ENTRO recognizes the JMP1 ID Studies as a critical step towards materializing cooperative investments of the ENSAP under the NBI framework. Not only is this Program the result of cooperation, but it can also help further cement this cooperation through identifying regional projects and national priority projects in a regional context. The JMP is an example leading the basin in integrated planning, vis-à-vis targeting environmental degradation, proactive environmental management, socio-economic development

The JMP1 ID Studies will be an inclusive and participatory assessment of the environmental and social issues associated with various development options, to allow for informed and transparent decision-making in identification and selection of investments for water resources development. It will inform two key decision making points:

1. strategic analysis of different development alternatives for water resources development of Blue-Main Nile, namely, “no JMP” (continued unilateral development), many small dams on Blue Nile tributaries and one or more major multipurpose dam(s) on the Blue Nile mainstream, on the basis of the JMP Launch Phase studies; and
2. the identification/selection of a Cascade Development Option and first set of investments.
   
   By its scope and nature of project preparation and implementation supervision, ENTRO has consistently ensured environmental and social good practice and accumulated experience in employing and conducting a variety of environmental and social management instruments such as the Cooperative Regional Assessments (CRA), Strategic Social and Environmental Assessments (SSEA), Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), Resettlement and Compensation Plans (RCP), and Environmental and Social Monitoring and Audit.
   
   In this very upstream state of project identification, SSEA will be conducted in two distinct and consecutive phases, in close consultation with key stakeholders in Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan. In addition to safeguards assessment and impact mitigation measures, the SSEA will also outline mechanisms and options for benefit-sharing among countries and local communities in the basin. It will also inform, and be complemented by, a series of project-specific Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), detailed resettlement actions plans, and other safeguards instruments. Independent reviewers would advise ENTRO and the Consultant throughout the SSEA. The results of the first phase will then serve as an input to the Cascade Development and Sequencing Study.
   
   The present NBI-wide “Strategy for Addressing Environmental and Social Safeguards” document will guide ENTRO to ensure that the proposed development works meet environmental sustainability objectives as well as the national environmental requirements in addition to the World Bank safeguard policy on environmental and social assessment. ENTRO through its Environmental specialist and Social Development and Communication Office will pursue vigorously, the development and implementation of a JMP1 ID phase ESMF including monitoring in accordance with the NBI ESMF document.