Social Impacts of a Mega-Dam Project as Perceived by Local, Resettled and Displaced Communities: A Case Study of Merowe Dam, Sudan

The paper assesses social impacts of a mega-dam project (Merowe Dam in Sudan) as perceived by host and affected communities (i.e., upstream, downstream, relocated residents), which is not commonly seen the literature. Primary survey interviews were conducted with 300 residents, government officials, Implementation Unit (DIU), NGOs other key informants. Five inter-related areas impact scrutinized: (a) displacement communities; (b) resettlement displaced new location; (c) technological factors; (d) mobility (e) economic political institutions. Results show that Merowe exerted positive well adverse on local communities. Increase home sizes, opportunities for children’s schooling quality life improvement ranked top three residents located downstream scoring relatively higher than upstream residents. Relocated also showed attitudes towards provision essential services (schools, health facilities, availability running water, electricity, marketplace, etc.), thereby enabling them to enjoy flourish their lives. are centered intangible factors, such as, sentimental effects closely related feelings, loss history, memories, nostalgia about old place, grievances regarding compensation packages its management. Therefore, it important recognize need long-term monitoring process provide emotional support those resettled. Furthermore, there address livelihood requirements region.