Carbon Markets and Trading Training in Nanyuki, Kenya

In early May 2024, the quiet town of Nanyuki became a hub for climate action dialogue as ECAS Institute, in partnership with the National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND), hosted a transformative four-day training workshop on Carbon Markets and Trading. Held from the 7th to the 10th of May, the workshop brought together 39 professionals from key institutions including KETRACO, KENGEN, GDC, KWS, the State Department for Forestry, KFS, JICA, and others. This diverse group convened with a shared objective: to build the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to Kenya’s growing carbon market space.

The training workshop was officially opened by Dr. Mwaura Waihiga, who delivered thought-provoking opening remarks emphasizing the importance of carbon markets as a transformative tool in Kenya’s climate action efforts. His address inspired participants to approach the training with curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to driving positive change.

The training equipped participants with both basic and advanced knowledge on key aspects of carbon markets. Topics included REDD+ and Nature-Based Solutions, emphasizing the role of forest conservation and community involvement in generating carbon credits. Participants also learned how to design viable carbon projects, explored the ethical considerations of Carbon Justice, and gained insights into managing partnerships and stakeholders. A session on data analytics introduced tools for monitoring and evaluating carbon projects to ensure transparency and compliance.

A unique highlight of the program was a field visit to the NATURAL STATE Research Centre, located at the base of Mt. Kenya. Surrounded by open savannah, dense forests, shrublands, and wetlands, the site offered a rare ecological diversity that includes elephants, warthogs, and even dung beetles. The visit allowed participants to witness firsthand the natural ecosystems that carbon markets seek to protect, reinforcing the value of integrating nature-based solutions into carbon trading frameworks.

The training concluded with a certificate awarding ceremony, where each participant was recognized for their active engagement and successful completion of the program. This moment celebrated not just the knowledge gained, but also the partnerships forged and the shared commitment to building a sustainable, low-carbon future for Kenya and beyond.