Joint Press Release Gambia: strong international support for a new era of renewables with inauguration of historic 23 MWp solar plant

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Gambia, 14 March 2024

Joint Press Release

Gambia: strong international support for a new era of renewables with inauguration of historic 23 MWp solar plant

  • A significant strategic project with strong substantial economic and social impacts, the recently inaugurated solar photovoltaic plant in Jambur is poised to supply electricity to approximately 18,500 households. This power plant supported by The Government of The Gambia and its development partners is part of a wider initiative aimed at enhancing the contribution of renewable energy within the electricity sector.
  • This plant will be complemented by other critical transmission and distribution upgrades in the NAWEC network to ensure the availability of reliable, clean, and stable energy supplies across The Gambia. At a total cost of $165m, the Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) financed by the WB, EU & EIB remains the single largest energy project in The Gambia and promises to significantly support the turnaround of the energy sector particularly as the Gambia accelerates its vision towards Universal Access. This project remains a critical anchor towards the implementation and actualization of the Gambia’s long-term energy sector roadmap.
  • The project contributes to gainful employment creation in The Gambia with 1,250 direct jobs created from the construction phase to operation and maintenance. To ensure sustainability, a three-year operations and maintenance contract (O&M) has been signed as large scale solar PV is entirely new to the sector.

The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy and The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), along with the European Investment Bank, the European Union, and the World Bank, has recently inaugurated a new milestone in the Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP). The Inauguration Ceremony, which was presided over by His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, celebrated the completion of a 23 MWp Photovoltaic Solar plant in Jambur, Kombo South District, West Coast Region.

This project component consists in the construction of a new 23 MWp solar park tied with 8MWh battery storage and aims to revolutionize power generation in the Gambia by serving as a direct complement to current generation sources while decreasing the dependence on import. These investments are all inherently tied to the Gambia’s Energy Sector Roadmap 2021-40.

A project with a strong economic and social impact

GERMP contributes to improving the livelihoods of populations within beneficiary communities, promoting job creation, and facilitating the provision of quality medical, educational and social services through better electricity supply. These improvements will contribute to the national objective of reducing poverty and boosting prosperity.

Now that it is operational, the project will progressively increase energy supply in The Gambia by a fifth and transform access to electricity in rural communities. The project will improve access to energy, ensure that education and health services benefit from reliable energy and help address electricity shortages in the country.

Energy demand in The Gambia has increased by 5.5% per year in recent years and today’s connection of the new 23 MWp solar plant to the national energy grid will significantly increase Gambia’s current generation capacity of 98 MW and enable electrification of rural areas.

A strong commitment

The European Union, the European Investment Bank and the World Bank have been strong partners of African countries for more than half a century. This project further strengthens their presence in Africa with strong collaboration between institutions. Over the past decade, the European Union, the European Investment Bank and the World Bank have invested in innovative technologies, green energy, water, education, agriculture, telecommunications, health and business in more than 40 countries on the continent.

In the context of this project, solar power and clean energy supply across the country is financed by the European Investment Bank (EUR 65m), the European Union (EUR 40m) and the World Bank (EUR 36m).

H.E. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia

“As this is a utility scale solar PV plant, we have designed it to significantly reduce the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuel for electricity generation. In the same vein, the project is to accelerate the pace towards generating fifty (50) percent of the nation’s power supply from renewable energy sources by 2030. This is our national target, and the message is clear: as a responsible member of the international community, The Gambia is committed to the global energy transition. The Plant project clearly demonstrates the country’s commitment to reducing the carbon footprint and greening our energy landscape. Further to this, as a clean energy source and a major vehicle for climate change mitigation, the solar plant will contribute to the realisation of The Gambia’s Nationally Determined Contributions”.

Mr. Nani Juwara, Managing Director at National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC)

“The significance of this solar plant cannot be overemphasized. It symbolizes our unwavering commitment to driving change and pioneering progress in The Gambia’s transition towards a clean and sustainable energy future. By harnessing the power of the sun to produce 23MW of clean energy, we are not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also contributing to environmental protection and safeguarding the well-being of future generations. Moreover, the inauguration of this solar plant marks a crucial milestone in our quest for energy security. By diversifying our energy mix and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, we are enhancing our energy independence and fortifying the stability and reliability of The Gambia’s power supply system”. 

Mr. Ambroise Fayolle, Vice-President at the European Investment Bank (EIB)

“I am delighted that the European Investment Bank is supporting this new solar plan with such economic and social impact for populations in Gambia, particularly in rural areas. It will have a positive impact on people’s daily lives of over 800,000 inhabitants in improving also medical, educational and social services through better electricity supply. This project also contributes to developing green energy while decreasing the dependence on import. It is a very good illustration of the priorities of the EIB as the EU Climate Bank, which supports clean energy investments in Africa.”  He added: “With EIB Global, our branch dedicated to development, our objective is to finance high-impact projects outside the EU while strengthening our partnerships. Our ambition is to support the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative and key sectors in countries across the African continent such as innovation, renewable energy, water, agriculture, and transport.”  

H.E. Corrado Pampaloni, Ambassador of the European Union to The Gambia

“This power plant is part of the “Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project” and it is particularly important for the achievement of a swift transition towards solar power and clean energy supply across the country. Increased access to green energy is only one of the benefits of the project. We expect 1,250 direct jobs linked to the construction, operation and maintenance. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project is backed by significant funding from the European Investment Bank (EUR 65m – which corresponds to more than 8.9 billion dalasi), from the European Union (EUR 40m – almost 3 billion dalasi) and from the World Bank (EUR 36m – almost 2.7 billion dalasi). The EU support is part of the EU Global Gateway, which is an ambitious initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and connectivity between Europe and Africa. Through Global Gateway, the EU supports investments in quality infrastructure, respecting the highest social and environmental standards, in line with the EU’s values and international norms and standards. Green energy is a key priority area under the Global Gateway. The Ambassador concluded by saying that “I would like to re-affirm here, today, the commitment of the European Union to support The Gambia to ensure a bright and prosperous future for its people. Reliable access to energy is an indispensable element to realise this vision”.

Feyi Boroffice, Resident Representative of the World Bank to The Gambia

“The World Bank is pleased to join The Government of The Gambia to witness this remarkable milestone in the Energy Sector. This marks the first time in the Gambia’s history where a utility scale solar plant of 23 Megawatts Solar PV capacity and 8-Megawatt hours battery storage is being commissioned. This solar plant allows NAWEC to finally shift away from expensive heavy fuel oil-based generation which is costly and harmful to the environment. The vision of universal access to energy is being supported by the World Bank through the development of medium and low voltage networks across The Gambia. Through the bank financed GERMP and ECOWAS Regional Electricity Access Projects, over 700 communities will be provided electricity for the first time in the country’s history. These are significant historic milestones for The Gambia. There are also plans underway to develop the country’s potential to become an electricity exporter to the sub-region through the development of a 150MW solar park in Soma.”

Note to editors

National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC)

The National Water And Electricity Co. Ltd (NAWEC) is a public limited liability company established in June 1996, mandated to provide electricity, water, and sewerage services in The Gambia. It succeeded the Gambia Utilities Corporation (GUC) and the Utilities Holding Corporation (UHC). NAWEC operates under a Board of Directors, with the Managing Director overseeing operations. While

NAWEC has achieved financial sustainability for normal operations, it lacks resources for system expansion and maintenance.

The Gambia aims to achieve Universal Access to electricity by 2025, as stipulated by H.E President Adama Barrow. NAWEC will implement this goal primarily through its grid infrastructure, benefiting from the country’s favourable geography. A planning instrument, the Universal Access by 2025 Roadmap, has been designed to guide NAWEC in reaching this target and transforming the electricity sector. This roadmap aims to ensure that Gambians have reliable and affordable electricity in the future, with NAWEC evolving into an efficient, self-sustaining national power utility.

About the European Union (EU)

The European Union (EU) is an economic and political union made up of 27 European countries. It is based on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, as well as respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts on a global scale to promote the sustainable development of societies, the environment and economies, for the benefit of all.

The EU Delegation to The Gambia acts as the interface between the European institutions and the Government of The Gambia and its population. Over the years, the role of the Delegation has evolved to cover a wide range of issues.

The Delegation’s mandate includes the following:

  • To actively promote the values and policies of the European Union, in an open and equal partnership with the Government and people of The Gambia.
  • To deepen the political dialogue on all issues of mutual interest and to strengthen the partnership.
  • To play a key role in implementing the EU’s development cooperation activities. In The Gambia, these cover a range of target areas such as infrastructure, governance, food security and rural development.
  • To inform The Gambia about the policies and programmes of the European Union, as well as its institutions and values.

The EU support to the “Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project” is part of the EU Global Gateway, which is an ambitious initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and connectivity between Europe and Africa. Through Global Gateway, the EU supports investments in quality infrastructure, respecting the highest social and environmental standards, in line with the EU’s values and international norms and standards. Green energy is a key priority area under the Global Gateway.

About the European Investment Bank (EIB)

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the lending institution of the European Union (EU) owned by its member states. It makes long-term finance available for sound and sustainable investments to help achieve EU policy objectives.

The EIB has been a strong partner of African countries for 60 years. Through EIB Global, the Bank is strengthening its presence in Africa. Over the past decade, the EIB has provided more than €28 billion for investments in innovative technologies, green energy, water, education, agriculture, telecommunications, health and companies in more than 40 countries on the continent.

EIB Global is the specialist arm of the EIB Group dedicated to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance. EIB Global is designed to foster a strong and focused partnership within Team Europe, alongside other development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the group closer to local people, businesses and institutions through our offices around the world.

About the World Bank

 The World Bank Group is one of the world’s largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Our mission is to end extreme poverty and boost prosperity on a livable planet. .

With 189 member countries, staff from more than 170 countries, and offices in over 130 locations, the World Bank Group is a unique global partnership: five institutions working for sustainable solutions that reduce poverty and build shared prosperity in developing countries. Our core values embody what is most important to us as an institution, and in how we work with each other, our clients and our partners. They guide the decisions we make and the actions we take in carrying out our mission.

The International Development Association (IDA) is the part of the World Bank Group that helps the world’s poorest countries. Established in 1960, IDA aims to reduce poverty by providing zero to low-interest loans (called “credits”) and grants for programs that boost economic growth, reduce inequalities, and improve people’s living conditions.

Press contacts

National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC)

Mustapha Choi, mchoi@nawec.gm, Tel: +220 283 5949

Website: www.nawec.gm

EIB

Anne-Cécile Auguin, a.auguin@eib.org, Tel:  +352 621 36 19 48

Isabelle Vovor, i.vovor@ext.eib.org, Tel: +225 07 67 47 66 31
Website: www.eib.org/press – Press service : +352 4379 21000 – press@eib.org

EU

Laura Carpino, laura.carpino@eeas.europa.eu, Tel.: +220 449 5146 / 449 7846

Website: www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/gambia_en?s=100

WB

Kujeh Kah, kkah@worldbankgroup.org, Tel:  +220 3800449
Website: www.worldbank.org/gambia

Joint Press Release – The Gambia Ushers in New Era of Renewables with Inauguration of Historic 23MW Solar Plant

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Joint Press Release

Kombo South District, The Gambia – 29th February 2024

The Gambia Ushers in New Era of Renewables with Inauguration of Historic 23MW Solar Plant

  • Driving Change: A strategic project with a strong economic and social impact.
  • Pioneering Progress: A landmark achievement in the country’s transition towards a clean and sustainable energy future.
  • Clean Energy: Produces 23MW of clean solar power, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to environmental protection.
  • Energy Security: Increases energy independence and strengthens the stability and reliability of The Gambia’s power grid.
  • Economic Growth: Creates jobs, stimulates economic activity, and attracts further investment in renewable energy.
  • Sustainable Future: Paves the way for a more sustainable energy future for The Gambia, aligning with global climate goals.

On Saturday, 9th March 2024, the Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy and The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), along with the European Investment Bank, the European Union, and the World Bank, will inaugurate the Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) Component 1 – a 23MW PV Solar plant in Jambur, Kombo North District, West Coast Region.

“The Jambur solar plant is a symbol of our commitment to a cleaner, brighter future for The Gambia.” declared His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, who will preside over the inauguration ceremony.

This significant project made possible through the collaboration of the European Investment Bank (EIB), European Union (EU), World Bank, and NAWEC under GERMP, represents a major step forward in diversifying The Gambia’s energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Public Invitation:

The public is warmly invited to join this historic event and witness the inauguration of this transformational project. We look forward to celebrating this pivotal moment in The Gambia’s journey towards a sustainable future.

#JamburSolar #RenewableEnergy #NAWEC #TheGambia #EIB #Worldbank

 

For further information, please contact the NAWEC communications unit Tel: 3664112

GERMP Phase III Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) development process

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Public Announcement

GERMP Phase III Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) development process

 

The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) is an electricity project by the Government of The Gambia (GOTG), the International Development Association (IDA), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Union (EU). It aims to increase NAWEC’s generation capacity through renewable sources and also to reinforce its transmission infrastructure in the Greater Banjul Area (GBA) as well as in the provinces.

In this regard, 30kV transmission lines with associated MV T-Offs and distribution networks will be constructed in certain parts of the provinces involving 92 communities in Central River, Upper River, North Bank, and Lower River Regions.

From 19th – 30th September 2023 an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the sub-project was conducted along the proposed transmission corridors. The assessment identified potential impacts leading to involuntary resettlement, with consequences on the affected persons in terms of loss of property, income, sources of income and access to natural resources that constitute their livelihoods.

The Alkalo and community members of the affected communities listed below were met during consultations, and a census/survey was conducted to identify the project-affected persons along the corridors between 16th – 29th December 2023. All those whose land(s) and fruit trees will be affected by the Project, after confirmation with their respective Alkalo of being left out of the census/survey, are requested to contact the NAWEC Project Implementation Unit (PIU) as soon as possible. The cut-off date indicated for the census is December 29th, 2023. The communities affected are listed as:

 

  1. CRR-S (Fuladu) Line corridors

 

Corridor 1:      Bansang – Njoben Karim (Via Mabali koto and Misira, (Partially Road Corridor – (Mabali kuta, Sare Pateh Jawo and Njoben Karim))

 

Corridor 2:      Bantanto – Manneh Kunda (Via Jibel) – Along Road Corridor

 

Corridor 3:   Manneh Kunda – Sare Tamanso (Via Sare Giddeh, Charen and Belal Fass, Sare Debo) (Partially Road Corridor – (Charen, Belal Fass, Sare Debo and Sare Tamanso))

 

Corridor 4:      Sare Tamanso –Njoben Karim (Via Sare Pateh Jawo)

 

Corridor 4:     Tamba Kunda – Njoren (Via Abeokuta Daru and Tandi) (Tamba Kunda – Abeokuta, Abeokuta – Daru and Daru – Tandi all are Road Corridors) – Njoren is also called Sankabari)

 

Corridor 5:  Tamba Kunda – Sare Duta (Duta Wally) (Via Sare Modou, Sare Yorro Golori, Sare Pateh Ebadan, Sare Kali Kandeh, Sare Dembaru, Samba Tacko, Sare Chawto, Sare Yerro Yoba, Nyameng Kunda, Libras, Kerewan Dumbokono, Sincu Chedoyel, Sare Sileri, Kali Kunda, Sambundinya, Sare Mansong, Fuladu Sukuta, Sinchang Gelajo, Bani, and Sinchang Samba Mberry (Sinchu Samba))

 

Corridor 6:      Santanto Bubu – Sinchu Samba Jawo (Via Santanto Mundong, Santanto Jabel, Santanto Ousman, Ndorma, Logomel, Santanto Wurumang, Cha Kunda, Jamwelly, Sinchang Faramba, Sare Soffie, Sare Jarje, Sare Samboido, Sare Yeroyel, Sare Pateh Gassama, Sare Ngallen, Sare Sawadi, Sare Ali and Sare Sabo)

 

Corridor 7:    Sare Ali – Sare Gai (Via Charjel)

 

Corridor 8     Sambuya – Sare Bojo – (Via Sare Bakary) – Along Road Corridor

 

  1. CRR-N (Sami) Line corridors

 

Corridor 1:  Fittu Fula – Kujew Mandinka – (Via Kujew Fula)

Corridor 2:  Changai Wollof – Daru Salam

Corridor 3:  Renerou Junction – Sama Kunda (Via Ranerou Woloff, Tabanani, Chamen, Tabayel and Mbafaf),) – (Partially a Road Corridor (Renerou Junction to Tabanani is a Road Corridor)

 

Corridor 4: Ranerou Woloff – Njalal Toro (Via Ranerou Fula)

Corridor 5: Njalal Fula Junction – Njalal Fula

Corridor 6: Sami Tenda – Madiana (Via Forry)

 

  1. URR-N (Sandu) corridors

 

Corridor 1:   Demba Wandu – Sare Ngai (Via Mamadi Ceesay)

Corridor 2:   Dasilame Secka – Jakari (Via Sare Kali, Nawdeh Tenda, Njie Kunda and Nyankui)

Corridor 3:   Nawdeh – Wellingara Sussoh (Via Sare Jallow and Sankibai)

 

  1. LRR Line corridors

 

Corridor 1:       Soma – Misira – Along road corridor

Corridor 2:       Soma – Toniataba – Along road corridor

 

  1. NBR Line corridors

 

Corridor 1:       Kerewan – Suwareh Kunda – Along Road Corridor

 

Claimants who feel they should be included should contact the projects Grievance Resolution Mechanism (GRM) through one of the contacts listed below, or visit the PIU Office, located at Emporium Complex, 114 Kairaba Avenue, Kanifing Municipality, to arrange a meeting with the surveyor and the Consultant. For further information, contact the Project’s Social and Environment Safeguards Specialists:

  • Mr. Nuha Colley – Environmental Safeguards Specialist on Toll-free number:1266 (using Qcell):   email: ncolley@nawec.gm

 

  • Mr. Ousman Mankara – Social Risk Management Specialist on Toll-free number:1226 (using Africell): email: omankara@nawec.gm

 

Specific Procurement Notice – Design, Supply, and Installation for Gunjur Water Treatment Plant and Boreholes; and Rehabilitation of Banjul and Brikama Storage Tanks

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Specific Procurement Notice

Request for Bids

 

Employer: National Water & Electricity Company (NAWEC)

Project: Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project

Contract title: Design, Supply, and Installation for Gunjur Water Treatment Plant and Boreholes; and Rehabilitation of Banjul and Brikama Storage Tanks

Country: The Gambia

Loan No. /Credit No. / Grant No.: IDA-D6530

RFB No: GM-NAWEC-304860-CW-RFB

Issued on: 16th August 2023

  1. The Republic of The Gambia (hereinafter called “Borrower”) has received financing from the International Development Association (IDA), the European Investment Bank and the European Union (the “Banks”) in the form of a credit and grant (hereinafter called “credit” and “grant”) toward the cost of Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP). The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), an implementing agency of the Borrower (hereinafter called “Client”), intends to apply part of the proceeds toward payments under the Contracts for Design, Supply, and Installation for Gunjur Water Treatment Plant and Boreholes; and Rehabilitation of Banjul and Brikama Storage Tanks. For this contract, the Borrower shall process the payments using the Direct Payment disbursement method, as defined in the World Bank’s Disbursement Guidelines for Investment Project Financing.
  2. The National Water and Electricity Company Limited (NAWEC) now invites sealed Bids from eligible Bidders for:

Lot 1: Design Supply and Installation for Rehabilitation of Banjul and Brikama Storage Tanks

Banjul

  • Construction of the two new water towers
  • Demolishment of the existing water towers
  • Pipework including valve chamber and water meters
  • Site works

Brikama

  • Construction of the new water tower
  • Demolishment of the existing water tower
  • Pipework
  • Site works

 

Lot 2: Design, supply and installation for Gunjur Water Treatment Plant and New Boreholes

  • Drilling of 1 new borehole (G03), assemble the components and plot works
  • Connect existing borehole E13 and new borehole G03 to new transport main to WTP Gunjur
  • New transport main approximately 7 km PVC250 to WTP Gunjur
  • Replacement of chlorine dosing pumps
  • Power supply and control panel

The following works should be conducted related to WTP Brikama

  • Drilling of 1 new borehole (Kasssa Kunde), assemble the components and plot works
  • New transport main approximately 2.8 km PVC250 to connect new borehole to WTP Brikama
  • Power supply, control panel and telemetry

Main Qualifications Requirements:

Two similar contracts within the last Five (5) years, each with a value of at least:

  • For Lot 1: US$ 1,200,000.00
  • For Lot 2: US$ 900,000.00

 

  1. Bidding will be conducted through international competitive procurement using a Request for Bids (RFB) as specified in the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 Revised November 2017 and July 2018 and November 2020) (“Procurement Regulations”), and is open to all eligible Bidders as defined in the Procurement Regulations.
  2. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from National Water & Electricity Company, attention Haddy Njie, email hnjie@nawec.gm, CC: mfsanyang@nawec.gm, and inspect the bidding document during office hours Monday to Thursday from 8:00am to 16:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00am to 12:30 p.m. at the address given below.
  3. The bidding document in English may be purchased by interested eligible Bidders upon the submission of a written application to the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of US$300. The method of payment will be bank transfer. The document will be sent by electronic mail in PDF format or a link for downloading will be provided. Should a bidder require hardcopy, it will be sent by courier mail, however, such bidder will have to make own pick up and shipment arrangement.
  4. Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 12:00 pm Gambian time 29th September 2023. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late Bids will be rejected. Bids will be publicly opened in the presence of the Bidders’ designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend at the address below.
  5. All Bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of:

Lot 1: US$ 12,000.00

Lot 2: US$ 10,000.00

  1. Attention is drawn to the Procurement Regulations requiring the Borrower to disclose information on the successful bidder’s beneficial ownership, as part of the Contract Award Notice, using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form as included in the bidding document.
  2. The address(es) referred to above is (are):

 

Attention:  Mrs. Haddy Njie – Project Coordinator

Address: National Water & Electricity Company Limited

Project Implementation Unit

Emporium III Building, Fajara

114 Kairaba Avenue

The Gambia

Tel:+220 3664125 / 3182113/ 7009342

Electronic mail address: hnjie@nawec.gm, mfsanyang@nawec.gm

 

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Social Risk Management Specialist for the Project Implementation Unit (PIU)

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REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

(CONSULTING SERVICES – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT’S SELECTION)

THE GAMBIA

ELECTRICITY RESTORATION AND MODERNIZATION PROJECT (GERMP)

Loan No./Credit No./ Grant No.: IDA- D6530

Assignment Title: Social Risk Management Specialist for the Project Implementation Unit (PIU).

Reference No.: GM-NAWEC-339342-CS-INDV

The Republic of The Gambia with the support of the International Development Association (IDA), European Investment Bank (EIB), and European Union (EU), collectively the “Lenders”), are implementing an energy project approved in 2018 to improve the power generation and transmission capacity in the country. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will increase the generation capacity through renewable sources, reinforce the transmission infrastructure in the Great Banjul Area, and in the provinces across the country.

The development objective of the project is to improve the operational performance of the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), and its capacity to dispatch variable renewable electricity. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will improve the power generation capacity and efficiency of NAWEC’s transmission network to increase access to electricity for socio-economic development. This objective is in line with the Gambian National Development Plan (NDP-2018-2021), the Gambia Electricity Sector Roadmap (2017) and the National Energy Policy (2014-2018), among other national policies which promote the extension, reliability, and quality of the Government’s energy supply, as well as diversifying energy sources to include renewables.

The Social Risk Management Specialist’s overall responsibility will be ensuring compliance of project preparation and implementation activities with social risk management regulations and policies of the financing institutions and Gambian legislation.

The incumbent will be responsible for providing advice and technical assistance to the project and all stakeholders to ensure acceptable quality of social risk and impact management in accordance with the World Bank’s Operational Policies and EHS guidelines and, where applicable, national regulations in The Gambia.

Activities to be performed by the Social Safeguard Specialist include but are not limited to the following:

  • Ensure the diffusion of the project’s safeguard instruments and contribute to the stakeholders’ appropriation.
  • Provide overall technical social safeguards oversight for the project preparation and implementation under the general management of the PIU Coordinator.
  • Participate systematically in the development of terms of reference (TOR) for the conduct of specific social assessments and other social studies (i.e., RAP, ESIA, ESMP, and/or Audits, etc.) of the Project.
  • Evaluate the gaps between Gambian legislation and the World Bank’s standards on social issues, including compensation, eligibility, vulnerability, etc.…
  • Focus will be on social risk management, including measures for addressing inclusive stakeholder engagement, social accountability, social inclusion, conflict reduction, addressing disadvantage and vulnerability, restoration of livelihoods, gender mainstreaming and considerations in risk management, and familiarity with social methodologies, and other social issues that may arise in the project.  Familiarity addressing gender-based violence (GBV)/sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment (SEA/SH), violence against children (VAC) is also preferred.
  • Participate in the selection process of service providers to carry out environmental and social studies and be involved in the implementation and/or control/monitoring of social safeguards during the works and ensuring service providers are strictly following the E&S clauses.
  • Providing necessary coordination, review, and relevant input into preparation of Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment (ESIAs)/Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMPs) and Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) for projects under preparation and implementation.
  • Conduct a quality review of documents related to social and environmental activities carried out and facilitate the process of approval and disclosure of safeguard instruments (i.e. RAP, ESIA, ESMP, Audits, Grievance Mechanism [GM], Contractor-ESMP, etc.) and their implementation (i.e. payment of compensation, social support for PAPs, with particular attention to vulnerable groups including women, youth and the elderly, the disabled, etc.), in accordance with current national regulations and the World Bank’s environmental and social standards.
  • Ensuring that bidding documents and contracts include necessary social safeguards provisions.
  • Ensure the development and quality of the C-ESMPs and other instruments for mitigating social risks and impacts and gender and vulnerability aspects by the contractors in charge of the works and their approval by the Owner Engineer.
  • Conduct/participate, together with the environmental safeguard specialist, in supervision missions to verify and attest to the status of implementation of social safeguards, as well as gender, social inclusion, vulnerability, etc.
  • Supervise and monitor contractors’ performance in handling specific social issues; provide corrective instructions as needed.
  • Prepare relevant parts of required social monitoring reports, including reports on ESMP implementation status.
  • Undertake regular field visits to project sites to assess social impacts and verify social monitoring information provided in the reports of contractors and implementing partners, including photo documentation as applicable.
  • Keep accurate records of social supervision of project activities in a systemic manner that allows easy search-and-find of all documents upon request of, the World Bank, and national authorities.
  • Supervise and participate in the implementation of stakeholder consultations and coordinate the implementation of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan.
  • Suggest appointing stakeholder focal points to facilitate and sustain engagement with stakeholders.
  • Ensures good collaboration with government agencies, decentralized institutions, and local civil society
  • Analyzing project implementation reports to ensure that all work is completed in full compliance with Safeguards Policies; supervising contractors’ performance in handling specific social issues, such as GBV/SEA/SH/VAC (and monitoring measures related to the Codes of Conduct); providing corrective instruments as needed.
  • Monitor the development, dissemination, accessibility, and functionality of the project’s Grievance Mechanism, in particular the settlement of disputes and conflicts arising from the implementation of the RAPs and the C-ESMPs and propose appropriate corrective measures; ensure the consolidation of data and periodic reporting in conjunction with the GRC and all other relevant stakeholders Ensures that complaints related to SEA/SH are properly handled

The successful applicant shall be engaged immediately on a full-time basis for one year (in three months contract basis extendable depending on the satisfactory performance in the contract duration) and for additional years during the project implementation period.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be obtained from the link below.

GERMP Social Risk Management Specialist PIU TOR

Required qualifications:

a)     Master of Arts degree in social sciences such as political science or policy, sociology, anthropology, gender studies, social assessment studies, or related fields (with experience in areas relevant to social safeguards such as land acquisition or resettlement, vulnerable groups and individuals, gender, livelihoods, participation and civic engagement, social impact analysis, assessment of social risks).

b)     At least 5 years’ experience in the region in compliance with social safeguards policies including involuntary resettlement.

c)     Good knowledge of the relevant regulations/directives and operations of multilateral development organizations and executing agencies.

d)     Demonstrated experience and knowledge of Bank operations and social safeguard policies, especially, experience and familiarity with complex safeguard work.

e)     Proven experience and skills in managing projects.

f)      Proven capacity to work across multiple stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations (CSOs), local communities, and the private sector.

g)     Demonstrated experience in the World Bank project cycle and procedures.

h)     Fluent in English with excellent written and oral skills.

i)      Advanced computer skills and full proficiency in the use of relevant software applications in using computers and software such as Microsoft Office suite.

j)      Participate in capacity-building training to strengthen competencies as need be.

k)     Work with GBV consultant to strengthen capacity on addressing SEA/SH risks in the project.

l)      Knowledge of local language like Mandinka, wolof, fula, or serere is an important asset since the project is intervening in rural areas also.

m)   Familiarity with risks and mitigation measures related to gender-based violence (GBV) and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse/Sexual Harassment (SEA/SH) to ensure such risks/mitigation measures are included in safeguard instruments.

n)     Applications from women are highly recommended.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016 and revised November 2017 and July 2018 and November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.  A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 08:00 to 16:00. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by close of business 30th March 2023.  

Managing Director

Attention: Mrs. Haddy Njie – Project Coordinator

Address: National Water & Electricity Company Limited, Project Implementation Unit

Emporium III Building, Fajara

114 Kairaba AvenueFloor/ Room number: Conference Room, 1st Floor

City: Banjul

Country: The Gambia

Telephone: +220 3664125 / 3182113/ 7009342

Electronic mail address: hnjie@nawec.gm, (and copy to mfsanyang@nawec.gm)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Environmental Safeguards Specialist for Project Implementation Unit

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REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

(CONSULTING SERVICES –

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT’S SELECTION)

THE GAMBIA

ELECTRICITY RESTORATION AND MODERNIZATION PROJECT (GERMP)

Loan No./Credit No./ Grant No.: IDA- D6530

Assignment Title: Environmental Safeguards Specialist for Project Implementation Unit.

Reference No.: GM-NAWEC-339341-CS-INDV

 

The Republic of The Gambia with the support of the International Development Association (IDA), European Investment Bank (EIB), and European Union (EU), collectively the “Lenders”), are implementing an energy project approved in 2018 to improve the power generation and transmission capacity in the country. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will increase the generation capacity through renewable sources, reinforce the transmission infrastructure in the Great Banjul Area, and in the provinces across the country.

The development objective of the project is to improve the operational performance of the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), and its capacity to dispatch variable renewable electricity. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will improve the power generation capacity and efficiency of NAWEC’s transmission network to increase access to electricity for socio-economic development. This objective is in line with the Gambian National Development Plan (NDP-2018-2021), the Gambia Electricity Sector Roadmap (2017) and the National Energy Policy (2014-2018), among other national policies which promote the extension, reliability, and quality of the Government’s energy supply, as well as diversifying energy sources to include renewables.

The implementation of some activities of the GERMP project could lead to potential environmental and social risk and impacts which must be managed. The project is using the World Bank operational Policies on E&S safeguards as well as the Gambian national low on the management of E&S risks and impacts.

These Term of references are prepared to recruit an environmental specialist to support the monitoring of the management of E&S risks and impacts in the context of the project.

The environmental Safeguard Specialist’s overall responsibility will be ensuring strict compliance of sub-project preparation and implementation with the World Bank’s Operational Policies on safeguards and Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) guidelines, The Gambian legislation, and relevant international good practices.  In general, he/she will be responsible for providing advice and technical assistance to the project and all stakeholders to ensure acceptable quality of environmental risk and impact management in accordance with mentioned policies.

Activities to be performed by the Environment Safeguards Specialist include but are not limited to the following:

a) Provide overall technical environmental safeguards oversight for the sub-project preparation and implementation under the general management of the PIU Project Coordinator. Focus will be on environmental risk management, including measures for addressing negative impacts, labor influx, healthy and safe working condition of labors, biodiversity management, waste (including hazardous and non-hazardous) and other environmental issues that may arise during the implementation of project’s activities.

b) Ensure compliance with the provisions of the World Bank’s Safeguard Policies which have been deemed relevant to this project, and with national, regional, and international legal provisions in force that apply.

c) Conduct in collaboration of the social development specialist the E&S screening of planned sub-projects/activities and determined the appropriated E&S due diligence to perform. Ensure the participation of the NEA to the process as per national requirements.

d) Provide necessary coordination and relevant inputs during the preparation of environmental and social instruments such as Environmental and Social Impact Assessment/Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESIA/ESMP), E&S Audits as necessary, for sub-projects under preparation and implementation.

e) Conduct quality review and facilitate the approval and disclosure process of environmental and social risk and impact management instruments (ESIA, ESMP, C-ESMP for contractors etc.) and their implementation in accordance with the Operational Policies and the national regulations in force.

f) Undertake regular field visits to project sites to assess the management of environmental impacts and verify environmental monitoring information provided in the reports of contractors and Owner Engineer, including photo documentation as applicable.

g) Keep records of environmental supervision of project activities in a systemic manner that allows easy search-and-find of all documents upon request of the World Bank, and national authorities.

h) Contribute to the preparation of environmental and social clauses and ensure their integration in the tender documents as well as in the contracts of the company in charge of the works and of the Owner Engineer, together with its social Safeguard specialist and the GBV Specialist.

i) Analyze project implementation reports to ensure that all work is completed in full compliance with Safeguards Policies, supervising contractors’ performance in handling specific environmental issues.

j) ensure the development and quality as well as the effective implementation of ESMP and any other instrument for mitigating environmental and social risks and impacts by the contractors in charge of the works and their approval by the Owner Engineer.

k) Monitor in collaboration with the social development specialist, the development, dissemination/make accessible and functional the implementation and effective monitoring of the project’s Grievance Mechanism, including the resolution of disputes and conflicts arising from the implementation of the C-ESMP and propose appropriate corrective measures.

l) Ensure proper documentation of all activities relating to environmental safeguards; prepare reports (monthly, quarterly, annual, incident report, accident report…).

m) Prepare relevant parts of required environmental monitoring reports, including reports on ESMP implementation status. his including being responsible for drafting sections of the project documentation and guidance such as the project operational manual related to environmental safeguards.

n) Provide capacity building to ensure safeguards is institutionalized in NAWEC PIU (i.e., Safeguard Specialist in PIU) and project partners (i.e., Owner Engineer and Contractors).

  • Hands-on program monitoring mechanisms (e.g., conducting monthly meetings and integrate reporting on implementation of ESMP/RAP).

o) Ensure proper management of OHS aspects by contractor (e.g., safety for workers and communities in construction and/or temporary and permanent rehousing sites, significant amounts of emissions or effluents produced, presence or adoption of unsafe processes for a project), to ensure that these risks are adequately addressed in the implementation processes, etc.

p) Participate in and ensure the implementation of the recommendations (related to the management of environmental risks and impacts, code of conduct, etc.) of the aide-memoirs of the support missions to the implementation of the project, carried out alone or jointly with the World Bank.

q) Ensure that activities related to the management of E&S risks and impacts are included in the project Annual Budget plan.

r) Work closely on an everyday basis with the PIU International E&S Safeguard Consultant to gain knowledge and on the job training of all the environmental safeguard matters.

The successful applicant shall be engaged immediately on a full-time basis for one year (in three months contract basis extendable depending on the satisfactory performance in the contract duration) and for additional years during the project implementation period.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be obtained from the link below.

GERMP Environmental Safeguard Specialist TOR

Required qualifications:

a)     have a higher education degree (Master) in environmental management or environmental sciences (ecology, biology, botany, forestry, natural resource management, etc.), geography, environment engineering or any other degree deemed equivalent and having the environment as a base (with experience in areas relevant to environmental safeguards).

b)     Have a proven experience of five (5) years in environmental management including two (2) years in projects financed by the World Bank.

c)     Good knowledge of the relevant regulations/directives and operations of multilateral development organizations and executing agencies.

d)     Demonstrated experience and knowledge of Bank operations and environmental safeguard policies, especially, experience and familiarity with complex safeguard work.

e)     Good experience in the development and/or implementation of Environmental and Social Assessment instruments (ESIA, ESMP) of projects, if possible, in projects financed by the World Bank

f)      Proven experience and skills in managing projects.

g)     Proven capacity to work across multiple stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations (CSOs), local communities, and the private sector.

h)     Demonstrated experience in the World Bank project cycle and procedures

i)      Fluent in English with excellent written and oral skills.

j)      Knowledge of local language like Mandinka, wolof, fula, or Mandinka is an asset since the project is intervening in rural areas.

k)     Advanced computer skills and full proficiency in the use of relevant software applications in using computers and software such as Microsoft Office suite.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016 and revised November 2017 and July 2018 and November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.  A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 08:00 to 16:00. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by close of business 30th March 2023.  

Managing Director

Attention: Mrs. Haddy Njie – Project CoordinatorAddress:

National Water & Electricity Company Limited, Project Implementation Unit

Emporium III Building, Fajara

114 Kairaba AvenueFloor/ Room number: Conference Room, 1st Floor

City: Banjul

Country: The Gambia

Telephone: +220 3664125 / 3182113/ 7009342 Electronic mail address: hnjie@nawec.gm, (and copy to mfsanyang@nawec.gm)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Developing a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for 30 kV MV Transmission lines with associated MV T-offs and Distribution Networks for Central River Region and Upper River Region

Posted on by nawec_admin

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The Gambia

Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP)

Loan No./Credit No./ Grant No.: IDA- D6530

Assignment Title : Developing a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for 30 kV MV Transmission lines with associated MV T-offs and Distribution Networks for Central River Region and Upper River Region

 Reference No.: GM-NAWEC-339332-CS-CQS

 

The Republic of The Gambia together with the International Development Association (IDA), European Investment Bank (EIB), and European Union (EU), collectively the “Lenders”), are implementing an energy project approved in 2018 to improve the power generation and transmission capacity in the country. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will increase the generation capacity through renewable sources, reinforce the transmission infrastructure in the Great Banjul Area, and in the provinces across the country.

The development objective of the project is to improve the operational performance of the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), and its capacity to dispatch variable renewable electricity. The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) will improve the power generation capacity and efficiency of NAWEC’s transmission network to increase access to electricity for socio-economic development. This objective is in line with the Gambian National Development Plan (NDP-2018-2021), the Gambia Electricity Sector Roadmap (2017) and the National Energy Policy (2014-2018), among other national policies which promote the extension, reliability, and quality of the Government’s energy supply, as well as diversifying energy sources to include renewables. The Project site will cover mainly two regions: the Central River Region and the Upper River Region. This Project will cover communities not covered by other NAWEC projects in order to reach the universal access. Additional short lines will be covered in NBR and LRR as well.

The total distance of the MV lines for this assignment is approximately 310km.

The aim of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is to include measures to address physical and/or economic displacement depending on the nature of the impacts expected from a project and identify and assess the socio-economic impacts of the planned 30 kV MV transmission lines with associated MV T-offs and distribution networks for CRR and URR and to prepare an Action Plan to be implemented in line with World Bank Policies, specifically, the World Bank Operational Policy 4.12 and Government of The Gambia policies and laws.

The RAP will identify the project affected persons (PAPs), engage them in inclusive, accessible, and participatory discussions regarding the plan, and formulating a plan of action to adequately compensate people or entities for their losses, and restriction of uses.

The RAP is based on up-to-date and reliable information about (a) the proposed project and its potential impacts on the affected  persons and other adversely affected groups, (b) appropriate and feasible mitigation measures, and (c) the legal and institutional arrangements required for effective implementation of resettlement measures.

Project-affected persons (PAPs) may be classified as persons: (a) Who have formal legal rights to land or assets; (b) Who do not have formal legal rights to land or assets but have a claim to land or assets that is recognized or recognizable under national law;  or (c) Who have no recognizable legal right or claim to the land or assets they occupy or use.

The expected output is a report that provides detailed information on the scope of adverse social impacts and mitigation measures (resettlement/rehabilitation) actions to be taken by the project. The Consultant is expected to submit to the GERMP PIU the following:

  • Inception report describing the procedures and timetable for completion of the RAP preparation process by first week after contract signing.
  • Report summarizing the preliminary results of the baseline socio-economic survey, PAPs census and consultations with PAPs and other stakeholders (by four weeks after contract signing)
  • Draft RAP report (by seven weeks after contract signing).

 

The main findings of the draft RAP report will be reviewed and cleared by the World Bank, and disclosed publicly by the Government of The Gambia, and the World Bank Infoshop.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be obtained from the link below.

RAP GERMP Two 30kV lines CRR and URR TOR

National Water and Electricity Company now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

Qualifications and Experience:

The Consultant team should have a minimum of ten (10) years of strong working experience in social assessment, involuntary resettlement, and other relevant fields, such as the social sciences and gender studies. It is desirable that the consultant team have experience working with international development institutions like the World Bank.

The consultant’s team shall be composed of professionals with experience in socio-economic analysis, including gender-sensitive analysis, surveying, and valuation.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016 and revised November 2017  and August 2018 and November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s qualifications-based selection (CQS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 08:00 to 16:00.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) by 30th March 2023.

 

The address above referred is:

Managing Director

Attention: Mrs. Haddy Njie – Project Coordinator

Address: National Water & Electricity Company Limited,

Project Implementation Unit

Emporium III Building, Fajara

114 Kairaba Avenue

Floor/ Room number: Conference Room, 1st Floor

City: Banjul

Country: The Gambia

Telephone: +220 3664125 / 3182113/ 7009342

Electronic mail address: hnjie@nawec.gm, (and copy to mfsanyang@nawec.gm)