SADC heads of state and government have called for the development of a Regional Carbon Market Framework as Southern Africa grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change.
The declaration came from a pivotal Summit on Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) held in Harare, underscoring climate action’s role in regional integration.
Leaders highlighted that carbon credits are a potent driver for change, directly contributing to combating the escalating impacts of climate change across the vulnerable Southern African region.
“Summit called for the development of a Regional Carbon Market Framework and acknowledged that Trading of Carbon Credits presents an opportunity for economic development, job creation and access to climate finance and a driver for change that can contribute to fight climate change impacts,” a communique of the TFCA Summit read.
Carbon credits, verifiable permits representing the removal or reduction of one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere, are emerging as a critical tool in the global fight against climate change.
Nations and corporations purchase these credits to offset their emissions, funding projects that reduce greenhouse gases.
Meanwhile, at the summit, President of Zimbabwe and Chairperson of SADC Emmerson Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe developed new carbon market regulations, and the world’s first blockchain-based National Carbon Registry as part of efforts to fight against climate change and biodiversity loss.
“This demonstrates our determination to contribute towards new global standards for transparency, accountability, and sustainability in the carbon market, and that the region, and indeed the continent, can lead by example. We stand ready to share Zimbabwe’s experiences in this respect,” he said.
He said that through shared knowledge, innovative strategies, and unified action, the SADC region can address the pressing challenges of biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and climate change.
Mnangagwa noted that climate change is exposing the weaknesses of all communities, calling for concerted efforts in the region.
“Climate change is laying bare the vulnerabilities of all communities, along with livestock and wildlife. The need to bolster food security can, therefore, not be overemphasised. The importance of adequate water provision to cater for animals in their habitats will also go a long way in preventing encroachment into our communities. We must make concerted efforts in these and other areas,” he said.
TFCAs are collaborative conservation efforts that span national borders, designed to promote biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of resources, and eco-tourism.
These initiatives hold significant importance for Zimbabwe and other SADC Member States covered by TFCAs, as they not only safeguard vital ecosystems and wildlife but also contribute to economic growth, enhance regional cooperation, and empower local communities.
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