DRAINAGE EAUX PLUVIALES COTONOU

The project consists of the financing of a storm water retention pond as well as disposal infrastructures in the city of Cotonou, Benin.

The proposed operation aims at the extension and upgrade of the storm water drainage system in the city of Cotonou. Thereby the operation will support sustainable growth and improve wellbeing and health and environment outcomes. The proposed operation is fully aligned with the Cotonou Agreement and it is eligible under Article 309 point (a) projects for developing less-developed regions and/or point (c) common interest. It is also in line with the government action programme (PAG) spanning 2016-2021 that aims at improving the living conditions of Benin, to create jobs and to revive the economy sustainably.

The project will have a positive impact on public health by reducing the flooding of houses and the stagnation of rainwater in urban areas. Inside the EU, the project components would be categorised under Annex II of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive 2011/20/EU and therefore would be subject to environmental screening to define if an EIA would be required according to the relevant competent authority. In most cases, wastewater networks in urban areas are screened out. The Bank will assess the social aspects of the project during appraisal to ensure adherence to its social standards. Climate change aspects will be futher examined during the appraisal.

The Bank will require the promoter to ensure that implementation of the project will b done in accordance with the Bank's Guide to Procurement.