Country: Kenya
Strathmore University - Africa Carbon Markets 101
About The Training
In November 2023, Verst Carbon, in collaboration with Strathmore University, hosted a comprehensive five-day training program on Africa’s carbon markets. The initiative brought together over 50 participants, including environmental stewards, policy analysts, entrepreneurs, financial strategists, and academic experts.
This training was designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the rapidly evolving carbon markets, with a specific focus on Africa’s unique opportunities and challenges. The program was tailored to build capacity among key stakeholders, ensuring they are better positioned to contribute to global climate action.
The Problem
With the growing importance of carbon markets as a mechanism for addressing climate change, there is an increasing need for expertise in navigating these markets, especially in Africa. Despite Africa’s significant potential to contribute to global carbon offset markets, many stakeholders lack access to the necessary knowledge, tools, and networks to fully participate. Moreover, regulatory and policy frameworks surrounding carbon markets are complex, and understanding them requires specialized training. This gap limits the ability of key players, from policymakers to entrepreneurs, to leverage carbon markets effectively for both environmental and financial gains.
The Solution
The Carbon Markets Training at Strathmore University was designed to address these knowledge gaps by offering a structured curriculum that covered both foundational and advanced topics related to carbon markets. The five-day course was organized into several key modules:
Global Climate Change Framework
This module introduced the global context of climate change, exploring international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the role of carbon markets in mitigating climate change. Participants gained a solid understanding of how global climate policies impact Africa’s carbon market potential.
Carbon Markets Ecosystems
A deep dive into the structure of carbon markets, including voluntary carbon markets, compliance markets, and the key players involved. The module also covered market mechanisms such as cap-and-trade systems, carbon offset projects, and the growing importance of carbon credits.
Trading and Investment Strategies
This module explored how carbon credits are traded, with an emphasis on investment strategies that could be employed by entrepreneurs and financial strategists. It offered practical insights into leveraging carbon finance for both profit and sustainability.
Impact Made So Far
The training aimed to build capacity among a diverse group of stakeholders by enhancing their understanding of the carbon market landscape. The program empowered participants to apply the knowledge gained in their respective fields, from policy development to financial strategy and entrepreneurial ventures. By the end of the five-day course, participants were better prepared to
engage in carbon markets both regionally and globally. They acquired the tools needed to make informed decisions, implement effective strategies, and contribute meaningfully to climate action through carbon markets. This training marks a significant step toward building a robust carbon market ecosystem in Africa, one that is inclusive and sustainable. Key outcomes include:
Capacity Building
By equipping attendees with practical knowledge about carbon markets, the training enhanced their ability to develop and support projects that align with global climate goals. Participants left with a clearer understanding of how to create and manage carbon offset projects, trade carbon credits, and navigate regulatory requirements.
Networking and Collaboration
The workshop facilitated connections between a wide range of stakeholders, fostering collaboration among policymakers, business leaders, and climate experts. This networking is crucial for advancing Africa’s participation in global carbon markets and for driving collective action on climate change.
Advancing Carbon Finance
Entrepreneurs and financial strategists who attended the training were introduced to new opportunities within the carbon markets, particularly in the areas of carbon credit trading and project financing. This is expected to lead to the development of innovative projects and partnerships aimed at expanding Africa’s carbon market footprint.
Supporting Policy Development
Policy analysts gained valuable insights into how regulatory frameworks can be shaped to support Africa’s carbon market development. The training highlighted the importance of policy harmonization at both national and international levels to ensure Africa maximizes its carbon market potential.