Kenya has launched Africa’s first national carbon registry, marking a significant step toward improving transparency, accountability, and investor confidence in the continent’s growing carbon market. The initiative is expected to strengthen climate finance mechanisms and position the country as a regional leader in environmental innovation.
The new registry is designed to track carbon credits generated within the country, ensuring they are recorded, verified, and traded transparently. Officials say the system will help prevent double counting and improve confidence among international buyers and investors seeking credible carbon offset projects.
The launch comes at a time when global attention on climate action is intensifying, with developing nations looking for sustainable financing models to support environmental conservation while driving economic growth. Carbon credits generated through activities such as reforestation, renewable energy projects, and sustainable land management allow organisations to offset emissions while funding climate-positive initiatives.
Government representatives described the registry as a turning point for climate governance, saying it will help channel more funding into local communities that implement conservation projects. By establishing clear rules and digital tracking, the system aims to ensure that benefits from carbon trading reach project developers and communities on the ground.
Environmental experts have welcomed the move, noting that transparent carbon markets are essential to avoid fraud and maintain credibility as demand for offsets increases worldwide. They say the registry could set a benchmark for other African nations seeking to tap into global climate finance opportunities.
The initiative also aligns with Kenya’s broader climate commitments and ambitions to expand green investments, renewable energy, and sustainable development projects.
As climate finance continues to grow globally, analysts believe the national carbon registry could help transform how African countries participate in environmental markets, turning conservation efforts into measurable economic value while supporting global emissions reduction goals.