Announcement of the Effectiveness of Bank Group’s updated Integrated Safeguards System (ISS)
I am thrilled to announce that effective from May 31st, 2024, the African Development Bank Group's updated Integrated Safeguards System (ISS), approved by the Board of Directors on 12th April 2023, will come into full effect!
The ISS provides a comprehensive framework to ensure that ALL Bank-supported operations prioritize environmental and social sustainability while promoting inclusive growth across Africa. The ISS reflects the Bank’s unwavering commitment to responsible development through the wise and sustainable use of the Continent’s precious Natural Capital and the safeguarding of the rights and well-being of communities. The ISS is anchored on the following key pillars:
- Environmental Sustainability: Ensuring that Bank-supported operations minimize adverse environmental and social risks and impacts,
- Social Inclusivity: Fostering true inclusive participation in decision-making processes, and protecting the rights of communities, including the vulnerable, and
- Transparency and Accountability: Promoting transparency in project planning and implementation and holding all stakeholders accountable to the highest standards of integrity to ensure sound environmental and social governance.
By integrating the requirements of the ISS in all Bank-supported operations, we not only mitigate risks but also enhance the long-term sustainability and positive impact of the Bank-supported operations.
As we mark this significant milestone, I invite all stakeholders to join the Bank in ensuring effective application of the Integrated Safeguards System across all phases of the project cycle so that together, we can continue to pursue the goal of sustainable development and prosperity for Africa. This updated version of the ISS supersedes and abrogates the version that was approved in 2013 and any prior provisions, in any Bank instrument, relating to the environmental and social safeguards and compliance matter.
I count on all stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the Updated ISS requirements.
TSHABALALA BAJABULILE SWAZI
Senior Vice President
