Zimbabwe Unveils World’s First Blockchain Carbon Registry
Zimbabwe has made history as the first country to introduce a blockchain-powered National Carbon Registry, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in carbon trading.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the development at the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA) Summit in Harare on 23 May 2025.
He emphasised that the registry establishes new global benchmarks for carbon market integrity, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s leadership in climate-aligned conservation efforts.
“This bold step reflects our determination to set new international benchmarks for transparency, accountability and sustainability in the carbon market.
“We stand ready to share our experiences with other nations who seek innovative climate solutions,” President Mnangagwa said.
The registry was developed by A6 Labs in collaboration with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife and allows real-time tracking of carbon credits from issuance to retirement.
Officials say it will boost investor confidence, prevent fraudulent activities, and bring carbon trading in line with global regulations.
With this initiative, Zimbabwe officially transitions from the Voluntary Carbon Market to full compliance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, ensuring globally recognised oversight in carbon trading.
According to iHarare, the blockchain-based system aligns Zimbabwe’s carbon market with international standards, setting a new precedent for Africa in climate policy and conservation efforts.
President Mnangagwa urged SADC nations to prioritise community-centred conservation, emphasising that development must benefit people while preserving ecosystems.
“At the heart of our conservation efforts must be the need to improve livelihoods, striking a harmonious balance between nature and development.
“When we empower local communities, we capacitate the very ecosystems we seek to protect,” he said.
The TFCA Summit also marked 25 years since the launch of the Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA) programme, celebrating regional efforts in biodiversity protection.
The President praised cross-border collaboration and reflected on the establishment of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in 2000, calling it a symbol of regional unity and sustainability.
“This initiative reaffirms the critical role of Transfrontier Conservation Areas as powerful instruments for integration, resilience, inclusive growth and peace-building”.
Leaders from Malawi, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho and Zanzibar joined the summit to share strategies on improving conservation policies and climate adaptation.
President Mnangagwa encouraged continued cooperation to protect Southern Africa’s rich wildlife heritage.
“Let us provide transformational leadership that is grounded in the lived realities of our peoples,” he urged.
