The East Africa Carbon Markets Forum is a prestigious two-day event taking place at the Four Points Sheraton Kampala in Uganda under the theme “Unlocking Opportunities in Sustainable Development.” It brings together key stakeholders in the region’s carbon markets, serving as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and actionable discussions to advance sustainable development goals through carbon market initiatives.
The first day of the forum focused on Understanding Carbon Markets Regulations and Implications, while the second day delved into Climate Finance in East Africa and showcased investment opportunities.
The forum commenced with the opening remarks by Hon. Anywar Beatrice, Minister of State for Environment. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with partners to achieve Uganda’s goal of net zero emissions. Hon. Anywar also alerted the audience to upcoming measures in Uganda’s journey towards carbon neutrality.
Dr. Brian E. Isabirye, Commissioner of Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Uganda, delivered a keynote address on Uganda’s Preparedness for Climate Finance and Urgency to Expand Clean Energy Access. He highlighted the Ministry’s efforts in establishing a comprehensive legal framework, including the Uganda Carbon Credit Scheme, to ensure the credibility and transparency of carbon credit transactions.
Margaret Athieno Mwebesa, Commissioner for Climate Change at the Ministry of Water and Environment, delivered a keynote address titled “Green Horizons: Charting Uganda’s Journey Toward Climate Resilience.” She highlighted Uganda’s progress in developing carbon market regulations and expressed that the country is nearing completion in this endeavor. She emphasized that Uganda sees carbon trading as a significant financial mechanism for advancing climate actions.
During the forum, 1MTN and KTA Advocates proudly announced the launch of the Carbon Markets Association of Uganda. This association aims to drive the expansion of the carbon markets sector across East Africa by fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Additionally, it will advocate for conducive policies while facilitating capacity building and knowledge sharing among its members.
The event included regional and international speakers in the carbon markets and sustainability domain. The day one program showcased case studies, keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops on various topics, such as A Credible and Transparent Carbon Market, Navigating Carbon Compliance in East Africa, Translating Policy into Action: Advancing Article 6 Implementation in East Africa, Scaling Verified Carbon Methodologies, Sustainable Approaches to Carbon Dioxide Removal, Harnessing Water Projects for Sustainable Development, and the Road from COP28 to COP29.
As of the time of publishing this article, the forum was still ongoing. Follow The East Africa Carbon Markets Forum and Next Media for further updates on the conclusive developments of this significant event.
