Zimbabwe has launched a groundbreaking blockchain-based carbon credit registry, marking a major step toward restoring trust in its carbon market and attracting international investment.
The move comes after the creation of the Zimbabwe Carbon Markets Authority (ZCMA), which is now responsible for licensing and regulating all carbon credit projects in the country.
The launch follows a turbulent period for Zimbabwe’s carbon market. In 2023, the government triggered widespread concern by abruptly halting existing carbon credit projects, mandating a 50% revenue share, and requiring developers to re-register. These sudden changes disrupted major initiatives such as the Kariba REDD+ Project and led to a sharp decline in investor confidence.
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Amid criticism and operational challenges, the government eventually reversed the policy. With the introduction of the blockchain-powered registry, Zimbabwe is now aiming to re-establish itself as a credible player in the global carbon trading arena.
Blockchain Integration for Transparent Carbon Markets
According to the Ministry of Environment, the new registry uses blockchain technology to create an immutable, fully traceable record of carbon credit issuance, trading, and retirement. This digital infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance transparency, reduce fraud, and improve security within the carbon market.
Dubai-based A6 Labs developed the platform, which officials claim is the first national carbon registry in the world to fully integrate blockchain. Available through zicma.org.zw, the system is being positioned as a model for digital innovation and regulatory best practices in carbon markets.
With the ZCMA now operational, all prospective carbon credit developers must undergo a formal registration process through the new digital platform. Applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements to receive authorization, ensuring that only compliant and verifiable projects enter the market. This approach is intended to protect environmental integrity and prevent unauthorized operations.
Zimbabwe is one of several African nations intensifying efforts to regulate and capitalize on the growing carbon credit industry. Other countries, including South Africa, Ghana, Kenya and Zambia, are also building regulatory frameworks to strengthen their participation and improve environmental governance.
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In 2023, analytics firm, RippleNami, ranked Zimbabwe as Africa’s third-largest carbon credit generator, responsible for approximately 12.5% of the continent’s output.
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This underscores the country’s potential to lead in sustainable development – if supported by credible systems and sound policy.
Each carbon credit typically represents one metric ton of carbon dioxide – or its equivalent – either removed from the atmosphere or prevented from being emitted. These credits are traded by companies and governments to meet climate targets and advance sustainability commitments.
The Environment Minister called the new registry a “transformational leap” toward global market alignment, noting that the platform will give international stakeholders greater confidence in the legitimacy and environmental impact of Zimbabwe’s carbon credits.
Zimbabwe’s deployment of a blockchain-powered carbon registry signals a renewed commitment to market integrity, environmental sustainability, and global climate action. By coupling advanced technology with robust regulation, the country aims to rebuild investor trust, attract new capital, and position itself as a leading force in Africa’s green economy.
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