The Role of Socio-Political Risk Analysis in Developing Communications Strategies for Controversial Projects: The Case of the West Africa Gas Pipeline Project

A keen understanding of the social and political context has been proven critical to the success of development projects, especially those that are potentially controversial, and involve environmental concerns, regional politics and border issues, as in the case of the World Bank-supported West Africa Gas Pipeline Project. The pipeline project was designed to replace expensive fuel used in Ghana, Togo and Benin, with cheap, abundant natural gas from Nigeria. It was expected to bring substantial economic and social benefits as a result of long-term, reliable access to a clean energy supply. Nevertheless, many economic, social and environmental concerns were raised in the four countries, making this one of the most controversial project in the West Africa Region. A communications audit, and subsequent consultation work undertaken by the World Bank’s Development Communications Division, together with local communications officers, resulted in a clear understanding of the socio-political risks involved; assisted the government and World Bank staff with incorporating a communications strategy into the project design; and helped ensure a smooth approval process by the World Bank Board of Directors