Gatineau, PQ, Canada – February 25, 2025 – Global Affairs Canada has determined that the proposed Realizing Gender Equality, Attitudinal Change & Transformative Systems in Nutrition (REACTS-IN) project in Somalia is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

• impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
• Indigenous knowledge;
• community knowledge;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures1 taken into account for this determination are:

• During project implementation an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) will be developed to guide the project in managing environmental issues and ensure continuous mitigation of adverse environmental impacts.
• Adhere to the local government waste management regulations and facilitate implementation of a comprehensive waste management plan for the health facilities, ensuring proper disposal of medical waste, including placenta and other hazardous and infectious materials.
• Mobilize local stakeholders to improve access to clean water in the health facilities by improving quality of water supply systems and addressing any issues of water contamination or scarcity.
• Facilitate regular monitoring and maintenance of the renovated facilities to ensure their continued functionality and adherence to environmental and healthcare standards.
• Facilitate continuous evaluation and monitor the environmental impacts of the project during and after its implementation, adjusting and improvements as necessary to minimize negative effects and maximize positive outcomes.

Global Affairs Canada is satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, Global Affairs Canada may provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.