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Abstract
The paper presents the results of an evaluation of environmental impact assessment (EIA) practice in Western Uganda with specific reference to the extent of local community consultation. Drawing on experience from Mbarara and Kasese Districts in Western Uganda, a sample of 200 household representatives from the local communities and 20 key informants were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire and an interview guide. The major factors influencing EIA practice appear to be poor engagement with stakeholders, the negative perception of EIA held by developers, lack of capacity for follow-up and enforcement, weak institutional linkages and political interference. This study emphasizes the need for public involvement right from the project inception stage to the decision- making stage. It also highlights some positive interventions in achieving effective local community involvement in the EIA process.
