Abstract
The paper assesses social impacts of a mega-dam project (Merowe Dam in Sudan) as perceived by host and affected communities (i.e., upstream, downstream, and relocated residents), which is not commonly seen in the literature. Primary survey and interviews were conducted with 300 residents, government officials, the Dam Implementation Unit (DIU), NGOs and other key informants. Five inter-related areas of impact were scrutinized: (a) displacement of communities; (b) resettlement of displaced communities in a new location; (c) technological factors; (d) social mobility factors; and (e) economic and political institutions. Results show that Merowe Dam exerted positive as well as adverse social impacts on local communities. Increase in home sizes, opportunities for children’s schooling and quality of life improvement ranked as the top three positive impacts with residents located downstream scoring relatively higher than relocated and upstream residents. Relocated residents also showed positive attitudes towards the provision of essential services (schools, health facilities, availability of running water, electricity, marketplace, etc.), thereby enabling them to enjoy and flourish in their social lives. The adverse impacts are centered on intangible factors, such as, sentimental effects closely related to their feelings, loss of history, memories, nostalgia about the old place, and grievances regarding compensation packages and its management. Therefore, it is important to recognize the need for long-term monitoring of the resettlement process and provide emotional support to those displaced and resettled. Furthermore, there is also a need to address the livelihood requirements of local communities in the affected region.
Highlights
The history of dam development is linked with the evolution of its significance and impact on society and their socio-economic conditions through displacement and resettlement, especially in developing economies (Jackson and Sleigh 2000)
The results suggest that Merowe Dam and its supportive projects have increased social mobility through infrastructure development, such as educational and health facilities, agriculture schemes, roads, bridges, and airports, all of which have a positive socio-economic influence by easing movement of goods and people across Merowe region and the country
The findings suggest that resident’s are clearly aware of the progressive effects of Merowe Dam schemes have over the region’s social mobility
Summary
The history of dam development is linked with the evolution of its significance and impact on society and their socio-economic conditions through displacement and resettlement, especially in developing economies (Jackson and Sleigh 2000). The social impacts of displacement, relocation, livelihood, and changes in the socio-economic status of affected communities have been investigated, but they do not consider how social, cultural and political conditions vary in different locations. Homogenizing the social impact of dams can undermine the many contributions dams have made for communities in different parts of the world The purpose of this questionnaire is to solicit your opinion and perception about large dams and their role in the development of a nation, Sudan. This will be looked at within the context of the Merowe Dam project. Q7- What proportion of your total income is derived from these sources (please provide percentage values) Date palm trees Vegetables
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