NEMA Pushes for Community Inclusion in Kenya’s Carbon Markets
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By John Kariuki
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has called for stronger community involvement in Kenya’s emerging carbon markets to ensure equitable access to climate finance.
Speaking during the validation of a Community Guide on Carbon Markets, Director General Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS, said NEMA, as the Designated National Authority (DNA), is tasked with regulating carbon market activities, supporting compliance, and channeling climate finance into the country.
“To effectively implement this, communities whose land and livelihoods are impacted by carbon projects must understand the processes and their obligations,” Dr. Mamo noted.
He emphasized that carbon markets present significant opportunities for individuals and communities to benefit from tradable carbon credits, provided they are equipped with knowledge and clear guidelines.
The simplified guide, developed with technical support from WWF-Kenya, is intended to help communities, developers, and regulators navigate their roles under the Climate Change (Carbon Markets) Regulations, 2024.
Represented at the event by Acting Director of Environmental Services, Dr. Charles Lange, Dr. Mamo highlighted that inclusivity and transparency will be critical to ensuring local communities—whose resources underpin these projects—reap direct benefits.
He further noted that carbon trading could become a transformative financing tool for community-led conservation and climate adaptation efforts.
With the rollout of the guide, NEMA aims to boost awareness, accountability, and participation, positioning Kenya as a leading player in Africa’s sustainable carbon trade.
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