SCOPING REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ...3.4.5 Mahonda Formation 24 3.4.6 Gomab River Formation 26 3.4.7 Khomas Complex 27 3.4.8 Geological Structures 28 3.5 Drainage and Hydrology 29

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SCOPING REPORT

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

FOR THE NAMIBIA SATELLITE DATA RECEIVING GROUND STATION IN WINDHOEK

University of Namibia

Centre for Grants Management &

Resource Mobilization

P. Bag 13301

Windhoek

Namibia http://www.unam.edu.na

This Scoping Report was

prepared by UNAM for:

JULY 2020

Republic of Namibia

Ministry of Higher

Education, Technology

and Innovation

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PROJECT DETAILS

Project Name

Construction of the Namibia Satellite Data

Receiving Ground Station in Windhoek

Proponent

Ministry of Higher Education, Technology &

Innovation (MHETI), Government of the Republic

of Namibia

Environmental

Assessment

Practitioner

(EAP)

University of Namibia

Centre for Grants Management & Resource

Mobilization

340 Mandume Ndemufayo Avenue

Pioneers Park

P. Bag 13301

Windhoek

Namibia

Report Status Final Version

Report date

23rd July 2020

Contact

Prof Isaac Mapaure

+264 61 206 3133

[email protected]

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES 5

LIST OF TABLES 6

LIST OF EXPERTS INVOLVED 7

ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS 8

1. INTRODUCTION 9

1.1 Purpose of this Scoping Report 9

1.2 The need and desirability of the proposed Project 9

1.3 Assumptions and Limitations 10

1.3.1 Assumptions 10

1.3.2 Limitations 11

1.4 Legal & Policy Considerations 11

1.5 THE PROJECT PROPOSAL 13

1.5.1 Preamble 13

1.5.2 Project Location – site and extent 14

2. APPROACH TO THE EIA 17

2.1 Purpose of an EIA 17

2.2 The EIA Process 18

2.3 Methodology 18

2.3.1 Site visit 18

2.3.2 Literature Review 19

2.3.3 Expert information 20

2.3.4 Public consultation 20

3. DESCRIPTION OF THE BASELINE ENVIRONMENT IN THE PROJECT AREA 20

3.1 Climate 20

3.1.1 Temperature 20

3.1.2 Precipitation 20

3.1.3 Wind 20

3.2 Topography and Land use 20

3.3 Soils 22

3.4 Geology 23

3.4.1 Hakos Group 23

3.4.2 Kudis Subgroup 23

3.4.3 Auas Formation 23

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3.4.4 Vaalgras Subgroup 24

3.4.5 Mahonda Formation 24

3.4.6 Gomab River Formation 26

3.4.7 Khomas Complex 27

3.4.8 Geological Structures 28

3.5 Drainage and Hydrology 29

3.6 Flora 31

3.7 Fauna 32

3.8 Existing facility 32

3.9 Socio-economic environment 33

4. DETAILS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS 34

4.1 Public Participation Process 34

4.2. Identification of Project Stakeholders 34

4.3. Steps in the Scoping consultation process 35

4.4. Identification and Summary of Key Social Issues Raised by Interested and

Affected Parties 36

5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS 37

5.1 Impact Assessment Methodology 37

5.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Findings 40

5.3 Benefits of the Project to Namibia 51

6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 52

6.1 Site 52

6.2 Facility specifications 52

6.3 The ‘no-go’ alternative 52

7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) 53

7.1 Introduction 53

7.2 Management Actions 53

8. OPINION WITH RESPECT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION 57

9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 57

10. REFERENCES 57

11. APPENDICES 60

APPENDIX 1: Advertisements for the public participation process 60

APPENDIX 2: Letters of invitation to public comments on Draft Scoping Report

(sample email) 61

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APPENDIX 3: Register of Interested & Affected Parties (I&APs) 62

APPENDIX 4: Synopsis of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) 63

APPENDIX 5: Abridged CVs of EIA experts involved 64

Citation of this Report 87

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Location of the Project site at the Telecom earth Station in

Windhoek (red circle). 14

Figure 2: The proposed site where the Satellite dish will be constructed

on top of the mountain (red square in the middle of the

image). The Telecom Earth Station can be seen towards the

bottom-right of the image). 15

Figure 3: Composition of the proposed receiver ground station 16

Figure 4: The proposed satellite receiving ground station 16

Figure 5: The steps to be followed in the EIA process. 19

Figure 6: High resolution image for, and slope at the proposed site 21

Figure 7: The Auas Formation quartzite covered by vegetation. Massive

quartzite floats are also seen on the ground. 24

Figure 8: Weathered surface of the amphibole schist intruded by the

light colored deformed metafelsite dyke and ubiquitous quartz

veins which are parallel to the foliation. 25

Figure 9: Micaceous quartzite layer interbedded with the quartz-biotite

schist. This unit is highly jointed. 26

Figure 10: Biotite-chlorite-quartz schist of the Gomab River Formation. 27

Figure 11: A) Outcrop of the highly weathered and fractured micaceous

quartzite of the Kleine Kuppe Formation. B) Quartz veins cutting

across the micaceous quartzite with a trend of 011°. 28

Figure 12: Regional geological map of the proposed construction site 29

Figure 13: Boreholes within 1 km radius from the proposed site. Data

Source for boreholes: City of Windhoek 30

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Figure 14: Sparse woodland on the eastern hill side (dry season). A

neighbouring hill and Windhoek can be seen in the

background. 31

Figure 15: Clumps of Euclea undulata (green shrub in foreground) on top

of the hill (dry season). 32

Figure 16: Existing Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek 33

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: List of list of stakeholders who have shown interests in the

project 34

Table 2: Steps followed during scoping process 35

Table 3: Assessment criteria used in impact analysis 37

Table 4: Summary of assessment of impact on flora 41

Table 5: Summary of assessment of impact on fauna 42

Table 6: Summary of impact assessment on ground rapture 44

Table 7: Summary of impact assessment on potential seismic ground

shaking 44

Table 8: Summary of impact assessment with respect to soil erosion and

sedimentation. 45

Table 9: Assessment of potential RF radiation 46

Table 10: Summary of assessment of impact on dust pollution and air

quality 47

Table 11: Summary of assessment of impact on visual aesthetics 48

Table 12: Summary of assessment of impact on land-use incompatibility

48

Table 13: Summary of assessment of impact on Hydrology, Drainage and

Water quality 49

Table 14: Potential impact of cultural and archaeological sites 50

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Table 15: Potential impact on employment creation 50

Table 16: Potential impact on infrastructural development 51

Table 17: Potential impact on of noise pollution 51

Table 18: Summary of management actions which should be taken to

minimise potential negative impacts. 53

LIST OF EXPERTS INVOLVED

(NB: Abridged CVs are given in Appendix 5)

NAME OF EXPERT ROLE

Prof Isaac Mapaure Team Leader and overall EIA Coordination;

Compiler of Scoping Report; Vegetation

ecology and conservation.

Dr Clement Temaneh Nyah Electromagnetic Compatibility and

Electromagnetic Environmental Pollution) -

Radio Frequency (RF) Radiations.

Prof Damas A. Mashauri Hydrology and Water quality

Dr Eliakim Hamunyela Topography and Land use

Mr Johan De Kock Town and Regional Planner; Land-use and

visual aesthetics

Dr Josefina Hamutoko Hydrology and water quality

Mr Josia Shilunga Economic and Structural Geology

Prof Martin Hipondoka Air Quality/Dust pollution

Dr Romie Nghitevelekwa Public Participation and Social Impacts

Dr Selma Lendelvo Public Participation and Social Impacts

Dr Seth J. Eiseb Faunal ecology and conservation

Dr Simon Angombe Soil Science

Dr Wellencia Clara Nesongano Vegetation ecology and conservation

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ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

ACRONYM/ABBREVIATION FULL NAME

CoW City of Windhoek

CRAN Communications Regulatory Authority of

Namibia

DEA Directorate of Environmental Affairs

DEAT Directorate of Environmental Affairs & Tourism

ECC Environmental Clearance Certificate

EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMA Environmental Management Act

EMP Environmental Management Plan

GRN Government of the Republic of Namibia

HPP Harambee Prosperity Plan

I&APs Interested and Affected Parties

LHCP Left-handed (LH) circular polarized (CP)

MEFT Ministry of Environment, Forestry & Tourism

MET Ministry of Environment & Tourism

MHETI Ministry of Higher Education, Technology &

Innovation

NDP National Development Plan

NHCN National Heritage Council of Namibia

RHCP Right-handed (RH) circular polarized (CP)

SDRGS Satellite Data Receiving Ground Station

SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment

UNAM University of Namibia

MAWLR Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of this Scoping Report

The purpose of this report is to present the findings of the EIA for the

proposed project, the construction of a Namibia Satellite Data Receiving

Ground Station (SDGRS). Details of the Project are described below. This EIA

was undertaken in terms of the requirements of the Environmental

Management Act (EMA) No. 7 of 2007 and the Environmental Impact

Assessment Regulations (18th January 2012) gazetted under the

Environmental Management Act No. 7 of 2007 (EIA Regulations). This EIA

Scoping Report is for submission to the Ministry of Environment, Forestry &

Tourism (MEFT) (formerly Ministry of Environment & Tourism (MET)) as part of

the application for an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) for the

proposed Project. This Report was prepared by The University of Namibia.

The key terms of reference included description of the baseline

environment, carrying out impact identification, impact analysis and

suggestions of mitigation measures for the potential negative impacts, and

to provide an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The Report also

provides information to the public and stakeholders to aid in the decision-

making process for the proposed project.

Therefore the purpose of the Report is to:

(a) Describe the proposed activity and the site on which the activity is to

be undertaken.

(b) Describe the need and desirability of the proposed project.

(c) Provide a description of the environment that may be affected by the

activity.

(d) Identify the legal instruments that have been considered in the

impact assessment and preparation of this Report.

(e) Present the assessment findings, including impact analysis and

mitigation measures for any significant negative impacts.

(f) Provide details of the public consultation process undertaken.

(g) Present an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) which will ensure

that the potential negative impacts are mitigated, prevented and/or

minimized as far as is reasonably practicable, and that legal

requirements and obligations are adhered to.

1.2 The need and desirability of the proposed Project

The Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) wishes to construct the

Namibia Satellite Data Receiving Ground Station (SDRGS) with the

assistance of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. The

project is proposed to be implemented through the Ministry of Higher

Education, Technology & Innovation (MHETI). The SDRGS will be constructed

at the existing Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek. The SDRGS will enable

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Namibia to obtain remote sensing satellite data for research, decision-

making and management purposes on Namibia’s environmental

conditions and resources distribution. Specifically, it will provide data for:

(a) Disaster risk management (satisfied);

(b) Vegetation and rangeland monitoring (satisfied);

(c) Land cover and land use planning (satisfied);

(d) Agricultural management and monitoring (satisfied);

(e) Water management and monitoring (satisfied);

(f) Fire and drought management and monitoring (satisfied);

(g) Coastline (including border) monitoring (satisfied); and

(h) Phytoplankton and/or Sulphur blooms management (satisfied).

(i) Mineral exploration and marine spatial planning (to some extent);

(j) Coastal surveillance and monitoring (of illegal fishing and pollution,

including monitoring of oil spills) (to some extent);

However, weather and atmospheric monitoring; aerial survey/mapping;

urban and rural development mapping; air space control and monitoring

will not be provided because these may be covered already by existing

capabilities or for other reasons. The Project will provide very efficient

routine monitoring of various resources and environments for decision-

making. This state-of-the-art equipment will enhance Namibia’s

development agenda as the country strives towards the achievement of its

long-term development aspirations in accordance with Vision 2030 (GRN,

2004), NDP5 (GRN, 2017)and Harambee Prosperity Pan (GRN, 2016).

1.3 Assumptions and Limitations

1.3.1 Assumptions

It is assumed that:

(a) The information provided by the applicant, the Ministry of Higher

Education, Technology & Innovation (MHETI) (in documentation, in

meetings and during site visits) is accurate enough and suitable to be

used for the compilation of this EIA Scoping Report.

(b) The Feasibility Study done (referred to in the Minutes of Meeting of

Investigation of Namibia Station, 28th February 2018 and 9th March

2018) which concluded that the site is feasible for establishment of

this facility at the site is well-informed and correct. We assume that

alternative sites had been considered during that process.

(c) The data and information collected from various sources (e.g.

published literature, grey literature, informants, internet, etc.) for the

various environmental components are accurate and correct for

compilation of this EIA Scoping Report. Such sources are duly

acknowledged in this Report.

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1.3.2 Limitations

The limitations included:

(a) Tight timelines and limited budget for undertaking this activity.

(b) Unavailability of critical documentation relating to any studies which

may have been done when the current Telecom facility was

constructed at the site. The response from Telecom Namibia was:

“Telecom Namibia and Namibia Post & Telecom Holdings

(responsible for properties) does not have a record of any information

related to any EIA that was done before the original establishment of

the Telecom Namibia Earth Station”. So, we take it that, in all

probability, no EIA was done prior to the establishment of the current

station.

(c) Unavailability of critical documentation with information on the

transmission from the ground station to the Data Processing Centre.

1.4 Legal & Policy Considerations

During the preparation of this Scoping Report, the following legislation and

policies and related documents were considered:

The Namibian Constitution (1990)(GRN, 1990)

Article 95 of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia states that “The

State shall actively promote and maintain the welfare of the people by

adopting, inter alia, policies aimed at the following: … (l) maintenance of

ecosystems, essential ecological processes and biological diversity of

Namibia and utilization of living natural resources on a sustainable basis for

the benefit of all Namibians, both present and future; in particular, the

Government shall provide measures against the dumping or recycling of

foreign nuclear and toxic waste on Namibian territory” (GRN, 1990).

Vision 2030, National Development Plans and Harambee Prosperity Plan

(GRN, 2016)

Namibia’s overall Development ambitions are articulated in the Nations

Vision 2030. At the operational level, five-yearly national development plans

(NDPs) are prepared following extensive consultations led by the National

Planning Commission. Currently, NDP5 and the Harambee Prosperity Plan

are the key documents guiding the current phase of national development

agenda.

Environmental Management Act No. 7 of 2007 (GRN, 2007)

The Act seeks “to promote the sustainable management of the

environment and the use of natural resources by establishing principles for

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decision making on matters affecting the environment; to establish the

Sustainable Development Advisory Council; to provide for the appointment

of the Environmental Commissioner and environmental officers; to provide

for a process of assessment and control of activities which may have

significant effects on the environment; and to provide for incidental

matters” (GRN, 2007). This is the Act which makes it mandatory for

conducting EIA for projects which fit into certain categories.

Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations: Environmental Management

Act No. 7 of 2007 (MET, 2012)

These are the Regulations which give the details of what should be done

under the various provisions of the EMA of 2007. They include duties and

obligations of the various parties involved as well as the necessary

processes and procedures with respect to development of the required

reports and the application process for an Environmental Clearance

Certificate.

Nature Conservation Ordinance 4 of 1975 and subsequent amendments

(Nature Conservation Amendment Acts No. 27 (1986); No. 6 (1988); No. 31

(1990); and No. 5 (1996) (MET, 1996)

Directly relevant to this Report, the Nature Conservation Ordinance 4 of

1975 and subsequent Amendments provide lists of specially protected,

protected and huntable game species. Lists of protected plants are also

given in the Ordinance. Amendment Acts provide for specific items such as

for “an economically based system of sustainable management and

utilisation of game in communal areas …” (No. 6 of 1996 (GRN, 1996)) or to

increase penalties for breach of rules (No. 31 of 1990 (GRN, 1990).

Forest Act No. 12 of 2001(GRN, 2001)

The Forest Act makes provision for the declaration of protected areas for

the purposes of soil protection, water resources protection, protection of

plants and other elements of biological diversity. The Minister may also

declare any plant or species of plant a protected plant and impose

conditions under which it should be conserved, cultivated, used or

destroyed by any person. The Forest Act also requires a permit before

clearing any living vegetation within 100 m of a river or stream (GRN, 2001).

Procedures and Guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) of 2008. (MET, 2008)

This is a document of procedures and guidelines which are not deemed to

be a legal framework (DEA, 2008). However, since they accompany both

the EMA of 2007 they are included in this list because of their legally-framed

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content. Among several aspects of environmental assessment, the

guidelines explain how baseline data should be collected and how impact

analysis should be done.

National Heritage Act 27 of 2004 (GRN, 2004)

This Act calls for Heritage resources to be conserved when any

development project is being undertaken. During the project

implementation as soon as objects of cultural and heritage interests are

observed such as graves, artefacts and any other object defined in the

Act, all measures should be taken to protect these objects until the

National Heritage Council of Namibia have been notified and approval to

proceed with the operations granted accordingly by the Council.

Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Ordinance 11 of 1976 (GRN Annotated

Statutes)

This ordinance makes provision for the control of noxious or offensive gases

(Part II); prevention of atmospheric pollution by smoke (Part III); dust control

(Part IV); and the prevention of air pollution by gases emitted by vehicles

(Part V). In the event the permitted amount or volume is exceeded, the

application for an Air Permission permit ought to be lodged with the Ministry

of Health and Social Services.

Water Resources Management Act No. 11 of 2013. (GRN, 2013)

The Water Resources Management Act of 2013 was enacted to provide for

management, protection, development, use and conservation of water

resources; for regulation and monitoring water services and for incidental

matters. The aims of this Act include ‘to ensure that Namibia’s water

resources are managed, developed, used, conserved and protected in a

manner consistent with, or conducive to, specific fundamental principles

as set out in Section 3 of the Act’. This Act Repeals (i)Water Act, 1956, Act

No 54 of 1956 as whole, (ii) Water Resources Management Act, 2004, Act

No 24 of 2004, repealed as a whole; and (iii) Regulations R 1278 of 23 July

1971, R1278 of 1971, repealed as whole.

1.5 THE PROJECT PROPOSAL

1.5.1 Preamble

The Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) has requested the

Government of the People’s Republic of China to assist in the construction

of the Namibia Satellite Data Receiving Ground Station (SDRGS).

Consultations between the two Governments already were in full swing by

the beginning of 2018. The project is proposed to be implemented through

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the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology & Innovation (MHETI). The

Station is proposed to be constructed at the Telecom Earth Station in

Windhoek. The SDRGS will enable Namibia to obtain remote sensing satellite

data for research on Namibia’s environmental conditions and resources

distribution for development purposes.

1.5.2 Project Location – site and extent

The confirmed site for the Project is the Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek

situated at 22039’13.54”S, 1703.34’90”E (Figure 1). The satellite dish will be

situated on top of the mountain, not far from the Earth Station buildings

(Figure 2). The site for the satellite dish measures an approximate 500 m² in

extent (20 m x 25 m). Though the proposed site for the dish is undeveloped,

there is an existing vehicular track from a westerly direction leading up the

mountain to the site.

Figure 1: Location of the Project site at the Telecom earth Station in

Windhoek (yellow circle).

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Figure 2: The proposed site where the Satellite dish will be constructed on

top of the mountain (red square in the middle of the image). The Telecom

Earth Station can be seen towards the bottom-right of the image).

1.5.3 Proposed Project activities and specifications

The composition of the proposed receiver ground station is shown in Figure

3 below.

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Figure 3: Composition of the proposed receiver ground station

The direct receiving ground station has to receive raw data from the

satellite and transmit the raw data to the data processing system (DPS)

which then transmit to the application system as shown in the proposed

diagram in Figure 4.

Figure 4: The proposed satellite receiving ground station

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The function and performance of the proposed receiving ground station

include the following:

Function

1. X band polarization reuse receiving capacity, capture and

track satellite;

2. Receive, demodulate and format recording remote

sensing satellite data

3. Satellite receiving plan management;

4. Automatic monitor and control capacity, centralized

monitoring and control whole station equipment;

5. Uniform UTC time and frequency standard;

6. Support ACU remote monitor and control function.

7. Storage capacity;

Performance

Antenna diameter: 6 meter;

Work frequency: 8025~8450GHz (X Band);

Polarizing mode: RHCP and LHCP;

G/T (in clear sky, 23 °C, at 5° EL: G/T ≥30+20lg (f/8.2GHz) dB/K;

Tracking capability

Tracking Mode: Mono-pulse automatic tacking and program

tracking;

Tracking Range: Acquire satellite at 5° (El), track satellite stably at 7° ;

Be capable of continuously receiving data when satellite passing.

The performance of the data processing system include

processing Time (1 orbit) ≤ 1.5 hour

Storage: 200TB

The major activities of the project will include:

site visit to assess all aspects of the environment around the current

establishment and along the hillside to the top of the mountain

where the new dish and associated equipment will be installed.

collection of as much data and recorded information as necessary.

Estimation of the RF electromagnetic radiation levels.

2. APPROACH TO THE EIA

2.1 Purpose of an EIA

The purpose of the Environmental Management Act (EMA) of 2007 (GRN,

2007) is, among others, to promote the sustainable management of the

environment and the use of natural resources; and provide for a process of

assessment and control of activities which may have significant effects on

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the environment. This is what obligates entities and individuals to conduct

environmental impact assessments if their proposed projects fit within the

defined provisions of the EMA (Sections 34 and 35). The purpose of an EIA is

therefore to predict and avoid, minimize or offset significant adverse

environmental, social and other effects of development projects and

programmes prior to a decision being taken on whether or not a proposal

should be given approval to proceed (Jay et al., 2007). It is a tool which

aims at promoting environmentally-sound and sustainable development

through the identification of appropriate mitigation measures or selection

of better alternatives. This will ensure the protection of the quality and

productivity of the natural environment.

The EMA 2007 (GRN, 2007) states that prevention and mitigation of the

significant effects of activities on the environment is done by ensuring that:

(a) the significant effects of activities on the environment are

considered in time and carefully;

(b) there are opportunities for timeous participation of interested and

affected parties throughout the assessment process; and

(c) the findings of an assessment are taken into account before any

decision is made in respect of activities.

2.2 The EIA Process

The EIA process in Namibia follows a systematic approach with several steps

indicated in Figure 5 below.

2.3 Methodology

Below, is a brief description of the approach used in collecting data and

information for this Scoping Report. However, the different sections also

contain specific actions taken to collect relevant information for that

respective aspect.

2.3.1 Site visit

The team conducted a site visit on 25th November 2019. This involved holistic

assessment of all aspects of the biophysical environment around the

current establishment and along the hillside (where the new road will

possibly be opened up) to the top of the mountain where the new dish and

associated equipment will be installed. The team collected and recorded

as much data and information as necessary. The room in which the

computers and associated equipment will be installed was also inspected

(at the existing facility).

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Figure 5: The steps to be followed in the EIA process.

2.3.2 Literature Review

In addition to the above site visit, the Team conducted thorough literature

searches and reviews in the various areas of their expertise. This included

literature from published public documents, some documents in the grey

literature and other information from the internet. The resources consulted

and used for this Report are appropriately cited and listed in the list of

references at the end.

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2.3.3 Expert information

The consultants also relied on expert information (where applicable) from

experts in various fields of assessment in order to augment other information

collected using the above methods.

2.3.4 Public consultation

The public consultation process is described in detail in Section 4 of this

report.

3. DESCRIPTION OF THE BASELINE ENVIRONMENT IN THE PROJECT AREA

3.1 Climate

3.1.1 Temperature

The proposed project site is part of the Auas Mountains where the average

annual temperature varies between 18 - 20 °C. The temperature varies

seasonally with summer (November - January) temperatures reaching 34

°C, whereas temperature during the coldest months (June -July) may fall

below 0°C (Mendelsohn et al., 2002).

3.1.2 Precipitation

The average annual precipitation is about 360 mm, with strong year-to-year

variations. The wet season is generally from November to April, and

February is the wettest month. Frost has been recorded in this area, but its

occurrence is somewhat limited to about 10 – 15 days per year

(Mendelsohn et al., 2002).

3.1.3 Wind

The proposed site is in the area where easterly and westerly winds are the

dominant, often with a speed less than 20 km/h (Mendelsohn et al., 2002).

3.2 Topography and Land use

The site is situated on an un-surveyed portion of the Farm Windhoek and

Townlands No. Re/B/31 located in the largely undeveloped southwestern

part of the Windhoek Townlands (also referred to as Commonage Farm No.

4). The site is located approximately 2.5 km to the southwest of the

Cimbebasia residential township, an extension of the City of Windhoek

(CoW), and 2.8 km to the west of the Luiperdvallei Army base.

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Further to the west of the site the land is used primarily for commercial

agricultural farms which form part of the rugged, mountainous Khomas

Hochland. To the east of the site (situated in-between Cimbebasia and

Luiperdvallei) is a large undeveloped area reserved as a ‘no-development’

zone by the City in order to protect the southern acquirer recharge zone of

the Windhoek basin. The Roads Authority has planned for the road section

between Windhoek and Gocheganas to be relatively close to the east of

the site. This road section will be constructed to connect with the Western

Bypass further to the north and the B1 Main Road to the south, towards

Rehoboth.

The site identified for the proposed satellite data receiving ground station

measures approximately 500 m² in extent (20 m x 25 m). The proposed site is

undeveloped with undisturbed natural vegetation although an existing

vehicular track leads up the mountain slope to the site. An existing satellite

radar station is also constructed directly adjacent to the south of the site

and an existing access road is constructed to this satellite station which will

provide vehicular access directly from the City (Figure 6).

Figure 6: High resolution image for, and slope at the proposed site

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The topography of the site forms part of the undulating, mountainous

foothills of the Auas Mountains which also forms the physical natural

southern and western development border of the City. The proposed site is

about 1917 m above sea level. There is an elevation difference of 109 m

between the proposed site and the site where the station for Telecom

Namibia is situated. The site is situated on top of the steep southern side of

one of these mountain hills. The top of the mountain, where the proposed

site is, is relatively flat with a slope of 10 - 20%. From the existing roads to the

proposed site, however, the slope is steep, above 50% in some areas.

3.3 Soils

A rapid soil assessment using existing material was done in the study area.

Soil formation is generally determined by climate, flora and fauna,

topography and parent material. Because of the long time required for soil

to form, it is important to take past environmental conditions into

consideration. The bedrock in central Namibia is of high age, deeply

weathered and therefore not a good basis for soil development, partly

because old bedrock provides limited leaching of minerals. Instead, the

soils are generally rich in material derived from physical weathering (Scholz,

1973). They contain little organic matter because of low litter supply and

rapid mineralization. This results in a decrease of the water-holding

capacity. Furthermore, the soils are shallow especially on slopes, where they

can turn into blockfields and bare bedrock (Ganssen, 1963). These

accumulations are often polygenetically developed and not necessarily

genetically related to the host sediment.

The project is situated in an area dominated by Lepsols and Xerosols soil

types. These soil types can be described as very thin or shallow soils, which

are typically formed actively in eroding landscapes, especially in hilly or

undulating areas that cover much of southern and north-western Namibia.

These coarse textured soils are characterized by their limited depth caused

by the presence of a continuous hard-rock, which is a highly calcareous

layer within 30 cm of the surface. Hence these soils are the shallowest soil

types in Namibia. The water holding capacity is low. Such a condition

results in high erosion probability as can be seen in the Windhoek area.

A typical soil profile in the study area often shows a cut or very thin A

horizon. This is because the horizons near the surface contain much coarse

silt and fine to medium grained sand, which are easily blown out. If the

surfaces are already eroded in this way, a pavement remains, which may

have a stabilizing function if not destroyed by the trampling of animals

(Kempf, 1997). The eroded material from these processes, mainly occurring

on upper and middle slopes, is transported downslope and builds up the

fluvial soils found in the valley floors. These fluvial soils are frequently

distinguished by a heterogenetic development.

23

3.4 Geology

The methodology used to describe the geology of the site include review of

existing data (regional geological maps and geophysical data) and point

mapping during the site visit. Surface geological traversing was undertaken

to establish the present rock types and any geological structures such as

faults, joints and schistosity.

In general, the geology of Windhoek area is made up of the rocks of the

Neoproterozoic Damara Supergroup. The stratigraphy of the study area

comprises metamorphic rocks of the Hakos Group and Khomas Complex.

The proposed construction site has good rock exposure and consists of

mainly the quartzites, amphibole schist, quartz-biotite schist, calcareous

biotite-chlorite-quartz schists and minor occurrences of metafelsite dykes.

3.4.1 Hakos Group

The oldest rocks exposed in the area of Windhoek belong to the Hakos

Group. The Hakos Group is subdivided into two subgroups, namely the Kudis

Subgroup overlain by the Vaalgras Subgroup.

3.4.2 Kudis Subgroup

The Kudis Formation comprises the Berghof, Waldburg, Blaukrans,

Hokosberg and Auas Formations. This subgroup is characterized by the

graphitic schists of the Blaukrans Formation, which interfingers with the Auas

Formation quartzites. In the study area, the Kudis Subgroup is represented

by the quartzites of the Auas Formation.

3.4.3 Auas Formation

The Auas Formation is described as a passive margin, turbiditic quartzite fan

and reaches its maximum thickness in the Auas Mountains south of the

investigated site (Figure 7).

These Auas Formation quartzites vary from massively to thickly bedded

showing varying depositional conditions. Sedimentary structures preserved

in these quartzites include lamination, flute marks and graded bedding.

They are largely exposed in the southwestern part of the study area.

24

Figure 7: The Auas Formation quartzite covered by vegetation. Massive

quartzite floats are also seen on the ground.

3.4.4 Vaalgras Subgroup

The Vaalgras Subgroup is made up of the basal glaciogenic Naos

Formation, followed by the Samara, Melrose, Mahonda, Dagbreek, Haris

and Gomab River Formations. The ortho-amphibolites which occur in most

formations of the Vaalgras Subgroup is used as one of the features to

distinguish this subgroup from the underlying Kudis Subgroup. The rocks

exposed in the study area include those of the Mahonda and Gomab River

Formations.

3.4.5 Mahonda Formation

The Mahonda Formation in the study area is represented by the amphibole

schist and quartz-biotite schist with subordinate interbedded quartzite. The

amphibole schist is dark grey in colour and has a medium-grained texture

and comprises hornblende, biotite and quartz. Most of the outcrops are

moderately weathered and have joints oriented in different directions. The

amphibole schist has a strong foliation and exhibits several small scale folds.

Numerous folded quartz veins with a thickness in the range of 2-4 cm thick

were also observed in this unit. The amphibole schist is intruded by a folded

metafelsite dyke (Figure 8).

25

Figure 8: Weathered surface of the amphibole schist intruded by the light

colored deformed metafelsite dyke and ubiquitous quartz veins which are

parallel to the foliation.

The quartz-biotite schist has a dark grey fresh colour, medium-grained

texture and comprises mainly quartz, biotite and minor plagioclase. This unit

has a poorly developed foliation and a brown weathering colour. Stains of

iron oxidation can be seen on the surface. The quartz-biotite schist is

interbedded with micaceous quartzite layers, which are highly weathered

and fractured (Figure 9). The quartzite units have coarse-grained quartz

and a significant amount of white micas (muscovite). The original bedding

of the quartzite is still visible. Some of the quartzite layers exhibit calcareous

materials in the weathered zones. Quartz veins are ubiquitous in both rock

types and are oriented in different directions. In the schist, quartz veins are

parallel to the foliation, whereas in other places (including the quartzite)

these veins cut across the foliation/strike.

26

Figure 9: Micaceous quartzite layer interbedded with the quartz-biotite

schist. This unit is highly jointed.

3.4.6 Gomab River Formation

The Gomab River Formation is the uppermost unit of the Vaalgras

Subgroup. Within the study area, this formation is represented by darkish

green calcareous biotite-chlorite-quartz schist. The proportions of the

individual minerals vary considerably in different parts of this schist. The

lower parts of this formation have lenses of weathered brown marble. This

schist has a significant amount of carbonate minerals. The outcrops of this

schist show a moderate to high degree of weathering (Figure 10). Like other

rock types in this area, this unit is also highly fractured and cross cut by

quartz veins.

27

Figure 10: Biotite-chlorite-quartz schist of the Gomab River Formation.

3.4.7 Khomas Complex

The northern part of the study area is dominated by the micaceous

quartzite of the Kleine Kuppe Formation, which is part of the Khomas

Complex. This quartzite occurs immediately above the calcareous biotite-

chlorite-quartz schist of the Gomab River Formation. This quartzite occurs in

a discontinuous well layered unit (Figure 11A). This quartzite has white micas

(muscovite/sericite) in addition to recrystallized quartz grains. This

lithological unit shows a weak foliation. This outcrop is located at the top of

the hill and there are various fresh and weathered quartz veins which cut

across the quartzite (Figure 11B).

28

Figure 11: (A) Outcrop of the highly weathered and fractured micaceous

quartzite of the Kleine Kuppe Formation. (B) Quartz veins cutting across the

micaceous quartzite with a trend of 011°.

3.4.8 Geological Structures

The general strike of the rocks in the study area is NE and the dip values

range between 24° and 30° towards NW. Based on the regional geological

map data, the study area is characterized by several faults with a N-S

orientation (black lines) and two thrust faults with a NE orientation (Figure

12). These are regional structures as they extend beyond the map area. The

presented geological data shows that the existing TELECOM Data

Receiving Station was constructed at the intersections of an N-S trending

fault and the two NE trending thrust faults (Figure 12). The proposed site

appears to be located in an area without any linear geological structures

such as faults and thrust faults. The present rocks are metamorphosed rocks

(amphibole schist, mica schists and quartzite) which have medium to high

rock strength.

29

Figure 12: Regional geological map of the proposed construction site

(Schreiber, 2011).

3.5 Drainage and Hydrology

Windhoek has a low average annual rainfall of 360 mm which takes place

between December and April. The annual rainfall is highly variable

therefore runoff and groundwater recharge varies significantly from year to

year. The average annual evaporation can go up to 2500 mm, which far

exceeds annual precipitation. The Telecom satellite site is located on

quartz-biotite schist that has a very low permeability. The underlying aquifer

consists of micaceous quartzite horizons, a secondary unconfined aquifer

with the water being stored in and transmitted through fractures in the

brittle quartzite. Recharge to the aquifer occurs mainly through direct

infiltration of rainwater at the outcrop of the quartzite body through

fractures and other structures; however, it is possible also for water to

penetrate through the overlying material to the aquifer below (Troudex and

Bittner, 2010). Thus, the fracture pattern of the Kuiseb schist determines the

direction of the drainage system. There are six (6) boreholes within 1 km

radius of the current telecom satellite site, four (4) are monitoring boreholes

while two (2) are production boreholes (Figure 13). These boreholes all

belong to group 9 (city of Windhoek grouping). The rest water level ranges

from 106.90 m to 137.57 m below ground surface. The depth of the

boreholes varies from 150 m to 449 m.

30

Figure 13: Boreholes within 1 km radius from the proposed site. Data Source

for boreholes: City of Windhoek (CoW, 2019).

In terms of water supply to the facility (and sewerage systems out of the

facility), the current Telecom Facility is supplied from a borehole provided

and maintained by the City of Windhoek. Water distribution towards the

various areas of the facility is done through a pressure pumping system

located in the service block adjacent to the water reservoirs. Drinking

water is provided from a filtering system installed in the scullery area on the

1st floor of the main building. Water waste is directed into a sump facility

located in the vicinity of the entrance gate. The sewage from this drainage

facility is emptied by municipal sewage pump trucks.

It can be concluded that the existing Telecoms infrastructure has enough

water supply and drainage/sewerage system to cater the new satellite dish

that will be installed. The assumption here is that there is not much of an

influx of workers during the day and night and that the existing facility has

the capacity to cater for the increased demand for both.

31

3.6 Flora

A rapid vegetation assessment was undertaken in order to identify the

commonly occurring terrestrial plant species and to characterize the

vegetation occurring in those areas where project activities would be

conducted.

The vegetation of the general area comprises high diversity (Mannheimer,

2012). However, a detailed study done on the potential impact of road

construction in that area concluded that no detrimental effect on the

plants was expected to any real extent (du Toit, 2016). The affected area

comprised the hillsides and the hilltop on which the satellite dish will be

located. The vegetation found at the site is typical highland semi-arid

savanna. The hillsides have sparse woodland while the top of the hill is

relatively open (Figure 14). The woodland is mostly dominated by Vachellia

reficiens while Senegalia hereroensis dominates in some places. A single

specimen of Vachellia erioloba was seen on the hillside (but is more

widespread on flatter, sandier plains outside the project area). Other trees

commonly found there include Senegalia mellifera, Combretum

apiculatum, Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Searsia marlothii and Boscia

albitrunca. The shrub layer is very sparse as well, with clumps of Euclea

undulata (a shrub) common in most places (Figure 15). Other commonly

occurring shrub species include Grewia flavescens, Dichrostachys cinerea,

Catophractes alexandri, Leucosphaera bainesii and Phaeoptilum spinosum.

The grass layer is dominated by Stiagrostis uniplumis.

Figure 14: Sparse woodland on the eastern hill side (dry season). A

neighbouring hill and Windhoek can be seen in the background.

32

Figure 15: Clumps of Euclea undulata (green shrub in foreground) on top of

the hill (dry season).

3.7 Fauna

According to the literature and the museum records, the overall reptile

diversity and endemism in the general satellite station area is estimated at

between 71-80 species & 13-16 species respectively (Mendelsohn et al,

2002). Snakes (35 species with 10 species being endemic) and lizards (18

species with 6 species being endemic) are the most important groups of

reptiles followed by geckos (10 species with 8 species being endemic).

The most important mammal species from the area are species classified as

“Near Threatened”, e.g. Brown Hyena and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebras

and those classified as “Rare” e.g. Wing-gland Bat, Hedgehog and Black-

footed Cat. Other mammal species of concern include various predators:

Leopard “Protected Game, Near Threatened”, African Wild Cat

“Vulnerable” and the Pangolin “Vulnerable; Protected Game”.

3.8 Existing facility

The proposed Satellite Direct Receiving Ground Station is to be constructed

at the existing Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek (Figure 16(a)) with the

satellite dish to be located at the hilltop in an area comprising hillsides

Figures 16(b) and (c) as clearly shown in Figures 1 and 2 above. Residential

houses are some distance from this station on all sides.

33

(a) Schematic representation

(b) Aerial view of station (c) Aerial view of surroundings

and access road

Figure 16: Existing Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek

3.9 Socio-economic environment

The satellite data receiving ground station at the telecom’s earth station is

located in the southern part of Windhoek, within municipality boundaries. It

is surrounded by private properties: livestock farms and tourism enterprises.

Other neighbouring establishments are also the military base (Luiperdsvallei)

and the historical heritage site of Heroes Acre.

The population density around the area is low, with the nearest residential

neighbourhood of Cimbebasia that is bordering Prosperita, an industrial

area, Academia and Pioneerspark. The neighbourhood of Cimbebasia is

inhabited by middle income with a few low income people scattered in the

neighbouring livestock farms. A B1 main highway runs in proximity to the

site, through which most of the economic goods are transported.

34

4. DETAILS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS

4.1 Public Participation Process

Public participation is an important component of the EIA process. The

public participation process for the scoping of this project aimed to ensure

that all stakeholders – interested and affected parties (I&APs) either as

individuals or organisations are informed about the project and could

register their views and concerns in accordance with the legal provisions.

Notice advertisements were placed in the New Era Newspaper on the 13th

December and 20th December 2019 (See Appendix 1) to notify the public

and stakeholders about the proposed project, and that an EIA application

will be made to the Environmental Commissioner. This is in line with the

Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2012) and the Environmental

Impact Assessment (EIA) (Government Notice No. 4878 of 2012). Through

the notice advertisements, the public and stakeholders were invited to

register, submit comments, and/or to request for the project Background

Information Document (BID).

4.2. Identification of Project Stakeholders

Table 1 below provides a list of stakeholders who showed interest in the

project and were communicated to by forwarding the Background

Information Document (BID) and were also registered as interested parties.

These stakeholders were subsequently invited to the public participation

through submission of comments (since physical meetings could not be

held due to the Regulations for curbing the COVID-19 pandemic). The Draft

Scoping Report was sent to them for this purpose (see Appendix 2).

Table 1: List of list of stakeholders who have shown interests in the project

Stakeholder

Grouping

Stakeholders Institutions and Email Addresses

I&APs that responded to the New Era notification

Public

Institution/Parastatal

Jochen Traut Communication Regulatory Authority

of Namibia

[email protected]

Public


Ronel Le

Grange

Communication Regulatory Authority

of Namibia

[email protected]

Public


Kristof Itana Communication Regulatory Authority

of Namibia

[email protected]

Public


Lukas

Nangolo


of Namibia

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]




35

Public


Shikongeni

Ntinda


of Namibia

[email protected]

Private Institution Cherica Levin Paratus Telecommunications

[email protected]

International Francois

Denner

China Head Aerospace Group

[email protected]

International Kammy Brun China Head Aerospace Group

[email protected]

International Zhao Lulu Space Star Technology Co. Ltd.

(China Academy of Space

Technology)

[email protected]

Other identified stakeholders as per their National Mandates

Khomas Regional Councils

Windhoek Municipality

Telecom Namibia

Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC)

Ministry of Health and Social Services

Powercom Namibia

Residents in the neighbourhood of Cimbebasia

Farmers adjacent to the project site (identified through the Ministry of

Agriculture, Water and Land Reform)

Ministry of Environment, Forestry & Tourism (as stakeholder and authority)

4.3. Steps in the Scoping consultation process

The following steps (Table 2) were taken for public participation during

Scoping.

Table 2: Steps followed during scoping process

Steps Descriptions Dates

I&APs identification

Interested and

affected parties were

identified through

newspaper notice

adverts in New Era

13th & 20th December

2019

Background

Information Documents

(BID) and Registration

of Interested Parties

The Project Background

Information Document

was distributed to the

registered interested

and affected parties.

20th December 2019

Site notices

Notice at the site

entrance could not be

placed.

Notice at the site

entrance could not be

placed.





36

Circulation of the

Scoping Report for

comments

Soliciting views from

I&APs

07th July 2020

Comments and

Responses from the

Interested and

Affected Parties

(deadline for

submission)

Comments and views

were requested for

submission by email.

17th July 2020

Submission of revised

Scoping Report to

UNAM Vice Chancellor

for onward submission

to MHETI

24th July 2020

Submission of Report to

MEFT

To be determined by

MHETI

4.4. Identification and Summary of Key Social Issues Raised by Interested

and Affected Parties

The registered I&APs were requested through emails (see sample in

Appendix 2) to provide their concerns and issues electronically (since

meetings could not be held).

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) raised the

issue the ‘University of Namibia does not hold a telecommunications service

licence that provides them any authorization to construct a satellite ground

station in any form at the premises indicated in the EIA. Nor has a spectrum

licence been issued to the University for Satellite Services. The

telecommunications services licence awarded to the University of Namibia

is restricted to the campus of the University for the provision of data services

only’. In response, it was clarified to CRAN that the proposed facility does

not belong to UNAM and will not be operated by UNAM and that the

facility belonged to the Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN).

UNAM’s role was to carry out an EIA of the proposed project at the request

of the GRN for the purposes of application for the Environmental Clearance

Certificate.

Apart from the above, no other issues were received from any of the

registered I&APs by the end of the review period allowed. This could be

attributed to the challenges of COVID-19 (and associated measures) on

most institutions’ operations (some are still working from home). It could also

be that none of them identified any serious or fundamental concerns with

the proposed project.

37

5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS

5.1 Impact Assessment Methodology

Environmental Impact Assessment sets out potential positive and negative

environmental impacts associated with the proposed activity. The

assessment methodology used to examine each impact identified followed

the Procedures and Guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment

(SEA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) (Directorate of

Environmental Affairs (DEA), 2008). Sufficient baseline information was

gathered (using the methodology outlined in Section 5 above) in order to

provide the basis for predicting and monitoring environmental effects for

evaluating the current and likely future state of the environment.

As per Guidelines stated above (DEA, 2008), this step seeks to identify likely

changes to the environmental baseline brought about by the

implementation of the proposed project. The predictions are usually done

with respect to alternatives, and are compared with a ‘no-project/no-go’

or ‘business as usual’ scenario. Description of the anticipated changes

covers the magnitude, their geographical scale, the time period over

which they will occur, whether they are permanent or temporary, positive

or negative, probable or improbable, frequent or rare, and whether there

are cumulative effects or not. Such predictions are usually expressed in

qualitative terms. The criteria used are explained below. The evaluation

process, thus, followed internationally-accepted practices, and in

accordance with Namibian Environmental Management Act 2007

Regulations (GRN, 2007) using the criteria listed below (Friend et al., 2010;

Colin Christian & Associates, 2008) (Table 3). While the other criteria are

somewhat standard, we, however, also take note that there are various

ways of assessing the significance of impact (see Marttunen et al., 2013;

DEAT, 2002; Edwards, 2011) but we decided to adopt this one.

Table 3: Assessment criteria used in impact analysis

Assessment Criteria Explanation

Nature of the impact

This is an explanation of the type of effect the activity would

have on the affected environment. It is rated as:

● positive (i.e. beneficial to the environment),

● neutral (i.e. no effect on the environment), or

● negative (i.e. adverse impact on the

environment).

Extent of impact

The geographical extent of the impact – it indicates

whether the effect will be:

● site-specific (i.e. impacting within the boundaries

of the site),

● local (within an area of 5 km of the site),

● regional (within the Khomas area),

38

● national scale, or

● across international borders (Southern Africa).

Duration of impact

This indicates whether the life-time of the impact will

be:

● short-term (<5 years),

● medium-term (5-15 years),

● long-term (lasting the lifespan of the project and

will cease either naturally or through human

intervention),

● permanent (where mitigation by either natural

process or human intervention will not occur in

such a way or in such a time span that the impact

can be considered transient).

Intensity of impact

This establishes whether the impact is destructive or

benign. It is indicated as:

● low (impact affects the environment in such way

that the natural, cultural and social functions and

processes are not significantly affected),

● medium (the natural, social and cultural functions

continue but are modified), and

● high (the natural, social and cultural functions

become altered to the degree that they become

dysfunctional).

Probability of impact

This describes the probability of the impact actually

occurring. It is indicated as:

● Unlikely/Improbable (the possibility of the impact

to occur is very low – because of design, historic

experience or implementation of adequate

corrective actions),

● Probable (there is a distinct probability that the

impact will occur)

● Highly probable (it is most likely that the impact will

occur), or

● Definite (the impact will occur regardless of any

mitigation measures put in place).

Significance of

impact

The Significance (S) of the impact is determined from

a synthesis of the above assessment criteria (in terms

of nature, extent (E), duration (D), intensity (I), and

probability (P)). It is scored as:

● Low/Minor significance means that the impact

would not have an effect on the decision to

approve the project (or a particular project

alternative),

● Medium significance – the assessed impact should

have an effect on the decision unless it is

effectively mitigated,

39

● High significance – the decision would be

influenced regardless of any mitigation.

The formula used for assessing the significance is:

S = (E+D+I) x P (Friend et al., 2010)

RATE SCOR

E

Nature (N) positive +

neutral 0

negative -

Extent (E) site-specific 1

local 2

regional 3

national 4

international 5

Duration (D) short-term 1

Medium-term 2

long-term 3

permanent 4

Intensity (I) low 1

medium 2

high 3

very high 4

Probability (P) unlikely 2

probable 4

highly probable 6

definite 8

Significance (S) is then scored as follows:

Low: <25

Medium: 25-50

High: >50

Cumulative impacts These can arise from one or more activities as being

either an additive impact (adds to other impacts)or

an interactive impact (different impacts combining to

form a new impact). Interactive can either be

countervailing or synergistic. These are scored as:

● No (none expected),

● Yes (additive),

● interactive countervailing (int. cou.), and

● interactive synergistic (int. syn.)

40

Confidence This indicates the level of certainty the specialists

have in the accuracy of their predictions with regards

to a relevant assessment and its related determined

significance. This is scored as:

● Definite: No uncertainty is associated with the

prediction of the impact.

● High: The prediction was based on all

necessary information available, with the

exception of insignificant information that will

not materially affect the outcome of the

prediction.

● Medium: Although the majority of the

information was available, there is some

uncertainty associated with the impact

predicted.

● Low: there is a high degree of uncertainty

associated with the impact predicted as

certain key information was unavailable at the

time of the prediction.

Reversibility This simply refers to the degree to which the influence

of the impact on the environment can be negated.

This is scored as:

● Complete (Yes),

● Intermediate (probably), and

● Not possible (No).

5.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Findings

Certain environmental impacts of the proposed activities can be identified

during this scoping phase. These identified impacts, depending on their

significance, will provide an indication if further specialist studies will be

required or not. These potential impacts are outlined below (Sections 5.2.1 –

5.2.9; Tables 4-17). Mitigation measures are also stated to minimize some of

the potential impacts.

5.2.1 Impact on flora

Potential impacts on vegetation will arise from the construction phase.

Construction of the road from the current station to the top of the hill where

the new satellite dish will be installed will result in the removal of vegetation.

The woody vegetation has already been described as sparse such that the

volumes or numbers of woody plants to be removed is low. The vegetation

type, as described above is very common in the Khomas-Hochland

landscape particularly on similar surrounding hills. An environmental impact

assessment of the effects of road construction in the area concluded that

no significant impact on plant species of high conservation concern was

41

envisaged (du Toit, 2016). Hence, it can be confidently assumed that no

unique plant diversity will be lost as this is widely and sufficiently represented

elsewhere. Therefore, the environmental impact of road construction and

clearance of the top of the hill will result in only localized loss of individual

plants and not of overall plant diversity. In fact, there is already an existing

vehicular track from a westerly direction leading up the mountain.

Comparatively, the clearance needed for a road such as the one for this

project is much less than that needed for major projects which may need a

wider road. In addition, there is still habitat connectivity around the station,

hence the effects will be localized and minimal. Table 4 below summarizes

the impact assessment.

Table 4: Summary of assessment of impact on flora

Impact: Potential loss of plant diversity

Nature of the impact Negative -

Extent of the impact Site-specific 1

Duration of impact Long-term 3

Intensity of impact Medium 2

Probability of impact Probable 4

Significance, S = (E+D+I) x P Low 24 (<25)

Reversibility Complete (Yes)

Confidence High

Mitigation Limit the widths of the road and the satellite

dish construction area to the bare

minimum required.

Consider developing the existing vehicular

track into an access road from the existing

station to the dish site (top of the mountain)

road, rather than opening up a completely

new one.

Further investigation or

monitoring recommended

Monitor any potential invasive plants which

may colonise disturbed areas and clear

them.

5.2.2 Impact on Fauna

Ground station construction phase would involve direct impacts on faunal

communities from the disturbance of the land surface as well as from

associated developments such as access roads etc. The removal of

vegetation from the site would completely modify the existing faunal

habitats and result in virtually complete destruction of animals which would

be unable to flee to nearby similar habitats. Only bird species and relatively

large mobile animals would be expected to escape when threatened.

Marginal losses of invertebrates, rodents, ground squirrels and other small

mammals would be expected as well as losses to reptile species.

42

Faunal recolonization might occur after the construction and installation of

the ground station operational equipment. There are several rare and

protected animal species in this area (refer to 3.7 above). Therefore, the

planning of construction and operation activities would have to take these

into account to avoid, whenever possible, endangering these species. The

assessment of potential impacts is given in Table 5 below.

Table 5: Summary of assessment of impact on fauna

Impact: Potential loss of animal diversity





Probability of impact Highly probable 6

Significance, S = (E+D+I) x P Medium 36 (25-50)


Confidence High

Mitigation Limit the widths of the road and the satellite

dish construction area to the bare

minimum required.

Consider developing the existing vehicular

track into an access road from the existing

station to the dish site (top of the mountain)

road, rather than opening up a completely

new one.



Record number of accidental animal

fatalities during the construction phase.

Collect at least the skulls of the vertebrate

fatalities to assist in species identification

and preservation.

5.2.3 Geological features

(a) Geological Structures

During the construction of the ground station and road from the current

station to the location of the new satellite dish there will be considerable

disturbance to near surface superficial geology, in particular due to

excavation for foundations and trenches, use of tracks, drilling and blasting.

The soil horizon is very shallow and the foundation of the station will be built

directly on fresh bedrock.

(b) Regional Faulting, Strong Seismic Ground Shaking and Surface Rupture

Faults may be categorized as active, potentially-active, or inactive.

Inactive faults are those showing no evidence of surface displacement

within the last 1.6 million years (Quaternary-age). Buried thrust faults are

faults without a surface expression but are a significant source of seismic

43

activity. Due to the buried nature of these thrust faults, their existence is

usually not known until they produce an earthquake. The risk for surface

rupture potential of these buried thrust faults is inferred to be low. Based on

the regional geological map by Schreiber (2011) the proposed ground

station is not located directly on any regional faults, however, it is in close

proximity with two north-south trending regional faults and two northeast-

southwest trending regional thrust faults. One of the north-south trending

faults lies between the proposed ground station and the current station. In

addition, the current station is located at intersections of the two northeast

trending thrust faults with a north-south trending fault. These regional faults

are deep-seated structures and were not observed during fieldwork.

Fieldwork revealed that the exposed Kuiseb schist and Klein Kuppe

quartzite are highly weathered and fractured.

The satellite station is located within a seismically active region (Khomas),

which is prone to earthquakes due to the presence of fractures and

tectonic faults. North–south and northeast–southwest trending faults with a

few splays cut across the Klein Kuppe quartzite and Kuiseb schist. For

instance, the Pahl fault in the city is a well-known geological structure that

runs north-south from Okahandja to Rehoboth. Smaller faults or rock

fractures associated with the Pahl fault are also found in most parts of

Windhoek. Most of the faults are inactive with only a few that are active,

causing small earthquakes.

Based on available literature and results of site investigations, there are no

known active faults or potentially active faults that underlie the project site.

The primary geologic hazard at the ground station is low ground motion

(acceleration) caused by an earthquake on any of the local or regional

faults. Therefore the site is not threatened by surface displacement.

Nonetheless, the design and construction of the satellite ground station is

required to comply with the most current codes regulating seismic risk.

Compliance with construction requirements would minimize the potential to

expose people or structures to substantial risk or loss or injury. Therefore,

impacts related to ground rupture from known earthquake faults and

seismic ground shaking would be less than significant.

(c) Geoheritage Impacts

All archaeological remains are protected under the National Heritage Act

(2004) and will not be destroyed, disturbed or removed. The Act also

requires that any archaeological finds be reported to the Heritage Council

Windhoek. There are no rock art reserved exclusively for tourism

development in the project area. Tables 6-7 below summarize the impact

assessment.

44

Table 6: Summary of impact assessment on ground rapture

Impact: Potential for ground rupture





Probability of impact Unlikely 2



Confidence High

Mitigation The foundation should be built directly on

fresh bedrock.



No.

Table 7: Summary of impact assessment on potential seismic ground

shaking

Impact: Potential for strong Seismic ground shaking








Confidence High

Mitigation The design and construction of the satellite

ground station is required to comply with

the most current codes regulating seismic

risk.



Monitor the buildings for any cracks after

any earthquake event is recorded in

Windhoek.

5.2.4 Soils

Soil erosion and the consequent sediment transport are caused by the

action of water, wind or gravity on exposed soil such as loss of vegetation.

Hence if the vegetation is lost, the process of soil erosion will start, which

involves the detachment of particles from the soil surface due to the force

of raindrop impact, flowing water or wind and its subsequent transportation

away from the site. The main categories of soil erosion are sheet, rill, gully,

tunnel, streambank and wind erosion. Several of these processes can act

simultaneously. These problems can be severe on various development and

intensive land use sites where the vegetation has been cleared and the soil

45

is entirely unprotected against erosional forces. Soil erosion and sediment

transport are associated with a range of serious adverse impacts on the

environment, both from an ecological and human perspective. These

impacts are located at the site of erosion, in the transporting waters and at

the site of sediment deposition as discussed below.

The most serious impacts are generally the loss of valuable soil, especially

topsoil, which provides the medium for plant growth. Such loss of soil results

in less potential for agriculture, site rehabilitation, re-establishment of native

ecosystems and development of landscaped gardens. Soil erosion might

also occur on adjacent lands that are away from the development site as

a result of increased water runoff. The build-up of sediment in sites of

deposition normally is associated with some problems. Waterways such as

river channels and wetlands may become filled with sediment which

leading to a smothering of natural aquatic and riparian habitat; increased

streambank erosion and channel width, resulting in potential loss of riparian

habitat and property; damage and a loss in utility of public and private

assets such as water storage facilities, harbours, storm water channels,

roads and causeways. Another potential impact is the reduction in water

quality arising from high turbidity. Contamination of the waters occurs when

the eroded soil may contain undesirable chemicals or other materials.

These problems result in degradation of the natural aquatic ecosystem,

decline in quality of water for human use and loss of aesthetic and

recreational values if it ends up in local dams. Table 8 below shows an

evaluation of the potential impacts.

Table 8: Summary of impact assessment with respect to soil erosion and

sedimentation.

Impact: Potential soil erosion and sedimentation


Extent of the impact Local 2

Duration of impact Medium-term 2

Intensity of impact Low 1



Reversibility Intermediate (Probable)

Confidence High

Mitigation Proper planning and design of erosion and

sediment controls.

Minimize soil erosion and zero sediment loss

from a project site.

Sediment basins and traps should be

designed to intercept all sediment

predicted to be eroded over the site

following the implementation of erosion

control measures.

46

Appropriate measures must also be taken

to prevent any wind erosion and dust

transport from the site.



No impact is expected after the proposed

development is completed.

5.2.5 Radiation

The proposed Direct Receiving Ground Station is to be constructed at the

Telecom Earth Station in Windhoek with the satellite dish located at the

hilltop in an area comprising hillsides. The ground station has to receive raw

data from the satellite and transmit the raw data to the data processing

system (DPS) and then to the application systems. There will be no potential

RF radiation impacts on the environment during the construction phase, as

the station will only start functioning after completion.

The radiation associated with the transmission from the satellite to the

ground receiving station will have no environmental effect since the

satellite is far away and the RF radiation strength at the receiving earth

station is expected to be within the recommended limits. Because the data

processing system and the direct receiving ground station are in the same

vicinity, it is therefore expected that if the transmission is by wireless, the RF

radiation level will be within the recommended limits. This will be more so if

the transmission is through optical fibre. The hillside vicinity of the station will

also disfavour the propagation of the RF radiation into the immediate

environment around the ground station.

Therefore, even without the necessary documentation with the required

transmission specifications of the receiving ground station, it is expected

that the RF radiation level will be below recommended limits. Table 9 below

summarizes the impact assessment.

Table 9: Assessment of potential RF radiation

Impact: Potential for RF radiation on environment

Nature of the impact Neutral 0





Significance, S = (E+D+I) x P Low 20(<25)


Confidence Low

Mitigation Keep monitoring radiation levels during

operation.



None

47

5.2.6 Dust pollution and air quality

In view of the presence of a coarse-textured, shallow soil or exposed

bedrock at the surface, the construction of the road and satellite reception

facility at the designated area are liable to produce dust. Most of the dust

will occur through vehicular movement, handling of construction materials,

and excavation, crushing and hauling of earth material. Mitigation

measures include the wetting of dust sources, as well as the wearing of dust

protection masks by workers operating at or near such sources.

The combustion of fossil fuels from stationary or mobile sources and the

application of surface primer and pesticides pollute the air. However, the

limited scale and duration of the construction work will translate in

intermittent and low emissions levels. The net negative impact to the

environment is thus expected to be transient and minimal (Table 10).

Table 10: Summary of assessment of impact on dust pollution and air quality

Impact: Potential air pollution from dust and fossil fuel-based emissions



Duration of impact Short-term 1


Probability of impact Definite 8



Confidence High

Mitigation Water may be used to suppress dust when

excavating at dust-prone surfaces,

crushing and hauling dusty or dust-

generating material; semi-treated water

should be considered for that activity.

Workers exposed to dust at construction

sites should be issued with dust protection

masks.



No impact is expected after the proposed

development is completed.

5.2.7 Land-use and aesthetics/visual impacts

The potential impact on visual aesthetics will arise from the construction

phase and continue through the operational phase of the development

until decommissioning. However, the site location in itself mitigates the

potential impact by means of its situation on the southern side of the hill

which is not visible from the City. The site is also located in an isolated,

largely uninhabited part of the City and due to no development allowed

48

adjacent to the acquirer recharge reservation zone of the City. This impact

is, therefore, considered to be of low significance during both construction

and operational phases of the development (Table 11).

Table 11: Summary of assessment of impact on visual aesthetics

Impact: Impact on aesthetics








Confidence Medium

Mitigation Isolated location of the site on the southern

slope of the mountainous hill mitigates

potential visual pollution.



No

The potential impact on the surrounding land-use are considered of low

significance during both the construction and operational phases by

means of the isolated location of the site (Table 12).

Table 12: Summary of assessment of impact on land-use incompatibility

Impact: Impact on Land-use incompatibility




Intensity of impact low 1




Confidence Medium

Mitigation Isolated location of site adjacent City’s ‘no-

development’ zone and mountainous

Khomas Hochland mitigates potential

negative impact



No

5.2.8 Hydrology, Drainage and Water quality

The current site is already connected to the City of Windhoek water supply

system, sewerage system, solid and hazardous wastes management system

49

and thus no new water supply, sewerage and waste systems will be

needed. The new dish will be less than 20 m below ground level and will be

on top of the hill, which is quite far from the groundwater. Thus no major

effect on groundwater during the construction phase and operational

phase are likely to take place. Increase in demand in groundwater

envisaged during the construction phase. Furthermore, it must be noted

that the Windhoek aquifer has a high vulnerability and any pollution on

surface water may directly have an impact on the groundwater quality.

Thus care should be taken to avoid contaminating the aquifer. The impact

assessment is shown in Table 13.

Table 13: Summary of assessment of impact on Hydrology, Drainage and

Water quality

Impact: Potential water level decrease








Confidence Medium

Mitigation Use water sparingly and get water from

through tanks from the city to use during

construction phase



Monitor changes in water level.

5.2.9 Impacts on Cultural and Archaeological sites

The National Heritage Council of Namibia (NHCN) defines cultural heritage

as the ‘the legacy of physical artefacts and intangible attributes of the

Namibian society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in

the present and bestowed for the benefit of future generations’. The NHCN

states that cultural heritage includes tangible culture (such as buildings,

monuments, landscapes, books, works of art, and artefacts), intangible

culture (such as folklore, traditions, language, and knowledge), and natural

heritage (including culturally-significant landscapes, and biodiversity). The

National Heritage Act 27 of 2004 requires that consideration should be

given to such sites and artefacts in any development project. Thorough

searches were done in the literature to determine if any proclaimed sites

existed in the area. Of particular importance was the assessment by Vogt

(2004) which indicated that there are no proclaimed sites in the project

area. A recent study in the area also indicated the same (Du Toit, 2016).

The assessment on the potential impact on cultural and archaeological

sites is shown in Table 14.

50

Table 14: Potential impact of cultural and archaeological sites

Impact: Potential destruction or loss of cultural and archaeological

heritage






Significance, S = (E+D+I) x P Low 8(<25)


Confidence High

Mitigation none



During project execution, there is a need to

be on the lookout for potential, yet

undiscovered sites which may exist in the

area.

5.2.10 Socio-economic impacts

The satellite data receiving ground station at the telecom’s earth station is

located in the southern part of Windhoek, within municipality boundaries. It

is surrounded by private properties: livestock farms and tourism enterprises.

Other neighbouring establishments are also the military base (Luiperdsvallei)

and the historical heritage site of Heroes Acre. The population density

around the area is low, with the nearest residential neighbourhood of

Cimbebasia that is bordering Prosperita, an industrial area, Academia and

Pioneerspark. The neighbourhood of Cimbebasia is inhabited by middle

income with a few low income people scattered in the neighbouring

livestock farms. A B1 main highway runs in proximity to site, through which

most of the economic goods are transported. The following socio-

economic impacts are identified (Tables 15-17):

Table 15: Potential benefits from employment creation (See Section 5.3)

Impact: Employment creation during different project phases

Nature of the impact Positive +

Extent of the impact National scale 4

Duration of impact Long term 3




Reversibility -

Confidence Medium

Mitigation N/A



None

51

Table 16: Potential impact on infrastructural development

Impact: Infrastructural development

Nature of the impact Positive +


Duration of impact Long term 3




Reversibility -

Confidence Medium

Mitigation N/A



None

Table 17: Potential impact on of noise pollution

Impact: Noise pollution



Duration of impact Medium 2




Reversibility Intermediate

Confidence Medium

Mitigation Appropriate measures must be found to

reduce noise pollution on the surrounding

residential, as well as neighbouring farms

and tourism facilities.



Monitoring of noise levels and other

disturbances towards the surrounding

residential areas, neighbouring farms, and

tourism facilities.

5.3 Benefits of the Project to Namibia

The proposed project has many benefits for Namibia. These have been

outlined in Section 1.2 and will contribute to realisation of some

developmental objectives of the country. The project will open up another

planned second phase where the capability will increase to include the

mineral exploration and marine spatial planning as well as coastal

surveillance and monitoring (illegal fishing, pollution, monitoring of oil spills)

in addition to those listed in Section 1.2.

52

The project will also create employment during the construction and

operation phases and there will be positive benefits from infrastructural

development (see Tables 15-16 above). The project will involve the training

of Namibians on the operations of the facility, which is a very important

aspect of local capacity enhancement in this field. The plan is to train 20

people to become a specialized space talent team.

6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

6.1 Site

The site was already found suitable for this project through a Feasibility

assessment reported/referred to in Section 1.3. Given that there is an

existing Telecom satellite facility at the site, it makes logical sense to use

that space (and surrounding area) and infrastructure for the additional

station.

6.2 Facility specifications

The only technical alternative that can be considered is in the data

transmission channel between the satellite direct receiving ground station

to the data processing system and then to the application system. As

indicated above, the radiation potential is low.

6.3 The ‘no-go’ alternative

The ‘no-go’ alternative is the baseline against which all alternatives are

assessed, and it essentially entails maintaining the current situation (i.e. no

satellite data receiving ground station will be constructed and only the

current Telecom Station will exist at the site). However, this alternative would

mean all the benefits outlined in Sections 1.2 and 5.3 above would not be

realised. This would mean Namibia will not realise some of her

developmental objectives, hence the ‘no-go’ alternative should not be

considered.

53

7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP)

7.1 Introduction

Section 8 of the EMA Regulations (2012) stipulates that the Scoping Report

must include a Draft Management Plan, which includes:

information on any proposed management, mitigation, protection or

remedial measures to be undertaken to address the effects on the

environment that have been identified.

measures to rehabilitate the environment affected by the

undertaking of the activity or specified activity to its natural or

predetermined state or to a land use which conforms to the

generally accepted principle of sustainable development (as far as is

reasonably practicable).

description of the manner in which the applicant intends to modify,

remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which causes

pollution or environmental degradation.

The purpose of this EMP is therefore to ensure that the proponent maintains

adequate control over the project operations with respect to project

activities in order to:

To prevent negative impacts where possible

Reduce or minimise the extent of negative impacts

Prevent long term environmental degradation.

The impact evaluation done above has shown that most of the potential

negative impacts are rated low, while few are rated medium and none in

the high impact category. The positive impacts are significant. Below, is a

description of what should be done in order to minimise or eliminate the

potential negative impacts on the environment.

7.2 Management Actions

The minimum management actions which should be taken to minimise

and/or eliminate the potential negative impacts are summarised in Table

18 below.

Table 18: Summary of management actions which should be taken to

minimise potential negative impacts. Construction Phase

Environmental Feature Potential impact Management action

Conservation

of vegetation

Loss of vegetation

diversity

Limit clearance of vegetation

along the new road and

around the satellite dish site to

the bare minimum area

required for the construction.

There should be no setting up of

54

fires in risky areas to avoid

accidental veld fires.

o The contractor to make

sure and advise on such

locations.

Workers are prohibited from

cutting down trees for wood or

other purposes unless an

appropriate permit has been

obtained to do so. Otherwise

wood should be obtained from

usual commercial suppliers.

Workers should not collect

wood or other plant products

on or near work sites unless an

appropriate permit has been

obtained to do so.

No alien plant species may be

planted on or near work areas.

Unused construction material

must not be dumped in the

woodlands around but must be

properly disposed of in

accordance with Municipal

Laws.

Any rubble arising from

construction work must be

removed and properly

disposed of in accordance with

Municipal Laws.

Hydrology Potential ground water

level decrease

Use water sparingly and if

possible use water from external

tanks instead of pumping from

groundwater on site.

Dust pollution / Air

quality

Excavation and

removal of sediments

Potential air

contamination through

applications of primer

and pesticides.

Limit excavation area

Dampen dust sources, ideally

using semi-treated water.

Workers operating at or near

dust sources be assigned with

and wear dust protection

masks.

Topography and land

use changes

Changes to land use

and topography

Properly fence off the site to

limit access by large mammals.

Steepness of topography

should be taken in account

during the planning and

execution of construction

phase.

Geological features

(lithological units,

Potential ground

subsidence

Remove all the weathered

rocks (saprolite layer) and

55

joints and faults) build the foundation on fresh

bedrock (schist or quartzite).

Hydrology, Drainage

and Water quality

Potential ground water

level decrease


possible use water from

external tanks instead of

pumping from groundwater on

site

Monitor changes in water

levels.

Potential

contamination of

groundwater through

dumping of harmful

waste

All wastes should be disposed

of properly to avoid

contaminating groundwater

Continuous monitoring of

groundwater quality is

encouraged.

Conservation of Soil Soil erosion Minimal disturbance -

disturbance to soil and existing

vegetation on the site should

be at the bare minimum

required for the construction

work.

Site management practices -

appropriate scheduling of

construction sequence and

erosion control measures should

be in place and monitoring and

maintenance of erosion control

measures should be put in

place.

Diversion banks and channels -

these intercept and divert run-

off water away from disturbed

ground and dispose it safely

from the construction site.

Graded banks and channels –

these should be done and

designed to intercept and

direct sediment run-off from

within the disturbed site to an

appropriate sediment basin or

trap.

Operation phase

Environmental Feature Potential Impact Management action

Conservation

of vegetation

Loss of vegetation

diversity

There should be no setting up of

fires in risky areas to avoid

accidental veld fires.

Vegetation clearance during

road maintenance should be

limited to 2 m or less from the

edge of the road.

56

All invasive and alien plant

species should be removed

from the sites.

Radiation Potential radiation

effects.

No potential effects were

identified. No management

action is needed except

regular monitoring of radiation

levels throughout.

Dust pollution / Air

quality

Dust pollution Appropriate aftercare of

excavated areas should

mitigate wind and water

erosion.

Topography and Land

use changes

Changes to land use

and topography

No management action

needed

Geological features

(lithological units,

joints and faults)

Potential ground

subsidence

Monitoring the buildings for any

major cracks after any

earthquake event is reported in

Windhoek.

Hydrology, Drainage

and Water quality

Potential Water level

decrease


possible use water from

external tanks instead of

pumping from groundwater on

site

Monitor changes in water level.

Continuous monitoring of

groundwater quality is

encouraged.

Conservation of Soil Soil erosion There should be a minimal

disturbance to the soil and

existing vegetation.

There should be a scheduling of

the construction sequence and

clearly put on the notice board

as well as the access restriction

to non-essential areas.

Install diversion banks and

channel, to intercept and divert

storm water away from

disturbed ground.

Install graded banks and

channels to intercept and

direct runoff sediments from

within the disturbed site to an

appropriate sediment basin or

trap.

57

8. OPINION WITH RESPECT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION

Regulation 15(j) of the EMA of 2007 requires that the EAP must include an

opinion as to whether the listed activity must be authorised. If the opinion is

that the project must be authorised, the EAP must state any condition(s)

that must be made in respect of that authorisation.

(a) It is therefore recommended that the proposed Project should be

authorised to go ahead because, should the development not

proceed, the envisaged development objectives of Namibia and the

benefits to Namibia and the wider community will not be realised.

(b) The significance of negative impacts can be reduced with effective

and appropriate mitigation provided in this Report. The implementation

of the EMP in this Report should be included as a condition of approval.

9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The EIA Experts are grateful to those members of the public who managed

to submit their comments. We also express our sincere gratitude to the

officials of the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology & Innovation

(MHETI), in particular Dr A. Van Kent (Executive Director), Dr L. Mundia

(Director: Research & Innovation), Mr N. Lupahla (Deputy Director:

Research & Innovation)and Mr J. Haipinge for availing relevant documents,

rendering logistical and other important support needed in the execution of

this task. We also thank Telecom Namibia for logistical support during the

site visit, and for responding to any queries lodged with them. We are

grateful to the UNAM Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kenneth Matengu and his

Management Team for their support throughout this endeavour. All

individuals and organisations that assisted in one way or another but not

specifically mentioned here are also truly appreciated and thanked.

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