Fit for Strategic Purpose? The Quality of Strategic Environmental Assessment Guidelines in Three East African Nations

Abstract

High-quality strategic environmental assessment (SEA) guidelines are essential for ensuring effective SEA implementation. However, empirical studies appraising the quality of existing guidelines are scarce, particularly in Africa. This paper evaluates the quality of national SEA guidelines in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, focusing on their potential to support strategic thinking and practice. Data were drawn from guideline documents and analysed using content analysis against best practice, strategic criteria. The analysis reveals that while guidelines share some commonalities, they differ in scope, specificity and strategic orientation. They all incorporate important guiding principles, but only partially address other best practice criteria. Notably, they offer inconsistent guidance on structuring the assessment process and engaging decision windows, which may limit their practical usefulness. The findings highlight opportunities for improving future guideline development, revision and updates. This research and policy recommendations will benefit practitioners, policy-makers and other stakeholders in the case countries and similar jurisdictions.