Influence of Public Sensitization on Public Participation in the EIA Processes in Narok North Sub County, Narok County

Abstract

Public participation is an integral part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, as it provides opportunities for interested and affected parties to participate in the decision-making process. The specific objective was to determine whether public sensitisation influences public participation in the EIA process in environmental conservation projects in Narok North Sub-County. Participation Theory was adopted in this study. The study used Krejcie and Morgan’s statistical formula in the selection of household heads who were involved in the study, census sampling method was used to select NEMA officers and project proponents. In total, 394 respondents were selected for this study. The data was collected using a questionnaire where all the questionnaires were administered individually to all respondents of the study. Analysis of data was done by use of descriptive and inferential statistics through the use of SPSS software version 22. Linear regression analysis was used to determine the level of association between the dependent and independent variables. Data was presented by the use of tables, graphs, and charts. The study showed a significant positive correlation between public sensitisation and public participation in the EIA processes (correlation coefficient =0.297, P-value 0.000). Descriptive results show that increased awareness and civic education would increase participation willingness by local residents. Descriptive results show that regular awareness and sensitisation driven by NEMA about the EIA process is important and that it is important to lobby for support from political groups early before the implementation process begins; this is critical to drawing the necessary support and commitment from the larger community and political leaders.