Summary
As reflected in this summary, the EA considers each of the five project
sites in turn. This approach allows for a focused assessment that
considers each spatially separated site in detail. However, the
Ambatovy Project is a single project, composed of all project sites.
Combined effects of the project as a whole are assessed after each site
is considered in turn. Further details on the structure of the EA report
are provided at the end of this summary.
Project Policies
Project-specific policies on environment, health and safety, re-settlement
and biodiversity have been developed for the Ambatovy Project. It is the
policy of the project to maximize Malagasy employment to the extent
feasible given skill requirements. It is also project policy that training
programs be put in place to enhance the skill level of local residents,
enabling increased employment over time. The human resources policy
also promotes project programs to enable local companies to participate
in the project, with a focus on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The Project has also endorsed the Equator Principles developed by
financial institutions to assess and manage environmental and social risk
in project financing (see Attachment 3).
MINE SITE
Social Context
The mine site is about 14 km northeast of the regional centre of
Moramanga, and near the communes of Morarano Gare, Ambohibary
(also called the Suburban Moramanga Commune), Ampasipotsy and
Andasibe. The sub-villages of Berano, Behontsa, Andranovery and
Ampangadiantandraka are closest to the mine site. The total population
in the mine social study area approached 80,000 people in 2003, with
less than half of these in the town of Moramanga.
Moramanga
The economy has both rural and urban aspects. Rural livelihoods are
based largely on subsistence agriculture, predominantly rice and manioc,
and to a lesser extent livestock. People depend on the nearby markets
of Moramanga to sell agricultural and artisanal products. They also
exploit forest resources for additional subsistence and work in the wage
economy. The town’s economy was based primarily on forestry,
including production of lumber but also manufacturing of wood products.
This industry is in decline.
January 2006
Ambatovy Project — 5
