On May 23rd, 2025, Zimbabwe inaugurated the pioneering Zimbabwe Carbon Registry (ZCR), which stands as the world’s first national carbon registry fully aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The launch occurred at an esteemed SADC conference, where President Emmerson Mnangagwa ceremonially activated the system by pressing a button, signifying a pivotal moment in global climate management.
President Mnangagwa emphasized the worldwide importance, declaring, "We are delighted to share that Zimbabwe has attained complete Article 6 compliance."
The ZCR marks a significant departure from voluntary carbon markets (VCMs) by tackling persistent issues like double-counting, transparency problems, and verification precision. Following an intentional pause in carbon trading lasting ten months, this registry was established through close cooperation among Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, leading blockchain firm A6 Labs, and policy experts at Terraviva Services.
Minister Evelyn Ndlovu emphasized Zimbabwe’s commitment: “This launch we are witnessing today marks the culmination of a significant effort made between my ministry and our partners (A6 Labs & Terraviva) to address the global climate crisis, whilst positioning Zimbabwe as a favoured destination for sustainable investment.”
Terraviva Services, led by General Manager Felix Mechnig-Giordano, crafted a rigorous regulatory framework ensuring compliance with stringent international standards. Notably, the framework mandates that at least 20% of every project's investment directly benefits local communities, facilitating substantial improvements in areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Felix Mechnig-Giordano remarked, "Our regulatory structure guarantees that every carbon credit is trustworthy and confirmable, effectively linking climate objectives with substantial local progress. This fosters an open and responsible marketplace that advantages all participants."
Leading the way technologically, A6 Labs under CEO Harib Bakhshi created an advanced blockchain system for the registry. This platform ensures secure storage of all records and documents permanently on the chain, providing exceptional levels of openness and responsibility. It streamlines the issuing, retiring, transferring, and adjusting of carbon credits automatically, greatly easing procedures and minimizing mistakes from human intervention.
Harib Bakhshi emphasized the revolutionary effect of the technology stating, "The blockchain provides unparalleled levels of transparency, security, and trust. Each transaction is indelibly logged, completely trackable, and openly confirmable, thereby greatly boosting market integrity and investor assurance."
Showcasing the registry's rapid success, more than 75 project developers have already started the registration process, highlighting substantial market enthusiasm and trust in Zimbabwe’s novel strategy.
The ZCR’s comprehensive features include automated, blockchain-secured certificates and QR-coded documentation, integrated payments, a publicly accessible project and credit registry, and an intuitive self-service platform. Additionally, the system’s robust safeguards, such as automated GIS mapping to prevent project overlaps, automated communication channels, and embedded legal frameworks, ensure seamless operations and high integrity.
Through this groundbreaking initiative, Zimbabwe solidifies its position as a frontrunner in climate finance and governance on the world stage, offering an inspiring model for other nations. The effective rollout of the ZCR signifies both a major environmental milestone and a vital move towards sustainable economic development and substantial community engagement.
To learn more about Zimbabwe's cutting-edge carbon registry and ways to get involved, please visit www.zicma.org.zw
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