Cabinet Secretary Launches Carbon Markets Community Guide
CS Launches Carbon Markets Community Guide During World Wetlands Day 2026 in Isiolo, Isiolo County, 5th February 2026
The Carbon Markets Community Guide, developed by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), was officially launched during the World Wetlands Day 2026 national celebrations at Merire Wetland, Isiolo County.
The guide aims to empower communities by providing clear information on carbon markets, trading, and conservation, enabling local participation in sustainable environmental practices.
The launch event was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa, EGH, who was accompanied by Hon. Beatrice Askul, CS Ministry of EAC, ASALs and Regional Development, Isiolo Governor Hon. Abdi Guyo, and NEMA leadership, including Board Chairman Mr. Emilio Mugo and Director General Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS. Heads of other national and county institutions also attended.
The 2026 celebrations were held under the theme, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” highlighting the integration of indigenous knowledge with modern scientific practices to enhance wetland resilience and preserve cultural heritage.
During the ceremony, the CS also recognized and awarded various environmental conservation groups for their outstanding contributions to environmental protection in Isiolo County.
As Kenya’s Designated National Authority (DNA) for carbon markets, NEMA plays a crucial role in regulating and approving carbon trading projects. This ensures that initiatives—ranging from afforestation and renewable energy to waste management projects—align with Kenya’s sustainable development goals, adhere to environmental and social safeguards, and deliver tangible benefits to communities.
NEMA evaluates projects under mechanisms such as the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), Voluntary Carbon Markets, and the emerging Article 6 frameworks of the Paris Agreement, while maintaining a national registry to ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable benefit-sharing.
The launch of the guide underscores Kenya’s commitment to community engagement, environmental conservation, and sustainable carbon markets, positioning local communities as active partners in tackling climate change and preserving vital ecosystems.
Click here to download the guide
