Zamcell Ltd.

completed

- 2 - May 13, 1998International Finance CorporationA Member of the World Bank GroupInternational Finance CorporationA Member of the World Bank GroupEnvironmental Review Summary (ERS)Project Name ZAMBIA: ZamcellRegion Sub-Saharan AfricaSector TelecommunicationsProject No. 008680 May 13, 1998 1. This project involves the installation and operation of a nationwide digital cellular network in Zambia. Zamcell plans to begin its digital service in Lusaka, the capital city, and the Copper Belt regions by year-end 1998. Zamcell is expected to serve 1,800 subscribers by the end on 1999, rising to 7,500 by the end of year 2001.2. This is a category B project according to IFC’s environmental review procedure because specific impacts may result which can be avoided or mitigated by adhering to generally recognized performance standards, guidelines or design criteria. The review of the project consisted of appraising technical and environmental information submitted by the project sponsor, and the technical appraisal and site review completed by IFC’s Technical and Environment staff. The following potential environmental, health and safety impacts of the project were analyzed:· right-of-way alignment;· land acquisition;· access road construction;· development of previously undisturbed land;· tower site selection;· PCBs and Halons;· solid and liquid waste treatment and disposal;· fire prevention and emergency response, and· workers safety.The information provided by Zamcell about how each of these potential impacts will be addressed in the development of the proposed project is summarized in the paragraphs that follow.3. Zamcell’s cellular site installations will be located within the major cities and towns of Zambia, the proposed project will not traverse sensitive areas (e.g., forest, wetlands, national parks etc.). All cell sites will be accessible from existing roads. The company will use two types of installations, roof top and green field. The roof top installations will consist of shelter for equipment and small antenna masts for the mounting of antennas. Roof top installations will be utilized as much as possible to minimize the effect of construction and the requirements for higher antennas. Green field sites will be used in cities and towns (typically commercial areas), when roof tops are not available. This type of installations will require the acquisition of real state, approximately an area of 40ftx40ft2 depending on the size of towers and equipment shelter. Land acquisition for the green field site installations will be done through a local real state agent. Zamcell is committed to undertake and provide IFC with details of future land acquisitions and to comply with World Bank policies and guidelines in all current and future land acquisitions. Land acquisition requirement resettlement will be subject to the preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan to be approved by IFC.4. Solid and liquid waste generated as part of network installation and operations are limited and will be disposed of in accordance with local regulations. No hazardous solid or liquid will be generated.5. Zamcell have confirmed that no equipment containing PCBs or Halons will be installed, and any existing equipment containing PCBs will be phased out according to World Bank guidelines and EPA’s 40 CFR 761 code. The generators used for back-up power supply will be installed with sound attenuation enclosures. Fuel storage tanks will be equipped with secondary containment, and will comply with U.K. standards and EPA regulations.6. Zamcell’s facilities will be equipped with fire protection devices including fire extinguishers. The mobile switching center will be equipped with an automatic fire suppression system. Additionally, Zamcell site installations and headquarters will be equipped with first aid kits and safety equipment (e.g., goggles, protective head gear, gloves, safety climbing equipment etc.).7. All employees will be provided with the necessary safety training in proper work procedures and equipment handling methods. Zamcell will implement OSHA 2206 health and safety codes for lighting protection. The company has committed to providing IFC with a copy of their environmental policy. The company has also committed to designate a person to oversee environmental, health and safety matters.”8. Based on its review of available information regarding potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures, IFC concludes that Zamcell proposed project will meet World Bank environmental, health and safety policies and guidelines and host country requirements.9. IFC will monitor ongoing compliance with World Bank environmental, health and safety policies and guidelines during the lifetime of the project by evaluating reports submitted annually to IFC by Zamcell and by conducting periodic supervision.\\StreetTalk\Shared Data@CTENET@IFC\wpeu\ROSA\Zambia\zamcell.ers.docMay 13, 1998 2:30 PM