and fences should be designed in a style, materials and

colour to complement adjacent buildings.

Landscaping – Establish a unifying identity and landscape theme for the Detailed

Local 9.2.3.24 Plan for this site. Minimize the visual impact of proposed buildings

and parking areas. Create an outdoor environment of comfortable human scale.

- All open areas not used for buildings, roads, parking areas, or walkways shall be

attractively landscaped and maintained in accordance with a landscape plan;

- Landscape buffers shall be planted between the project site and adjacent commercial

uses;

65

- Buildings, landscaping, parking and other development features should be arranged in

a manner that is compatible with the size, scale, and appearance of nearby

development. Walls and fences should be designed in a style, materials and colour to

complement the buildings to which they are attached.

- Utility service for new development should be underground whenever possible.

- Identify and highlight pedestrian circulation routes to provide safe and comfortable

walking areas

Cumulative Impacts 9.2.3.25 The GCC Master Plan land use designation of the proposed site is

commercial & Civic and Community. Development of the site for urban use was

therefore expected and is consisted with the Master Plan. Therefore, any impacts to the

visual character of the site and the surrounding area were anticipated in the EIA.

Implementation of the proposed development with the mitigation measures would

incrementally contribute to the change in aesthetic character of the site and the

surrounding areas. Cumulative impacts are therefore considered significant and

unavoidable.

Summary of Impacts

Impact/Issue VISUAL IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT.

This section deals with the visual impact of the development from

surrounding areas

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT Site and local Site and local

DURATION Medium Term Long term

INTENSITY Moderate Moderate to high

PROBABILITY Definite Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Negative High negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH

MITIGATION

Moderate negative Low positive

DISCUSSION Visual impacts

and aesthetics

must be incorporated into

the planning

process

-The change from the existing semi-

rural visual characteristics on the site to urban visual characteristics could

result in adverse visual impacts for

sensitive viewer groups in Gaborone

city.

-Construction activities and

temporary buildings will have a

visual impact on the landscape

-Buildings and

landscaped open spaces

could increase the visual appeal of the

site.

-The visual impact of

lighting could also

impact on the

surrounding areas

MITIGATION

Both

architectural and

aesthetic

standards to be adhered to have

-Peripheral vegetation should be

retained (10-20 m) if possible to act

as visual barrier.

-Equipment and works only to be allowed in designated areas.

-The buildings should

be maintained to a high

standard throughout the

life of the

development. -Vegetation and

66

been listed

above. They are

too numerous to

be repeated here

(see above).

-A landscape master plan should be

developed to ensure the visual quality

of the development.

(For more details see above)

landscaping must be

maintained for the life

of this development.

-Any lighting of public

areas should be done

with sensitivity to

ensure that the development is

appealing and safe at

night.

9.2.4 Waste

This section identifies and assesses the potential environmental impacts associated with waste

management aspects of the construction and operation of the Designated and Potentially

Designated Elements of the Project.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

9.2.4.1 The following legislation covers, or has some bearing upon, the handling, treatment

and disposal of wastes in the Gaborone area, and will also be considered in the assessment.

Waste Management Act, Cap 65:06

Building Control Act, Cap 65:02

Public Health Act, Cap 63:01

Town and Country Planning Act, Cap 32:09

9.2.4.2 The Waste Management Act, Cap 65:06 makes provision for the planning, facilitation

and implementation of advanced systems for regulating the management of controlled waste,

minimise pollution and apply the provisions of the Basel Convention on transboundary

movement of waste

9.2.4.3 The Waste Management Strategy is designed to ensure that the country achieves a state

of sustainable waste management with the main objectives being protection of human health,

the environment and natural resources.

ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

9.2.4.4 The potential environmental impacts associated with the handling and disposal of waste

arising from the construction and operation of the hotel development was assessed in

accordance with the following criteria:

estimation of the types, timing and quantities of the wastes to be generated;

assessment of the secondary environmental impacts due to the management of waste

with respect to potential hazards, air and odour emissions, noise, wastewater

discharges and traffic; and

67

Assessment of the potential impacts on the capacity of waste collection, transfer and

disposal facilities.

IDENTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Construction Phase

9.2.4.5 During the construction phase, the main activities, which will potentially result in

waste generation, involve site clearance, and construction of the sewer and water lines.

9.2.4.6 The typical waste types associated with these activities include:

site clearance waste;

construction and demolition material

excavated materials;

chemical wastes;

sewage; and

general refuse.

Site Clearance Waste

9.2.4.7 Construction of the complex and the required infrastructural facilities (water, sewers,

roads etc) will result in a fairly amount of waste. If not properly managed, the handling and

disposal of the clearance waste may cause adverse environmental impacts. Vegetation cleared

from the proposed development site can be disposed of as general refuse.

Construction and Demolition Materials (C&DM)

Excavated Materials and solid waste from demolition work

9.2.4.8 Waste will be generated during demolition of the existing car park and for the line

infrastructure (trenches). These materials are expected to be mostly soil plus concrete/tarmac

which are inert. Their quantities will be spelled out during the detailed design stage.

Much of the solid waste generated during the demolition and construction phase could be

recycled and salvaged to the maximum feasible extent. Materials not recycled would be

disposed of at the local landfill site.

9.2.4.9. As is normal practice, some of the excavated materials could be used for

backfilling the trenches. It is expected that the majority of excavated material will be

inert soil.

Upon full occupancy of the proposed project, daily solid waste generated on-site would

be disposed of at the regional landfill site.

Therefore, no significant solid waste impacts would be created by the proposed project.

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Chemical Waste

9.2.4.10 Substances likely to be generated from the construction activities for the hotel

development will, for the most part, arise from the maintenance of equipment. These may

include, but need not be limited to the following:

scrap batteries or spent acid / alkali from their maintenance;

used paint, engine oils, hydraulic fluids and waste fuel;

spent mineral oils / cleaning fluids from mechanical machinery; and

spent solvents / solutions, some of which may be halogenated, from equipment

cleaning activities.

9.2.4.11 Chemical wastes may pose serious environmental, health and safety hazards if not

stored and disposed of in an appropriate manner as outlined in the Waste Management Act.

These hazards may include:

toxic effect to workers;

adverse effect on air, water and land from spills; and

fire hazards.

Sewage

9.2.4.12 Sewage will arise from the construction workforce, site office‘s sanitary facilities and

night soil from chemical toilets. If not properly managed, these materials could cause odour

and potential health risks to the workforce by attracting pests and other disease vectors.

General Refuse

9.2.4.13 The presence of a construction site with workers and site office will result in the

generation of a variety of general refuse requiring disposal. General refuse will mainly consist

of food waste, aluminium cans and waste paper.

9.2.4.14 The storage of general refuse has the potential to give rise to adverse

environmental impacts. These include odour if the waste is not collected frequently (for

example, daily), windblown litter, water quality impacts if waste enters water bodies, and

visual impact. The sites may also attract pests, vermin, and other disease vectors if the

waste storage areas are not well maintained and cleaned regularly. In addition, disposal

of wastes at sites other than approved landfills, can also lead to similar adverse impacts at

those sites.

9.2.4.15 Because the proposed project would not result in any significant solid waste

impacts, no mitigation measures are required. However, the following recommendations

are suggested to reduce the project‘s less than significant solid waste impacts:-

The applicant should institute a recycling programmed to reduce the waste that

goes to the landfill site

Recycling bins shall be provided at approximate locations to promote recycling of

paper, metal, glass and other recyclable material

69

Operation Phase 9.2.4.16 The proposed complex‘s solid waste stream during the operation stage will be diverse

and enormous. Office paper, restaurant food waste, amenity bottles, plastic and aluminum

beverage containers, and countless cardboard packaging boxes all find their way into the

Centre‘s dumpster. Although this waste is diverse, the waste is fairly consistent. The majority

is paper and plastic waste, and there are lesser amounts of metal, food and glass.

MITIGATION MEASURES

Introduction

9.2.4.17 This section recommends the mitigation measures to avoid or minimise potential

adverse environmental impacts associated with handling, collection and disposal of waste

arising from the Project. The Contractors should incorporate these recommendations into a

Waste Management Plan for the construction works. The Contractors should submit the plan

to the Engineer for approval prior to the commencement of the construction works. Such a

management plan should incorporate site specific factors, such as the designation of areas for

the segregation and temporary storage of reusable and recyclable materials.

9.2.4.18 It is the Contractor‘s (for the construction phase) and the Project Proponent‘s (for the

operational phase) responsibility to ensure that only reputable licensed waste collectors are

used and that appropriate measures to minimise adverse impacts, including windblown litter

and dust from the transportation of these wastes are employed. In addition, the Contractor

must ensure that all the necessary waste disposal permits are obtained throughout the

construction and operation phases.

Construction Phase

Excavated Material

9.2.4.19 Wherever practicable, excavated materials should be segregated from other wastes to

avoid contamination thereby ensuring acceptability at public filling areas and avoiding the

need for disposal at landfill.

Measures Taken in the Planning and Design Stages to Reduce the Generation of C&DM

9.2.4.20 The various waste management options can be categorized in terms of preference

from an environmental viewpoint. The options considered to be more preferable have the least

impacts and are more sustainable in the long term. Hence, the waste management hierarchy is

as follows:

avoidance and minimisation, that is, not generating waste through changing or

improving practices and design;

reuse of materials, thus avoiding disposal (generally with only limited reprocessing);

recovery and recycling, thus avoiding disposal (although reprocessing may be

required); and

treatment and disposal, according to relevant law, guidelines and good practice.

70

9.2.4.21 This hierarchy should be used to evaluate the waste management options, thus

allowing maximum waste reduction and often reducing costs. For example, by reducing or

eliminating over-ordering of construction materials, waste is avoided and costs are reduced

both in terms of the purchasing of raw materials and in disposing of wastes. Records of

quantities of wastes generated, recycled and disposed (locations) should be properly kept.

Standard formwork should be used as far as practicable in order to minimise the arisings of

C&DM. The use of more durable formwork or plastic facing for the construction works

should be considered.

9.2.4.22 Any uncontaminated soil should be reused on site as far as possible, e.g. for

landscape works, in order to minimise the amount of public fill to be disposed off-site. The

Project Proponent should liaise with the GCC, Sanitation Department to identify as far as

possible suitable reclamation or site formation projects near the project site to reuse the

material.

9.2.4.23 The design of the foundation works will minimise the amount of excavated

material to be generated. Should piling be required, H-piling will be used as far as practical.

9.2.4.24 The purchasing of construction materials will be carefully planned in order to

avoid over ordering and wastage.

Measures to be taken in the Construction Stage to Reduce the Generation of C&DM

9.2.4.25 The Contractor should recycle as much of the C&DM as possible on-site.

Public fill and C&D waste should be segregated and stored in different containers or skips to

enhance reuse or recycling of materials and their proper disposal. Concrete and masonry, for

examples, can be crushed and used as fill. Steel reinforcing bars can be used by scrap steel

mills. Different areas of the sites should be designated for such segregation and storage.

9.2.4.26 The use of wooden hoardings shall not be allowed. An alternative material,

which can be reused or recycled, for example, metal (aluminium, alloy, etc) shall be used.

Chemical Waste

9.2.4.27 Chemical waste that is produced should be handled carefully according to

national Guidelines of Chemical Wastes as follows. Containers used for storage of chemical

wastes should:

Be suitable for the substance they are holding, resistant to corrosion, maintained in a

good condition, and securely closed;

Have a capacity of less than 450 L and,

Display a label in English and Setswana.

9.2.4.28 The storage area for chemical wastes should:

71

be clearly labelled and used solely for the storage of chemical waste;

be enclosed on at least 3 sides;

have an impermeable floor and bunding, of capacity to accommodate 110% of the

volume of the largest container or 20% by volume of the chemical waste stored in

that area, whichever is the greatest;

have adequate ventilation;

be covered to prevent rainfall entering (water collected within the bund must be

tested and disposed as chemical waste, if necessary); and

be arranged so that incompatible materials are adequately separated.

9.2.4.29 Disposal of chemical waste should:

be via a licensed waste collector; and

be to a facility licensed to receive chemical waste, or

be to a re-user of the waste.

Sewage

9.2.4.30 Adequate numbers of portable toilets should be provided for the number of workers

along the proposed sewer alignment. The portable toilets should be maintained in a state

which will not deter the workers from utilizing these portable toilets. Night soil should be

collected by licensed collectors regularly.

Management of General Refuse

9.2.4.31 General refuse generated on-site should be stored in enclosed bins or compaction

units separately from construction and chemical wastes. A reputable waste collector should be

employed by the Contractor to remove general refuse from the site, separately from

construction and chemical wastes, on a daily basis to minimise odour, pest and litter impacts.

The burning of refuse on construction sites is prohibited by law.

9.2.4.31 Aluminium cans are often recovered from the waste stream by individual collectors if

they are segregated and made easily accessible, so separate, labelled bins for their deposit

should be provided if feasible.

9.2.4.32 Office wastes can be reduced through the recycling of paper if volumes are

large enough to warrant collection. Participation in a local collection scheme should be

considered if one is available. In addition, waste separation facilities for paper, aluminium

cans, plastic bottles etc., should be provided.

Management of Waste Disposal

9.2.4.33 A trip-ticket system should be established to monitor the disposal of public fill

and solid wastes at public filling facilities and landfills, and to control fly-tipping. A trip-ticket

system will be included as one of the contractual requirements and implemented by the

Engineer. The Engineer should audit the result of the system.

72

9.2.4.34 A recording system for the amount of waste generated, recycled and disposed of

(including the disposal sites) should be established during the construction stage.

Staff Training

9.2.4.35 Training should be provided to workers on the concepts of site cleanliness and on

appropriate waste management procedures, including waste reduction, reuse and recycling at

the beginning of the Contract.

OPERATIONAL PHASE

9.2.4.36 The main type of wastes generated during the operation phase will be foodstuffs,

vegetables, paper, card boxes and other trash. The waste generated from the hotel should be

stored in enclosed bins or compaction units separately from chemical wastes. A reputable

waste collector should be employed by the operators to remove the screenings from the

pumping stations, on a daily basis to minimise odour, pest and litter impacts.

RESIDUAL IMPACTS

9.2.4.37 With the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, in

particular the establishment and implementation of a Waste Management Plan, minimal

residual impacts are anticipated from either the construction or operation of the proposed

project.

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND AUDIT

9.2.4.38 It is recommended that audit of each waste stream should be periodically carried out

during the construction phase to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with the

Waste Management Plan. The audits should look at all aspects of waste management

including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. An appropriate audit

programme would be to undertake a first audit at the commencement of the construction works

and then quarterly audits, thereafter.

CONCLUSION

9.2.4.39 As seen above the amount of wastes that will be generated during the implementation

of this project is not that high. The impact of its disposal at the regional landfill will be

minimal. The generation of chemical wastes is expected to be very small and no adverse

environmental impacts are envisaged.

9.2.4. 40 Good waste management practices have been recommended to ensure that adverse

environmental impacts from the handling and disposal of construction and operational wastes

are prevented or minimised. This EIA concludes that no unacceptable environmental impacts

will result from the storage, handling, collection, transport, and disposal of wastes arising from

the construction and operation of the Designated and Potentially Designated Elements of the

proposed Phase II sewerage programmme.

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Summary table

Impact/Issue WASTE MANAGEMENT

This section deals with the impacts relating to waste management impact relating to

the proposed development

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT Site Site and local Site and regional

DURATION Short term Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Moderate Moderate Moderate to High

PROBABILITY Possible Probable Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT MITIGATION

High Negative Moderate negative High Negative

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH MITIGATION

High Positive Low positive High Positive

DISCUSSION A development of this nature

will create a substantial

amount of household refuse

During construction

activity waste will be

created

-During operation the development will

produce a

large quantity of waste

materials.

-the development should be capable of

handling this

quantity of waste privately, thus

reducing the negative

impact on existing council

waste collection services.

MITIGATION -During planning adequate

provision

must be made for efficient and

effective storage and

movement of waste.

-Planning

consideration should be given

to ―Environmentally friendly

management of waste‖

-All waste to be removed off site

and disposed in a registered

dumpsite or landfill.

-Al potentially toxic

waste to be removed off site

quickly to reduce the

risk of contaminating the area

trough wind or

water transportation.

(see sections above)

-Separation of waste into recycling

categories to be

done at source.

-Recycling bins for paper,

glass, oil etc. are to be made

available.

9.3 HUMAN ENVIRONMENT IMPACTS.

The project is also expected to have some impact on human life and the sections below

trace these impacts and put forward means to ameliorate them.

9.3.1 EXPECTATIONS – More recreational amenities, incomes(money) and jobs

The main expectations from the project are an increase job opportunities, greater incomes

and recreational facilities.

Environment issues.

9.3.1.1. Introduction of a project of this nature can result in a variety of socio-

economic changes including more people visiting the Retail and Office Centre and the

creation of employment opportunities hence increasing people‘s incomes. This section

discusses these impacts.

74

Project Impact on Jobs in the community.

9.3.1.2 The project will generate a number of new employment opportunities for both

professional and non-professional cadres.

9.3.1.3 Currently there is a deficit in job opportunities in the city and thus this project will

result in few jobs mostly during construction and running of the project. The creation of

job opportunities by this project is a beneficial impact to the city overall and is

considered less than significant.

9.3.1.4. Other people will also find employment in the informal sector through

self-employment as some youths may, with the permission of the Centre Management,

sell some items in the vicinity of the complex.

9.3.1.5 Construction workers will likely be drawn from the construction employment

labour force already resident in Gaborone and surrounding community. It is not likely

that construction workers would relocate their place of residence as a consequence of

working on the proposed project. Therefore, impacts on population resulting from the

construction of the proposed project would be less than significant.

9.3.1.6 It is anticipated that when the complex is up and running a total of between 300 to

350 people will be employed at this complex.

Economy and spending

9.3.1.7 The construction of the retail and office comlex will result in economic gains.

This is a multi million project, the actual sum which is Pula 15 million, that brings money

into the economy of the city and the country as a whole. Money spent during

construction as well as during the operation of the complex will enter the circulation

system and thus benefit the nation. It should be welcome.

9.3.1.8 Tax generation to the government will also increase. Government collects direct

and indirect taxation from commercial establishments. These are in the form of licence

fees (direct) and those levied on goods such as foodstuffs and drinks (indirect).

Schools

9.3.1.9 The increase in the number of permanent and temporary workers on the project

site and the potential need to enroll any school-aged children into local schools would

result in a very small demand for school services. It is probable that some of the future

employees at the hotel already reside within the service boundaries of the GCC with their

school-aged children enrolled in local schools serving the project area. Therefore, this

would have little impact on the GCC upon completion of the project.

Recreation

9.3.1.10 Development of the complex will provide an avenue for recreation and

this will draw some people to the site on a regular basis. However, since their numbers

will be small, the impact is also small.

75

Cultural impacts.

9.3.1.11 Commercial establishments symbolize ‗modernity‘ as centers of shopping,

entertainment and attractive to both the young and the old. The local people are bound to

mingle with visitors of all races and this way affect local culture. Local people may be

encouraged to enter into some kind of patronage and such relationships may range from

begging, posing for photos or engage in casual or organized sex.

Potentially significant impacts

9.3.1.12 No potentially significant impacts to population, recreation or employment will

result from project implementation.

9.3.1.13 Apart from this, the general scheme will increase spending in the city as more

and more people visit the complex.

Conclusion: Cumulative impacts.

9.3.1.14 Although the proposed project would result in a small population growth in the

city, the impact is very minimal. The most that is being anticipated is greater employment

and a boost in the economy.

9.3.1.15 In sum, the proposed project will not alter the location, distribution, density, or

growth rate of the city‘s population, but will benefit the local and national economy.

Summary of Impacts

Impact/Issue EXPECTATION

This section deals with the expectations of interested and

affected parties of the proposed development.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

EXTENT Gaborone and surroundings Gaborone and

surroundings

Gaborone and surroundings

DURATION Short term Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Low Low Low

PROBABILITY Probable Definite Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT MITIGATION

Low Positive Low positive Moderate positive

SIGNIFICANCE

WITH MITIGATION

Moderate positive High positive High positive

DISCUSSION -Residents of

Gaborone and surroundings

may

have positive

expectations of employment

-Existing shop

owners close to

this area

expect

to do better in

terms of business.

-Residents of Gaborone

have expectation of employment

at the site site during construction

and

more so thereafter.

-Contractors and consultants in

Botswana will

have expectations of of

employment during the

construction phase.

-Informal traders

-Positive expectations

relate to the fact that

people will be employed and money

will flow into the economy for a long

time.

-There will also be

economic gains

-Culture will be impacted.

76

expect to do business on and

around the site.

MITIGATION -The plan must be be sensitive

to the

above issues.

-Shop owners close

to the site should be

consulted to

maximize the

benefit of this development

-Provide adequate

social and

economic services and

facilities on the site

-Training of

Batswana artisans

to be encouraged.

-The purchase of

materials from

within Botswana

should be considered,

where available

-An area should be identified in

the construction

activity site area to cater for

informal traders.

Informal traders

should be discouraged

from establishing

stalls in

unsuitable locations(road reserve)

-All contractors and sub-

contractors on site

should implement the current

terms and

conditions of

employment as stated

in the Labour Code.

-Observe the Development Control

Code and Labour

Code.

9.3.2 CONCERNS OF INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES (1&APs)

Consultations were carried out with all stakeholders and the views emanating from these

consultations have to be taken on board in the planning of this area.

Impact/Issue CONCERNS OF I&APs

This section deals with the concerns of Interested and Affected

Parties as a result of the proposed development.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATON EXTENT Gaborone and

surrounding areas

Site and local Gaborone and

Surroundings

DURATION Long term Short term Long term

INTENSITY Low to high Low to high Low to high

PROBABILITY Possible Probable Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Low to moderate

negative

Moderate Negative Low to moderate

negative

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

Low to moderate

positive

Low negative Moderate positive

DISCUSSION I & APs will wish to

raise their concerns and

issues during the

I and APs to raise issues

with the developer

should be established. A

I&APs will have

concerns and wish to

voice their concerns

77

planning stages of the

development

telephone contact

number could be

established, along with a

site public relations

officer

over issues raised during

the planning phase

MITIGATION The developmental

planning process should

be done with a proactive approach to identify I &

APs, and a spirit of

consultation and

participation

An effective and

efficient system for

I&APs to raise issues with the developer

should be established.

An effective and

efficient system for

I&APs to raise issues with the developer

should be established.

This could be done

through a public

relations officer.

9.3.3 PERSONNEL AND SUPPLIES.

Impact/Issue PERSONNEL AND SUPPLIES

This section deals with impacts on personnel and supplies as a

result of the proposed development.

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATON EXTENT National National National

DURATION Short term Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Low Moderate to high Moderate

PROBABILITY Probable Definite Definite

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT

MITIGATION

Moderate Positive Moderate positive Low to moderate

positive

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

Moderate positive Moderate Positive Moderate positive

DISCUSSION The development will raise economic spin-offs

in the region – shops ,

restaurants, hotels etc.

will have more

businesses

Direct and indirect job creation will be created

by the development

Maintenance and long term management of the

development will create

direct and indirect

employment

MITIGATION Local suppliers and

contractors to be used

where possible to

encourage development

of the economy

-Labour intensive

methods to be used

where possible.

-Training of local

artisans to be

encouraged

-Use of local contractors to be encouraged

-Purchase of local

material and supplies to

be encouraged

_Labour intensive

methods to be used for

management of upkeep

of development, e.g.

building maintenance

and landscaping

-All possible job opportunities for all

sector of the job market

to be encouraged.

78

9.3.4 INJURY TO CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

Impact/Issue INJURY TO CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

This section deals with the impact of injury to

construction workers as a result of the proposed

development

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATON EXTENT N/A Local N/A

DURATION Medium to long term

INTENSITY High

PROBABILITY Low

SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT

MITIGATION

High negative

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

Low negative

DISCUSSION -All construction sites

are potentially

dangerous working environments.

MITIGATION -All contractors

working on site

should enforce strict health and safety

regulations

-Compliance will all National legislation

on health and safety

regulations on site

9.3.5 SECURITY AND FIRE SERVICES

The development of this area will impact on security and fire services at the Centre.

Police protection.

9.3.5.1 Development of the proposed project would potentially result in a significant

impact to police protection services provided by the Gaborone West police station. The

various construction phases of the proposed project could also result in increased

response times the police responding to other calls in the Gaborone area. Upon

completion of the proposed project, the number of hotel guests and site visitors within the

project site would generate some little increase in the level of police service calls from

the project site. However, project compliance with the mitigation measures listed below

would reduce the impact upon police services to a less than significant level.

- Design entryways, the lobby, and parking areas with lighting that eliminates areas

of concealment;

- Landscaping should be designed so as not to conceal potential criminal activities

near windows or doors;

- Outdoor night lighting should be provided to aid crime prevention and

enforcement efforts;

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- Provide solid core doors with deadbolt locks to all units;

- The use of louvered windows should be prohibited

- Upon completion of the project, it is recommended that site plans for the property

be provided to the Gaborone West area commanding officer to help facilitate any

police response.

Fire protection

9.3.5.2 The demolition, grading and construction phases of the proposed project would

add construction employee vehicles and heavy trucks on the project area roadways. Such

activities could increase response times for emergency calls to this area. These are

considered to be potentially significant impacts that can be mitigated to less than

significant levels via the implementation of the traffic mitigation measures.

9.3.5.3 Implementation of the proposed project would increase the need for fire

protection and emergency medical services in the project area due to the increased

number of resident guests and visitors to the project site. The project site is located 2 km.

from the nearest fire station. Because this response distance is within City Fire Code

requirements, there are no impacts with respect to distance criteria. However, the

proposed project would incorporate a number of fire safety features in accordance with

applicable city fire-safety code and ordinance requirements for construction, access, fire

flows and fire hydrants.

9.3.5.4 The proposed project shall comply with all applicable GCC fire and government

codes and ordinances.

Impact/Issue SECURITY

This section deals with the impact of security on the site as a result of

the proposed development

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT Local Site Site

DURATION Long term Medium term Long term

INTENSITY Low Moderate Moderate

PROBABILITY Probable Possible Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT MITIGATION

Medium Moderate Negative Moderate negative

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

Low Low negative Low negative

DISCUSSION With proper design of the

hotel, open spaces and road

network it is possible to

reduce crime in the area

The presence of large

numbers of workers on

site could pose a potential

threat to security(and

thus) on site

With local and

international guests

expected at the hotel,

security is bound to be

an issue which needs attention.

MITIGATION - Design entryways, the

lobby, and parking areas

with lighting that eliminates

areas of concealment;

-Landscaping should be

Security personnel should

monitor areas of the site

identified as a potentially

dangerous security risk.

-Security personnel

from a reputable firm

should be employed to

at the hotel.

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designed so as not to

conceal potential criminal

activities near windows or

doors;

-Outdoor night lighting

should be provided to aid

crime prevention and enforcement efforts;

-Provide solid core doors

with deadbolt locks to all

units;

-The use of louvered

windows should be

prohibited

9.3.6 Archaeology

This section of the report presents the results of an assessment of potential

impacts on cultural heritage resources within the Study Area as a result of

construction and operational activities. Mitigation measures required to

ameliorate the potential impacts to acceptable levels have been recommended,

where appropriate.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

9.3.6.1 The following legislation is applicable to the assessment of

archaeological and historic resources in Botswana:

Monuments and Relics Act (Cap 59:03)

9.3.6.2 The act defines monument to include: any ancient or historic buildings,

ruins, ancient workings, stone circle, graves, cave rock shelters, archaeological

sites, middens, shell mounds, areas with distinctive scenery or geological

formations or rare and distinctive flora, and water falls. Relics include: fossils,

meteorites, stone tools, artifacts, drawings or carvings on stone, petrology and

ornaments of aesthetic value, archaeological, anthropological, scientific or

historic value. They also include protected heritage areas, historic buildings and

treasure troves.

9.3.6.3 Section 18(1) prohibits the alteration, destruction, damaging, removal

from its original site, and exportation of any national monument, relic, artifact

and fossil, unless it is moved to the national museum and art gallery.

National Monuments and Act Gallery (Cap 59:01)

9.3.6.4 The act stipulates that the Minister and board are to provide a

comprehensive and efficient museum and art gallery services to all people.

Town and Country Planning Act (Cap 32:09)

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9.3.6.5 Section 27(1) empowers the Minister to make provisions for the

preservation of any buildings of special architectural or special architectural or

historic interest etc; it also has recommendations for preservation of buildings

of historical or national heritage.

Summary: ARCHAEOLOGY

Impact/Issue ARCHAEOLOGY

This section deals with impacts associated with archaeological

remains on the site

PHASE PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION EXTENT N/A Site N/A

DURATION Medium term

INTENSITY Moderate

PROBABILITY Possible

SIGNIFICANCE

WITHOUT MITIGATION

Moderate Negative

SIGNIFICANCE WITH

MITIGATION

High Positive

DISCUSSION It is possible that there are

archaeological remains at

the site

Surface archaeological

remains may be found

during construction.

If any archaeological

remains are found

during earthworks then

it may be possible to

provide an

interpretation of these in the development

MITIGATION An archaeological survey

should be completed during

planning work.

-The developer must

appoint a qualified

archaeologist to be

available on site during

the digging of

foundations and other

earthworks to identify any

remains that may be

exposed.

-An archaeological

awareness programme

should be implemented for all construction

workers and machine

operators to assist in

identifying remains if

they are present during

earthworks.

-If remains are found then

a suitable qualified

archaeologist should take

a representative sample.

If archaeological

remains are found

during earthworks the

probability that they be

interpreted to the public

through appropriate

signage and display

material should be

investigated.

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10. CONCLUSIONS

This section below gives a summary of the overall impact of the project on the physical

and human environment.

10.1. Positive Impacts

With regard to the human environment, the building of shops and offices in this site will

have an overall positive impact on the city and the nation at large.

The project will inject money in the economy of the city and that of the country.

The project will benefit the Commercial sector of the economy

The project will result in the creation of employment in the short term as well as

in the long term.

It will also bolster the business economy of the adjacent shopping complex, as it

will attract customers.

10.1.1. A number of mitigation measures and recommendations have been made to

enhance the positive effects of the project. They should be incorporated in the design or

operational phases of the project as appropriate.

10.2 Negative Impacts.

10.2.1 No project can be undertaken without some negative impact on the environment.

However, in this case, since the project is in an already built-up and disturbed area, the

effect on the physical environment will be low if the recommendations and mitigation

measures suggested are incorporated.

Anticipated Physical Environmental Effects.

10.2.2 The following identifies the anticipated environmental effects that will occur from

development of the project on the existing physical environment.

Project implementation will require commitment of a car park and a vacant site to

commercial use, and will contribute to the cumulative loss of parking space for

the shopping mall.

Non-renewable resources such as oil and other non-renewable energy sources,

will be used in the construction and subsequent use of the site

Implementation of the project will result in increased vehicular traffic on the

roads in and out of the site.

There will be an incremental increase in air pollution as a result of vehicular

emissions and hotel operations.

The project will result in greater use of water and generate more wastewater.

Increased traffic, mechanical and human activity will also result in increased

noise and air pollution in the area;

Adjacent natural biological habitat and sensitive species will be impacted; and

Project implementation will result in irreversible commitment of building

materials.

Once the project is implemented, the land will not be returned to its current

condition. Therefore, the project represents an irreversible change to the land uses

on the site.

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Anticipated Human Environmental Negative Effects. 10.2.3 The majority of impacts is related to human environment, and is present in the

construction stage of the project.

10.2.4 Mitigation measures suggested during this stage are particularly important to

reduce the impacts, especially in relation to land and public safety. To this end, an

Environmental Code of Conduct for the contractor (or contractors) undertaking the work

has been drawn up and is included in Appendix A. It should be included in the contract

documents so that there is an obligation on the contractor to respect the environment he is

working in. Where proposals from the contract are required by the Code of Conduct, they

can be requested at tender stage so that the tenderers attitudes to environmental issues can

be assessed as part of the tender adjudication process.

10.2.5 There are some negative impacts during the operational stage, but the mitigation

measures recommended will reduce their effect to acceptable levels.

10.3 Auditing.

If the recommendations and mitigation measures outlined in this plan are to be effectively

implemented, regular monitoring of the management plan should be undertaken in all

project stages, including the operational stage. This will help to ensure that environmental

impacts of the project are minimized and the opportunities for improvement of the

environment are maximized.

10.4 Conclusion.

In conclusion, there have been no environmental impacts identified that are severe

enough to halt the project. What negative impacts there are during construction and

operation phase should be militated against in the design and construction method as

recommended in this report.

10.4.1 Existing environmental problems identified can be substantially reversed and the

positive impacts enhanced by incorporation of the recommendation of this report.

10.4.2 Mitigation measures and recommendations are outlined in the Environmental

Management Plan, which is included in this report. It is recommended that the

implementation of this plan is reviewed periodically throughout the design,

implementation and operation stages of the project.

10.4.3 Detailed recommendations are made for mitigations measures in the tables

(Impact Analysis). The following key recommendations highlighted are not presented in

any order of priority.

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11. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN.

11.0.1 Based on the impact analysis exercise an Environmental Management Plan has

been formulated to implement mitigation measures identified and enhance the positive

impacts of the project. The plan is outlined below.

11.0.2 Environmental impact management is principally an integrated effort of

utilization, planning, maintenance, supervision, control, recovery and development of the

environment. The success of the plan very much depends on monitoring of the

implementation of the mitigation measures contained within nit throughout the various

project stages.

11.0.3 The plan lists, in brief, the management objectives, and the mitigation measures

and recommendations that have been identified in the previous sections of the report.

11.0.4 The Plan is divided into two distinct phases:

Phase 1: Planning and Construction Phase

Phase 2: Operations Phase -Hotel Environmental Management.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

11.0.5 It is recommended that the Centre Management develop an environmental policy.

This can facilitate defining objectives and targets and may institutionalize environmental

activities in the complex to a certain extent; this is crucial when seeking cooperation and

support from all the staff members.

SAMPLE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY FOR THE RETAIL AND OFFICE &

CIVIC AND COMMUNITY COMPLEX.

The Complex will minimize the environmental impact of our activities and products on

the public, employees, customers and property and will comply with all relevant

legislation.

It is the policy of the Molapo Extension Complex to: -

Minimize costs by reducing all forms of waste and by preventing pollution.

Apply effective procedures and management systems in all of our activities.

Assess the environmental risks of new and existing projects, processes, and

products so that we can take effective control measures and all parties can be

made of the situation.

Periodically audit our environmental performance and provide timely reports to

the Board of Directors.

Communicate our environmental policies and progress to all our employees,

customers, suppliers and other interested parties.

Date……………………………………………………..Signed by CEO

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11.1. SITE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION PHASE.

1. INTRODUCTION

11.1.1 The general aim of the EMP is to specify a range of appropriate actions for the

mitigation of impacts during the site planning and construction phase of the development

and outline the implementation of these measures. It is recommended in the

accompanying EIA that a detailed and comprehensive Environmental Management Plan

for the operation phase of the development be created when the project is finalized. This

can be undertaken concurrently with construction activity.

11.1.2 The significance of an impact is a combination of a number of criteria that are

analyzed with the use of a simple matrix. The system is based upon the scaling of impacts

based on the importance of the environmental elements affected and the nature of the

impacts. The significance is determined by the assessment of the combined effect of the

nature and the scale of the effect, the spatial influence and the duration over which the

effect will be experienced.

11.1.3 Mitigation therefore can be applied during a number of stages of the project

including the site planning process and the construction process.

2. IMPACT TO BE MITIGATED

11.1.4 The term ―Mitigation‖ can be broad in definition. In this context it means to

―allay, moderate, palliate or intensify‖. Mitigation of a negative impact means that its

significance is reduced. Mitigation (optimization) of a positive impact means that its

significance is increased or optimized.

11.1.5 The following section discussed each impact identified in the EIA under the

respective titles: Biophysical, Socio-Economic and Aesthetic environments and makes

recommendations for its mitigation if it is negative and optimization in the case of a

positive impact.

2.1 Key Environmental impacts to be mitigated.

11.1.6 The public consultation process, interviews with key interested and affected

parties, the ecological study and the archaeological study of the associated EIA process

identified the following key environmental impacts likely to occur during the site

planning and construction activities of the housing scheme.

Change in current Land use - Project implementation will require

commitment of the car park and a vacant site to commercial development

and will contribute to the cumulative loss of parking and open space uses

in the vicinity of the shopping mall. Once the project is implemented, the

land will not be returned to its current condition. Therefore, the project

represents an irreversible change to the land uses on the site.

Non-renewable resources such as oil and other non-renewable energy

sources, will be used in the construction and subsequent use of the site

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Road safety - Implementation of the project will result in increased

vehicular traffic which is likely to have a significant impact on the existing

road network and road junctions. This is likely to have impacts on road

safety for all road users including pedestrians.

There will be an incremental increase in air pollution as a result of

vehicular emissions

Increased traffic, mechanical and human activity will also result in

increased noise in the area;

Project implementation will result in irreversible commitment of building

materials.

Storm water run off and water pollution.

Within the site the key issue of the proposed development related to

climate are nature of rainfall (and the subsequent storm water runoff) has

to be considered with regard to rainwater collection and transfer of

pollutants into the drainage system.

Soil erosion

Within the site area the key issue of the proposed development relating to

the soil structure and characteristics are that disturbance (during

construction) to soils can alter their drainage, erosion and quality

characteristics and this can result in negative effects.

Natural biological habitat and sensitive species will be impacted and hence

there will be a need to retain vegetation.

Economic development

The proposed development will impact on the economic base of both the

area and the surrounding businesses in this area. Positive impacts will

include the possible job creation associated with the development along

with the indirect and secondary benefits for supply companies and shops.

Most of the store owners on the shopping mall are eagerly awaiting the

development of this project.

Social impacts

The proposed development will have both positive and negative social

impacts which will need to be attended to.

Development aesthetics

The proposed development project has the potential to impact on the

aesthetic values of this green zone in the city. Some trees and vegetation

will be replaced by buildings and views will be lost.

Archaeology

So far the archaeological study did not unearth anything of archaeological

value. However, it is suggested that an archaeologist be appointed to

inspect the foundation trenches of the proposed development when they

are being dug. If a suitable occupation horizon or tool concentration is

located then a small excavation of approximately 4 square metres be

sampled and consideration be given for obtaining a thermo-luminescence

for dating.

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3. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS.

11.1.7 It is recommended that the developer appoint an environmentalist

representative/consultant to oversee the implementation of the EMP and to produce

environmental compliance reports.

11.1.8 This position will be responsible for liaising with all interested and affected

parties, including the Consulting Engineer, Main Contractor and sub contractors to ensure

mitigation solutions are implemented to environmental problems as identified.

11.1.9 This position could also take responsibility of public liaison duties as regards

environmental issues, including key stakeholder liaison and public liaison.

4. IMPLEMENTATION

Implementation of the EMP shall be the responsibility of the site developer

(Sphinx Associates).

5. MITIGATION MEASURES.

5.1 Physical environment

5.1.1 Soils and Geology

Management Plan:

Objective Prevention and containment of negative

impacts on soils and geology

Potential Negative Impacts Soil erosion due to water and wind,

contamination of soil, compaction of soil

etc.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short term

11.1.10 Mitigation Measures.

1. Advance Planning

Planning of working areas, haulage roads, etc. to avoid the clearance of unrequired

areas and to be done in accordance with environmental consultant‘s

recommendations. Use existing tracks as much as possible to avoid disturbance to

new areas.

2. Site preparation

The areas to receive compacted fill shall be prepared by removing all vegetation,

debris, existing fill, and soil. The exposed excavated area shall be observed by a soils

engineer or geologist prior to placing compacted fill.

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3. Stripping of top soil and sub-soil

Care should be taken not to mix topsoil and subsoil during any stripping of the car

park. No soil stripping shall take place in areas required for retained vegetation or

areas not required for construction activity.

Selective soil stripping should be done in accordance with the environmental

consultant. Top soil should be separated from subsoil and stockpiled (if needed for

earthworks, landscaping etc) or removed of site. Top soil stockpiles should not

exceed two metes in height.

Subsoil stockpiles should not exceed three metres in height. Stockpiles should not be

utilized within three months or prior to the onset of seasonal rains and shall be

stabilized with seeding or brush packing to avoid erosion. Stockpiles shall be kept

free of any contaminants whatsoever, including paints, oils, building rubble, cement,

chemicals etc.

4. Disturbed Soils - All disturbed soils should be removed and replaced with suitably

compacted/engineered fill capable of supporting the envisaged foundation loads.

Any areas containing fill material should be clearly identified and rehabilitated as part

of the earthworks programme, prior to construction of foundation work

5. Testing of top soil

Existing topsoil on site shall be tested after stockpiling to determine its structure, pH

value and major nutrient levels. All imported top soil (if necessary) will be tested for

contamination (one test per source)

Should it be suspected that soils have become contaminated due to site construction

activities additional top soils tests will be conducted as necessary. Should testing

confirm, or should it be suspected that stockpiled, spread or in situ soil has become

polluted due to any site operation, the contractor shall remove the polluted soil to the

full depth of pollution from the site and shall replace it at his own expense with an

approved topsoil which shall at least be equal to approved topsoil specifications.

Removed contaminated soil shall be transported to an approved landfill site.

6. Removal of Trees – Where necessary trees may have to be removed from the

adjacent site to facilitate development, including large roots. Care should be taken

to ensure that the underlying soils in such areas, disturbed during removal of the

roots, are not left untreated to the extent that this negatively impacts on

foundations.

7. Storage of materials

Storage of potential pollutants should be done on a sealed surface to prevent spillages

leaching into the ground. Fuel should be stored in a tank on sealed plinth with a

retaining wall capable of containing any spillage.

8. Mortar mixing

Mixing of mortar for construction purposes should not be done directly on the soil

without the use of mixing trays or plastic liners.

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5.1.2 Deterioration of Air Quality

Management Plan:

Objective Prevention or reduction of negative impact

on air quality

Potential Negative Impact Unpleasant odours, dust, smoke from fires,

diesel emissions from construction plant,

wind blown litter etc.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short term

11.1.11 Mitigation

1. Regular damping down

Damping down of exposed areas such as access roads, etc. at all times during dry

weather. Dust emissions not to exceed 200ug m-3 at any adjacent residential

(Phase 2) or commercial areas.

2. Removal of litter

Litter should be stored in suitable containers and removed from site regularly by

project staff.

3. Regulation of fires

Only designated areas should be used. Adequate fire combat equipment to be

available on site with personnel trained in effective use.

4. Vehicles

All vehicles used on the construction site should be well maintained and in good

running order.

5. Temporary toilet facilities.

All temporary toilet facilities on site will be maintained to a high standard to

reduce the impact of undesirable odours.

6. Retention f vegetation

All areas of retained vegetation will assist to mitigate the impacts of dust, wind

and blown litter etc.

7. All unpaved demolition and construction areas shall be wetted at least twice daily

during excavation and construction, and temporary dust covers shall be used to

reduce dust emissions. Wetting could reduce fugitive dust by as much as 50%

8. All materials transported off site shall be securely covered to prevent excessive

amounts of dust

9. All clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation activities shall be discontinued

during periods of high winds so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust

10. General contractor shall maintain and operate construction equipment so as to

minimize exhaust emissions

11. Cover any on-site stockpiles of debris, dirt or other dusty material.

12. Actively stabilize any cleared area that is planned to remain inactive for more

than 30 days after clearing is completed.

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13. Establish an on-site construction equipment staging and construction worker

parking lot, located on either paved surfaces or unpaved surfaces subjected to soil

stabilization treatment, as close as possible to a public highway.

14. Sweep access points daily.

5.1.3 Contamination of Water Resources

Management Plan:

Objective Reduction of , or elimination of the risk of

polluting nearby water resources

Potential Negative Impact The site is within the catchments area of

the Segoditshane river.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.12 Mitigation:

1. Advance Planning of Site Activities

Drainage requirements of the site during construction must be planned

accordingly. Adequate maintenance of site drainage once operational is

mandatory.

2. Storage of potential pollutants

All potential pollutants to be stored away from site drainage lines. Storage

containers to be in sealed surfaces with retaining walls capable of holding any

potential spillage. Storage containers to be kept locked at all times to reduce the

risk of accidental/purposeful release of potential pollutants. This will apply

particularly to liquids (fuels etc)

3. Removal of waste- All waste should be removed off site quickly to reduce the risk

of potential pollutants from entering the nearby water resource system through

wind or water movements. Use appropriately labeled recycling bins to recycle

construction materials including: solvents, water-based paints, vehicle fluids,

broken asphalt and concrete; wood and vegetation. Non-recyclable

materials/wastes must be taken to an appropriate landfill. Toxic wastes must be

discarded at a licensed regulated disposal site

4. Grease traps.

All storm water drainage required during construction (if any) to be fitted with

grease traps to reduce the potential of oils nearby water resources.

5. Temporary toilet facilities.

All temporary toilet facilities should be ‗closed systems‘ with no connection to a

temporary French drain or similar. Sewage waste should be removed off site and

disposed of in a registered treatment plant. Sewage will be collected regularly to

reduce the risk of overflow. The temporary toilets should not be sited near any

drainage lines to reduce risk of flooding.

6. Clean up leaks, drips and spills immediately to prevent contamination to soil on

paved surfaces that can be washed away into storm water drains.

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7. Do not hose down pavement material spills. Use dry cleanup methods whenever

possible.

8. Cover and maintain dumpsters. Place uncovered dumpsters under a roof or cover

with tarps or plastic sheeting.

9. Use gravel approaches where truck traffic is frequent to reduce soil compaction

and limit the tracking of sediment into streets.

10. Conduct all vehicle /equipment maintenance, repair, and washing way from storm

water drains. All major repairs are to be conducted off-site. Use dip pans or drop

cloths to catch drips and spills.

11.1.13 General mitigation near building structures like the shopping Mall.

11. The site should be drained so as to ensure that water cannot pond adjacent or near

the structure. The surface of the ground immediately adjacent to the building

should fall 75mm over the first 1.5m. Any paving should be similarly sloped.

12. Limitations on Gardens – Flower beds, trees and shrubs should not be planted

within 1.5m of buildings and either a lawn or impermeable apron should be

provided around the building so as to provide a surface which will facilitate free

run-off of water.

13. Restrictions on the planting of trees – These should observe the same point raised

above in 11.

5.1.4 Construction Traffic

Management plan:

Objective Ensure minimal disruption to traffic during

construction

Potential Negative Impact Disruption of traffic on the junctions of

both Molepolole and Western By Pass road

junctions.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.14 Mitigation Measures.

1. Advance Planning of likely traffic requirements

This refers to the needs for deviations, site access, transport routes etc.

2. Avoidance of peak hour traffic

Construction traffic using public roads (deliveries etc) to be scheduled to avoid

peak hour traffic and routed along major roads.

3. No construction equipment shall be started in or in operation on-site outside the

allowable construction hours of 7.00am to 5.00pm.

4. Trucks and construction equipment shall not be staged in adjacent residential

areas during the overall period of construction.

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5. Construction workers shall not be allowed to park on Molepolole or Western By-

Pass roads.

6. Warning Signs/Publicity Information.

Clear and appropriate signage to be in place on any identified potential danger

areas, such as heavy vehicle turning points, deviations etc.

7. Low speed driving culture

A culture of low sped, defensive driving to be instilled in all machinery operators

both on and off site.

8. Pedestrians.

Pedestrians should be discouraged from crossing the site on foot. Adequate

provision of alternative routes and safety signage should be provided at all

pedestrian routes.

5.1.5 Noise Pollution

11.1.15 Construction can be a noisy activity, and it is essential that mitigation

measures be undertaken to reduce the potential for disturbance of neighboring land users.

Management plan:

Objective Keep noise levels at a minimum

Potential Negative Impact Adverse impacts on neighboring land users

through uncontrolled disturbance. Potential

for long work hours to correspond with

long periods of noise disturbance.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.16 Mitigation Measures:

1. Adhere to Normal Working Hours

If possible all noisy construction activity should be conducted during normal

working hours e.g. 7.00 am – 5.00pm. From Monday to Saturday. If this is not

possible, neighboring land users should be informed in advance. Every effort is to

be made to schedule excessively noisy activities to within the hours of daylight.

2. Machinery and Equipment

All noisy reduction methods on machinery and equipment to be kept in good

working order. Every endeavor must be made to minimize exhaust noise from

plant and machinery by fitting suitable silencers to exhaust systems.

3. Noise complaints

A communication channel with the pubic and neighouring land users to be

established to effectively deal with any noise complaints.

4. Retention of Vegetation

Vegetation should be retained at the site periphery to assist in damping any noise

levels.

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5.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

5.2.1 Disturbance of Flora.

11.1.16 Although the ecological report indicated no major impacts foreseen on

adjacent flora that cannot be mitigated, it is still important to ensure that mitigation

measures are in place to ensure the least disturbance to flora possible.

11.1.17 The accompanying EIA identified negative ecological impacts. These impacts

can be mitigated and reduced.

Management Plan:

Objective Ensuring minimal disturbance to areas of

adjacent flora not required for construction

activity.

Potential Negative Impact Disturbance to faunal habitat. Reduction of

aesthetic appeal. Alteration of micro

climate.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.18 Mitigation:

1. Advanced Planning of Retained Vegetation

Working areas if outside the paved area must be planned in advance to ensure

minimal disturbance of areas not required for construction activities. Site

clearance to be restricted to working areas.

2. Machinery operators

All machinery operators are to be clearly informed of areas to be retained and a

culture of minimal damage to be instilled.

3. Contractual clauses

Issues of negligent damage to retained vegetation to be addressed in contractual

clauses and a financial penalty to be attached.

4. Fencing

Fence off adjacent area to avoid damaging vegetation.

5. Control of fires.

Fires on site should be restricted to designated areas only. Adequate fire combat

equipment to be avoided on site and personnel trained in its effective use.

6. Site boundary

7 Site boundary to be clearly marked

5.2.2 Potential Fire Threat

It will be important to guard against random making of fires on site.

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Management Plan:

Objective Prevention of disturbance to vegetation on

site and surrounding areas.

Potential Negative Impact Fires may be potentially destructive to the

vegetation in this area.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.14 Mitigation

1. Advance Planning and Site Activities

Advanced planning of site activities to identify areas where fires (if necessary)

can be lit safely for cooking and other purposes.

2. Prohibition of Random Fires on Site

Cooking fires only to take place on designated areas. No fires/smoking/welding to

be permitted near areas of potential danger such as fuel storage tanks.

3. Fire fighting equipment

Adequate fire fighting equipment to be available on site and personnel to be

trained in its effective use.

4. Safety signage

Suitable signs are to be placed in areas of free risk, such as no smoking, no open

flames etc.

5.3 Socio-Economic Environment

5.3.1 Expectations.

There are expectations for jobs, for example, for general workers, construction

workers, artisans, servicing machinery and equipment, supply procurement etc.

Management Plan:

Objective Ensure that expectations for employment

opportunities, supplies procurement and

other associated benefits are met

Potential Negative Impact Failure to meet these expectations and the

ensuing negative response to the

development as a result

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase- Short

term

11.1.15 Mitigation:

1. Employment and Training

The use of contractors and suppliers with a proven track record of citizen training

should be encouraged.

2. Supplies Procurement

Where available all supplies should be procured within Botswana

3. Adherence to Legislation

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All consultants, contractors and individuals should adhere to all current legislation

relevant to the work place

4. Labour intensive Methods

Where possible labour intensive methods should be employed to maximize

potential employment

5. Advanced Advertisement of required Personnel

Advanced advertisement of required personnel will facilitate equitable job

opportunities for all.

5.3.2 Unsocial Activities

Although not envisaged to be a major factor, it is still a requirement that thus is

considered as part of mitigatory requirements.

Management Plan:

Objective Prevention of unsocial activities on site

Potential Negative Impact Manifestation/Spread of unsocial activities

on Site

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction _Short time

11.1.15 Mitigation:

1. Advance Planning of Site Activities

In this case this would include planning ablution requirements, working

conditions etc.

2. Education about AIDS and other STDs.

Workers will need to be educated about STDs, AIDS/HIV etc. Dissemination of

information is to be facilitated by the Community Liaison Officer through local

clinics. Condoms must be made freely available on site for all workers.

3.Increase human presence

The workforce for the construction project may contribute to unsocial activities in

the neighbouring residential areas such as loitering and a possible increase in

crime and disturbance.

4.Recruitment of Workforce.

Recruitment of work force personnel shall not take place at the site but shall

follow formal procedures, which should be implemented through the local

community, media etc.

5.Fencing of security areas.

Areas identified as having a security risk should be fenced off to control access to

and from secure areas

6. Secure storage areas

To avoid any hazards and unauthorized entry strict security shall be enforced in

storage areas, particularly where chemicals and fuels are stored.

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5.3.4 Injury to workers on the site

As construction is a dangerous operation measures will have to be put in place to

ensure safety of site workers.

Management Plan.

Objective Prevention of injury to workers and the

public

Potential Negative Impact Injury to workers and public due to unsafe

working conditions

Duration of Impact Site planning –Short Term

11.1.16 Mitigation:

1. Advance Planning of safety Requirements.

Advance planning of safety precautions. Appointment of Safety Officer

2. Adherence to current and safety regulations.

All health and safety measures as stipulated in current legislation to be followed

at all times. Safety measures to be in place at all times, these include the provision

of safety to employees on site and the safe maintenance of plant.

3. Respect of workers‘ right

Workers right to refuse to work in unsafe conditions to be respected/maintained at

all times.

4. First Aid Facility

This is to be established at a suitable point to attend to minor injuries. Links to be

made with local hospital for emergencies.

5. Reporting of Accidents

Workers must be notified of the requirement to report promptly any accidents to

the Project Manager/safety Officer

6. Proper use of all equipment and machinery

Strict adherence to manufacturer‘ instructions for handling machinery will

minimize injury.

5.3.5 Security of Site from a safety perspective

Potential danger of the construction area exists at all times. This is due to the presence

of heavy machinery and equipment, movement of heavy vehicles, potential danger of

falling materials, etc. It will therefore be important to ensure that safety measures are

in place at all times.

Management Plan:

Objective To ensure the maintenance of safety at all

times

Potential Negative Impact Potential danger to workers and

unauthorized entry of persons.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

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11.1.17 Mitigation:

1. Planning of site activities

Advanced planning of safety requirements

2. Security Measures

To apply at all times. Warning signs to be erected to indicate danger zones.

3. Fencing to be erected and maintained regularly

4. Speed limits – Speed limits to be adhered to within, and off, site areas and access

roads to avoid accidents.

5.4 Cultural Environment

5.4.1 Potential discovery of significant Archaeological Resources

Although no archaeological sites were identified on the surface, the topography

suggests that any sites present may be buried at a depth below the present soil surface

level. To maximize and enhance the impact to the archaeological resources (if any) of

the area the following mitigation is required:

Management Plan:

Objective Maximize potential impact on

archaeological resources(if any) through

discovery and examination

Potential Negative Impact Potential damage to archaeological

resources

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.18 Mitigation:

1. Site inspection

An archeologist should be appointed by the contractor to inspect the site during

foundation digging works. If any archaeological discoveries are made these

should be sampled to identify their significance and appropriate mitigation

measures followed.

2. Work Force awareness

All the members of the workforce involved in earthworks should be made aware

of the possibilities of finding archaeological artifacts. A system of reporting any

finds must be established prior to the earthworks commencing.

5.5 Visual Environment

5.5.1 Negative Visual Impact

The area is already home of the shopping Mall. However, the introduction of the

proposed development and construction activities will be significant on the aesthetics

of the area. Both shoppers and people who work here will be affected.

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Management Plan:

Objective To minimize potential negative impacts of

the development and construction site

Potential Negative Impact Negative visual impact

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short Term

11.1.19 Mitigation:

1. Advance Planning of Site layout

Advanced planning of site activities in the form of a Master Plan is key to

maintaining the visual qualities of the area.

2. The Plan should include several development standards that would facilitate

visual compatibility between individual land use components on the site, and

between the proposed on-site uses and adjacent off-site uses.

3. Landscaping – Establish a unifying identity and landscape theme for the Detailed

Local Plan for this site. Minimize the visual impact of proposed buildings and

parking areas. Create an outdoor environment of comfortable human scale.

Identify and highlight pedestrian circulation routes to provide safe and

comfortable walking areas

4. Integrate the various land uses throughout the site

5. Visually enhance street frontage along Western By-Pass road.

6.Architectural and Landscape Guidelines

11.9.20 The client shall develop and implement Architectural and Landscape Guidelines

for the complex. The Guidelines shall include clear criteria and requirements to guide the

design, layout, and landscaping of each component of the hotel plan. All future

development on the site shall comply with the Guidelines. Enforcement of compliance

with the Guidelines shall be the responsibility of the Planning Department.

Roofing and feature colour and material

11.9.21 The development plan shall include colours on structure roofing and other on-site

features that are compatible with the surrounding commercial uses to lessen potential

visual contrast between the proposed and existing adjacent structures.

Tract lighting

11.9.22 Prior to development of each development phase, proposed lighting shall be

indicated on site plans that demonstrates that spillover of lighting would not affect the

existing shopping Mall. The lighting plan shall incorporate lighting that direct light pools

downward to prevent glare on adjacent and surrounding areas. Lights shall have solid

sides and reflectors to further reduce lighting impacts by controlling light spillage. Light

fixtures that shield nearby residences from excessive brightness at night shall be included

in the lighting plan. Non-glare lighting shall be used.

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Compatibility with adjacent uses.

11.9.23 The design, scale, and character of the complex project building architecture

shall be generally compatible with the scale of existing commercial uses east of the site.

Street light limitations.

11.9.24 Street lights shall be pedestrian in scale and must enhance safety. They should

not provide widespread illumination.

Wall and fence articulation

11.9.25 Long expanses of walls (including sound walls) or fences should be interrupted

with offsets and provided with accents to prevent monotony. Landscape pockets should

be provided. Walls and fences should be designed in a style, materials and colour to

complement adjacent buildings.

Clear excess debris.

11.9.26 The future developers of the various components of the plan shall clear the site of

all excess construction debris when completed with individual development phases.

Screening of construction areas

11.9.27 To reduce visual impact, maintain as much vegetation as possible between the

road and the construction site to act as screening to neutralize views.

Management of Waste

11.9.28 All solid waste, litter, food and general wastes associated with construction

activities and personnel to be cleaned up regularly. A central collection point must be

established. A covered skip container should be introduced.

On-going rehabilitation

11.9.29 The construction areas (where construction has been completed) must be

rehabilitated on an ongoing basis to improve ―scarred‖ appearance of the sites.

5.5.2 Waste Management

There is potential for the construction activities and associated work force to produce

significant quantities of waste. This waste will have to be managed.

Management Plan.

Objective Reduce the negative impacts of waste on

site

Potential Negative Impact Attraction of vermin, visual impacts, health

etc.

Duration of Impact Site planning and construction phase –

Short term

11.9.30 Mitigation

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1. Advance planning

Advanced planning of site activities to include the siting of waste collection

points.

2. Collection containers

All waste collection containers used on site must be problem animal (rats,

baboons etc) proof to avoid negative impacts on the surrounding fauna.

3. Regular removal.

All waste collection containers should be removed regularly and the contents

disposed of in a registered land fill site.

4. Non-Littering culture

A culture of non-littering should be instilled in the entire work force.

5.6 MONITORING PROGRAMME

11.9.31 Prior to implementation of the Environmental Management Plan a briefing

session for all consultants, project managers and project team is recommended to

sensitize them to the requirements of the plan.

11.9.32 Implementation of the EMP:

The following recommendations are to be adhered to:-

1. The client will be responsible for the environmental Management Plan

2. The developer will appoint an environmental representative, who will be

responsible for ongoing management, compliance with the EMP mitigation

guidelines, and community liaison, which includes responding to complaints

voiced by members of the public and Interested and Affected Parties.

3. A suitable qualified Environmental Consultant will fulfill the role of an

Independent Environmental Management Representative for the client who will

be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the EMP guidelines as well

as auditing the activity.

4. The client‘s Environmental Representative will conduct regular monitoring of the

operation of each development to ensure compliance with the EMP guidelines.

The developer will report on the results of the monitoring to the Environmental

consultant, in the form of compliance monitoring reports. The frequency of these

reports shall be agreed with the relevant Government Departments, and follow

Statutory requirements.

5. The results of these audits will be included in EMP compliance reports to be

submitted to the DEA and the Local Authority.

5.6.2 Programme Timing

11.9.33 Environmental monitoring should be carried weekly during site

establishment and initial clearing work (up to 4 weeks). Thereafter the environmental

monitoring can be conducted at monthly intervals.

5.6.3 Purpose of Monitoring Programme

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11.9.34 The purpose of the environmental monitoring programme is to ensure

compliance to the guidelines as set out in the EMP.

5.6.4 Methodologies of the Monitoring Programme.

11.9.35 A qualified environmentalist should conduct a site visit to the construction

site and report on the effectiveness (using currently accepted best practices methods) of

the mitigation and rehabilitation techniques employed by the contractor. This report

should use the recommendations as set out in the EMP as a base line. The report should

contain recommendations for the contractor and should be made available to the client‘s

Environmental Representative and other interested parties.

5.7 ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT –LONG TERM

Audit Objectives.

11.9.36 It is important to define the audit objectives and scope in the initial phase of an

audit.

To management should set up objectives and targets for the audit team. This can help

encourage the audit team to conduct a very focused and efficient audit in line with

environmental policies and management priorities.

Typically, hotel management may set up objectives and targets such as a ―reduction in

water consumption by 20% in one year‖, or ―energy conservation of 25% within two

years‖.

Audit Objectives.

11.9.37 It is important to define the audit objectives and scope in the initial phase of an

audit.

To management should set up objectives and targets for the audit team. This can help

encourage the audit team to conduct a very focused and efficient audit in line with

environmental policies and management priorities.

Typically, the Centre management may set up objectives and targets such as a ―reduction

in water consumption by 20% in one year‖, or ―energy conservation of 25% within two

years‖.

12. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.

In view of the above findings and possible mitigation measures for the expected

environmental impacts we see no long-term irreversible impacts that can stop the

project from going ahead. This is a positive development which should be encouraged

to take off as soon as possible as this land has been lying idle for a number of years,

thereby costing the owners a big loss of revenue. The nation has also lost money which

could have been earned through taxes etc.

It is hereby stated that the proponents of this project are ready to implement the proposed

measures for the amelioration of any adverse impacts of the project.

102

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106

APPENDIX A.

ENVIRONMENTAL CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CONTRACTORS.

Introduction

General items

Site set-up and offices/Construction Camp.

Employment Policy

Health and Safety

Human relations

Work items.

ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES AND CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE

CONTRACTOR.

1. Introduction.

The points raised below are compiled from general environmental guidelines and

practice that should be followed for all projects, and specific points that have been

raised in the EIA. Many of the points may seem obvious or unnecessary.

Construction work should be conducted in an environmentally and socially

sensitive and responsible manner. These guidelines are intended to ensure that all

parties are aware of the potential impacts of their activities and carry out their

work in an appropriate way.

They are designed to be a written statement of intent for contractors to adhere to,

and to which recourse can be made in the event of a perceived undesirable impact.

They should therefore be included in the contract documents for all contractors

working on the project. Contractors should be required to familiarise all

employees with the contents and spirit of the guidelines.

It should be noted that many of the negative environmental impacts identified for

this project are associated with the construction stage. Therefore implementation

of the mitigation measures through these guidelines is essential to reduce

environmental impacts to the local community during the construction stage.

2. General Items.

All disposal of construction wastes to be conducted in a legal and environmentally

acceptable way.

Ensure that dust production from the work area and access roads is minimised by

watering.

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Where possible, schedule main dust producing activities in the rainy season when

the potential for dust production is reduced.

Cover stockpiled material, which could be blown by the wind.

Avoid or minimise operations likely to create dust during windy weather.

Minimise stripping of vegetation so that earth is less susceptible to erosion.

Ensure that all plant and equipment is regularly serviced to reduce emissions.

Plant and machinery should be properly maintained to reduce noise.

Construction works should only take place during reasonable working hours in

accordance with local bylaws or otherwise agreed.

Keep working area orderly.

Ensure that site compounds are kept orderly.

3. Site set-up and Site Offices/Construction Camp.

Permissions for camp areas to be agreed with the Gaborone City

Council authorities or other relevant bodies prior to set up.

Camp, offices and access roads to be sited to cause minimum impact

to surrounding residents, and preferably away from residential areas.

Road accesses to be suitable positioned to minimise impact to existing

road users.

On completion of the project the camp shall be suitable

decommissioned, and all construction debris, wastes, scrap etc.

Removed.

Contractor to submit a plan for solid waste management at camps and

offices (which should be approved by the Engineer/Local Authority.

Contractor to submit plan for handling and storage of fuels, oils,

lubricants and other hazardous materials used in construction (which

should be approved by the Engineer of the Local Authority.

Contractor to ensure that sanitation facilities at camps/offices are

satisfactory and prevent environmental pollution.

Contractor to supply plan on noise at the camp, from both the

workforce and equipment will be minimised.

Measures to prevent soil erosion at the camp to be implemented.

Plan for storm water runoff management from the camp, considering

this may contain fuels and oils.

Avoid spillage and leaks of fuels, oils and other hazardous materials

and clean up spillage without delay.

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Storage and disposal of surplus tars, bitumen and associated products

to be managed in an environmentally acceptable way.

Education support with regards HIV/AIDS and other social diseases to

be freely available at the construction camp.

The construction camp should be suitable positioned to minimise

conflicts with surrounding land uses, in liaison with the local

authority. All statutory procedures for the temporary allocation of land

should be complied with. The terms of the allocation, including

clearance of the site at the end of the contract should be adhered.

4. Employment Policy.

Contractor to ensure, where possible that local people are employed

for both skilled and unskilled labour grades.

Where possible, local construction companies and labour from

Gaborone should be employed so that financial benefit remains in the

locality, and the number of migrant workers is minimised.

Where possible use local companies to supply the construction project.

5. Health and safety.

Contractor to undertake to abide by the national occupational health

and safety guidelines.

Contractor to have company health and safety policy and to ensure that

employees know their rights in this regard.

Contractor to supply adequate health and safety clothing and

equipment.

To provide health and safety training to all grades of employees.

Contractor to provide method statements for each work item including

how health and safety will be managed for that particular activity.

Engineer to have power to halt work activity if it is progressing in an

unsafe manner or in contravention of the approved method statement.

There should be regular liaison meetings between the contractor and

representatives of the local community to discuss safety issues.

6. Human Relations

Contractor to respect people‘s land and property

Contractor not to enter people‘s land/plot without prior permission.

All conflicts/disagreements, any agreements, no matter how trivial, to

be logged and dated, with details of persons involved and subject

matter, in a book for this purpose at the site office.

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Contractor to have adequate personnel to manage human relations on

site (see section on nominated persons).

Contractor to set up regular liaison meetings with local representatives.

Plant operators, and particularly drivers of haul trucks should have due

respect for the residential area in which they are working. Haul routes

should be carefully designed to ensure minimum disruption. A

maximum speed limit of 40 km/hr should be applied to all construction

vehicles within residential areas.

The contractor should ensure that the minimum conflict between the

construction works and residents and should apply a method statement

on how vehicular and pedestrian access is going to be maintained for

each area and stage of works.

7. Work items.

7.1 Method statements

For each site operation and in particular for the more hazardous activity

the contractor should supply a method statement detailing how the activity

will be undertaken, and how health and safety and public safety has been

considered.

7.2 Clearing.

Remove as little vegetation as possible. This will avoid unnecessary

exposure of bare soil and will maintain vegetative screen.

Rehabilitate or landscape cleared areas where appropriate as soon as

possible to minimise soil erosion and improve visual impact.

Protect and monitor large tree specimens from damage or removal by the

Contractor. Impose financial penalties on the Contractor for non-

compliance.

Deposit stripped vegetation at suitable sites nearby for use as fuel wood by

residents.

7.3 Storm water management and soil erosion.

Areas of potential erosion due to construction works to be identified and

stabilization measures to be implemented where appropriate.

Discharges from any de-watering activities to be properly controlled to

prevent erosion.

Storm water management plan during the construction phase to be

provided by the Contractor. Any significant problems with regard to storm

water drainage during the construction phase should be identified by the

design process and identified to the Contractor on the drawings.

7.4. Trenching and pipe laying.

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Excavation of trenches, pipe laying and backfilling should be co-ordinated

and managed in such a way that open trenches do not become conduits for

storm water. It will reduce the potential for erosion and trench collapse.

Trenching, pipe laying and backfilling should take place in a sequential

manner so that long lengths of trench are not left open.

All open trenches and excavations should be cordoned off with high

visibility tape and if possible lit during the hours of darkness.

7.5 Noise and vibration.

A reputable specialist contractor should undertake any blasting

required with relevant experience in work of this type. A procedure for

blasting should be agreed between all relevant parties, including local

residents to maximise safety and minimise potential damage to

surrounding structures. Where possible, blasting should not be used in

sensitive areas. Explosives should be stored appropriately.

Noise and vibration related to road construction cannot be eliminated.

However, impact rollers should not be used due to the build-up nature

of the site.

Condition surveys of properties adjudged to have any risk of damage

from vibration should be undertaken prior to any work commencing

and be inspected again soon after completion of works. This will

enable genuine claims to be assessed and compensated, and defend the

contractor against spurious claims. If damage is caused it should be

repaired or fair compensation paid within a reasonable time frame.

7.6 Land issues.

The contractor should have a suitably qualified member of staff whose

sole duty is liaison with the community, who would be the contractor‘s

point of contact for any issue regarding human relations. The

community should also have a representative for each ward to deal

with relations with the contractor.

There should be regular meetings between the residents, contractor and

the local council so that land issues and disputes are speedily resolved.

All conflicts and disagreements, however, trivial, and any agreements

should be logged and dated.

Well in advance of the contractor starting on a section of work, he

should set out the extent of the works to satisfy himself that there are

no land related problems, and that all necessary access or working

space he requires is amiable and agreed. Affected residents should be

informed of the type of work that will be carried out and what duration

will be.

The contractor should respect people‘s property and land.

7.7 Burrow pits.

The siting of burrow pits should take account of local ecological

conditions, with respect to the pit and the access road to it.

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Permission to open the pits should be opened from the relevant

authorities, and they should not be opened until permission is granted.

All borrow pits and excavations now require a licence from the

Department of Mines.

A clear time table, which includes the orderly opening up of the pit

and the reinstatement of the area after use, needs to be drawn up prior

to use of a borrow pit.

Topsoil should be carefully removed first and stored separately from

the subsoil. After use the pit should be filled with the remaining

subsoil first, followed by the topsoil which should be evenly spread

across the entire pit area.

Sand should not be excavated from riverbeds within the local town

authority boundary.

7.8 Education and training.

All operatives should be provided adequate training with respect to the

job they are performing.

Local residents should respect people‘s property and land.

7.9 Archaeology.

The contractor should be made aware of the location and importance

of the site on the drawings and verbally prior to construction

commencing. The site should be fenced off for the duration of the

contract and plant and machinery kept well away from the area.

7.10 Nominated Persons.

The contractor should have a senior member of the staff responsible

for implementation of the environmental code of conduct.

The contractor should have a senior member of the site responsible for

the issue of public safety.

The contractor should have a senior member of the site responsible for

the issue of land and public liaison.

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APPENDIX B.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR FIRST PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.

Mmegi – Tuesday 23rd

November 2010

NOTICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDY MEETING

THE PROPOSED COMMERCIAL AND OFFICE DEVELOPMENT, MOLAPO

CROSSING, GABORONE WEST.

Notice is hereby given, in terms of the Botswana Environmental Conservation Act (Act

No. 6 of 2005) (Authority Ref: DEA/BOD 7/9 XVII) that Sphinx Associates (Pty) Ltd,

Botswana, is conducting a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in relation

to a commercial cum civic and community development on the southern portion of its

plot at Molapo Crossing, Western By-Pass road, Gaborone West.

In terms of relevant Botswana legislation, the public must be given the opportunity to

obtain information about the proposed project and to raise their issues, concerns and

comments.

Anticipated Positive Impacts:

Employment creation

Addition to commercial space in the city

Impact on the economy

Anticipated Adverse Impacts:

Increased traffic on Western Bypass as well as Molepolole road junction

A meeting will be held to accommodate communities living in the vicinity of the area and

other stakeholders.

You are hereby invited to attend this information sharing meeting in which project

information will be presented and issues, suggestions and concerns gathered regarding

this project.

Date: 15th

December 2010

Time…………10.00 hours.

Venue… Office Unit 17, Molapo Crossing Shopping Mall.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, but wish to be registered as an interested and/or

affected party, receive further information or communicate your ideas and suggestions,

please contact the following

Project Coordinator

Environmental and Planning Consultants

113

P.O.Box 70188

Gaborone

Tel: Phone: 3903132 or Fax 3934428

APPENDIX C

SECOND PUBLIC MEETING

NOTICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDY MEETING

THE PROPOSED COMMERCIAL AND OFFICE DEVELOPMENT, MOLAPO

CROSSING, GABORONE WEST.

MMEGI, MONITOR 21st March 2011

Notice is hereby given, in terms of the Botswana Environmental Conservation Act (Act

No. 6 of 2005) (Authority Ref: DEA/BOD 7/9 XVII) that Sphinx Associates (Pty) Ltd,

Botswana, is conducting a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in relation

to a commercial cum civic and community development on the southern portion of its

plot at Molapo Crossing, Western By-Pass road, Gaborone West.

In terms of relevant Botswana legislation, the public must be given the opportunity to

obtain information about the proposed project and to raise their issues, concerns and

comments.

Anticipated Positive Impacts:

Employment creation

Addition to commercial space in the city

Impact on the economy

Anticipated Adverse Impacts:

Increased traffic on Western Bypass as well as Molepolole road junction

A meeting will be held to accommodate communities living in the vicinity of the area and

other stakeholders.

You are hereby invited to attend this information sharing meeting in which project

information will be presented and issues, suggestions and concerns gathered regarding

this project.

Date: 11th

April 2011

Time…………10.00 hours.

Venue…………Kgotla, Phase 4, Gaborone, West.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, but wish to be registered as an interested and/or

affected party, receive further information or communicate your ideas and suggestions,

please contact the following

Project Coordinator

Environmental and Planning Consultants

P.O.Box 70188

Gaborone

114

Tel: Phone: 3903132 or Fax 3934428

APPENDIX D

1. TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE CONDUCT OF AN

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) FOR A COMMERCIAL cum

CIVIC AND COMMUNITY COMPLEX for Sphinx Associates Pty, Ltd.

Below are the approved TORs for this project.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed Commercial & Civic and

Community Complex at Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre will:

1) Provide a complete description of the existing site proposed for development.

Detail the elements of the development, highlighting areas to be reserved for

construction and the areas which are to be preserved in their existing state.

2) Identify the major environmental issues of concern through the presentation of

baseline data, which should include social and cultural considerations.

3) Outline the Legislations and Regulations relevant to the project.

4) Predict the likely impacts of the development on the described environment,

Including direct, indirect and cumulative impacts, and indicate their relative

importance to the design of the development‘s facilities.

5) Identify mitigation action to be taken to minimise adverse impacts and Quantify

associated costs.

6) Design a Monitoring Plan which should ensure that the mitigation plan is

adhered to.

7) Describe the alternatives to the project that could be considered at the proposed

site

To ensure that a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment is carried out the following

tasks are undertaken:

Task 1: Description of the Project

The EIA will provide a comprehensive description of the project, noting all that is

planned on this site now and in the future.

Task 2 Description of the Environment

This task will include the review of baseline data presented in the Strategic

Environmental Assessment (SEA) that will precede the preparation of the EIA for the

development and conducting baseline assessments where data is lacking.

This will include the review of the baseline data for the:

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i) Physical environment

ii) Biological environment

iii) Socio-economic and cultural constraints.

Where data is insufficient the consultant will conduct assessments to fill the gaps. This

will include the detailed methodologies employed to obtain baseline and other data.

Baseline data that will be reviewed include:

(A) Physical

i) A review of the existing geology and hydrology. Special emphasis will be placed on

storm water run-off, drainage patterns, effect on groundwater and availability of potable

water. Any slope stability issues that could arise will be thoroughly explored. Soil quality

will also be analyzed. Quality indicators will include but not necessarily be limited to pH,

nitrates phosphates and other minerals. Quality indicators will include both chemical and

physical characteristics e.g pH, exchangeable bases, structure and other properties.

ii) Water quality of any existing ponds, or streams in the vicinity of the development.

Quality Indicators will include but not necessarily be limited to nitrates, phosphates,

faecal coliform, and suspended solids.

iii) Noise levels of undeveloped site and the ambient noise in the area of influence.

v) Obvious sources of pollution existing and extent of contamination.

vi) Availability of solid waste management facilities.

(B) Biological

The flora and fauna (terrestrial and aquatic) of the area will be reviewed, with special

emphasis on rare, endemic, protected or endangered species. Migratory species will also

be considered. Generally, species dependence, niche specificity, community structure and

diversity will be considered.

(C) Socio-economic & cultural

Present and proposed land use; planned development activities, issues relating to

employment, distribution of income, goods and services; recreation; public health and

safety; cultural peculiarities, aspirations and attitudes will be explored. The historical

importance of the area will also be examined.

A full archaeological study will be undertaken to highlight on the history and culture of

the area.

While this analysis is being conducted, it is expected that an assessment of public

perception of the proposed development be conducted. This assessment may vary with

community structure and may take multiple forms such as public meetings or

questionnaires.

Task 3 - Legislative and Regulatory Considerations

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The pertinent regulations and standards governing environmental quality, safety and

health, protection of sensitive areas, protection of endangered species, siting and land use

control at the national and local levels will be outlined. The examination of the legislation

should include at minimum, legislation such as the Waste and Sanitation Management

Act, Wildlife Protection Act, the Town and Country Planning Act, legislation and

policies from the Forestry Department, Building Codes and Standards, Development

Orders and Plans and the appropriate international convention/protocol/treaty where

applicable.

Task 4 - Identification of Potential Impacts

The major environmental and public health issues of concern will be identified. Potential

impacts as they relate to, (but are not restricted by) the following:

- Change in drainage pattern

- Flooding potential

- Landscape impacts of excavation and construction

- Loss of natural features, habitats and species by construction and operation

- Pollution of potable, surface and ground water

- Air pollution

- Capacity and design parameters of proposed sewage treatment facility

- Socio-economic and cultural impacts.

- Risk assessment

- Noise

- Impact on existing developments and the marine environment

The impacts will be distinguished between significant positive and negative impacts,

direct and indirect, long term and immediate impacts. The extent and quality of the

available data, explaining significant information deficiencies and any uncertainties

associated with the predictions of impacts will be addressed. Project activities and

impacts will be represented in a matrix form with separate matrices for pre and post

mitigation scenarios.

Task 5 Mitigation

Guidelines will be prepared for avoiding, as far as possible, any adverse impacts due to

proposed usage of the site and utilising of existing environmental attributes for optimum

development. Financial and economic values will be assigned to mitigation methods.

Task 6 - Monitoring

A plan to monitor the implementation of mitigation or compensatory measures and

project impacts during construction and operation of the facility will be outlined. An

Environmental Management Plan for the long-term operations of the site should also

be prepared.

An outline-monitoring programme will be included in the EIA, and a detailed version

submitted to the DEA for approval after the granting of the permit and prior to the

117

commencement of the development. At the minimum the monitoring programme and

report should include:

• Introduction outlining the need for a monitoring programme and the relevant

specific provisions of the permit license(s) granted.

• The activity being monitored and the parameters chosen to effectively carry out

the exercise.

• The methodology to be employed and the frequency of monitoring.

• The sites being monitored. These may in instances, be pre-determined by the

local authority and should incorporate a control site where no impact from the

development is expected.

• Frequency of reporting to DEA

The Monitoring report should also include, at minimum:

• Raw data collected. Tables and graphs are to be used where appropriate

• Discussion of results with respect to the development in progress, highlighting

any parameter(s) which exceeds the expected standard(s).

• Recommendations

• Appendices of data and photographs if necessary.

Task 7 - Project Alternatives

The alternatives to the project including the no-action alternative will be analysed. This

examination of project alternatives should incorporate the use history of the overall area

in which the site is located and previous uses of the site itself.

Task 8 – Report Preparation and Generation

All findings will be presented in the EIA report and will reflect the headings in the body

of the Torso, as well as references. Hard copies and an electronic copy of the report will

be submitted. The report will include an appendix with items such as maps, site plans, the

study team, photographs, and other relevant information.

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APPENDIX E.

A LETTER FROM ROADS DEPARTMENT APROVING ACCESS TO THE

PROPOSED SITE

119

APPENDIX F

FULL ARCHAEOLOGICAL REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 119

1. PFOJECT OVERVIEW ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 120

2. GEOGRAPHIC AND PHYSIOGRAPHIC SETTING -------------------------------------- 120

3. PREVIOUS ARCHAOELOGICAL RESEARCH -------------------------------------------- 122

4. PREVIOUS HISTORICAL RESEARCH ---------------------------------------------------- 123

5. ANTICIPATED FINDS AND IMPACTS --------------------------------------------------- 124

6. SURVEY OBJECTIVES AND METHODS -------------------------------------------------- 125

7. SURVEY RESULTS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7

7. CONCLUSION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8

8. RECOMMENDATIONS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9

Acknowledgments ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9

9. REFERENCES CITED ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 127

Undertaking of Archaeological Consultancy ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 128

120

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Sphinx Associates (Pty) Ltd is proposing to build an extension to its current shopping centre

at Molapo Crossing (Plot 54483) that is composed of retail, filling station, gym, clinic, school

and office units.

The site is located in Gaborone, at the corner of K.T. Motsete road (A1 road) and Molepolole

road. K.T. Motsete road passes east of the Project Area less than 50m. North of the site are a

virgin land and the Western Bypass Engine filling station.

The site is bounded to the north by the current Pick and Pay Supermarket; to the east by the

Western By-Pass road; to the south by the Molepolole Road and to the west by the

Segoditshane river valley

Archi Consultants (Pty) Ltd was commissioned to carry out an Archaeological Impact

Assessment (AIA) on the proposed development area and to advice on the likely impact on

the archaeology and related cultural aspects. The work presented here is the final report of

the AIA study.

GEOGRAPHIC AND PHYSIOGRAPHIC SETTING

Gaborone city is on the southern side of Botswana, about 115 kilometres from the Tropic of

Capricorn. It is situated on the southeastern part of the country, less than 30 kilometres

from the border with South Africa. It is the capital city of Botswana. The city is a relatively

new city. It is barely 44 years old. It was built from scratch at independence. Gaborone has

grown rapidly since independence. It is now home to about 10% of the country’s

population.

Gaborone is surrounded by six capitals of tribally owned areas: Kgatleng in the north with

its capital at Mochudi, Tlokweng in the east with its capital at Ramotswa, and Kweneng in

the west with its capital at Molepolole. To the south are Lobatse and Barolong farms with

their capital at Good Hope, and in the west, the Bangwaketse with their capital at Kanye.

Geologically, Gaborone is undulating with many rocky hills and outcrops. It is mainly

granite country to the north, east and west. The granite is found in a number of different

forms in hills such as Kgale.

Gaborone is located south of Modipe Hill. This is in excess of 3,000 million years old,

formed of Modipe Grabbo. This is one of the oldest rocks on Earth.

To the west of the city, there are beautiful hills around Gaborone, Kolobeng, Thamaga,

Mmankgodi and Manyana. These are parts of the Supergroup, formed about 2,000 million

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years ago. There are red stones in the Metsimotlhabe River which passes through the

granite plains in the northeast and eventually connects with Notwane River at Morwa.

South of Gaborone is a matrix of rocks of the Transvaal Supergroup that date back between

2,200 and 2,600 million years ago. These include shades and dolomite. They provide

important aquifers at Lobatse and Ramotswa. Other rock types in the area include

sandstones, conglomerates and occasionally volcanics.

There are also relatively new rocks around Gaborone like remnants of the Waterberg Age.

In terms of water, for a very long time, Gaborone has relied on the water of Notwane River

for its supply. There are considerable ground water reserves at both Ramotswa and

Lobatse linked by a pipeline. Current sources of water supply to the city include Bokaa

Dam, north of Gaborone, and Letsibogo Dam, near Selibi-Phikwe. Vegetation in and around

Gaborone is fairly uniform. It is described as semi-sweet mixed bushveld.

Soils are generally poor, strong, shallow and not well developed. A wide range of trees

including buffalo thorn (Ziziphus Mucronata), velvet bush willow (Combrefum molle) and

species of Rhus prefer this kind of habitant. There are also many Acacia species along the

valley and plains of Gaborone. These include Karoo, Nilotica, the red bush willow and

African wattle. In sandy areas of the city stands termilalia (Terminalia sericea).

With specific reference to the Project Area, soils are common reddish hard and fairly porous

covering about 90% of the site. The remaining 10% progressively gets darkish to very black

cotton soil with calcrete surfacing on top and in other parts slightly below.

The development area is within the densely grown area with predominant Acacia Tortilis,

to some extent the Buffalo Bush (Mokgalo), Motlhono also features in around there. The

grass cover has created a thick biomass from previous heavy rains.

In terms of climate, the Gaborone area experiences the rainy season starting from the end of

October and up to April. The dry season extends from May to September. Around

Gaborone, average rainfall is between 450 and 500 mm a year. Frost is common in the dry

winter. It usually falls to 7 ̊C. On the other hand, summers are usually warm in the city.

Temperatures are usually 30 ̊C – 35 ̊C.

The landscape in Gaborone has changed drastically over the 152 years due to increase in

population, fencing, overgrazing by livestock, hunting, bush clearing, hunting, collection of

firewood, construction of dams, powerlines and roads among others. This has obviously

affected archaeological resources in and around the city.

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PREVIOUS ARCHAOELOGICAL RESEARCH

Gaborone is located in an area with natural, archaeological and historical significance.

About 40 years ago, a number of wild animals roamed the Gaborone landscape. It was the

hunting grounds of Bakwena and Bangwaketse regiments.

In adjacent area of South Africa, at Taung, about 180 kilometres (km) from Gaborone,

archaeologists have identified 2,5 million – year – old fossils of Australopithecines. These

are small animals which walked on two feet and may have been among our direct ancestors

(Campbell and Main 2003).

Archaeologists have confirmed that australopithecines used to live in areas where Gaborone

Mall now stands, not far from Notwane River. Many Early Stone Age (ESA) tools have been

discovered during the construction of Gaborone City. Many of the ESA tools found date back

more than 300,000 years and include hand axes which signify the presence of Homo-

erectus who lived about 500,000 and more years ago(Campbell and Main 2003).

The development of a sewage plant in Gaborone has yielded thirteenth century pottery.

This is commonly referred to by archaeologists as the ‘Broadhurst Facies’ of Eiland Ware.

Archaeologically speaking, the Kgale Hill base has stone tools and broken pottery. This

suggests that the base of the hill was occupied by prehistoric people about half a million

years ago. Eiland pottery dating from about the 11th – 12th centuries proclaims occupation

by early Kalahari farmers.

There is also evidence of early mining around Gaborone. There are numerous small hills

around Gaborone with iron mines probably dating back to anytime during the last 1,000

years. Work in some of the smaller mines involved mining activities into the rock face. The

probable method of mining was to make fires against the surface and then pour of cold

water onto it. This caused the rock to crack.

Chunks of rocks were then extracted for hammering stone. After a number of processes, the

ore was collected and smelted. Apart from the archaeology, we know a lot about smelting

and smithing around Gaborone from the diaries of early travelers. For example, Henry

Methuen described iron smelting near Ramotswa in 1844 from collection of iron ore to

construction of a furnace and ultimately the smelting process.

Unlike northern Botswana that had evidence of gold mining, the south and areas in the

vicinity of Gaborone had no gold to be mined. Also, the distance to major trade routes in the

east at Mapungubwe and Great Zimbabwe was greater. However, glass beads and marine

shells have been recovered from archaeological sites around Gaborone including

Moritshane. But, this had limited impact in terms of regional trade.

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PREVIOUS HISTORICAL RESEARCH

In terms of historical sites, areas surrounding Gaborone are also rich in extensive

stonewalling including Modipe Hills and Seoke. These disserted ruins are visible on hills

and are on defensive spots. These areas were probably ideal in the late 18th century due to

Difaqane invasions. There are also a number of Anglo-Boer places such as Basuto Kop

situated in the area. In addition, there are various defensive positions and stonewalls that

were built between October 1899 and February 1900. In addition to historic sites, there are

also a number of historic buildings in Gaborone especially in the village.

Oral history states that Bakwena and Bangwaketse occupied the Gaborone area in the late

18th century. In particular, Kgale hill base was once a capital for Bakwena and Bangwaketse.

Remains of these historic villages can be observed in the area.

Iron Age communities in southern Botswana reared cattle and there was frequent

competition and raiding between communities. Many seventeenth- and eighteenth century

villages were therefore built on hilltops that were surrounded by defensive stone walls

including those at Kgale Hill.

Kolobeng is another historic site about half an hour drive from Gaborone by car. It is

situated along the Thamaga-Kanye road. The mission site is on the left, immediately after

crossing the river. In the mid1840s, David Livingstone, set up a mission and a school at

Kolobeng. Sechele, the chief of Bakwena on whose land Livingstone had settled, was the first

convert. Today the site comprises of remnants of mud walls, foundations and graves.

Gaborone’s history matches well with its built heritage (old buildings) including the Old

Radio Botswana which was built in 1964. This was former Prime Minister’s house and later

first state house. The other historic building in Gaborone is Parliament. This is a symbol of

the country’s democratic system. In addition, there is the Notwane Foot Bridge which was

constructed in the 1930s. There are also the Bonnington silos that were built in 1945.

These signify the role played by Batswana during the Second World War. They were used

as storage facilities during the war (Campbell and Main 2003).

Perhaps a section of Gaborone known as the “village” is the richest part of the city in terms

of historic places. It has a number of colonial buildings. There are remnants of a few

buildings including remains of the late-nineteenth century British fort and the first post

office and prison. The remainder of the buildings and houses were constructed using an

International Style that spread throughout the developing world during the 1930s-1950s.

On the contrary, the proposed study area in Gaborone North has no historic buildings. It is a

relatively new part of the city.

124

While Gaborone boasts of unique old buildings, it is among the fastest growing cities in the

world. For example, it has modern malls like River Walk, Game City, as well as the Attorney

General Chambers building and Orapa House. For many years, this was one of the tallest

buildings in Gaborone where diamonds were sorted and packed for sale. Also modern

developments like the expansion of roads, the construction of a railway line, extension of

water provision facilities, expansion of health and educational facilities among others, have

destroyed a number of archaeological, historic and cultural resources.

Gaborone was built from scratch in the 1960s on British Crown land technically controlled

by the queen. The City is named after Kgosi (King) Gaborone, who led the Batlokwa into the

area in the 1880s. This “neutral” site was chosen so as not to favor any single morafe by

building the capital in its traditional territory. It was also chosen because of its strategic

location next to the railway line, its nearness to South Africa, and most importantly, its

closeness to a major water source.

In addition to being rich in history, Gaborone city is home to recently constructed

monuments including the statue of Sir Seretse Khama and the World War II Veterans

Memorial Plaque. Sir Seretse Khama was the first president of Botswana. His statue stands

in the middle of the garden in front of the National Assembly facing east. It is about 6km

from the study area. On the other hand, the World War II Memorial Monument is located a

few meters from the Sir Seretse Khama Statue. It is situated in the government enclave,

nearly 20 metres and on axis with Sir Seretse Khama Monument. It is south of the Botswana

Parliament. It was put up to commemorate one of the major unforgotten events in world

history. Visitors to the Monument have the opportunity to view the marvelous parliament

and Sir Seretse Khama Monument. The National Museum is another heritage site in

Gaborone.

In terms of ethnic and racial composition, the population is cosmopolitan in nature. There

are a number of ethnic and racial groups scattered around the city. The proposed Hotel is

likely to house people of different backgrounds and cultures.

ANTICIPATED FINDS AND IMPACTS

The Project Area is located on the North East of Bonnington Farm, which is a National Monument. Bonnington Farm is situated between Molapo Crossing Shopping Center and the Bonnington Shopping Complex. It is part of the historic farms that were established in the 1800s. These farms originally extended as far as the present day Phakalane Estates to the North and Crocodile Pools to the South (National Museum unpublished paper, 2009).

The fact that the Project Area is located in the city and less than 100 meters from a highway

implies that few archaeological, historic and cultural materials were anticipated to be

recovered. There are also so many people who walk and cycle across the site and may have

125

picked and or disturbed a few artifacts on site. Subsequently, there is the Gaborone-

Metsimotlhabe road that is being upgraded.

SURVEY OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

It should be noted that Gaborone is a rapidly developing city. It is one of the fastest growing

cities in the world. In particular, the city has witnessed a variety of developments from

filling stations, roads and hotels just to mention a few in the last decade. This has resulted in

the rapid development of Gaborone. However, developments often threaten valued

monuments and cultural resources. It is imperative that AIAs such as this one are conducted

in order to preserve and/or mitigate cultural resources for future generations to see, enjoy

and study. It is on this basis that the author was commissioned to conduct an archaeological

impact assessment at the proposed Hotel site at Gaborone.

The aim of AIAs is not to impede developments but to identify important cultural and

archaeological materials prior to any major development. Where and when necessary, test

excavations and subsequently salvage archaeology and/or mitigation may be

recommended.

An investigation of the impact area was conducted by the author. It was not necessary to

have a field assistant because the surveyed plot is small with a parameter area of about

240m2. The main method of searching for archaeological, historic and cultural remains,

involved field and/or foot surveys. Archival and library materials were studied prior to

visiting the site. These informed the author on field methods to use.

The site for development is heavily disturbed, it made site survey options difficult, and

however, as explained below, a fairly good part of the site was systematically walked. The

survey took about an hour. More attention was paid particularly to any evidence of human

activity including artifacts and immovable features such stone walls, house foundations,

house floors and earths to mention a few. Test excavations were not undertaken because

there were a number of places that were exposed by bulldozing activities.

The survey concentrated on the whole development area (100% coverage). The impact area

was surveyed systematically. GPS coordinates of the area were recorded. But these were not

too useful as the proposed site has a plot number.

The surrounding areas were checked for archaeological materials because they have a

National Monument, existing structures and are already disturbed.

126

7. SURVEY RESULTS

The proposed development is located at Molapo Shopping Centre, Plot 54483 as mentioned

in the introduction. GPS coordinates of the proposed plot for development have been

provided on Appendix 1. Appendix 2 shows the location map for the proposed site.

Dominant vegetation noted within the proposed plot for development included acacia

tortilis (mosu) and acacia mellifera (mongana). The vegetation was notably thick and the

piece of land under investigation appeared to be disturbed land

Nothing of archaeological, historical and cultural significance was observed at the proposed

extension site. A substantial part of the site was disturbed and was covered by thick

vegetation. Lack of archeological, historical and cultural materials suggests that there is

nothing important at the impact area to be preserved and/or rescued.

CONCLUSION

Since no significant archaeological and related materials were observed in and around the

Project Area, there is nothing to preserve in the area. Thus, the proposed development

should be allowed to proceed.

The Project Area is rated No. 5 under the Botswana National Museum Grading System,

which is as follows:

1=Preserve at all costs;

2=Preserve if possible, otherwise extensive salvage work;

3=Test excavations to determine whether further work is necessary;

4=Systematic preventative sampling sufficient; and

5=No further archaeological work required;

The project should be given a planning consent.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Because no archaeological, historic and cultural sites and/or significant distributions were

found in the area of the extension of Molapo Crossing Shopping Centre, it is recommended

that a development permit be issued to Sphinx Associates (Pty) Ltd.

127

However, it should be noted that there were no test excavations conducted to determine the

presence of archaeological materials below ground level. Accordingly, if archaeological

materials are recovered during the construction of the Hotel in question, the Developer is

requested to notify the Archaeology Division (Salvage Unit) of the Botswana National

Museum and/or the author of this report as required under the Monuments and Relics Act of

2001.

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BOTSWANA NATIONAL MUSEUM, ART AND GALLERY. 2009. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS ON THE

BONNINGTON FARM NATIONAL MONUMENT. UNPUBLISHED PAPER

CAMPBELL A. AND MAIN M. 2003 GUIDE TO GREATER GABORONE, THE BOTSWANA SOCIETY.

CHANDA R. ET AL

2000 GEOGRAPHY OF BOTSWANA, IN BOTSWANA NATIONAL ATLAS, 2000, ARK PRESS SWEDEN.

MONUMENTS AND RELICS ACT 2001: ACT NO: 12 OF 2001

DENBOW, J. R. 1981, BROADHURST: A 14TH CENTURY EXPRESSION OF EARLY IRON AGE IN

SOUTHEASTERN BOTSWANA, SOUTH AFRICAN ARCHEOLOGICAL BULLETIN 36:66-74.

DENBOW J.R. AND THEBE P.C. 2006 CULTURE AND CUSTOMS OF BOTSWANA, GREENWOOD PRESS, UNITED

STATES OF AMERICA.

2004, KEAKETSWE B.E., PRELIMINARY ARCHAEOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT, LETSIBOGO DAM,

PROPOSED RETIREMENT HOUSE FOR THE PRESIDENT. UNPUBLISHED REPORT. REPORT AT THE

NATIONAL MUSEUM, GABORONE.

ROBBINS L. AND MURPHY M.,

1998. THE EARLY AND THE MIDDLE STONE AGE. IN DITSWAMMUNG: THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF BOTSWANA,

LANE, P, A, REID A, AND SEGOBYE A., (EDS), GABORONE: PULA PRESS: 50-64.

2009. TSHEBOENG, A. ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINAL REPORT FOR THE WATCHING OF GABORONE-MOLEPOLOLE

ROAD UPGRADING. UNPUBLISHED REPORT. REPORT TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM, GABORONE

Steel, R.H.

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1982 “Iron Age Mining and Metallurgy in South Africa”, in (Eds) Hitchcock, R.R. & Smith,

M.R., Settlement in Botswana, The Botswana Society, Gaborone.

Schapera I.

1938 A Handbook of Tswana Law and Custom, London, Oxford University Press

(Reprinted by the Botswana Society, Gaborone, 1997).

Will, D., Dent, T.

1972. “The Boer War as seen from Gaborone in Botswana Notes and Records, Vol. 4,

pp.195 – 209, The Botswana Society, Gaborone.

SILLERY, A.

1952 THE BECHUANALAND, PROTECTORATE, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS. WALKER N.

1994. The Late Stone Age of Botswana: Some Recent Excavations. Botswana Notes and

Records 26:1-3.

U N D E R T A K I N G O F A R C H A E O L O G I C A L C O N S U L T A N C Y

I, the undersigned, on behalf of Archi Consultants (Pty) Ltd, certify that the information

provided in this report is to the best of my knowledge a true and correct reflection of what

transpired while undertaking archaeological monitoring as at the time of reporting.

Name: Mr. P.C. Thebe Company: Archi Consultants

Telephone: 3915386 E-mails: pcthebe2000@yahoo.com

: archiconsulatants@brobe.bw

APPENDIX G:

PROJECT CONSULTING TEAM

1. Prof A.C.Mosha –Team Leader.

2. Mr. P.C.Thebe

3. Mr. Jon Owen

4. Dr. J. Marengane

5. Mr. T. Motlhaping

6. Research Assistants.