An Appraisal of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in Ethiopia: The Case of Meta Abo Brewery

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation and follow-up of the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) in Meta Abo Brewery in Ethiopia. Specifically, it aims to assess the implementation mechanism and status of ESIA monitoring and evaluation, the adequacy of the legal and administrative framework for ESIA implementation and follow-up, and the perception of residents towards the ESIA implementation and follow-up by the proponent. A mixed research approach was employed to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data. Thematic and descriptive data analysis was used to analyze data collected through key informant interviews (KII), focus group discussion (FGD), closed-ended questions, and document review. Data were obtained from 11 purposely selected interviewees and 6 FGD participants, as well as 175 randomly selected respondents. This study found the practical implementation mechanism of ESIA monitoring and evaluation as well as weak ESIA monitoring and evaluation status through the case study. The main causes of this weak ESIA system are weak implementation of ESIA monitoring and evaluation by the regulatory body and proponent, weak cooperation among regulatory body and proponent, weak institutional capacity, and weak managerial commitments. The study also indicated a lack of adequate legal and administrative frameworks and the absence of regular revision of relevant legislation. Additionally, the study identified that the proponent has some weaknesses in the ESIA implementation and follow-up. The findings regarding the legal and administrative framework can be developed to guide the formulation and amendment of the ESIA legal and administrative framework not only for Ethiopia, but other developing countries as well. Moreover, the findings of this study can be a groundwork for future studies to fill the gap by understanding the social-cultural barrier and finding appropriate strategies to enhance the ESIA system in developing countries.