Africa: Congo Basin Countries Forge Strategic Path to Carbon Markets With Roadmaps to Monetize Forest Wealth
AllAfrica
by feedback@worldbank.org (World Bank)February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Six countries in the Congo Basin—Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Republic of Congo—are pioneering a groundbreaking initiative to transform their rich forest resources into a sustainable source of income through carbon markets and climate finance. With support from the World Bank, these nations have unveiled Strategic Roadmaps designed to unlock results-based payments and secure funding for climate action. This move aims to leverage their vast forest wealth as a key driver of economic growth while combating deforestation and reducing carbon emissions.
The roadmaps serve as blueprints to guide each country in measuring and monetizing emissions reductions from forest conservation and sustainable land-use practices. By aligning with international standards such as CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) and the EU Emissions Trading System, these nations are positioning themselves as critical players in global carbon markets. The initiative also seeks to attract private investments and ensure long-term financial stability while preserving their forests, which play a vital role in combating climate change through carbon sequestration.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward for the Congo Basin region, home to the second-largest rainforest in the world. By prioritizing forest conservation and sustainable development, these countries are not only safeguarding their natural resources but also contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change. The roadmaps emphasize the importance of aligning national policies with international climate goals, ensuring that local communities benefit economically while preserving biodiversity and ecosystem services.
For readers interested in global environmental and economic trends, this initiative highlights the growing potential of carbon markets as a tool for sustainable development. It underscores how developing nations can leverage their natural resources to access international funding and foster partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and international organizations. By turning their forest wealth into a asset for climate action, these Congo Basin countries are setting an example for other regions looking to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.
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Originally published on AllAfrica on 2/24/2026