6.1.1. Inclusion of marginalized populations
Engaging marginalized segments of the public in decision-making can increase general awareness of environmental issues (Okello et al.,2009) and empower individuals and communities to voice concerns and ultimately influence final decisions (Sinclair and Diduck, 2009). In both SEA case studies, in addition to four other SEAs evaluated during the document review phase (six of nine reviewed reports), frequently marginalized populations, including indigenous peoples, women, and
youth, were invited to participate in the process. Most notably, as discussed below, evidence fromthe KCDP case study shows that participation resulted in transformative learning that contributed to a positive shift in the perception of the Watha community's situation within the broader society.