Strategic Environmental Assessment implementation and effectiveness bottlenecks: Lessons from Botswana

Abstract

Botswana, a developing country in Southern Africa, recently introduced Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) as part of its environmental management framework. In this paper bottlenecks to successful implementation of SEA in Botswana are assessed, as a case study in implementation of SEA from which parallels can be drawn in other countries. Key informant interviews in government departments, analysis of the institutional framework, and examination of environmental assessment legislation were employed. Despite the existence of guidelines SEA has remained in infancy in Botswana, with no formal legislation and low levels of awareness among government officials. The lack of formal SEA legislation had parallels in other countries, including in the developed world. From the case study it is recommended that successful implementation requires formal SEA legislation and concerted effort in promoting awareness. To enhance implementation of SEA in countries such as Botswana without a central coordinating agency, a dedicated environmental agency is recommended.