The Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT) is in the final stages of hiring a contractor for its Tuition block under the East African Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP). Anticipating potential grievances during construction, a crucial Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) training was conducted for the Project Implementation Unit (PIU).

KIHBT Staff during training on grievance redress mechanism

The training covered World Bank Operational Policies on Environmental and Social Aspects and the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework, emphasizing GRM requirements for World Bank-financed projects.  The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in Kenya, responsible for environmental oversight and compliance, was also discussed.  NEMA’s mandate includes regulating environmental standards, ensuring adherence to environmental laws, and facilitating sustainable development through EIAs.

The Safeguards Specialist was identified as the GRM administrator, responsible for overseeing implementation and ensuring compliance with World Bank and national requirements.

The PIU received training on the GRM process, focusing on receiving, recording, and monitoring grievances their primary role as the initial point of contact.  The training detailed the multi-stage grievance process, culminating in a satisfactory or unsatisfactory declaration based on the proposed solution.  Appeals are available if consent is lacking.

The overall aim of the GRM is to ensure fair, transparent, and trustworthy grievance handling, in full compliance with all stipulated requirements.

By Beatrice Njenga, Communication Specialist for EASTRIP at KIHBT