SULTAN S.

S GOLD MINING ASSOCIATION

ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT ASSESEMENT (EIA)
REPORT

ASSOCIATION LOCATION: SWEP Region West Omo Zone Maji Woreda, Addiskas Kebele.
NAME OF PROMOTER : Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association
Prepared By: Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC
Submitted To: SWEPRS Forest, Climate Change& Environmental Protection Bureau
March 2025

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 Maji, Ethiopia

Table of Contents
Table of Contents..............................................................................................................................................ii

List of Figure....................................................................................................................................................vi

List of Table.....................................................................................................................................................vi

I. Executive Summary...................................................................................................................................7

1. NTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................8

1.2 Rationale for the EIA Study process......................................................................................................10

1.2.1 Purpose of the EIA Study Report....................................................................................................10

1.2.2 Terms of Reference (TOR) and scope for the EIA Study Report....................................................11

1.2.3 Assessment methodology and limitations.......................................................................................12

1.3 Objectives of EIA Study........................................................................................................................13

1.3.1 General objective............................................................................................................................13

1.3.2 Specific objectives..........................................................................................................................13

1.4 Policies and legislation on Artisanal and Small-scale mining in the country.........................................13

1.4.1 Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (Proc. No. 1/1995)..........................13

1.4.2 Environnemental Impact Assissent, Proclamation No. 299/2002...................................................14

1.4.3 Environmental Pollution Control Proclamation 300/2002..............................................................14

1.4.4 Mining Proclamation No.52 of 1993..............................................................................................15

1.4.5 Mining Operations Proclamation No 678/2010 amended under Operations Proclamation No
816/2016..................................................................................................................................................15

1.4.6 Child Labor Proclamation...............................................................................................................15

1.4.7 International Agreements................................................................................................................15

1.5 Small-scale Gold Mining and Environment in the country....................................................................16

1.5.1 Deforestation..................................................................................................................................16

1.5.2 Water Pollution...............................................................................................................................16

1.5.3 Loss of Biodiversity........................................................................................................................17

1.6 Small-scale Gold Mining and Social Conditions in the country............................................................17

1.6.1 Health.............................................................................................................................................17

1.6.2 Safety issues...................................................................................................................................17

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 1.7 Small-scale Gold Mining and Economic Conditions in the country................................................18

1.7.1 Contribution to the Micro-economy...............................................................................................18

1.7.2 Contribution to the Macro economy...............................................................................................18

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ASSOCIATION AREA....................................................................19

2.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................................................19

2.2 Association Operator.............................................................................................................................21

2.3 Association operator`s address..............................................................................................................21

2.4 Association location..............................................................................................................................21

2.5 Association Equipment..........................................................................................................................24

2.6 The physical environment......................................................................................................................25

2.6.2 Topography and altitude.....................................................................................................................25

2.7 Regional Geology..................................................................................................................................26

2.8 Socio-economic information.................................................................................................................28

2.8.1 Population.......................................................................................................................................28

2.8.2 Employment trends in the neighborhood........................................................................................28

2.8.3 Land use patterns............................................................................................................................28

2.8.4 Physical and social infrastructure...................................................................................................29

2.8.5 Health-Care Centers and schools....................................................................................................29

2.8.6 Business activities...........................................................................................................................29

2.8.7 Agriculture......................................................................................................................................30

2.9. Ecological environment........................................................................................................................30

3. Administrative, Legal and Policy Framework.............................................................................................30

3.1 General Overview..................................................................................................................................30

3.2 Policy Framework.................................................................................................................................30

3.2.1 Environmental Policy of Ethiopia...................................................................................................31

3.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment.................................................................................................32

3.2.3 Environmental Pollution Control....................................................................................................32

3.2.4 Solid and Liquid Waste Management.............................................................................................33

3.3 The Environment (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations.........................................................33

3.3.1 Environnemental Impact Assissent (Proclamation No. 299/2002)..................................................33

3.3.2 Environnemental Pollution Control (Proclamation No. 300/2002)................................................34

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 3.4 Institutional Framework.....................................................................................................................34

3.4.1 Environmental Protection Authority...............................................................................................35

3.4.2 Regional Environmental Agencies (REA)......................................................................................35

3.4.3 District............................................................................................................................................35

3.4.4 Kebele (Peasant Association).........................................................................................................35

4. Association Technique and Technology......................................................................................................36

4.1 Association technology..........................................................................................................................36

4.1.1 Mining Structure and Design..........................................................................................................36

4.1.2 Pit Dewatering................................................................................................................................40

4.1.3 Process Facilities............................................................................................................................40

4.1.4 Waste Rock Disposal Facilities......................................................................................................40

4.1.5 Waste Rock Characterization..........................................................................................................40

4.1.6 Water Management.........................................................................................................................41

4.2 Open Pit Mining....................................................................................................................................42

4.2.1 Open Pit Exploitation.....................................................................................................................42

4.2.3 Mine Exploitation Parameters.........................................................................................................42

4.3 Raw and Auxiliary Material, Final Product...........................................................................................43

4.3.1 Blasting substance and fuel.............................................................................................................43

4.3.2 Radioactive Substance....................................................................................................................43

4.3.3 Final Product..................................................................................................................................44

4.4 Intermediate products and wastes..........................................................................................................44

4.4.2 Dust and gas emission....................................................................................................................44

4.4.3 Solid waste.....................................................................................................................................44

4.4.4 Liquid waste...................................................................................................................................44

5. Methodology & Public Consultation...........................................................................................................45

5.1 Assessment methodology......................................................................................................................45

5.1.1 Desktop study.................................................................................................................................45

5.1.2 Field survey....................................................................................................................................45

5.1.3 Impact Assessment and Analysis....................................................................................................46

5.2 Public consultation................................................................................................................................46

Public Consultation Legal and policy requirement......................................................................................47

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 5.2.1 Environmental management act (2007) and it EIA regulations (2012)...........................................47

5.2.2 Consultation process followed during the EIA process...................................................................49

5.2.3. Limitation of the public consultation process................................................................................50

5.2.4 The interested and affected parties (I & AP).....................................................................50

5.2.5. Outcome of the public engagement...............................................................................................50

5.2.6. Key issues identified during the public engagement process.........................................................50

6. Potential Impacts of the Association........................................................................................................50

6.2 Methodology adopted to Determine Potential Impacts..........................................................................51

6.2.1. Description of Impact....................................................................................................................51

6.3. Pressure on Natural Resources for Energy........................................................................................52

6.4 Soil quality........................................................................................................................................53

6.5 Air quality.............................................................................................................................................53

6.6 Impact on sensitive ecosystems.........................................................................................................53

6.7 Exotic species & pest.........................................................................................................................54

6.8 Human safety.....................................................................................................................................54

6.9. Maintenance of the historical, cultural, or religious landscape.........................................................54

6.10. Change in social structure & way of life.........................................................................................55

6.11. Impact on patterns Land-use and tenure systems............................................................................55

6.12 Impact on economy.........................................................................................................................56

6.13. Human Health.................................................................................................................................56

7. Mitigation strategies................................................................................................................................57

7.2 Waste Minimization..............................................................................................................................57

7.2. Solid Waste..........................................................................................................................................58

7.2.1. Domestic Solid Wastes..................................................................................................................58

7.2.2 Industrial Solid Wastes...................................................................................................................58

7.3. Sustainable Natural Resource Management.........................................................................................59

7.3.1 Air Quality......................................................................................................................................59

7.3.3 Reclamation and Re-vegetation......................................................................................................60

7.3.4 Erosion and Sedimentation Control................................................................................................61

7.3.5 Protection of Flora and Fauna.........................................................................................................62

7.4. Occupational Health and Safety Measures...........................................................................................62

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 7.4.1 General Safety Features..................................................................................................................63

7.4.2 Employee Training.........................................................................................................................63

7.4.3 Workplace Noise............................................................................................................................64

7.4.4 General Health Features..................................................................................................................64

7.5. Hazard Prevention and Emergency Response.......................................................................................64

7.6.1 Preventative Maintenance...............................................................................................................64

7.6.2 Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Support............................................................................................65

7.6.3 First Aid and Emergency Medical Services....................................................................................65

FIRST AID..............................................................................................................................................65

8. Environmental Management And Monitoring Plan...............................................................................67

8.1 Budget Allocation to Mitigate the Impact..............................................................................................71

9. Conclusion and Recommendation...............................................................................................................72

9.1. Conclusion............................................................................................................................................72

9.2 Recommendation for mining Association............................................................................................72

Bibliography....................................................................................................................................................73

Appendix-2 TERMS OF REFERENCE..........................................................................................................75

List of Figure
Figure : Areal map of the proposed Association site is the area within red polygon on google earth map........22

Figure 3: Site map of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association leased land............................................................22

Figure 4 Ethiopia Gold hosting geological belts and domains............................................................................27

Figure 5 Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association proposed site plan & lay out of facilities..............................................37

Figure 6 shows the process to identify impacts..................................................................................................51

List of Table
Table 1 Summary of the proposed Association.....................................................................................................9

Table 3 Coordinate points of the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association mining area..........................................21

Table 4 Open pit equipment................................................................................................................................24

Table 5 Public consultation process....................................................................................................................49

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Table 6 Definition of criteria for assessing significant impact............................................................................52
Table 7 “Sultan ”SPECIAL SMALL SCALE MINING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN.........................68

Table 8 Details Budget Allocation to Mitigate the Impact of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association mining
Producers ............................................................................................................................................................71

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I. Executive Summary
Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association set to begin small scale gold mining here in Maji district,West
Omo Zone, South-West Peoples regional state at specific location Addiskas Kebele,Kolu-kanu
special area, near to Netube River Area. The total Association area has covered 10 hectare of land for
Association activities. The Association set to start the mining with a capital of Birr of 30,000,000
prior to the approval EIA and getting license. The overall objective of the Association is mainly to
process and supply gold to National bank of Ethiopia to increase the income of Association member
and tax money to the local government.
According to Ethiopia’s government environmental protection policy, the environment management
and monitoring plan proclamation No 299/2002 require that an environmental impact assessment
(EIA) should be required to get mining license. In compliance, the proponent has commissioned Safe
Development Consultant & Training Service PLC as consultants to carry out the environmental
impact assessment (EIA) study for the proposed mining Association.
The overall goal of the Environmental Policy of Ethiopia (EPE) is to improve and enhance the health
and quality of life of all Ethiopians, and to promote sustainable social and economic development
through the sound management and use of natural, human-made and cultural resources and the
environment as a whole (EPA, 1997). The policy seeks to ensure the empowerment and participation
of the people and their organization's at all levels in environmental management activities, and to
raise public awareness and promote understanding of the essential linkage between the environment
and development.
The primary target of this study was to identify and analysis of potential negative environmental
impacts and to propose practicable mitigation measures. In addition, to formulate an environmental
management and monitoring plan articulating envisaged impacts and mitigations in order to reduce
or avoid risks during construction, and operation phases, and to obtain an environmental clearance
license.
The major activities that have been done were practical field assessments and public consolations
with the community neighboring the proposed Association site. Public consultation is conducted by
Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC on April, 2024 at Sultan S.S Gold Mining
Association site at Maji Woreda, Addiskas Kebele,Kolu-Kanu site Netube River Area with
stakeholders from Woreda level, Kebele Council and communities nearby to industry.
The main issue that is drawn from the public participation is that the communities were interested in
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the Association regardless of its magnitude, duration and the number of people to be employed.
Objectives of the impact assessment were tailored to uncovering explicit and implicit costs on the
physical and human environment .In order to achieve study goals this study employed qualitative
and quantitative approaches. Qualitative approaches intended to map out issues related to
distilling out Issues related human and environmental costs and quantitative alternatives have also
attempted to distill out issues better expressed if described through quantitative approaches. Thus
interviews, focus group discussions, and observation in the field were employed to enrich
qualitative objectives and survey questionnaire were also used to make account on quantitative
information.
Findings of the assessment have also revealed that positive outcomes outweigh those of the
undesirable ones. Expected benefits that will activate local economy and potentials in cementing
urban rural linkages seem to indicate the appropriate uncovered the Association is unlikely to cause
significant impact in the ecological, sociocultural and economic establishment of the locality.
Working closely with state and non-state development agents in environmental protection and
rehabilitation activities. The Association should commit itself in delivering both financial and
material support for initiatives having a wider goal of improving sustainable recovery of
environmental assets. Installing standard facilities which will minimize or completely halt disposal of
waste, having undesirable impact on the adjacent environment and communities as well.

1. NTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the proposed Association

This document is an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (EIA) study report for the
Proposed Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Gold mining on location, West-Omo Zone, Maji
Woreda at Addiskas Kebele local name of Kanu-Kanu site at Netube River Area.
Ethiopia is one among few nations in sub-sahran Africa with immense potential to overcome
challenges attributed to underdevelopment. Mining sector is thought to cater development if it is
guided through appropriate policy framework and unambiguous strategies of operation.
Cognizant of the vital role of the sector, the incumbent administration has already begun to manifest
symbolic moves ranging from revisiting the pre-existing policy framework and unlocking
potentials. South western region thus has become a prime focus in reorganizing pre-existing
haphazard activities in the sector and exploring further sites of production.
Contemporary developments in the sector have also been evident in enabling unemployed youth to
benefit from the sector thereby by fulfilling legal and legitimate procedures before implementing

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 mining activities.
Pursuing mining activities therefore needs to be guided through careful scrutiny of the
consequences on the natural environment, socioeconomic and cultural fabric of communities
dwelling in the surroundings and beyond.
Table 1 Summary of the proposed Association
Below is a summary of the proposed Association.
Item Description

Association name SULTAN S.S GOLD MINING ASSOCIATION

Location West-Omo Zone, Maji Woreda, Addiskas Kebele

Nature of development Gold mining and leaching

Objective To extract gold from tailings by use of leaching process

Proponent Mr,SULTAN

License area The area covers the 100,000 square meters of land leased to the proponent

Land ownership The land has been leased to “SULTAN S.S GOLD MINING ASSOCIATION
for 5 years with conditional extension of further years by Maji Woreda Water,
Irrigation ,mining & Energy Office

Land Size 100,000 square meters (10 hectare s)

This report concerns the feasibility stage Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed
mining Association. It is produced so as to fulfill the requirements needed to obtain the license of
operating the mining activity by the Association indicated. It deals with the key environmental
factors that are likely to be affected by the Association during construction and operational phases.
It also presents Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association recommendations with regard to mitigation
measures to be adopted, and monitoring plans for the safeguard of the environment and human
health of the Association area and its surroundings.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is normally undertaken to integrate environmental
considerations in development planning; to insure that potential negative impacts are foreseen and
addressed at an early stage in the planning process, to identify and enhance the positive impacts of
the proposed development activities, to examine the trade-offs and the possible alternatives, to
ensure the development Associations promote sustainable livelihoods, to provide an eco-friendly
and people-centered management tool, to set up a machinery to carry out mitigation measures and
monitoring and to promote inter sectorial linkages. It includes, among others, identifying the scale
and components of the proposed Association, collecting background information on existing
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 environmental statues of the study area, identification of proposed actions and alternatives,
assessment and analysis of impact of the proposed action, designing and proposing of cost-
effective and environmentally sustainable impact mitigation and enhancement measures,
assessment of prevailing institutional arrangements for implementation of proposed mitigation and
enhancement measures.
The EIA guideline prepared by Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) requires development
Associations to reduce adverse effects on the physical, biological, and socioeconomic
environments.
As per the requirements of the EPA guideline, the consultant has assessed the potential
environmental impacts of the proposed road Association. The Environmental Assessment has been
conducted concurrently with the feasibility of the Association with the objective to ensure that the
Association is environmentally sustainable and can contribute to the development of
environmental assets.

1.2 Rationale for the EIA Study process

1.2.1 Purpose of the EIA Study Report

The proposed Association is categorized as a High-Risk Association under the Mining Operations
Council of Ministers Regulations No. 182/1994, i.e. The Association can be described as Mining and
other related activities including –precious metals; Furthermore, the environmental impacts cannot
be underestimated. The Association requires an EIA study report carried out for it before it is
implemented subject to Section 2 sub-section-9 of the Amended Proclamation No. 816/2013 of its
legislative supplement, the Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 1994
(Amendment 2013). These require all upcoming Associations to have environmental assessments
carried out for them before they are executed. The EIA study provides baseline information upon
which Subsequent environmental assessments are based. It also addresses mitigation options for
potential impacts. The main purpose of an EIA study report is therefore to assist the Proponent, EPA
and all other stakeholders in understanding the potential environmental consequences of the
proposed Association and thus provide a basis for making informed decisions on the Association.
The proposed Association has close linkage to the current government development priorities, which
includes Vision 2025, with Mining as the 4 th pillar of the national economy. The economic pillar of
this development agenda aims at uplifting the status of community members. Mineral exploration
and eventually mining activities can transform the economic welfare in the area. Manufacturing; and
Affordable Healthcare are covered. The proposed Association has demonstrated alignment with
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environmental sound development global, national and county level strategic goals.
1.2.2 Terms of Reference (TOR) and scope for the EIA Study Report
The assessment is expected to meet the objectives of EIA Study in order to ensure sustainable
development. Hence, TOR outlining the expectations of the EIA Study was documented by the
Proponent and the EIA team in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental (Impact
Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 1993, (Amendment 2013) in order to lay a basis for the
assessment. The proponent and the ESIA team did the following in order to achieve the TOR for this
assessment:
a) Generated environmental baseline conditions of the Association area.
b) Described the proposed Association by giving clear accounts of its location; design;
construction and operational activities; material usage; products and by-products including
wastes to be generated in all phases and the methods of their disposal; and likely
environmental changes.
c) Obtained views and opinions of the interested and affected persons by undertaking public
consultations by means of administration of questionnaires to neighbors, business operators
and area residents in the vicinity of the proposed Association. A public meeting was held for
the proposed Association.
d) Reviewed legislation and regulations relevant to the proposed Association and showed their
relevance to the proposed Association.
e) Described and analyzed alternatives to the proposed Association in relation the Association
site, design, technologies, processes and the reasons for preferring the proposed alternative.
f) Established key areas of environmental, health and safety concerns focusing on both the
positive and negative effects in relation to how they affect the biophysical, social, economic
and cultural components of the environment.
g) Analyzed impacts and recommended mitigation and enhancement measures for the adverse
and positive impacts respectively. The analysis of potential impacts related to the location;
design; applicable technologies; and construction and operation activities of the proposed
Association.
h) Generated comprehensive environmental management and monitoring plans for the proposed
Association covering all its phases. The plans form a basis upon which all
mitigation/enhancement measures will be carried out and specify the parties (organizations or
individuals) responsible for the implementation of mitigation/enhancement measures and the
schedule for their implementation and indicate the parameters to be monitored, frequency of
monitoring, indicators of performance, parties responsible for monitoring and the associated
costs.
i) Generated a comprehensive EIA study report in accordance with the Environmental (Impact
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 Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 1993 (Amendment 2013) and submitted the study report
and necessary soft and hard copies to the Authority for further instructions and/or approval.

1.2.3 Assessment methodology and limitations

This assessment was carried out in December 2023 in accordance with the procedures and
protocols in the Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 1993 (Amendment
2013). The assessment involved:
a) Extensive site tours to physically inspect and document existing facilities at the site and
natural and socio-economic features of importance;
b) Environmental screening to determine the necessity and level of the EIA study process;
c) Interviews with the interested and affected persons including the Association
management team and neighboring residents and business operators among other groups
in the neighborhood regarding the proposed Association; and
d) Desktop studies for documentary review on the nature of the activities of the proposed
Association, proposed Association related documents, plans, designs, policy and legislative
frameworks as well as the environmental setting of the area amongst other things.
The main limitation to the assessment is that some of the information was compiled based on
responses of the owner and the stakeholders involved. There are difficulties in verification of
some of this kind of information. The consultant has evaluated information obtained within the
limits of the established scope of work.
1.3 Objectives of EIA Study

1.3.1 General objective

General objective of the study is to produce a scientific report on prospects of impacts on the
mining Association to be implemented in west Omo zones of southwest regional Government.

1.3.2 Specific objectives

• To investigate the status of physical environment in relation to the function it used to have had
before the physical environment is expropriated for mining purpose
• To uncover existing and expected risks on human lives and livelihoods
• To map out the efficiency of structural installments in mitigating risks on surface and
underground resources
• To propose way outs so as to proactively ban imminent risks and plan in advance in strategies
to curb prospects of environmental catastrophe even after the exhausting benefits form the site.

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1.4 Policies and legislation on Artisanal and Small-scale mining in the country
The pressure on the environment resulting from mining has been locally serious in some areas.
Although tackling the problems requires coordination among several organizations, efforts in this
regard are inadequate. Nonetheless, the following are among the regulatory instruments that have
been issued and efforts that have been made by the government.

1.4.1 Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (Proc. No. 1/1995)
One of the objectives of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
(Proclamation 1/1995) is ensuring a clean and healthy environment. It states that every citizen has
the right to live in a healthy environment. Based on the Constitution, the Environmental Protection
Authority (EPA), established to cater for environmental matters, which were enacted by the Federal
Council of Peoples Representatives towards the end of 2002. The environmental guidelines seen as
needed to implement these laws have been prepared or are under preparation by the EPA. Examples
include guidelines designed to help in the implementation of environmental impact assessment in the
agricultural, transport and industrial sectors.

1.4.2 Environnemental Impact Assissent, Proclamation No. 299/2002

The Proclamation was enacted as Proclamation No. 299/2002 on 2nd of December 2002. The main
reasons for enacting this proclamation are the following:
 Environmental Impact Assessment serves to bring about thoughtful development by predicting
and mitigating the adverse environmental impacts that a proposed development activity is likely
to cause as a result of its design, location, construction, operation, modification and cessation.
 A careful assessment and consideration of the likely environmental impacts of public
documents prior to their approval provides an effective means of harmonizing and integrating
environmental, economic, social and cultural considerations and aspirations into the decision-
making process in a manner that promotes sustainable development.
 Implementation of the environmental rights and objectives enshrined in the Constitution
requires the prediction and management of likely adverse environmental impacts, ways in
which the benefits might be maximized, and the balancing of socio-economic benefits with
environmental costs.
 Environmental impact assessment serves to bring about administrative transparency and
accountability, as well as involve the public and, in particular, communities in development
planning decisions which may affect them and their environment.

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1.4.3 Environmental Pollution Control Proclamation 300/2002
This Proclamation was enacted as Proclamation No. 300/2002 on 2nd of December 2002. It was
enacted to help realize the effective implementation of the environmental objectives and goals
incorporated in the Environmental Policy. In addition, the Proclamation was enacted because:
 Some of the social and economic development endeavors may be capable of causing
environmental impacts that might be detrimental to the development process itself;
 The protection of the environment in general and the safeguarding of human health and
wellbeing, and the preserving of biota is the duty and responsibility of all; and
 It is essential to prevent or at least minimize to acceptable levels pollution resulting from
economic development through appropriate measures.
The Proclamation consists of a number of articles on different issues such as pollution control,
management of hazardous wastes, chemicals and radioactive substances, environmental
standards, the rights and duties of environmental inspectors / and penalties etc.

1.4.4 Mining Proclamation No.52 of 1993

In line with the constitution, the Mining Proclamation provides that mineral resources within
the territory of Ethiopia are the property of the government and of all the peoples of Ethiopia
and that the government is the custodian of mineral resources with duty to deploy them for the
benefit and development of all Ethiopians.
The Mining Proclamation focuses on establishing the rules and procedures for a licensing
system and includes key aspects of types of licenses, division between the federal government
and regional states in the issuing of different types of licenses, rules and procedures for access
to mineral rights, their termination, and rights and obligations of license holders.

1.4.5 Mining Operations Proclamation No 678/2010 amended under Operations

Proclamation No 816/2016
The Mining Operations Proclamation governs all mining and related activities in the country. The
proclamation does not encourage use of modern technology to be used in artisan mining in which
Technical and professional competence is not required. The proclamation directly targets provision
of job opportunity to the youth that the license period is limited to a maximum of two years.

1.4.6 Child Labor Proclamation

Children typically work in mines to help their parents and to supplement family income in order to

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buy basic food and clothing items. Child labor is typically closely linked to poverty, and while the
1999 International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 182 identified child labor in mines as one
of the worst forms of child labor, it is unlikely to cease unless access to education improves and
alternative opportunities for income generation and poverty reduction exist in impoverished mineral-
rich locations.

1.4.7 International Agreements

Ethiopia has adopted and ratified several international conventions and agreements related to the
environment. The major ones are:

1.4.7.1 The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD)

The objective of the Convention is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of droughts in
countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, Ethiopia has
ratified the Convention through its Proclamation No. 80/1997. To implement the Convention,
various activities are being carried out with the coordination of the Environmental Protection
Authority.
1.5 Small-scale Gold Mining and Environment in the country
Report from Ministry of Mines and Energy (MOM) (2009) shows the placer mining environment is
extensively dug that there are physical land degradation, open tunnels and pits, deforestation etc
which is becoming issue for the environment. The financial surety to reclaim and rehabilitate such
destructed area is not likely to happen unless special program is going to be undertaken by the
government itself with other international partners.

1.5.1 Deforestation
When gold deposits are found in forests, they are frequently cut to give way for the digging of pits,
for construction of residential or working premises, for fuel for cooking and in some cases for
processing the ore and the manufacturing of hand tools. Unfortunately, replanting is rarely planned
to make up for the trees that were cut down. The result is de-vegetation or deforestation along with
Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Natural Gas (MOM, 2016).
1.5.2 Water Pollution
As per Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Natural Gas MOM (2016) the most significant impact a
mine can have its potential effect on water quality and availability of water resources. Potential
impacts on water resources include:
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  Impacts of tailing impoundments, waste rock, heap leach, and dump leach facilities;
 Erosion of soils and mine wastes into surface waters; and
 Knock on impacts of mine dewatering.
Key questions that must be asked prior to commencing and throughout your mining operations
include:
 Will the surface and groundwater supplies remain fit for human consumption based on the
mining processes used?
 Will the quality of surface waters in the Association area remain adequate to Support
native aquatic life and terrestrial wildlife?

1.5.3 Loss of Biodiversity

Impacts on wildlife can arise in the case of habitat loss or fragmentation due to the deforestation
of the area for mining development. Moreover, with the influx of people to the mining site
(caused by in-bound migration) predators such as dogs can increase in number, potentially
threatening vulnerable species in the area as said by Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Natural
Gas (MOM, 2016).

1.6 Small-scale Gold Mining and Social Conditions in the country

1.6.1 Health
Health impacts can be caused by the exposure of the community to increased level of hazardous
and toxic chemicals or poisoning to crops and livestock. Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and
Natural Gas MOM (2016) mentions poor management of the mine site can also lead to
increased risk of accident. Migration can also increase the risk of communicable water borne
diseases such as malaria and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS, and
respiratory illnesses.

1.6.2 Safety issues

There are deteriorating safety conditions in mining areas (i.e. exposed to dust, poor ventilation
and rock falls/ collapse. Study of Ministry of Mines MOM (2012) demonstrated that everything
is done precariously in the district and death may occur. Poor environmental, health and safety
mine site management can lead to increased risk of injury or death for miners and members of
mining communities. For example, mining pits are often not filled following exploitation. This
can lead to an increased risk of accidents, especially during the rainy season when the grasses
grow and obscure the mine pit openings. The hazard can be acute for humans, livestock, and
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 wildlife alike. Digging in pits can present a direct threat of pit collapse to miners, especially
when timbering or stairs are not used to support the pits. In addition, aeration is often
insufficient in pits, especially where there is only one vertical shaft, which limits the supply of
oxygen to the miners creating a risk of asphyxiation.

1.7 Small-scale Gold Mining and Economic Conditions in the country

1.7.1 Contribution to the Micro-economy

Livelihood of the Small-scale Miners: - Small-scale mining activities are rapidly expanding
because of gold's firmly rooted market value. Gold mining presents a unique opportunity for poor
people since it generates 3-5 times the income from other livelihoods (John, 2013). In Ethiopia over
1,000,000 people are engaged in Arterial & Small-scale Mining (ASM). 5,000,000-7,000,000 people
are indirectly depending on ASM for their livelihood (Sofia Mohammed, 2013).
Employment- Close to one million Ethiopians is employed in the artisanal mining sub-sector and
support about five (5) million people (John, 2013). In terms of fluidity, employment numbers in
ASM vary widely depending on, for example, the season, alternative livelihood opportunities and the
price of minerals. Total number employed, however, does not fully describe the potential value of
ASM employment. Generally, artisanal mining has proved to be a primary source of employment for
job seekers from various parts of the country who are relatively disadvantaged in the labor market
(e.g. unskilled, low skilled, women, disabled, etc.) as reported by Centre for Development Studies
(CDS, 2004).

1.7.2 Contribution to the Macro economy

The ASGM sector has a significant contribution to the Ethiopian economy. Production and export of
gold was just US$ 5 million in 2001 and rose to US$ 23.8 million in 2015. The World Bank Group
WB (2014) also reported that the contribution of the mining sector was 10% of total foreign
exchange earnings, and about 2/3 came from artisan mining.
On the word of John (2013) artisanal miners earn about 800 Birr (US$ 42.11) per gram of gold.
However, the value depends on the market and varies from time to time. On average, the mining
sector contributes less than 5% of gross domestic product (GDP), of which the contribution of gold
was more than 98 percent of the total mining exports.
Based on some assessment studies the gold being mined and produced by artisanal miners all over
the country is estimated to be more than 3 tones (3000 kilo grams) per year. The regional
administration collects royalty from the small scale and artisanal production. The total amount of
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royalty collected by each region (nine regional states and two cities Administration) is in few tens of
millions of Birr (up to three million US dollars) as per Ministry of Mines and Energy (MOM, 2009).
According to Ministry of Mines as mentioned by Ethiopia Extractive Industries transparency
Initiative MOM (2015, as cited in EEITI, 2016) the artisan miners contribute six to eight tons of gold
every year and often generate, on average, US $ 300 million (Table 2). In 2011/12, the amount of
gold purchased by the NBE reached 8,328 kg and this increased to 8,387 kg in the following year.
Nevertheless, these figures slightly decreased in subsequent years and sharply dropped in 2014/15,
perhaps due to the fall in global price of gold. As per the plan of the MoM, the mining sector is
expected to generate 2 billion dollars by 2024.
Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Natural Gas are showing a tremendous increase. Ethiopia
’milliongrams gold from Artisanal and small-scale gold mineral export in the past ten month of 2012
E.C. Two years ago,
Table 2 Artisan Gold Supplied to the NBE (National Bank of Ethiopia) and Export Earnings, 2010/11-2014/15
Year Amount of gold Purchased by the NBE (Kg) Export (US $, in millions)

2010/11 7,296.30 322.46

2011/12 8,327.73 439.30

2012/13 8,386.84 430.60

2013/14 7,559.50 305.33

2014/15 5,548.38 211.00

Source: Ministry of Mining, Dec. 2011 Ethiopia’s gold export earnings were–at just$602m $
Recorded in 2012 E.C due to the fact that the government raised the price it pays to artisanal
miners, who account for more than half of gold production”.
(https://www.theafricareport.com/56551/).

2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ASSOCIATION AREA

2.1 Introduction
In this chapter, emphasis is placed on describing proposed Association area and its neighborhood in
terms of resources, vegetation, land-use patterns, socio-economic activities, population, topography,
climate and geology among others so as to provide information from which the potential impacts of
the proposed Association can be predicted. The proposed site is found in South West Ethiopia
People Region, West-Omo Zone, Maji Woreda, Addiskas Kebele local name Netube River Area.
Gold mining in South-Western Ethiopia dates back to around 1960 when deposits of the precious

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metal were discovered at Dimma Ganbela, along the low land sedimentary sand deposits area. Maji
woreda’ were in operation after 1940s. Gold deposits exist within Garo, Shola, Gesena, gabisa &
Siyali Kebeles. As more gold deposits were discovered in the region, the quest for gold has been in
the hands of area residents and other artisanal and small-scale miners who practice it on small-scale.
However, their quest is hindered by many challenges including:
a) Limited access to the deposits;
b) Legal set-ups;
c) Security situation of the Area
d) Power Supply lines shortage & disruption
e) Inadequate financial and technical requirements; and
f) Exploitation by middlemen.
In addition, miners exploit the marginal deposits in harsh and dangerous conditions. Needless to say,
Child Labor is involved as most of them are trying to escape poverty and unemployment which are
serious problems in the area. Though there are relatively higher returns for the gold miners, the
processes of mining and purification result into considerable impacts on the environment and the
health of the miners as poisonous elements such mercury and cyanide are sometimes used.
The immediate neighborhood of the proposed site consists of the urban area of Addiskas Kebele. The
Addiskas Kebele has flat terrain lands and undeveloped pieces of land. Other things in the outer
neighborhood within the site’s vicinity.
Association main objective is gold production by means of mining oxide, supplied and transition ore,
to join in “Gold” program of Ethiopian Govern reserves, provide more workplaces and reduce
unemployment.

2.2 Association Operator

Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association
State registration No.:
Company registration No.______________

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2.3 Association operator`s address
Addiskas Kebele of Maji woreda, West Omo Zone of South-West Ethiopia People
Region, CEO: _________________.
Telephone: ______________,
Fax________________

2.4 Association location

Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association site is located in Addiskas Kebele of Maji Woreda, West
Omo Zone of South-West regional government. It is situated in a distance around 750km from
the country’s capital, Addis Abeba and 24 km in north Maji Town, which is a capital of Maji
woreda in the South-West Ethiopian People Region. The Sultan Gold Mining Association area
is held under Mining Licenses with 100,000 square meters (10 hectare s) leased land. Land
utilization right for mine exploration is approved by Government of Maji woreda water &
mining Office in 30 Feb, 2025. Coordinates of licensed areas is enclosed in table below. The
Association location is illustrated in Figure 1to 3.
Table 3 Coordinate points of the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association area.

No. X-Coordinate Y-Coordinate

Point 1 793683 643058
Point 2 793986 642820
Point 3 794168 642952
Point 4 793829 643266

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 Figure 1: Site map of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Leased Land

Figure 1- The Location Map of the Proposed Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Site

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2.5 Association Equipment
Mining is planned to be carried out using conventional open pit method and primary equipment includes
excavator and dump trucks. The primary excavator for the loading is planned to be a 7.6 m 3 two of
hydraulic excavator in a backhoe configuration. This machine will load a fleet of 50-tonne; mechanical
drive haul trucks that will deliver ore and waste rock materials to the respective stockpile and dump
locations. Also, a 6.9 m3 loader will be stand ready for operate during unexpected delay.
Drilling and blasting operations will be carried out using two blast whole drills with 127 mm and borehole
grid size is 4 x 4 meters. Borehole depth is 5.5 meters. Blasting will be conducted by a contractor once a
month. Loading will be with locally available packaged emulsion due to expected wet conditions below the
valley floor.
One bulldozer will provide support for waste rock dump construction and maintenance, floor maintenance,
blast pattern preparation, and wall cleanup. In the initial year, the dozer will be used to push material from
the narrow upper benches to the lower levels. This assists in reducing the haul road requirements to access
these upper benches.
A fleet of nine light vehicles will also be utilized at and around the mine site. This includes seven trucks
and two vans.

Table 4 Open pit equipment

Process Equipment Quantity Comment
Drilling Tamrock D45K (Ingersol-Rand DM45) 1 pcs
Blasting 10-t Chinese-manufactured mobile mixing 1 pcs
Loading Excavator O&K RH120E (Libherr R994B) 1 pcs
Shovel
loader CAT 992D Haul trucks 1 pcs
CAT 777B (Komatsu HD85) 4 pcs
China Howo 16m3 Sino-Truck Trailer 4 pcs
Dump, stockpile 230-kW bulldozer 1 pcs Rent
160-kW grader 1 pcs Rent
3m3 shovel excavator 1 pcs
Water auto tank 1 pcs Rent
Fuel auto tank 1 pcs Rent

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2.6 The physical environment
2.6.1 Soils
Generally, Maji Woreda is endowed with good soils suitable for cultivation of diverse crops. Seven major
soil types can be identified. Soils found on the mountains and major scarps have developed from basement
system, especially granite. They are shallow and excessively drained and range from red friable clay loams
to sandy clay loams. In some areas, they appear as rock outcrops. These soils are found in Addiskas, Garo,
gabisa, Sholla, Gesena & Siyali.

2.6.2 Topography and altitude

Maji is a town in south western Ethiopia. It is located on the Boma Plateau, lying in the West Omo Zone of
the South West Ethiopia Peoples' Region, and has a longitude and latitude of 6°12′N 35°35′E with an
elevation variously given as 2,104, 2,258 and 2,430 meters above sea level. The town is the administrative
center for the Maji woreda.
Maji (also known as Dizi) is a woreda in South West Ethiopia Peoples' Region, Ethiopia. Part of the West
Omo zone, Maji is bordered on the south by the Kibish River which separates it from South Sudan, on the
west by Surma, on the northwest by Bero, on the north by Meinit Shasha, and on the east by the Omo River
which separates it from the Debub Omo Zone. Towns in Maji include Tum and Maji. The western part of
Maji was separated to create Bero woreda and some southern kebeles were added to Nyangatom woreda.
Rivers in this woreda include the Netube and the Mui. High points include Mount Tiyaki and Mount Siski.
A major portion of Maji is included in the Omo National Park. Maji suffers from a lack of roads and means
of transport; remote locations are accessible only by air.
In May 2009, a Malaysian investor with over 3.7 billion Birr in capital was granted a lease to over 31,000
hectares of land to develop palm oil tree plantation on. The Zonal authorities also granted him an additional
10,000 hectares to cultivate rubber trees on.
Demographics
Based on the 2007 Census conducted by the CSA, this woreda has a total population of 31,088, of whom
15,072 are men and 16,016 women; 4,838 or 15.56% of its population are urban dwellers. The majority of
the inhabitants practiced Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, with 62.23% of the population reporting that
belief, 18.44% practiced traditional beliefs, 16.66% were Protestants, and 1.16% were Muslim.
In the 1994 national census Dizi had a population of 22,346, of whom 10,738 were men and 11,608
women; 4,316 or 19.31% of its population were urban dwellers. The three largest ethnic groups reported in
this woreda were the Dizi (84.89%), the Amhara (9.41%), and the Oromo (3.07%); all other ethnic groups
made up 2.63% of the population. Dizin was spoken as a first language by 83.42% of the inhabitants, and
15.3% spoke Amharic; the remaining 1.28% spoke all other primary languages reported. Concerning
education, 24.74% of the population were considered literate; 15.67% of children aged 7–12 were in
primary school; 7.85% of the children aged 13–14 were in junior secondary school, and 5.41% of the
inhabitants aged 15–18 were in senior secondary school. Concerning sanitary conditions, about 57% of the
urban and 14% of the total had toilet facilities. Southwest & Southeast. The woreda occupies an area of
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664.7 Km2 with maximum distance of 38 Km from North to South and 23.4 Km from east to west.
Addiskas Kebele is located at the central part of Maji woreda which is a lowland part of the Maji Woreda.
2.6.3 Climate
The county experiences a cool and moderately wet highland Maji area to Hot Lowland like Addiskas
Kebele climate. Below is a description of the climate of the woreda.
2.6.3.1 Rainfall
It receives an average rainfall of between 1,100 mm and 2,000 mm per annum. The long rains start in early
June and continue up to the end of August, while the short rains usually fall from mid-September to the
end of November. A dry spell is normally experienced between December and April.
2.6.3.2 Temperatures
Temperatures range from 150C to 350C depending on the month of the year. The mean maximum varies
from 22 0C in July/August to 27 0C –35 0C in March. 24-hour temperature variations are minimal.

2.6.3.3 Wind patterns

A significant feature of the climate is the frequency with which the wind comes from the Northeast and to
a somewhat lesser degree from the Southeast. These are the Northeast and Southeast Monsoons
respectively which blow very steadily but without high intensity. Both winds run and mean wind speeds
are at a maximum in December. Winds also remain high during January, February and March which
coincides with the period of higher potential evaporation.
2.6.4 Air quality
Generally, gaseous emissions are below the visible limits except that total suspended particulates (TSP) are
high in the air. This is attributed to use of automobiles such as vehicles and generators and burning
activities taking place in farms, hotels and in homes.

2.7 Regional Geology

The main rock types of Ethiopia illustrated on the general are: the Precambrian metamorphic rocks with
associated syn- to post-tectonic intrusions which form the Basement Complex; the late-Paleozoic to
Mesozoic marine and continental sediments; the Cenozoic basic and felsic volcanic; and the volcano
sedimentary and volcano classic rocks, associated with the Cenozoic volcanic, including Early Tertiary,
Late Tertiary and Quaternary sediments. These rock assemblages represent 23%, 25%, 34% and 18% of
the total surface area respectively (Solomon Tadesse et al., 2003).
Precambrian occurrences are being explored and exploited in the southern, western and northern
greenstone belts of Ethiopia. Precambrian rocks are the most important repositories for gold deposits. The
western greenstone belt stretches more than 600 kilometers from Maji(Akobo)-SW Ethiopia, and its
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average width varies from 50 to 200 kilometers. The belt comprises region of South-west Region include
gold prospects at Akobo & its surrounding Maji Woreda Kebeles. The Akobo & its surrounding Maji
Woreda Addiskas Kebeles narrow greenstone sub-belt is a high potential target for gold exploration.
(http://www.gse.gov.et). 2.6 Local Geology
The figure above shows Maji-Akobo narrow greenstone sub-belt is a high potential target for gold
exploration. Akobo’s its nearby surrounding rocks, meta-sedimentary schists, and tectonic schists and
gneisses. As mentioned by Tamirat Worku, Akobo’s geological setting co rocks, meta-sedimentary schists,
and undifferentiated schists and gneisses. Sansheng Buliding Materials Association SBMAssociation
(2020) stated that the Akobo river in particular is covered by Precambrian rock of Akobo domain which is
represented by Gneiss and schist of undivided sedimentary and volcanic, Mafic schist of predominantly
volcanic origin, minor Metagraywack, Gabrro, diorite and Metamorphosed equivalent, Pre-tectonic and/or
Syntectonic Granodiorite and Tonalite and Sandstone, minor conglomerate and siltstone.

Figure 2 Ethiopia Gold hosting geological belts and domains

Alluvial deposit covers on either side of the river banks which is coved by soil.
2.7.1 Mafic Schist
The mafic schist unit is outcropping in central part of the study area and it is generally dark; fine to
medium grain. This unit is constituted by Hornblende, Feldspar, Biotite and some Quartz. The general
foliation of the rock is N300W to N450W and dips 500 to 650 South-West on the word of SBM Association
(2020).
2.7.2 Felsic Schist
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The felsic schist is exposed in the south eastern part of the study area. This rock unit is characterized by
fine to medium grained texture and light grey in color. According to SBM Association (2020) it is
composed of quartz, mica and feldspar minerals. The rock is well foliated with orientation of N30 0W –
N400W foliation and dips 650 to 700 SW.

2.7.3 Meta granite

The Meta granite rock unit exhibits coarse grain texture and light grey color which is exposed in the south
western part of the study area. As stated by SBM Association (2020), it is locally strongly deformed grade
to gneiss and dominated by the assemblages of the minerals like quartz, alkali feldspar and plagioclase.
The general foliation of this rock is N 600 W and dips 650 to 700 South-West.
2.7.5 Quaternary Deposits
The alluvial deposits are localized in places along Akobo River and extensively covered by thick soil.
This Quaternary deposit characterized by deposits of sand, gravel, and other detrital or residual material
containing a valuable mineral that has accumulated through weathering and mechanical concentration. The
exposure of these deposits in the study area is targets for Artesian & Small-Scale gold mining operations.
2.8 Socio-economic information
2.8.1 Population
The Maji Woreda’s population was about (Population 20, 677 Associations of 2020 by qotera.com) with an
annual growth of 4.7 %. Addiskas Kebele where the proposed Association is located has a population of
3,165 with a density of 98 people per Km 2 where the highest human concentration is here in the center of
Shola. The current population in the woreda expected to be over 25,000 people.

2.8.2 Employment trends in the neighborhood

Most of the people at Addiskas Kebele are working in small gold mining & mining related activities. There
are some bars, pensions, medium level clinics & small agricultural activities but as overall contribute a
little employment to neighborhood when compared with mining works.
2.8.3 Land use patterns
There is a variety of land use patterns within the Maji woreda. Apart from residential settlements there are
farm lands with different agricultural crops, including food crops such as maize, rice and cash crops like
coffee among others. Livestock keeping is also done immensely within the area. The road network is not
uniformly distributed throughout the woreda, the kebeles within the woreda are not well linked to the rest
of the woreda. Other rural access roads serve as an important link way but become impassable when it
rains in summer season.

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2.8.4 Physical and social infrastructure
Electricity is supplied by the Ethiopia Electric Utility (EEU). However, some Associations have opted to
the installation of back- up generators to supplement the Ethiopia Electric Utility (EEU) supply especially
in times of power black-outs which is common in the area. Water in the area is supplied by Maji woreda
water Association. Water is trapped from well aquifers at Maji Kebele supplied in pipes to Public water
supplying stations within the Kebele by gravity. Most homes, offices and business premises have not
access to this piped water directly because the distribution pipes not provided within every part of the
kebele but they get the water through public water distribution Stations. However, some people rely on
protected springs for water for their domestic and commercial use. The area is served by traffic mainly on
Dima – shola – Gesena – Maji Road and other access roads that connect rural areas to the major roads.
However, these feeder roads are dry weather roads and most become impassable during the rainy seasons
and dusty during the dry season. Most of the time there is no Communication for mobile reception the
Network supplying Tower in the nearby Dima Town which is almost 6Km away from the site or from the
surrounding kebele.

2.8.5 Health-Care Centers and schools

People in the area access, public health extension centers and private clinics that are found in the area. The
residents in the area can also access Addiskas Kebele Health Post & Gesena Health Center within 6 Km
radius, for getting better service it needs to reach Mizan-Tepi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Mizan-
Aman City about 122 Km away from the site. All these health facilities are accessible for the proposed site.
There is only Primary school in Addiskas Kebele. Maji woreda has its headquarters at Mai Town which is
also a home to Maji High School. Dima is another destination for secondary school opportunities.
2.8.6 Business activities
Many business operations are concentrated in urban areas and along the roads. Business entrepreneurs
licensed in the formal sector include catering, retail, motor vehicle repairs, wholesale, bar and restaurant,
distribution, pensions and bakeries activities. The informal sector is widespread in the woreda and it
contributes considerably to the growth of the promotion since it uses affordable and readily available
technology and is among the sectors, which offer most of the employment opportunities within the urban
areas.

2.8.7 Agriculture
The woreda have huge uncultivated grassland areas, which is a very productive for cereal crops such as
maize, white, rice. The main crops grown are maize, rice, sweet potatoes and vegetables. Of the main food

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crops, maize and beans are the most important staples while among the cash crops. Animals kept include
cow, sheep and goats. Farming is mainly concentrated and is extensively practiced in the around semi-
urban areas of the woreda due to security is situation of the area.

2.9. Ecological environment

There is no wildlife sanctuaries also there is also rare, endangered and endemic species at or within a
radius of 5 Km from the proposed Association sites. The ecology of the Association area is not densely
rich in flora and fauna diversity.

3. Administrative, Legal and Policy Framework

3.1 General Overview

Applicable legislation regulations, guidance and strategies enacted by the National, Regional and local
governments regarding waste management in this Association Area are described in the following sections
and an overview of Ethiopia Government legislation and strategies considered in the development of the
ESIA and WMP are briefly presented in the following sub-sections

3.2 Policy Framework

Over the last two decades, the Ethiopian government has put in place a number of policies Strategies and
laws that are designed to support sustainable development. The country has developed and implemented a
wide range of legal, policy and institutional frameworks on environment, water, forests, climate change,
and biodiversity. Under the plan for Accelerated and Sustained Development to End poverty (PASDEP),
implemented from 2005/06 to 2009/10, Ethiopia achieved rapid economic growth and laid a foundation for
future growth by eg investments in infrastructure and human capital.
Ethiopia's five years strategic plan, the growth and transformation plan (GTP) for 2010/11, 2014/15 sets
even higher growth and investment targets, including achievement of all Millennium Development Goals.
The Environmental policy of Ethiopia was approved in 1997 and is the first key document that captured
environmental sustainable development principles. Ethiopia's program of Adaptation to Climate Change
(EPACC) is a program of action to build a climate resilient economy through adaptation at sectorial,
regional and local community levels. The EPACC updates and replaces Ethiopia's National Adaptation
program of Action (NAPA), which was formulated and submitted it to the UNFCCC Secretariat in 2007.
Ethiopia also has on overarching framework and a national strategy towards a green economy, the Climate
Resilient Green Economy" (CRGE) 2011. EIA procedures should be applied to plans according to the EIA
proclamation No: 299/2002. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has been introduced to Ethiopia
quite recently. However, there is no SEA proclamation or guideline on SEA in place.

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3.2.1 Environmental Policy of Ethiopia
The Ethiopia's Government environmental policy is geared towards sound environmental management for
sustainable development following "Green economy policy. This is envisaged in the principle of prudent
use, which requires that the present day usage should not "compromise the needs of the future generations.
The policy emphasis is on environmental protection in order to ensure sufficient supplies for the present
and future generations. The policy envisages the use of the "polluter pays principle" where one is expected.
The overall goal of the Environmental Policy of Ethiopia(EPE) is to improve and enhance the health and
quality of life of all Ethiopians, and to promote sustainable social and economic development through the
sound management and use of natural, human-made and cultural resources and the environment as a whole
(EPA, 1997). The policy seeks to ensure the empowerment and participation of the people and their
organization's at all levels in environmental management activities, and to raise public awareness and
promote understanding of the essential linkage between the environment and development.
EIA policies are included in the cross-sectorial policies of the EPE (EPA, 1997). They emphasis, among
others, the early recognition and incorporation of environmental issues and mitigation plans in Association
design and implementation.

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3.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment
As indicated in federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia proclamation No. 299/2002, it is designed
targeting at EIA obligatory for categories of Associations specified under a directive issued by the
EPANA. The law specifies that every Association and all its activities should prepare environmental
impact assessment (EIA). The proponent of the Association must prepare the EIA and either approve or
disprove the Association based on the real environmental context.
Environmental guidelines are among the tools for facilitating the consideration of environmental issues and
principles of sustainable development and their inclusion in development proposals. The promoter of this
Association fulfills the basic requirement from the concerned governmental and non- governmental bodies.

3.2.3 Environmental Pollution Control

According to Ethiopia's governmental environmental protection (EGEP) proclamation No. 300/2002,
Environmental pollution control primarily targeting to protect the right of all nations, to attain sustainable
healthy environment and to impose obligation to protect the environment of the country through green
economy policy. The regulation addresses the management of harmful squander: establishment of
environmental quality standard for air, water and soil and frequent monitoring of pollution.
The problem of improper handling of hazardous substances related to activities such as pest and insect,
crop diseased, fertilizer application management and industrial development are becoming a serious
environmental concern. In Association with this, proclamation provides a basis from which the relevant
environmental standard applicable to Ethiopia can be developed, while sanctioning violation of these
standards as criminally punishable offence.
For the sake of an appropriate Association implementation, environmental standards and related
requirements, inspectors belonging to EPA or the relevant regional environmental agency are empowered
by the proclamation to enter, without prior notice or court order, land premises at any time, at their
discretion. Such wide power was drive from Ethiopia's serious concern and commitment to protecting the
environmental from pollution.

3.2.4 Solid and Liquid Waste Management

According to FDRE proclamation, No.713/2007, industrial Waste management and disposal, everybody
should collect dry husk in an especially designated place and in a safe manner, which does not affect the
health of the society. Nobody shall dispose solid, liquid or any other waste in a manner that contaminate
the environment or affects the health of the society. Therefore, promoter should have to have the issuance
of permit, and will be bound by and work according to national laws, as a result, irrespective of nationality
32 | P a g e
and place of investment, these formulated formal laws govern the entire investment activities.
The regulatory devices underline under the EPE and emphasized in most environmental legislation is the
necessity of Environmental impact Assessment (EIA) before engaging in development acuities.
Furthermore, Articles 11 and 12 of the proclamation No.299/2002 requires EPA to follow up and monitor
the implementation of the Association already done according to the EIA and to see, whether
circumstances have occurred whether might require a new EIA to be done. The Association is intended to
wash coffee to supply for national and global market. So the promoter of the Association should facilitate
to undertake ongoing study or assessment during implementation of the washed station.

3.3 The Environment (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations

On June 13 2003, the Minister of Environment, Natural Resources and Wildlife promulgated the
Environment (Impact Assessment and Audit) regulations 2003 (EIA/EA Regulations) under section 147 of
the EMCA. These regulations provide the framework for carrying out EIAs and EAs in Ethiopia

3.3.1 Environnemental Impact Assissent (Proclamation No. 299/2002)

The Environmental Impact Assessment main objective of the Proclamation is to make the ESIA mandatory
for specified categories of activities undertaken by public or by private sectors. Undertaking ESIA was not
a legal requirement before the formation of this Proclamation. The general provisions of the Proclamation
include:
 Implementation of any Association that requires an ESIA (as determined in a directive) is subject
to an environmental clearance or authorization from the EPA or Regional Environmental Agency
(REA);
 The EPA or the relevant REA depending on the magnitude of expected impacts may waive the
requirement for an ESIA;
 Any licensing agency shall, prior to issuing an investment permit or trade or an operating license
for any Association ensure that the EPA or the relevant REA has authorized its implementation;
 A licensing agency shall either suspend or cancel a license that has already been issued, in the
case that the EPA or the REA suspends or cancels the environmental authorization;
 Approval of the ESIA report or the granting of authorization by the EPA or the REA does not
exonerate the proponent from liability for damage; The EPA has prepared ESIA procedural
guidelines towards the realization and implementation of this proclamation.

3.3.2 Environnemental Pollution Control (Proclamation No. 300/2002)

The Proclamation is developed on the obligation to protect the environment of the Country as whole and it

33 | P a g e
aims at securing the right of each citizen to a healthy environment. It provides the basis from which the
relevant environmental standards can be developed and enforces the standards set based on the polluter
pays principle. Environmental inspectors are to be assigned by the EPA or regional environment offices,
whereas thresholds have been set for industrial, agricultural and domestic wastes (EPA 2003) The Council
of Ministers in 2008 approved a regulation to prevent pollution from industrial facilities,

3.4 Institutional Framework

Environmental organs Establishment proclamation, proclamation No. 295/2002 was enacted in 2002. This
proclamation repealed proclamation for the Establishment of the EPA, proclamation No. 9/95. According
to this proclamation, EPA is accountable to the prime Minister. It has also established the Environmental
protection council (EPC). EPC oversee EPA's activities, as well as the activities of sartorial agencies and
environmental units with respect to environment management.
There are so many organizations involved in environmental management in the country. These
organizations include the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources, Regional land and protection
and Environmental, National Environment and Management Authority, Local Authorities, Ministry of
Water and Irrigation etc. It also ensures coordination among sectorial ministries and agencies on
environmental matters.
The proclamation stipulates the mandatory need for establishment of Environmental organs by regions.
Mandates of the regional environmental organs are to enable regions to coordinate environmental activities,
avoid duplication of efforts and improve the dissemination of environmental information. This
proclamation also mandates the EPA to undertake studies and research, to develop action plans etc, in the
area of combating desertification.

3.4.1 Environmental Protection Authority

Environmental organs Establishment proclamation, proclamation No. 295/2002 was enacted in 2002. This
proclamation repealed proclamation for the Establishment of the EPA, proclamation No. 9/95. According
to this proclamation, EPA is accountable to the prime minister. This proclamation has also established the
Environmental protection Council (EPC) oversees EPA's activities, as well as the activities of sectorial
agencies and environmental units with respect to environmental management. It also ensures coordination
among sectorial ministries and agencies on environmental matters. This proclamation also mandates the
EPA to undertake studies and research, to develop action plans etc., in the area of washing station waste
management.

3.4.2 Regional Environmental Agencies (REA)

Under proclamation No. 925/2002, all regional states are expected to establish their own environmental

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organs. Following this, regions and two city administration have established their respective environmental
organs and the other regional states are in the process. Regional environmental organs are vested in, among
others, the responsibility in their respective region.

3.4.3 District
The highest administrative structure at district level is the District council consisting of the administrative
arm and a cabinet. Therefore, the Woreda environmental issues were seen at district level. The most
policies, laws and directives of the state Coordination of the activities applied at Woreda level.

3.4.4 Kebele (Peasant Association)

The peasant Associations have their own council consisting of the administrative structure and the cabinet
members. The cabinet members are composed of three professionals from local school. Agricultural offices
and locally selected health centuries and promoting rural development, Executing government policies and
facilitate their implementation and conducting tax collection. Furthermore, they have a mandate to visit
development and correct their negative impacts through advising the investors. Therefore kebele
administrative office, will conduct such activities for social and environmental sustainability of the
established washed station.
3.5 Concluding remark on this section
In this section information on the relevant legislation to the Association, the type of licenses
required and the permits were presented. The regulatory authorities relevant to the Association were
also mentioned in this section.

4. Association Technique and Technology

4.1 Association technology
4.1.1 Mining Structure and Design
The Sultan Maji Gold Mining Association will consist of open pits, water diversion dams and ditches,
Non-Acid Generating (NAG) waste rock disposal facilities (WRDFs), access roads, power supply (power
line and diesel generators) and distribution, warehouse, and transportation of goods.
The sulfide ore stockpile, and the WRDFs will be constructed on the northern part of the site. The Main Pit
(MP) will be constructed on the central part of the site. A haul/access road will connect these features and
continue to the north, up the existing road between Dima town & Addiskas Kebele. Table 3.2 presents a
breakdown of estimated proposed disturbance by mine facility.
Table 5: Summary of Proposed Akobo Mine Disturbance
Facility Proposed Disturbance in Hectares
Main Pit 3.1

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 1.7
Ore Stockpile
Encapsulated Acid Generating/Potential Acid Generating WRDF 0.8
Non-Acid Generating/Potential Acid Generating WRDF 1.0
Waste Disposal Area 0.4
Storm water Pond and Monitoring Pond 0.4
Structures & Buildings (includes admin/shop facilities) 0.2
Drainage (includes diversion dams and diversion ditches) 0.6
Roads (excluding BGM haul/access road north from Akobo Association area) 0.8
Total 5.0 ha

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 Figure 3 Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association proposed site plan & lay out of facilities

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River and eastern tributaries. The WRDF will consist of non-acid-generating (NAG) material. The
locations of the WRDF is shown on Figure 7.
The primary location where the Acid Generating (AG) and Potentially Acid Generating (PAG) waste rock
is to be selectively placed is in the bottom of the mined-out Central Zone Pit. Placement in this location
insures the eventual submersion of the waste rock by incoming groundwater and to a lesser degree the
inputs from atmospheric precipitation as well as inputs from surface water sources. These water sources
insure that the waste rock is encased in water, oxygen is cut off and that the initiation of the acid rock
drainage reaction is prevented. This form of ARD mitigation has proven to be one of the most effective
ARD mitigation methods available.
During operations, the waste rock that is produced will be sampled and tested using on-site testing
equipment. Duplicate samples will be tested in offsite laboratories in order to verify the onsite testing
results. Corrections would be made should offsite testing indicate that onsite results were inaccurate.
On site testing would be conducted on every 10,000 tons of waste rock. Testing equipment would include a
sample crushing facility and a LECO sulfur analyzer. Waste rock would be classified as PAG or AG, and
the rock placed for eventual movement into the MP should testing that indicated that the sulfur content of
the test sample was 0.3% or more.
Two ponds will be located at the Association area; a storm water collection pond at the facilities site, and a
sedimentation/monitoring pond downstream of the WRDFs and the mine facility. The combined
sedimentation and monitoring ponds will be sized for maximum storage of a one in 20-year, 24-hour storm
event.
The storm water pond will collect runoff from the site facilities and will be tested for water quality before
release into the sedimentation/monitoring pond. The sedimentation/monitoring pond will collect diverted
and pumped water from the MP and the WRDFs. The water that is collected in the monitoring pond will be
tested, prior to release off the license area. Water that meets relevant water quality criteria will be
discharged directly into the natural flood channel.
Water that enters the mine area without contact with mine facilities will be routed around the mine and
discharged without treatment. There will be limited testing of this water as it will exit the mine with the
same quality as it entered the mine, so treatment is not justified.
Water that impacts the waste rock disposal facilities will be tested prior to release. If the tested water does
not meet relevant criteria, then management plans will be initiated to insure water quality criteria are
achieved at the relevant compliance points.
Water treatment options that could be instituted include one or the full set of the following programs.
Passive water treatment programs are the preferred options. Active treatment is a secondary option. Passive

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treatment methods are more sustainable and may continue to operate with little maintenance obligations
post-closure. Active treatment options would require continued input of financial and manpower resources
to maintain operations post closure.
Following is the list of both passive and active water treatment options: All water management options that
are discussed in this document would require further study. However, the Company is confident that these
methods of water management can be used at water discharged from the site following further study and
review by Company and regulatory stakeholders.
Passive Treatment: Mixing Zones –Discharge non-compliant water into a cleaner receiving water and
achieve criteria at the downstream margin of the mixing zone.
Passive Treatment: Sediment Ponds –Discharge impacted water into the sediment ponds to facilitate loss
of entrained sediments.
Passive Treatment: Land Application –Surface application of mine affected water encouraging plant and
soil treatment of affected water. Applied water would eventually report to shallow water and deeper water
aquifers
Passive and Active: Treatment: Deep Injection of Contaminated Water into the Groundwater –Delivery of
impacted non-attainment water into the deep groundwater system using large diameter deep injection well
or wells. This recharges the regional aquifer.
Active Treatment: Chemical Water Treatment –Treatment of mine impacted water using chemicals to
modify water chemistry, and various physical treatment reagents to modify physical characteristics.
Active Treatment: Mechanical Water Treatment –Treatment using large filter systems to remove
undesirable elements to achieve criteria.
Active Treatment: Ground water Extraction and Re-Injection –Groundwater extraction wells are used to
remove water from the system so that the water does not affect mine operations and re-injection down
gradient of the extraction area. Ground water extraction wells are often used to extract groundwater from
the mine pit area so that water does not impact the safety of the mine nor deliver excess water to the mine
pit.
Combination of two or more of the above treatment methods would likely be implemented during
operations in order to handle the volume of water that impacts the property and to manage this water in the
most environmentally acceptable manner.

4.1.2 Pit Dewatering

During pit excavation and mining, water is anticipated to enter the MP from both groundwater and surface water
sources. Two water diversion dams will be constructed to contain and divert runoff that might enter the open pits.
The water will be routed into diversion ditches that will transport the water down gradient where it would be
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delivered to the appropriate treatment system. The proposed water diversion system and open pits are illustrated in
Figure 7.

4.1.3 Process Facilities

All ore mined from the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association open pits will be hauled for processing.
4.1.4 Waste Rock Disposal Facilities
Acid Generating (AG) and Potentially Acid Generating (PAG) waste rock material will be disposed of in the bottom
of the MP on completion of mining. The Non-Acid Generating (NAG) waste rock may be used for other purposes at
the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Mine, including construction of diversion dams upstream of the open pits
and as road base material for internal haul roads. The NAG waste placed in a waste rock facility will be covered with
growth material and reclaimed at the completion of mining.
NAG Waste rock will be stored in a single dump located to the north of the Main pit. The dump will have a final
height of about 40 m and has been designed with an adequate factor of safety to ensure stability. The dump will be
constructed at angle of repose but will be configured in 20 m lifts allowing re-sloping to 3:1 in order to permit re-
vegetation as required.

4.1.5 Waste Rock Characterization

The potential to create acid drainage is related to the presence of sulfide minerals in waste rock excavated from the
pit. The creation of acid drainage occurs when the sulfide material is subject to oxidation, which requires aerobic
conditions and sufficient quantities of water. This process is increased through the catalyzing action of certain types
of bacteria.
The waste material has been classified into three types:
 Non-Acid Generating (NAG);
 Potentially Acid Generating (PAG); and
 Acid Generating (AG).
The Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association waste rock produces acidity (conversion of sulfides to sulfates
with the resulting production of free hydrogen ion or acidity). However, the Sultan S.S Gold Mining
Association Special Small Scale rock also produces neutralizing potential (buffering capacity) that
neutralizes the acidity that is produced so that the resulting waste rock interaction is the production of
neutral water. This means that based on the humidity cell test data, the waste rock will not produce acid
rock drainage. However, the fact that the waste rock and ore might produce excessive levels of arsenic and
could create acidic conditions are possibilities that the Company recognizes and have taken measures to
mitigate, so that the impacts of the mine are minimized to the extent practical and possible.
The information that is provided in this report is a valuable management tool. The Company used this
information to design waste rock storage facilities and water management programs that would address any
issues that might develop with respect to elevated Arsenic or the possibility of acid generation.

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4.1.6 Water Management
Mining is expected to encounter groundwater below the valley floor. Temporary sumps will be established
on each bench. A submersible pump using generator power will pump water from the pit via a pipeline to
the diversion ditch which will carry it to the sedimentation pond. Two diversion dams will be constructed
south and northwest of the pit to prevent runoff from entering during spring thaw or thunderstorms.
The monitoring pond will contain the water that has spilled over from the sedimentation pond. This pond
will be approximately 6 m depth. Water in the monitoring pond will be held behind the dam and released
once applicable water quality standards have been met. The sedimentation monitoring pond will be sized to
contain a one in 20-year, 24-hour storm event. To reduce seepage from the monitoring pond a low
permeability soil layer will be used where necessary.
During mining, runoff and groundwater entering the pits will be pumped and discharged into a ditch,
located to the south of the Diversion Channel (Figure 5). This run-off is diverted to the
sedimentation/monitoring pond. Surface water runoff and seepage from the WRDFs and stockpiles will
also be routed directly to the sedimentation/monitoring pond and monitored prior to discharge.
Diversion ditches will be constructed to prevent runoff from the surrounding watersheds from entering any
of the mine facilities.
Surface water runoff from the mine truck shop and office area will be channeled and collected in a storm
water pond adjacent to the facilities as presented in Figure 7. Water quality will be monitored and measures
taken to ensure that water discharged into the environment meets applicable standards taking into account
pre-existing levels of contamination.

4.2 Open Pit Mining

4.2.1 Open Pit Exploitation
Two pits (MP) are planned for the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Mine. The mining process
proposed for this mining is a standard truck haulage operation with a drill, blast, and load and haul cycle.
Loading will be completed with front-end loaders and haulage with 50-tonne rigid body end dump trucks.
A normal support fleet of bulldozers and graders will assist the mining operation. A backhoe will provide
ore cleaning along the contacts of ore and waste. Ore material will be separated into oxide and sulfide ore,
and hauled to its respective destination. The oxide ore will be hauled directly to the BGM facility.

4.2.3 Mine Exploitation Parameters

Open pit design: Pit slope bench heights are designed to be spaced at 5-8 m intervals vertically, with face
angles at 60-700 depending on material type. Safety berm widths will range from 8 m to 10 m. Haulage

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ramps are designed to be 22 m wide to facilitate single lane traffic for 90 t trucks or double lane traffic for
50t trucks. Ramp grades have been designed at 10%.
Mining procedure: Primary loading will be performed by two 3.5-cubic meter hydraulic excavators in
backhoe configuration. The excavators will load a fleet of six 20-tonne rigid-frame haul trucks. A 3.7cubic
meter front-end loader CAT988 will provide back-up for the excavators. Massive rocks will be loosened
with blasting or drilling prior excavates and loads.
Drilling: Drilling will be performed by two blasts whole drill rigs drilling 127 mm holes on a four-meter
by four-meter pattern. Holes will be 5.5 meters deep allowing 0.5 meters for subgrade. Drilling equipment
are Tam rock D45K and Ingersoll-Rand DM45 with 200 kHz capacity.
Blasting: ANFO will be used for blasting and blasting will be conducted by a contractor once a week.
Loading will be with locally available packaged emulsion due to expected wet conditions below the valley
floor. Wherever possible, an ammonium nitrate/fuel oil mixture [ANFO] will be used. Initiation will be
non-electric using materials of Russian or Chinese manufacture. The design powder factor is 0.43
kilograms per bank cubic meter.
Also, portable mixing machine with 10 t will be used. Blasting substance will be stored in the safe
warehouse of the company and transported as demand.
No explosive warehouse will be constructed in the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association and transported
substances will be stored in the temporal warehouse. Blasting operation will be guided by personnel of
professionals.
Internal haulage: will be performed by CAT773D through main road. Mined waste rocks will be dumped
separately according to its properties. Dump trucks will be used to haul waste rocks for constructing road,
water diversion dams and tailings facility. Average vehicular distance is 300 m and 500 m for ore and soil
respectively.
Ore haulage: Ore will be stockpiled near the site entrance for loading into highway trucks. Reloading will
be performed by CAT5110 near MP open pit.
A fleet of 16 25-tonne trucks will haul oxide and sulfide ore from the Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association
Mine to the Akobo Minerals mill for processing. Chinese Howo Sino track will be used for external
haulage. When ore mining reach to 2800 tons per day, it will require 3 of dump truck.
4.3 Raw and Auxiliary Material, Final Product

4.3.1 Blasting substance and fuel

Blasting substance and fuel will be used commonly during mining operation. Blasting substance will be
stored in the warehouse of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association site and transported as demand. Wherever
possible, an ammonium nitrate/fuel oil mixture [ANFO] will be used. The blast holes will be loaded with
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bulk ANFO with a designed powder factor of 0.7 kg/bcm.
Annually, there will be drilled total of 4700 holes for 12000 m length and 42.5 t and 2740.0 t of blasting
substance will be used per year and during mining operation respectively. Total amount of fuel to be
supplemented is 566.9 t of diesel annually.
4.3.2 Radioactive Substance
No radioactive substances will be used during mine operation.

4.3.3 Final Product

It is planned to mine 0.015 Mt of oxide ore and 0.06 Mt of primary and transition ore and total outcome is
16,000 oz. (0.85 t) of bar gold.
4.4 Intermediate products and wastes
4.4.1 Intermediate product
No intermediate product to be produced through Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association gold mine operation.
4.4.2 Dust and gas emission
Dust will be generated primarily from mine blasting, wind, material transportation on dirt road, topsoil
loading and stockpiling. Especially in dry seasons, operations such as topsoil stripping, ore mining and
loading, blasting and drilling, material transportation and hauling are future sources of dust although
inconsistently.
Air pollutants from vehicle exhaust: will be generated from exhaust of mine machinery operations, ore
hauling to processing site, other vehicular traffic and facilities (diesel motors, temporary and emergency
stations). In the process of choosing mine machinery and equipment, consideration will be given to air
pollutant emission standards and fuel consumption efficiency.
Noise: During both construction and operation phase at “Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association” mine, noise
is expected to be generated as a result of blasting and mine machinery operations.

4.4.3 Solid waste

During mining operation, stripped overburden will stay dumped as a solid waste. Total amounts of waste
rocks and overburden is referred in detail in the Solid waste that originates from the man-camp will be
collected and disposed in a separate solid waste dump facility that is permitted for containment of solid
waste according to Ethiopia legislation. Throughout mine operation, 1.2 tons of solid waste will be
generated in volumes estimated using the following calculations:
Originate person generates an average of 1 kg of solid waste/day
40 people x 1 kg = 40 kg waste a day X 30 days = 1.2 tons per month

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4.4.4 Liquid waste
Daily water consumption per person is estimate consumption” and consumption is estimated at wastewater
treatment system will not be required for such low release of waste water.
5. Methodology & Public Consultation

5.1 Assessment methodology

This environmental impact assessment activity was conducted based on field assessments and public
consolations with the community neighboring the Association site, relevant stakeholders and the
proponent. Relevant document reviews also has took place. The Association proponent provided the
proposed Association design details. The data collection was carried out through structured questionnaires,
sampling and testing of environmental parameters, interviews and observations during site visits where
necessary in the manner specified in part of the environmental (impact Assessment and Audit)
Regulations, 2003.
Potential negative impacts and mitigation measures during construction and operation of the proposed
farm Association were taken into consideration during the study. The scope of this study was guided by
the requirements of the Federal Democratic republic proclamation No 299/2002. The studies were
includes:
 Definition of the Association’s sphere of influence
 Identification of stakeholder
 Scoping of key issues and development of the Terms of Reference for the study
 Consolation and public participation
 Carrying out the various baseline studies
 Impact analysis and the development of environmental and social management plan.
5.1.1 Desktop study
A desktop study was conducted to review available published and unpublished reports, development plans
and maps in order to compile relevant baseline biophysical and socio-economic information about the study
area. The biophysical information was compiled on environmental aspects such as climate, geology,
infrastructure, fauna and flora. On the socio-economic environment, the study compiled information on
aspects such as economic activities and demography.

5.1.2 Field survey

Field visits were conducted in the posed Association area in order to collect site-specific information on the
biophysical and socio-economic environment and to crosscheck the secondary data that had been complied

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during the desktop studied. While at the site, environmental data were recorded and potential impacts
identified. In addition, environmental features water and soil samples were taken and relevant ecological
aspects within the site were noted and record by using GPS.

5.1.3 Impact Assessment and Analysis

The assessment and analyses methodologies for EIA studies are based on multidisciplinary approaches and
structured manner to allow for holistic study and assessment of the following key components of the
environment in relation to the proposed Association: physical/chemical component, Biological /ecological
component, sociological /cultural component and economic/operational component.

5.2 Public consultation

Consultation with the people around the Association site was conducted to gather the community's opinion
about the Association and incorporate the public concern in the report. The community has no complain
about the Association activities and the discussion minute is attached as annex. The consultation was
conducted at the Association site with the presence of the Zonal and Woreda EFCCO experts and the
consultant environmentalist.
Direct public consultation/discussions have been carried out with the Addiskas Kebele people through
well-structured questionnaire and interviews. The consolations were means to give an indication of
whether the proposed Association is welcome and the immediate perceptions that the affected parties
associate with it. The consolations addressed the following:
 Inform the neighbors and stakeholders of the proposed construction and operations of the proposed
Association and its objectives:
 Establish if the neighbors and the stakeholders of the proposed Association foresee any positive or
negative environmental effects from it; and
 Seek views, concerns and opinions of the neighbors of the proposed Association and the
stakeholders of the Association.
Public Consultation Legal and policy requirement
5.2.1 Environmental management act (2007) and it EIA regulations (2012)
Public consultation is a crucial part of the EIA process. This provides an opportunity to stakeholders or
interested member of the public to find out more about what is being proposed, and to raise any issues or
concerns. Environmental Impact Assessment Proclamation, No. 299/2002 and its EIA, Directive,
No.1/2008 are the key documents governing environmental impact assessment in Ethiopia. One of the key
objectives of the Proclamation is to prevent and mitigate the significant effects of activities on the

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environment by:
Ensuring that there are opportunities for timeous participation of interested and affected parties throughout
the assessment process; and ensuring that the findings of an assessment are taken into account before any
decision is made in respect of activities.”
The key principle of Environmental Impact Assessment Proclamation, No. 299/2002 advocates for
Public participation. The principles states that “the participation of all i be promoted and decisions must
take into account, the interest, needs and values of interested and affected parties”.
Directive, No.1/2008 outlines procedure on public participation process as follows:
(2) “The person conducting EIA notice public to all potential consultant interested and affected parties of
the application which is subjected to public consultation by:
a) Fixing a notice board at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of the site
where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken;
b) Giving written notice to:
i. The owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be
undertaken or to any alternative site;
ii. The local authority council, regional council and traditional authority, as the case
may be, in which the site or alternative site is situated; iii. Any other organ of state
having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and
c) Advertising the application once a week for two consecutive weeks in at least two
newspapers circulated widely in Ethiopia.
(3) A notice, notice board or advertisement referred to in sub regulation (2) must -
a) Give details of the application which is subjected to public consultation; and
b) State:
i. That the application is to be submitted to the Environmental Commissioner in terms of
these regulations;
ii. The nature and location of the activity to which the application relates;
iii. Where further information on the application or activity can he obtained: and
c) The manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the application
may be made.
(4) When complying with this regulation, the person conducting the public consultation process must
ensure that a) information containing all relevant facts in respect of the application is made available to
potential interested and affected parties; and b) consultation by potential interested and affected parties is
facilitated in such a manner that all potential interested and affected parties are provided with a reasonable

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opportunity to comment on the application.
For the purpose of the Act and these regulations a notice is given to a person or a person is
informed of a decision, if a document to that effect is:
(a) Delivered personally to that person;
(b)Sent by registered post to the persons last known address;
(c) Left with an adult individual apparently r known address; or
(d)In the case of a business-
(i) Delivered to the public officer of the business;
(ii) Left with an adult individual apparently residing at or occupying or employed at its
registered address;
(iii) Sent by registered post addressed to the business or its public officer at their last
known addresses; or
(iv) Transmitted by means of a facsimile transmission to the person concerned at the
registered office of the business.”

5.2.2 Consultation process followed during the EIA process

Communication with stakeholders about the proposed Gold mining processing industry was
facilitated through the following ways
• Identification of stakeholders
• Written notices
• Notice boards
• Information documents
• Stakeholder meetings
• Reasonable opportunity for the public to register and comment on the Association
Public consultation conducted by Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC on April
2024 at Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association site at Maji Woreda, Addiskas Kebele local name Netube
River Area with stakeholders from Kebele Council and communities near to mining area .
Different issues and concerns are raised by nearby communities impacts of the industry how the proponent
will mitigate or reduce the negative impact of the Association pre-construction phase up to construction
phase agreed with the community”.
Table 5, below explains how the communication process was facilitate using the above mentioned ways.
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 Table 5 Public consultation process
Steps Description of the process Time allowed
Identification of Keys stakeholders were identified andThe registration process was
stakeholders Included in the register. Contact details formaintained throughout the EIA
I&APs were obtained from their offices. Process
Written Notices: Written notices were provided to relevantThe letter was send two weeks before
authority such the Maji woreda & Addiskasthe public meeting.
Kebele Council Administers.
Notice boards: Posters were placed at strategic locations inPut up two weeks before the public
Addiskas Kebele meeting.
Information A background Information Document (BID) Continued throughout the process
Background was compiled. The BID contained the information every time someone registered.
Documents of the Association. The BID was forwarded to
all authorities and registered stakeholders.
Meetings: A consultation meeting was held at Public meeting on the 3 April
Addiskas Kebele Council. About 10 I&Aps 2024. Two weeks were allowed for
attended the meeting. The list of register can found registrations before the public
meeting.
on.

5.2.3. Limitation of the public consultation process

The following factors limited the public participation process:
• Delivery of letters, Notice Board Posters and BID by hand is timing consuming.
• Most people were on leave and sometimes not reachable on the contact
numbers when the Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC
was contacting them.
• Some stakeholders don’t have access to email.
5.2.4 The interested and affected parties (I & AP)
There I & APs for this Association were identified using information from the existing Safe Development
Consultant & Training Service PLC stakeholder database. Notices were placed in various newspapers
inviting the public to register as interested and affected parties. Organizations were also selected whom the
consultant considered to be interested in or affected by this particular Association. An I&APS can be
defined as ‘(a) person, group of persons or organization interested in or affected by an activity; and (b) any
organ of state that may have jurisdiction over any aspect of the activity.

5.2.5. Outcome of the public engagement

The main issue that is drawn from the public participation is that the public were interested in the
Association regardless of its magnitude, duration and the number of people to be employed.

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5.2.6. Key issues identified during the public engagement process
During the public participation process the following keys issues were identified:
• Number of people to be employed in the Association
• The duration of the EIA process
• Management of waste both solid and liquid waste
• Safety measures in place for employees
The identified keys issues during the public participation process together with the issues identified in
section 2 above were assess for potential impacts in section 7 below.
6. Potential Impacts of the Association
6.1. Identification of key issues
Potentially significant impact identified from the baseline conditions, legal requirement, and public
participation process were screened to obtain issues that require further investigation or assessment and
those that doesn’t required further w chart below investigate was used for the screening of potential issues.

Figure 4 shows the process to identify impacts

6.2 Methodology adopted to Determine Potential Impacts

The following methods were used by all specialists to determine the significance rating of
impacts identified:

6.2.1. Description of Impact

The specialists identified potential impacts of the proposed Association on the receiving environment.
They were tasked to consider the following:
The type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the environment; what will

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be affected; and How will it be affected?
The sources of risk are, where possible, based on accepted scientific techniques. Failing this, the specialists
made a professional judgment based on expertise and experience. All potential impacts that result from the
proposed Association have been evaluated for the full life-cycle of the Association, namely, construction,
operations, and decommissioning phases.
The application of the below criteria (Table 5) to determine the significance of potential impacts uses a
balanced combination of nature, extent, duration, and intensity/magnitude, modified by probability,
cumulative effects, and confidence.

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 Table 6 Definition of criteria for assessing significant impact

Criteria Description
Reviews the type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the relevant component of the
Nature environment and includes “what will be affected
Indicates whether the impact will be site specific; local (limited to within 15 Km of the a
regional (limited to ~100 Km of the area); national (limited to the borderline of Ethiopia); or
Extent international (extending beyond Eth
Reviews the lifetime of the impact, as being short (days, <1 month), medium (months, <1 year),
Duration long (years, <10 years), or permanent (generations, or >10 years).
Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or innocuous and whether or not it
exceeds set standards, and is described as none (no impact); low (where natural/ social
environmental functions and processes are negligibly affected); medium (where the
environment continues to function but in a noticeably modified manner); or high (where
environmental functions and processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease
Intensity and/or exceed legal standards/requirements).
Considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and is described as improbable (low
likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), highly probable (most likely) or definite (impact
Probability will occur regardless of prevention measures).
Degree of
Confidence
In Predictions Is based on the availability of specialist knowledge and other information.

6.3. Pressure on Natural Resources for Energy

Mining activities have been witnessed to result in unintended consequences on the natural resource status
of the place where they are implemented. One among these conditions inducing environmental catastrophe
is overwhelming demand for sources of energy. Mass flock of youth and establishment of settlements of
mining communities create unprecedented demand for fire wood, charcoal, construction of make shift
camp are few among others.
Assessment in the field revealed that implementing this Association will have minimal consequence in
depleting natural resources so as to fulfill the demand for energy dependent on natural resources. As a
small-scale micro mining Association operating in clearly defined physical space and predictable human
resource is not expected to cause major destruction on the environment due to demands for energy.
Furthermore, the area as indicated in the areal Map has been covered with savanna grass and shrubs which
necessities use of green energy sources like solar panel. Hence the Association enveloped strategies
indicating a plan to use green sources of energy to reduce major destruction on the environmental
wellbeing.

6.4 Soil quality

Studies that were aiming to identify potential locations for investment having significant impact for local

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and national development in West Omo zone of south west Region mapped out their respective
compatibility to investment choices like agriculture, mining, animal ranching and so forth.
In this regard the specific investment area licensed for this particular Association was already delineated
for its suitability for mining activities as secondary sources of data obtained from zonal and regional office
of investment indicated. Thus, the site where this investment Association is licensed to operate is in
harmony with studies already produced by responsible stakeholders in the sector.
Apart from this the planned mining Association indicated in the interview about their determination to
proactively engage in planting trees and building structures helping to deter soil erosion and recovery of
spaces left after production. Findings regarding impacts on soil quality and plans for future endeavors has
found out that there are sufficient preparations to alter major depletion on the existing soil quality and
adequate plan to conserve and rehabilitate as well.
6.5 Air quality
Mining activities that have undergone procedures undermining environmental and human wellbeing often
remained active cause for complication of human health as experiences across the board reveals. As
findings in several studies disclosed mining activities using machines and chemicals pollutes air, which
thus have multiplicity of dysfunctional consequences on the wellbeing of life in general.
Team of experts in this study attempted to uncover if there plans to use chemicals and activities that trigger
dissemination of pollutants. It found out the scale of the planned which will be dependent on intensive
utilization of human labor, and use of small machineries expected to induce insignificant pollutant
undermining the quality of air.
6.6 Impact on sensitive ecosystems
Mining activities have been witnessed to halt the natural web of interdependence among components in a
given ecology or ecosystem. Disrupting a section may contribute for consequent extinction of the rest.
Team of experts attempted to grasp the varying composition of fauna and flora in the ecological complex
of the locality. Diversion of rivers, extraction in wet land, creating man made holes and related mining –
induced landscapes are few among unpleasant condition harming sensitive ecosystems. It is found out that
the site licensed for implementing this particular mining Association is distant to wet lands and
conservation zones like Omo National Park, which has been hosting unique flora and fauna.
The site is located in the semi- arid parts of the zonal administrating covered with tiny spices of fauna and
flora whose overall wellbeing could not come under imminent threat due to the operation of this mining
Association. Besides activities that are to be undertaken in the mining process will not halt the natural
courses or routes that wild animals make use of four their seasonal and cyclical migration.
6.7 Exotic species & pest
Exotic spices that induce counterproductive consequences on the wellbeing of fauna and flora are often
introduced to human and natural environment due irresponsible use of chemicals being used by mining
companies or Associations.

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Consequences of such ill effects are often not contained within the boundaries of a specific area
expropriated for the Association. They rather canvas places far distant from the initial space of the
Association and yet could trigger environmental catastrophe in places and people dwelling beyond
borders some time.
The situation will have immense impact on the livelihoods of communities who have adapted to livestock
rearing or pursue pastoral and semi pastoral way of survival like the Suri and Mein ethnic groups of West
Omo Zone.
Given this general experience, exploration by study team was undertaken in the site and found out that
small scale micro Association planning to use human labor intensively and small machineries will not
make use of chemicals which will give birth to exotic spices and pests.
This mining Association has further stated in its plan about their commitment to audit its catchment and
surrounding operators on emergence and proliferation of such spices having unforeseen consequences
harming ecological wellbeing and livelihoods.
6.8 Human safety
Precautionary measures related to mining activities have increasingly become important and mandatory.
The Association has explicitly outlined a plan which is conscious of putting human safety first and
minimizes the expected risks in three major aspects.
The first one is preventing major landslide. As it is indicated by members of the Association that they will
seek continuous support of experts trained in geological survey across all phases of the Association predict
and consult for mitigation strategy. Consistent with the Association will not use mining explosives to
demolish structures and ease mining activities. This alternative although found efficient in minimizing
monetary costs may end up in landslides costing lives and cause lasting disruption in environmental and
human wellbeing.

6.9. Maintenance of the historical, cultural, or religious landscape

Areas that are delineated as potential spaces for investment in in West Omo Zone are assesses if this mining
Association has undesirable consequences on historical, cultural and religious landscapes. Exploration
began with observing maps on tourism development and strategic plan of ecotourism plan of the zonal
administration. These official documents were devoid of statements or articulated facts on significance of
landscape licensed for this Association to have any historical, religious or cultural meaning. Besides
interview with community elders revealed that the landscape lacks any symbolic significance thus pursuing
mining activity in the landscape will not have counterproductive consequences on the culture, history and
religion of people dwelling in the locality.
Similarly, the team of experts examined if there are material artifacts that are representing the historical
past and remain significant in expressing the
Exploration in the site and interview with community representatives has not indicated undesirable

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consequences on such treasures due to implementation of such Association.
Activities following the implementation of the Association are also expected to cause no damages on the
scenery of the locality. As a micro Association using intensive human labor for most of its activities, thus
does not have significant impact in shattering the pre-existing environmental landscape

6.10. Change in social structure & way of life

Exploration in the field aiming to see the existing arrangement in the labor division of surrounding
communities revealed there will be no prospects that children will engage in labor activities that enhance
vulnerability to child labor exploitation. Similarly, women of the locality will not make such alternatives
as viable sources of income generation. Because as discussion with informants noted mining activities that
are traditionally operated in the area had been pursued by adults originated from distant parts of the
country. Local communities who are making a living through pastoral or agrarian mode of survival rarely
sought earnings from mining related activities. As a result, there will be no reorganizations in the
customary arrangement of labor and parallel circumstances in the power structure of the locality.
Besides there have been no manifest indicators that implementing the Association will result in escalation
of tension in the social fabric of communities living in proximity to the mining site Furthermore survey
conducted to assess prospects of pressure on the social service institutions specially instituted by public
fund are not pressured or overwhelmed due disproportion inflow of mining communities. Thus State-
sponsored health care facilities are not expected to be pressured by population explosion following the
implementation of mining activities.

6.11. Impact on patterns Land-use and tenure systems

Licensing Mining activities and expropriating physical spaces for private firms often get conflicted with
pre-existing land tenure system instituted by local communities. Discussion with informants at grass root
and officials in charge of administering land disclosed that land tenure as a social institution is a patterned
and socially sanctioned relationship governs the entire web of community life.
Thus, cognizant of the indispensable role it has, team of experts attempted to assess implication of the
Association with regard to ill effects in inter-group relations and consequences on interaction between and
among groups in their customary system of land tenure.
Findings revealed that local populations which had exercised pastoral and semi agrarian way of life had
rarely chosen this Association’s site for their population reported to have no custom in making use of these
space for slash and burn agriculture as well as informants noted.

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6.12 Impact on economy
Implication of the mining Association in the local economy is assessed so as to map out its pros and cons.
Assessment results uncovered that the Association is valuable not only in activating the local economy as
such, but also expected to catalyze the economic activities of the area and beyond.
Apart from creating job opportunities for youth, it will contribute for inflow of several service delivery
Associations to the locality and play its part in transforming the rural economy in the peripheral part of the
country.
As assessments in the field further revealed implementation of the Association and consequent
developments in the business environment will not displace local skills and lead into bankruptcy. It rather
expected to play immense role in increasing the amount return that pastoral communities gain and
contribute for changes in the business environment where pastoral communities had disproportionally
rewarded for their products.

6.13. Human Health

Experiences of humanity since the beginning of using mining products to accelerate modernization and
technological advancement revealed activities that had offered minimal or no attention to both short term
and long-term consequences on human health. use of Carcinogenic substances like asbestos Quartz dust,
nickel dust Radio-active substances, Heavy metals- lead, and mercury found to set risks central nervous
system illness, disorder psychiatric wellness, and so forth. Besides blasting in open pit mining causes
hearing impairment, disturbance of sleep & psychosomatic illnesses. Assessment on this Association in
lights of the above noted cause of ill effects on human health have revealed no plan to use the above stated
chemical in the process of extraction and the very size and scale of operation does not require use of such
substances.
7. Mitigation strategies
7.2 Waste Minimization

Waste minimization means the reduction, to the extent practical, of the volume or relative toxicity of liquid
or solid wastes that are generated and subsequently treated and require disposal. Waste minimization
focuses on source reduction, recycling, and treatment to allow for beneficial reuse. Due to the difficulty
and cost associated with transporting materials to the site, and potential cost of landfilling unwanted
materials, site management will include standard waste minimization practices. Wherever possible, re-use
of recoverable material in all operations should be considered. The waste generating potential of all
materials to be employed at the site will be assessed prior to ordering or contracting. The evaluation will be
directed at waste minimization and control of all hazardous materials that might be required. Oils,

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lubricants, paints, process chemicals, and other potentially hazardous waste-generating materials will be
characterized and more environmentally acceptable alternatives sought where possible.
Re-use of process water at the Association area will be a major application of waste minimization. Because
water supply is limited in the Association region and extraction of a large amount of water from the nearby
River could result in significant impacts to the river ecology, every effort will be made to conserve water
and re-use process water. It is estimated that 95 percent of the water supply will come from previously used
process water. Dredge ponds and settling ponds will be constructed with special engineering design to
ensure suitable water quality will be achieved before process water is re-used.
This process does not generate significant volumes of waste water, as the dredging and mining recirculates
water from the dredge pond. The process recycles the sediment to the dredge pond. This sediment is the
only constituent of what might be considered waste water and is the natural soil, silt, sand and gravel from
the dredge pond site. Other opportunities to achieve significant waste volume reduction, however, are
limited because waste volumes are primarily a function of activity level and characteristics of the placer
deposits to be mined.
For example, the volume of overburden and tailings are primarily a function of the depth and the grade of
the placer ore bodies. Also, the volume of wastewater is generally a function of the volume of the ore that
needs to be processed. Some opportunities exist for further waste minimization and efforts will be made to
exploit them. These include: eliminating unnecessary crating and packaging materials prior to delivery to
the site; segregating certain scrap materials from the waste stream for reuse in other aspects of the
operation; using combustible materials as a supplemental local heating fuel; and using non-toxic organic
wastes as a soil amendment to facilitate reclamation success or as a fertilizer.
7.2. Solid Waste
7.2.1. Domestic Solid Wastes
Domestic solid waste management begins with on-site storage. Improperly stored refuse may attract insects
and rodents, present a fire hazard, be an unattractive nuisance, produce odors and present a health hazard.
Domestic solid wastes will be generated at the mine camp dredges and wash plant. The wastes included in
this category are mostly trash from daily life, packaging refuse of glass, tin, aluminum, plastic, cardboard,
and light papers, but also include organic wastes such as food scraps generated by the kitchen facilities,
and other consumer wastes that are either inerrable or land fillable. A large proportion of typical domestic
solid wastes (about 60 to 70 percent) will be combustible and could be disposed of by incineration,
although the non-combustible fraction would need to be segregated and buried at landfill site either prior to
or after incineration.
Recycling and reusing the refused materials will be a routine practice at all TERT facilities. An on-site
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sanitary landfill will be constructed according to MNE requirements, and inspected regularly.
The general procedural requirements for management of domestic solid wastes include:
 Determine the quantity of wastes;
 Characterize the waste materials;
 Establish sanitary landfill disposal site;
 Utilize incineration with landfilling of incinerator residuals;
 Develop and install waste collection system;
 Encourage recycling; and
 Mandate use of waste receptacles by all employees.

7.2.2 Industrial Solid Wastes

Overburden and tailings are the most significant solid wastes generated from placer mining. Since no
chemicals will be added in the placer mining operations and no any other chemical processes (such as
oxidization) are expected to occur, the composition of the overburden and tailings are almost identical to
their natural unmined counterparts. Concurrent reclamation of the overburden and tailings stockpiles will
be conducted by Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Gold Mining to eliminate long-term impacts.
Detailed description on erosion and sedimentation control was presented in the previous section.
Industrial wastes generated during the mining operations will include empty paint cans, scrap metals, trash
and debris (packing materials), empty drums, used tires, drum reinstate, and retired equipment.
The management of industrial wastes includes minimization, recycling and source separation between non-
hazardous solid wastes and hazardous chemical wastes. Scrap metal and packing materials will be
collected and stored for recycling. A handling procedure for used drums and oil filters will be established
to prevent spillage, loss or damage. All used containers, construction materials, and equipment will be
returned to the suppliers, if possible. Other non-hazardous solid wastes will be separated and disposed of
by incineration or landfill.
7.3. Sustainable Natural Resource Management
7.3.1 Air Quality
The sources of air emissions include:
 Fugitive dust from mine operations, topsoil stockpiles, overburden and tailings piles, roads
and camps; and,
 Mobile and fixed sources with exhaust gases from diesel combustion to power certain
mining equipment (e.g., cutter suction dredges, excavators, bulldozers, back-up generators,
and vehicles).

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There will be no process air emissions from the operations.
A fugitive dust control plan will be implemented during the life of the Association. Fugitive dust will be
periodically monitored to ensure compliance with Ethiopian and international standards.
Mitigate measures will include the following:
 Use of haul routes which minimize hauling distances.
 All mining equipment and vehicles will be kept in good mechanical order and will be tuned-up
regularly to maximize efficiencies and minimize fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
 Periodic application of water to the roads as necessary to reduce dust. The source of the water will
be from groundwater or from pits.
 Reclamation and re-vegetation of overburden, tailings, pits, and other disturbed areas will be
conducted as soon as mine activities in that area are finished, with appropriate grading and
contouring of soil material, and potential application of water sprays as necessary to minimize the
amount of disturbed land exposed to wind. 7.3.2 Water Quality

7.3.2.1 Surface Water and Groundwater

The largest sources of potential impacts to surface water and groundwater quality include:
• Surface runoff from disturbed areas such as overburden, tailings, pits, roads and camps;
• Sediment ponds;
• Sewage treatment and disposal; and,
• Potential spills of fuel and lubricants.
The Association will incorporate appropriate mitigation measures designed to prevent, or minimize
alteration of surface water and groundwater hydrology, and degradation of water quality.
Good international industry practices, which will be used to control surface erosion and suspended solids
in storm water runoff, will include structural (e.g., sediment ponds) and non-structural (e.g., maintenance
and management measures) approaches. These practices will be employed wherever soils are disturbed and
construction activities occur.
Large rainfall events and snowmelt in the spring frequently cause water levels of the main streams to
increase, and backwater conditions propagate upstream in adjacent tributaries. Therefore, providing
Sediment tank adequately managing large volumes of water (rainfall and flooding), and mitigating any
flooding and erosion issues on-site and downstream, are key site water management issues.
7.3.3 Reclamation and Re-vegetation
7.3.3.1 General
Reclamation and vegetation is one of the most important parts of the general decommissioning and closure
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program. In general, the overall goals for reclamation and vegetation in the Association area are to provide
both short- and long-term erosion controls; ensure land use compatibility with surrounding lands; and to
leave the reclaimed areas at least as a self-supporting ecosystem. There will be potential enhancement of
wildlife habitat in constructed wetland system that will be integrated with the nearby River Valley as a
result of reclamation of former dredge/sediment ponds and spoils stockpile areas. The goal is to return the
mining area to a higher level of environmental integrity, as an ecological preserve with enhanced riparian,
wetland, and open water values. Increases in wetland, riparian, and open water habitats represent a
significant biodiversity offset for the Association. Protection of the undisturbed upland areas from
excessive grazing will enhance the biodiversity and wildlife values as well as the productivity of the
rangeland.
Direct activities of the operations that will require reclamation include mining sites and overburden/tails
stockpile areas; indirect activities include settlement/contractor services, waste dumps and willow thickets.
In spite of the many complex direct and indirect impacts that will require a reclamation/re-vegetation
program, mining activities also present a high potential for habitat enhancement of the River in the area
floodplain system for both wildlife and vegetation through the creation of a wetland system in former
dredged areas. The areas of wetland, riparian and open water habitats will increase biodiversity of the area,
and represent a significant biodiversity offset. Elimination and management of grazing also supports the
biodiversity offset by increasing vegetation species, and viable terrestrial habitats of the entire Association
area. It will be necessary to greatly reduce or eliminate grazing to restore the reclaimed areas and the
adjacent areas that are now seriously overgrazed.

7.3.3.2 Re-vegetation
Replacing willow stands through a standard replanting program in riparian areas will be important in re-
establishing wildlife habitat and in being proactive in controlling erosion. The current mine plan does not
involve any operations within 100 m of the channel, which will protect the current willow habitat;
however previous mining activities, firewood cutting, and overgrazing has reduced the willow populations
along the channel of the River. A program for vegetation planting of willows in areas where willow
thickets have been disturbed or removed is a low-cost program and “cuttings “ from Restoration of willow
thickets is especially important in creation of habitat for wildlife and in soil conservation.
7.3.4 Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Since placer deposits are mostly located near surface water drainages, a major environmental issue
involves potential turbid runoff from erosion of overburden stockpiles and unsettled process waters that
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could flow into receiving waters. This can increase the turbidity of the river and produce excessive amount
of sedimentation, which could severely impact the eco-system of the river. It has been reported that
turbidity of the nearby River in the Association region increased significantly (up to 37 times; World
Bank, 1998) during the active placer mining season (see Water Quality section). Monitoring of turbidity
during summer 2008 showed increases of turbidity (5 to 13 times) from nonpoint source inputs. Erosion
from the overburden stockpiles and uncontrolled process water discharge are believed to be the major
cause. Proper design, construction and maintenance and operation of the settling ponds and overburden
stockpiles are therefore, the keys for erosion and sedimentation control. A 50-m buffer strip of undisturbed
land surface with vegetation will be maintained between the soil stockpiles and the active stream channel
to capture and trap escaped sediments, with no mining occurring without EPA approval within 100 m of
the active stream channel. Sediment fencing will be installed between all mining activity and the River
proper. A minimum of five meters will be kept between settling ponds and any surface water drainage.

7.3.5 Protection of Flora and Fauna

Protection of flora and fauna and mitigation of terrestrial and aquatic ecology systems will be important
initiatives for the Association. These initiatives may include establishing a voluntary conservation zone for
the Association area, eliminating and/or minimizing grazing in Association area, and support of a periodic
environmental monitoring program for certain key organism groups.
To accomplish an effective program aimed at the protection of the flora and fauna of the Association area,
an ecosystem-based approach is to be adopted. This approach assumes that interaction of the physical and
biological environment, in addition to the human component, is essential on a local and regional scale to
the successful maintenance of biodiversity within the Association area and immediate surroundings.

7.4. Occupational Health and Safety Measures

The following safety practices will be adopted by MAJI-ANDINET and will be observed by all personnel,
contractors, and visitors:
 All visitors will be escorted at all times and will receive a safety briefing before visiting the site.
 All personnel will wear hard-hats and steel-toe boots in the vicinity of the dredge and other
operating machinery.
 There will be absolutely no smoking within the perimeter of the dredge, or within 200 m of fuel and
lube storage facilities.
 There will be no drinking of alcoholic beverages while on duty. Personnel reporting to work
intoxicated will be immediately fired and escorted from the site by security.

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  There will be no burial of flammable or hazardous wastes.
 Safety rules will be posted and prominently displayed at all proposed mining Association work
areas.
7.4.1 General Safety Features
General safety features will be incorporated into the construction and operation of all facilities at the
Association site. The company will ensure that protective gear and special work clothes (if needed) will be
provided, and that the gear will be cleaned and repaired when necessary, following the stipulations in the
Ethiopian Law on Labor. Other general safety features will include:

Shield guards or guard railings should be installed on all belts, pulleys, gears, or other machinery with
moving parts;

Elevated platforms should be equipped with guardrails, non-slip surfaces, and equipment should be
grounded, well insulated be provided around all hazardous areas (e.g., fuel loading and unloading
areas, open pits, spoil piles); and
 All facilities, equipment, and utilities should be located at a safe distance from each other as dictated
by law.
7.4.2 Employee Training
Employees will have to meet the basic requirements and certifications for the job prior to being hired (e.g.
engineering, accounting etc.). In addition, all employees have to go through basic health, safety and first
aid training upon employment and regularly thereafter, with the corresponding records duly kept. The
topics of training include both general health and safety in the workplace (safety awareness,
cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, safe lifting, operating in cold and hot environments, dangerous
chemicals, proper clothing and equipment, etc.). Field employees will undergo additional training as
required by the job description and may include equipment training, safety briefings and emergency
responses. A summary of the training program is for the company to:
 Sponsor and actively participate in a health and safety planning and training program that
emphasized education of the workforce;
 Promote safety such that it receives the highest priority and attention in training;
 Provide adequate personnel protection equipment for all employees;
 Implement a training program designed to conform to all applicable Ethiopian regulations; and
 Maintain clean and organized working conditions, including adequate ventilation, general good
housekeeping, security, and adequate lighting.

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7.4.3 Workplace Noise
Feasible administrative and engineering controls (such as sound insulation, mufflers etc.) will be employed
to reduce the average noise levels in normal work areas. Equipment will be properly. Maintained to
minimize noise levels if personnel are exposed to noise levels above 85 dBA, hearing protection equipment
will be provided and mandated.

7.4.4 General Health Features

Workplace health will be maintained by the company. Sanitary facilities will be properly maintained. Solid
waste will be disposed of properly away from population centers to avoid health problems. Hazardous
wastes will be properly segregated, labeled and stored in a properly secured location. There are no public
or private hazardous waste disposal facilities in Ethiopia. Hazardous materials will be stored, then disposed
of by incineration as may be permissible under Ethiopia Law on-site, or transported to a future site for
permissible disposal. Some potential may exist for disposal of hazardous wastes in high temperature kilns,
asphalt and/or paving plants, power plants, boilers, or other facilities as may be in alignment with
international best practices and approved by Ethiopian authorities.
7.5. Hazard Prevention and Emergency Response
7.6.1 Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is an integral part of major hazard prevention, and helps to ensure that small
issues do not turn into major environmental problems.
A preventative maintenance schedule will be set up for each facility. Preventative maintenance will be
conducted on a regular and frequent basis, and a record of all maintenance procedures will be maintained
on-site. Periodic inspections of storage tanks, secondary containment, on-site fuel transporting trucks and
diesel-powered dredges are necessary to protect against major accidents. During a regular inspection the
following items will be verified:
 Valves are in good working order and function correctly;
 Fuel storage tanks show no signs of corrosion or leaks;
 Berms or other secondary containment structures are maintained to specific dimensions for
containment and are free of cracks, weeds, and debris;
 Secondary containment areas are free of excess water, oil, or chemical residue;
 Equipment’s are operating according to eng
 Worn or damaged equipment parts are replaced as needed.
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7.6.2 Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Support
Fire prevention measures are put in place, including installation of a fire alarm system, fire extinguishers
and special equipment. In addition, employees shall be trained to use and maintain the equipment. Fire
detection equipment will be installed at strategic locations and maintained on a regular basis at the
Association site.
The company will establish an emergency response team to handle such incidents as fires and spills in the
Association region. Team members will have special training to deal with all types of emergencies. The
team will be equipped with a variety of special gear for dealing with emergencies.
A fire extinguisher will be carried in every mobile diesel-powered transportation mounted at a location
easily accessible to the operator and protected by position from external damage.

7.6.3 First Aid and Emergency Medical Services

FIRST AID
First aid is the immediate care given to victims of accidents before trained medical workers arrive. Its goal
is to stop and, if possible, reverse harm. It involves rapid and simple measures such as clearing the air
passageway, applying pressure to bleeding wounds or dousing chemical burns to eyes or skin.
The critical factors which shape first aid facilities in a workplace are work-specific risk and availability of
definitive medical care. The care of a high-powered saw injury is obviously radically different from that of
a chemical inhalation.
From a first aid perspective, a severe thigh wound occurring near a surgical hospital requires little more
than proper transport; for the same injury in a rural area eight hours from the nearest medical facility, first
aid would include-among other things-debridement, tying off bleeding vessels and administration of
tetanus immunoglobulin and antibiotics.
First aid is a fluid concept not only in what (how long, how complex) must be done, but in who can do it.
Though a very careful attitude is required, every worker can be trained in the top five or ten do's and don'ts
of first aid. In some situations, immediate action can save life, limb or eyesight. Co-workers of victims
should not remain paralyzed while waiting for trained personnel to arrive. Moreover, the "top-Ten" lists
will vary with each workplace and must be taught accordingly.
Type of work and associated level of risk
The risks of injury vary greatly from one Association and from one occupation to another. Even within a
single Association, such as a mining, metal working firm, different risks exist depending on whether the
worker is engaged in the handling and cutting of metal sheets (where cuts are frequent), welding (with the
risk of burns and electrocution), the assembly of parts, or metal plating (which has the potential of

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poisoning and skin injury). The risks associated with one type of work vary according to many other
factors, such as the design and age of the machinery used, the maintenance of the equipment, the safety
measures applied and their regular control.
The ways in which the type of work or the associated risks influence the organization of first aid have been
fully recognized in most legislation concerning first aid. The equipment and supplies required for first aid,
or the number of first aid personnel and their training, may vary in accordance with the type of work and
the associated risks. Countries use different models for classifying them for the purpose of planning first
aid and deciding whether higher or lower requirements are to be set. A distinction is sometimes made
between the type of work and the specific potential risks:
Low risk-for example, in offices or shops
Higher risk-for example, in warehouses, farms and in some factories and yards specific or unusual risks-for
example, in steelmaking (especially when working on furnaces), coking, non-ferrous smelting and
processing, forging, foundries; shipbuilding; quarrying, mining or other underground work; work in
compressed air and diving operations; construction, lumbering and woodworking; abattoirs and rendering
plants; transportation and shipping; most industries involving harmful or dangerous substances.
Potential hazards
Even in Associations which seem clean and safe, many types of injury can occur. Serious injuries may
result from falling, striking against objects or contact with sharp edges or moving vehicles. The specific
requirements for first aid will vary depending on whether the following occur:
 Falls
 Serious cuts, severed limbs
 crushing injuries and entanglements
 High risks of spreading fire and explosions
 Intoxication by chemicals at work
 Other chemical exposure
 Electrocution
 Exposure to excessive heat or cold
 Lack of oxygen
 Exposure to infectious agents, animal bites and stings.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PLAN

The environmental management plan involves risk management strategies that should be undertaken by
the Association proponent and the Association manager to mitigate environmental degeneration. There are
approaches to monitor, control, reclaim and restore the environment back to its appropriate state. EMPs for

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these Associations thus provide logical frameworks within which the identified issues of environmental
concern can be mitigated, monitored and evaluated.
Environmental monitoring involves measurement of relevant parameters, at a level of details accurate
enough, to distinguish the anticipated changes. Monitoring aims at determining the effectiveness of actions
to improve environmental quality. The environmental management and monitoring plans have been
developed and outlined to bring home the key findings of the study of the Association in mention,
recommending necessary mitigation actions, defining roles, monitor able indicators and the estimated cost.
This washing station EMPs outlined in tables hereafter address the potential negative impacts and
mitigation measures as well as roles, costs and monitor able indicators that can help to determine the
effectiveness of actions to upgrade the quality of environment; as regards to this mining operation.

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Table 7 SULTAN S.S GOLD MINING ASSOCIATION MINING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

ASPECT IMPACT OBJECTIVE MITIGATION/ENHANCEMENT FREQUENCY TIME PERFOMANCE

OF MONITORIG RESPONSIBLE
MEASURE FRAME COST (Birr)
INDICATOR
PERSON
Site Positive To sensitize all Site Training session on Environmental Planning for During Program For ethio diz 5,000/month education
training Enhance employees working at management/safety periodical all stages both employees And SPECIAL customers
the plant site Manager Safety
peopl Assessment. Of
skills operation

Erosion Negative Avoid Rehabilitate exposed areas to minimize Planning During Program For ethio safty
at Soil soil degradation erosion. Ensure proper usage of loose For Periodical all stages 5,000/month education bothEmployees
site Degradation N soils. assessment Of operation andcustomers

Air Quality Negative To eliminate and reduce Watering the ground to suppress any Regular During Exhaust fume 5,000/month
Air discomfort to workers and minute dust rising. inspections all stages emissions, unpleasant odor, Safety
pollution Maintain dust lev protective dust masks throughout the Of Manager dust are controlled.
surrounding communities
to workers. Control gaseous emissions from operation operation
To control the movement of Phase.
the mining opérations; Nox, Sox,etc
the heavy duty equipment
Solid waste Negative To • Disposal of waste will be limited to Regular During Absence of solid
management Land avoid approved solid waste disposal sites inspections all stages 5,000/month
nt pollution unwarranted disposal • Waste management protocols throughout the Safety
of solid waste. including designated storage areas for solid operation Of Manager
waste with segregation for recyclable Phase operation Waste.
materials
Noise Pollution Negative To Minimize noise Noise levels will be monitored, If Regular During Noise levels at
Due to peration Noise Disturbance to resulting results are above the recommended 80db inspections All The nearest safty 10,000/mon
activities Pollution from the operations of the Appropriate mitigation Measures Like throughout the stages of manager the receiver are minimized.
Plant provision Protective gears and appropriate operation of ear sensitive
clothing to the workers operating at Operatio
Phase N
the site; Use of well- maintained
machinery.

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 ASPECT IMPACT OBJECTIVE MITIGATION/ENHANCEMENT MEASURE FREQUENCY TIME PERFOMANCE RESPONSIB COST (Birr)
OF MONITORIG FRAME INDICATOR LE PERSON

Safety/He Negative To Periodic training and continual safety reminders Periodical Througho Operational “Tert ’’ 25,000/yr
alth Risk prevent to all operating staff and require periodic drills inspections Ut Manual on saftey
of accidents, In safety and emergency procedures; Ensure that all throughout the the Safety, Manager
workers injury workers are briefed on potential hazards operation plant Health
or and necessary safety precautions; Implementation Phase. cycle and
health risks to of emergency procedure on site; Use of clearly Environment
workers/publ labeled signage during and after the Association for construction
ic operational phase; workers
Proper labeling of machinery and equipment with is
the necessary pictorial and written instructions; developed
Ensuring that the employees wear protective and
clothing at all times during all the phases of plant available on site.
Activities
Oil Negative To prevent Oil shall be cleaned immediately any spill is noticed Planning Throughout Absence of oil Safety 20,0000/month
and contamination Vehicles shall be serviced in designated garage with for t the plant leaks Manager
fuel leaks of soils and concretized surface; All oils shall be properly kept in Periodical cycle ”
underground secure concretized room at the moto vehicle workshop assessment
aquifers
to avoid direct spillages to underground water.

Public Negative To Prevent Sufficient warning sign posters shall be installed in all areas Planning Throughou Evidence Safety 20,000/month
Health and public injury Or under maintenance and out of use. The speed limit signs for T of a Manager
safety Periodical the plant health workforce ”
health risks and /or humps for vehicles coming into the plant to be
assessment cycle and records.
toworkers/public provided.Speed humps to help reduce the speed of trucks on

the access roads will be built.

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 ASPECT IMPACT OBJECTIVE MITIGATION/ENHANCEMENT MEASURE FREQUENC TIME PERFOMANCE RESPONS COST (Birr)
Y OF MONITO FRAME INDICATOR IBLE
RIG PERSON

Occupational Negative To Implementation safety and health policies designed to Planning for Throughout Operational Special 25,000/yr
Safety prevent identify, evaluate, monitor and control health hazards Periodical the plant Manual Safety
and accidents, and provide safety training; assessment Cycle On Safety, Health and Manager
Health injury or health • There shall be a health scheme for the employees; Environment for
Risk risks • Employees shall be regularly trained and drilled construction workers
of Workers to is developed
to firefighting and safety techniques;
workers/public
• The firm shall ensure that all visitors are briefed on and available on site.
potential hazards and necessary safety precautions;
• Implementation of emergency procedure on site;
• Use of clearly labelled signage;
• Proper labelling of machinery and equipment with
the necessary pictorial and written instructions;
Flora & Fauna Negative To minimize good plant practices and replanting of exotic plants Planning for Throughout Presence Of undisturbed Safety 5,0000/month
due Loss disturbance within the plant Periodical Theplant areas within an around Manager
Site of Leave undisturbed areas to allow for natural vegetation assessment Cycle worksite Presence of
clearance. Flora to flourish for maintenance of fauna biodiversity green fields
& Implement a Landscaping plan for
Fauna establishment of
diversity green fields
Water quality To prevent Proper design of drainage system for storm water control Planning for Throughout the Effluent with in 12,000 birr/month
Accident or Monitoring and maintenance of sewerage Periodical plant life allowable limits Safety 115,000.Birr
System Monitoring effluent for quality and quantity, assessment Compliant Manager
health risks to
especially suspended solids, settled solids, BOD, COD quarterly
workers/public Audit and Monitoring
etc
TOTAL returns Well serviced

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 monitoring equipment

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 8.1 Budget Allocation to Mitigate the Impact
In general the mining activity will be concluding in the 20 years mining period of the activities may have a
significant impact on the environment. Particularly for this Association, the activities which have impact
on the environment are likely pitting and other mining activities and may also if it is necessary the making
of road construction accordingly, the cost required mitigating is also little compared to the cost of the
mining activities. The cost is allocated to refilling the pits and for reforestation purpose .the cost is
estimated to be 48,600 Eth birr to refill pits and reforest the destroyed vegetation respectively. The details
are shown the following Table.

Table 8 Details Budget Allocation to Mitigate the Impact of Ethio

diz Gold mining Producers Association
No Mitigation Description Cost
1 Rehabilitation of Gold mined Return the top soil and over burden to the mined area. 9,000
out area Re vegetation multipurpose tree planting.
Physical soil and water conservation activities.
2 Develop Storage facility Keep fuel and lubricants in the scaled container. 6000
including waste management Construct /purchase solid and liquid waste facility
3 Noise and dust reduction Use wet suspension and wind breaks. 7000
Regular maintenance of engineers and mechanics.
Purchase and maintain personal protective equipment.
Enclosing any continuous source of noise such as generator.
4 Skill development Training on business on development. 6000
program Technical skill development training on artisanal marble

5 Support community development Beneficiation and other area of interest 5600

program Contribute annual 1% CAPEX and or profit per local community
Development program.

6 Reduce health and safety hazards Provide worker with personal protective equipment. 7000
Provide first aid kits, fire extinguisher, alarm bell. And emergency
number Create awareness on HIV AIDS and STD prevention.
Trains worker on proper hygiene and sanitation practice and
preventive measure on top 10 disease in the area Ensure early
treatment for work
7 Monitoring and evaluation Establish monitoring system 8000
Monitoring the implementation of mitigation enhancement system.
Evaluate and audit the effectiveness mitigation enhancement
measure.

Total 48,600

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9. Conclusion and Recommendation
9.1. Conclusion
This particular mining Association has been pursued through appropriate procedures that are in harmony
with contemporary laws and regulatory norms needed in stages before licensing for operation. Activities
like requesting physical space for operation to consulting communities and their representatives have
gone through procedures that confirm legitimate procedures under gone.
Findings of the assessment have also revealed that positive outcomes outweigh those of the undesirable
ones. Expected benefits that will activate local economy and potentials in cementing urban rural linkages
seem to indicate the appropriateness’ is unlikely to cause significant impact in the ecological, sociocultural
and economic establishment of the locality.
It is also noticed that there will be minimal or no risk on the environmental wellbeing. Risks like depletion
of biodiversity and deterioration in sustainability of ecosystem due to execution of this mining Association
remain insignificant and unnoticeable.
Disorganization in economic and survival establishment of communities at receiving end of the
Association has also been found least observed or nonexistent. Materializing this Association on the
contrary may contribute for stimulating the local economy and functionally promote environment
protection activities.
Unforeseen consequences on religious, cultural and social fabric of communities have also been found
less evident or non- existent. Hence, there had been no overt cultural or religious function being
performed in the location to be transferred for mining purpose.
Overall in-depth assessment in the field using scientific tools revealed no deviation from the legal and
ethical standards of the Environmental country’s authority of law the country.
9.2 Recommendation for mining Association
1. Working closely with state and non-state development agents in environmental protection
and rehabilitation activities. The Association should commit itself in delivering both
financial and material support for initiatives having a wider goal of improving sustainable
recovery of environmental assets.
2. Installing standard facilities which will minimize or completely halt disposal of waste, having
undesirable impact on the adjacent environment and communities as well.
3. working with institutions of localities in strengthening health care facilities and equip them with
utilities needed to efficiently manage emergency services
4. strengthening mechanism of collaboration with local and zonal security organs which may
contribute for restoring peace across mining areas so that safety and security of the Association and
beyond will be ensured
5. Providing all the necessary equipment’s needed to ensure safety could rescue lives when
unforeseen risks occur
6. Creating a formal and legitimate work relation with employee as per the labor law of the country
and put lives before profit.

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Bibliography
• Abebe Senbete. (2018). Factors Affecting Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Supply: The Case of
Ethiopia. Unpublished MSc Thesis, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 10 pp.
• Beyene Tadesse (2016). Artisanal Mining Operation and its Economic Values, Ethiopia: Ethiopian
Extractive Industries Transparency initiative (EEITI). A final report.
• Centre for Development Studies (CDS) (2004). Livelihoods and Policy in the Artisanal and Small-
Scale Mining Sector. University of Wales Swansea, 7 pp.
• 12/02); available from: https://www.climatedata.eu/climate.php?loc=etzz0024&lang=en.
• Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) (2003). International Agreements and their
Implementation in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Ethiopia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EEITI) (2014). EEITI report for the year
ended unpublished technical report, EEITI, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 24 pp.
• Artisanal mining operation and its economic values, Ethiopia, EEITI, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 24 pp.
• Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE), Mining proclamation (No 52/1993),
Environmental Impact Assessment proclamation (proc.No 299/2002), Environmental Pollution Control
(proc.No 300/2002) and Mining Operations proclamation (No 678/2010 amended 816/2016). Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) (2010). Mining Operations Proclamation
No.678/2010 issued in Addis Ababa, 4th August, 2010.
• Hassan, E. (2016). Dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover Change (Lulcc) Using Geospatial
Techniques: a Case Study of Islamabad Pakistan, SpringerPlus. 51:1613–1636.
• https://www.theafricareport.com/56551/ethiopia-gold-mining-sees-recordgrowth -despite covid -
19 accessed on 23.04.2021.
• John, M.O. (2013). Mapping of Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPS) and Minerals Appropriate For
Artisanal Mining For Development in the Arid and Semi-Arid Areas of the IGAD Region.
Unpublished technical report, Nairobi, Kenya
• Mehari Girmay (2018). Assessment for Artisanal Gold Mining Impacts on Vegetation Ecology at
Shire Districts. 6(4): 54-58.
• Ministry of Mines (MOM) (2012). Artisanal Mining Activities in Ethiopia: - Challenges &
Opportunities. Unpublished technical report, MOM, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Natural Gas (MOM) (2016). Gold Technical Training Manual.
Unpublished technical report, MOM, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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• Ministry of Mines and Energy (MOM) (2016). National Report on Mining. Unpublished technical
report, MOM, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Sansheng Buliding Materials Association (SBMAssociation) (2020), Environmental and Social
Impact Assessment at Gambella Peoples National Regional State.

Appendix-2 TERMS OF REFERENCE

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTANCY WORK FOR CONDUCT OF

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 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT OF GOLD MINE
Title of Consultancy: Consultancy Work for conduct of Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) Report of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Special Small Scale
Gold Mine
Proponent: Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association
Consultant: Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC
Description of Assignment:
i. Conduct EIA in line with endorsed ‘Term development and operation of Sultan S.S Gold Mining
Association Gold Mine under Addiskas Kebele of Maji Woreda ,West Omo Zone.
ii. Guidelines for preparation of Environmental Management Plan for mining Associations (EIA
guidelines, 2000, Amendment 2013) Duration: 2 months
1. Background:
Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Natural Gas MOM (2016) reported gold occurrences are widespread in
Ethiopia. Exploitation of placer gold reportedly dates back at least 3,500 years. Over the subsequent
millennia, gold has been extracted nearly continuously to this day, although not always in large
quantities.
The main rock types of Ethiopia illustrated on the general are: the Precambrian metamorphic rocks with
associated syn- to post-tectonic intrusions which form the Basement Complex; the late-Paleozoic to
Mesozoic marine and continental sediments; the Cenozoic basic and felsic volcanic; and the volcano-
sedimentary and volcano classic rocks, associated with the Cenozoic volcanic, including Early Tertiary,
Late Tertiary and Quaternary sediments. These rock assemblages represent 23%, 25%, 34% and 18% of
the total surface area respectively (Solomon Tadesse et al., 2003).
Precambrian occurrences are being explored and exploited in the southern, western and northern
greenstone belts of Ethiopia. Precambrian rocks are the most important repositories for gold deposits. The
western greenstone belt stretches more than 600 kilometers from Maji (Akobo)-SW Ethiopia, and its
average width varies from 50 to 200 kilometers. The belt comprises region of South-west Region include
gold prospects at Akobo & its surrounding Maji Woreda Kebeles. The Akobo & its
surrounding Maji Woreda Addiskas Kebeles narrow greenstone sub-belt is a high potential target
for gold exploration. (http://www.gse.gov.et).
The current lease expires on October, 2025 and the government intends to auction the mine before
the expiry of the lease to ensure business continuity. For this purpose, the conduct of EIA is
prerequisite for auctioning of mine.
2. Objectives:
2.1 Mine planning and designing for development and operation of Sultan S.S Gold Mining

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 Association Gold Mine; and
2.2 Collect baseline data, assess impact based on the mine description and propose mitigation
measures.
3. Task to be carried out by the consultant:
The consultant under the guidance of the Focal Person of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association
shall carry out the following tasks but not limited to:
• Collect baseline data, conduct impact assessment and submit EIA report in line with
endorsed Terms of Reference (TOR) for conducting EIA for development and operation of
Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Gold Mine at Addiskas Kebele.
• Discuss and consult with Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association prepare mine plans
• Prepare and submit of Final Mine Feasibility Study Report in line with Guideline and formats for
Final Mine Feasibility Study Report (EIA guidelines, 2000, Amendment 2013) with reference to
“Report on the Geological Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Gold Reassessment Deposit
under Addiskas Kebele of Maji Woreda, West Omo Zone Netube River Area.
• Prepare and submit Environment Management Plan in line with the Guidelines for
preparation of Environmental Management Plan for mining Associations;
• Consult with Regional Environment Protection Authority and make presentation where
required for issuance of Environmental Clearance; and
• Presentation of the EIA, and the “successful Gold mine’’ prepare mine plans
4. Data, Services and facilities to be provided:
The following documents will be provided to the consultants:
• Report on the Geological Reassessment of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Deposit
under Addiskas Kebele of Maji Woreda, West Omo Zone.
• Endorsed Terms of Reference (ToR) for conducting EIA Report for development and
operation of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association Gold Mine under Addiskas Kebele of
Maji Woreda, West Omo Zone;
• Guidelines for preparation of Environmental Management Plan for mining Associations
(EIA guidelines, 2000, Amendment 2013); and
• Demarcation Map including geological and topographical survey GPS data.
5. Final output/deliverables
5.1 Environment Impact Assessment Report
5.2 Environnent Mitigation (Management) Plan Report (II)
5.3 Presentation files

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6. Reporting requirements:
The consultant shall report to Executive Manager of Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association, once
every month.
7. Timeframe:
The consultancy will be provided with 2 months to complete the task and following work plan shall apply:
• Submission of first draft along with presentation: march 2024
• Submission of second draft: Late-march 2024
• Submission of final draft along with presentation: late-April , 2024
8. Language requirement:
All reports and deliverables must be prepared and submitted in English.
9. Proposal
The consultant shall submit technical proposal detailing the following:
• A clear description of the approach/ methodology to be adopted for implementation of the
task including time frame for execution of the assignment
• Profile of consultant(s) and an outline of recent experience on assignments of similar in nature
• The consultant’s comments or suggestions
10. Reference:
Up to three references from similar past assignment shall be required for the expert/personnel
responsible/assigned for this consultancy.
11. Payments:
Payment will be done as follows: Award and signing of contract: 10% (Firm should submit security
deposit 10% of bank guarantees)
a. First Draft of the document: 30%
b. Submission of second draft: 30%
c. Final document acceptable to the procuring agency: 40%
12. Travel:
All envisaged travel costs are covered by the consultant based on agreed lump sum Contract.
13. Other matters:
The Association retains its right to accept or reject the proposals without any reasons, and cancel the
procurement service, if it deems so.
CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT
The agreement made on March, 3/2024 this contractual agreement is made between Safe Development
Consultant & Training Service PLC and Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association.
Authorized signature on the behalf of Safe Development Consultant & Training Service PLC

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 _________________
Mr. Tariku Alemayehu
General Manager of the Consultancy

Authorized signature on the behalf Sultan S.S Gold Mining Association

___________________

__________________
Chairman of the Association

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