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$40B Africa Energy Fund signals hope for clean cooking in Africa

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April 14, 2025

$40B Africa Energy Fund signals hope for clean cooking in Africa

Africa’s energy future is being reimagined through a historic $40 billion commitment, announced at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam. The Africa Energy Fund, backed by leading global institutions, is designed to connect 300 million people to cleaner, more reliable energy by 2030. While headlines often focus on electrification, this fund carries deeper implications, especially for clean cooking solutions—an area that has long been marginalized in energy conversations, despite its urgent and far-reaching consequences.

In kitchens across Africa, the daily act of cooking remains a source of danger, drudgery, and environmental strain. More than 900 million people still rely on wood, charcoal, and other traditional biomass fuels to prepare meals. For most, it is not a preference but a necessity shaped by poverty and limited options. The toll of this dependence is devastating. Every year, over 600,000 people—mostly women and children—die prematurely due to exposure to toxic smoke from cooking fires. The air pollution generated inside homes is among the deadliest forms of pollution in the world, yet it rarely makes front-page news.

The ripple effects go beyond health. Forests are being cleared at alarming rates to meet the demand for firewood and charcoal, worsening deforestation and undermining climate resilience. Meanwhile, the burden of collecting firewood often falls on women and girls, who spend hours walking long distances, sacrificing education and livelihood opportunities. This quiet crisis is playing out in millions of homes every day. Yet, the solutions are within reach. Clean cooking technologies—whether through liquefied petroleum gas, electric stoves, ethanol, or efficient biomass stoves—can transform lives. But they need financing, infrastructure, and political will to scale.

The launch of the Africa Energy Fund brings a renewed sense of possibility. With the World Bank pledging $22 billion, the African Development Bank committing $18.2 billion, and additional support from the Islamic Development Bank and the OPEC Fund, the level of backing is unprecedented. This fund is not just about lighting up homes and powering businesses; it is about empowering communities with safe, dignified, and climate-friendly ways of living. By explicitly recognizing the importance of clean cooking in Africa’s energy transition, the fund marks a shift in how energy access is being framed. It signals that clean cooking is no longer a side issue—it is central to health, development, and environmental justice.

Across the continent, some countries have already begun to integrate clean cooking into their national energy strategies, offering blueprints for others to follow. Kenya, for example, has set a bold target of universal clean cooking access by 2028. Its approach blends public sector policy with private investment, expanding LPG usage, supporting electric cooking, and investing in bioethanol alternatives. The government’s decision to subsidize LPG and strengthen infrastructure has significantly improved adoption rates, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. In Tanzania, clean cooking is now part of the national electrification plan, with a dedicated strategy guiding efforts to reach rural households. Ghana has taken a different route, focusing on improving the affordability of LPG, raising awareness of the health risks of biomass, and encouraging local production of stoves and alternative fuels.

These are not isolated efforts; they are signs of a continent waking up to the importance of sustainable cooking. But while leadership and innovation are growing, funding remains a major constraint. This is where African Energy Week 2025 in Cape Town will play a crucial role. The event, already established as a hub for deal-making and energy dialogue, offers a timely opportunity to bring clean cooking to the forefront of Africa’s investment agenda. Delegates will engage in conversations on how to unlock financing for clean cooking through public-private partnerships, carbon credits, and blended finance. There will be dialogue on integrating cooking into broader energy access strategies, replicating successful models across borders, and scaling local innovations that work.

More than ever before, there is alignment between the need, the solutions, and the capital. The challenge now is speed and coordination. Clean cooking interventions are among the most cost-effective ways to deliver impact. They reduce healthcare costs, increase productivity, improve school attendance, and advance gender equality. They also help countries meet their climate targets under the Paris Agreement and move closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the promise of universal access to affordable and clean energy by 2030.

The $40 billion fund represents more than money—it is a moment of clarity. It is a chance to correct the imbalance that has seen clean cooking remain underfunded and undervalued for decades. If directed wisely, it could trigger a wave of transformation that reaches even the most remote corners of the continent. Africa’s energy transition must be bold and inclusive. It must light homes and kitchens, power dreams and industries, and do so in a way that safeguards the planet. As the continent gathers for AEW 2025, the question is not whether clean cooking should be prioritized—but how fast we can act to make it a reality for every African household.

3 ways Trump’s new tariffs could disrupt sustainable supply chains

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April 11, 2025

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3 ways Trump’s new tariffs could disrupt sustainable supply chains

Data gaps, shifting carbon goals, and compliance risks may follow global trade realignment

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is back in the headlines with a bold move—proposing sweeping new tariffs on Chinese goods. Among them, a potential 60% levy on all Chinese imports. While this may be a political and economic strategy on the surface, its ripple effects could shake the foundation of global sustainability efforts—especially in how supply chains operate.

As trade routes shift and companies rethink supplier relationships, supply chains that were once aligned with climate action and social responsibility could become fragmented. For African businesses and suppliers, this presents both disruption and opportunity. Below are three key ways Trump’s new tariffs could affect sustainable supply chains globally and what it could mean for Africa.

1. Data collection may stall

Today’s sustainable supply chains thrive on transparency. Companies across sectors—whether in apparel, tech, or agriculture—depend on their suppliers to provide regular data: from carbon emissions to water usage, labour conditions to packaging waste. However, the tariffs are already prompting businesses to rethink where and how they source materials.

A rapid shift to new suppliers, especially in unfamiliar territories, may cause delays or complete lapses in ESG data collection. For example, a company might switch from a Chinese supplier with a well-established emissions tracking system to one in another country where such systems don’t yet exist. That data gap can cause reporting delays, non-compliance with climate goals, and reputational risks.

For Africa, this could be a strategic opening. Suppliers that already track environmental and social metrics—or those willing to invest in doing so—may find themselves more attractive to global buyers looking to diversify their sourcing away from Asia.

2. Carbon goals could be missed

Carbon disclosure and target-setting bodies like the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) are clear: companies must track emissions across their value chains, including those from suppliers. This means that any disruption in the supply chain can directly affect a company’s ability to meet its sustainability goals.

If companies are forced to replace trusted suppliers with newer ones due to tariffs, it might take months or even years to renegotiate climate-related agreements and reestablish baselines. In the meantime, those carbon goals could become unattainable.

For businesses in Africa that have aligned with carbon tracking and reduction frameworks, this is a chance to step up. Offering emissions transparency from day one could be a key competitive advantage.

3. Compliance may become a grey area

One of the lesser-discussed impacts of tariffs is their influence on compliance with human rights, labour standards, and anti-corruption frameworks. When companies re-shore operations to countries with similar regulatory environments, this could lead to tighter control and improved compliance.

But not all shifts will be so straightforward. Some manufacturers may scramble to cut costs and end up sourcing from countries with lower environmental and labour standards, where exploitation and environmental degradation are more likely to occur.

This opens the door to a two-speed system: one where high-integrity suppliers remain resilient, and another where companies sacrifice ethics to save money. African suppliers that already follow strong compliance protocols—especially those tied to global certifications—can thrive in this environment by standing out as reliable, ethical, and ready for long-term partnerships.

What should companies do?

As global businesses brace for what could be years of tariff-induced uncertainty, the smartest move is to double down on non-negotiables. That includes human rights, basic ESG disclosures, and transparent procurement processes.

For African firms, this is the time to take the lead in supply chain resilience. Focus on building capacity in carbon tracking, social compliance, and digital traceability. Don’t just wait for multinational buyers to come knocking—position your business as part of the solution to the world’s supply chain crisis.

Despite the noise, the business case for sustainability is stronger than ever. As trade patterns shift, so too will priorities. But those with clear values, robust systems, and transparent operations will always have a seat at the global table.

CGIAR Science Week puts water sustainability at the heart of East Africa’s future

Africa

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April 10, 2025

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CGIAR Science Week puts water sustainability at the heart of East Africa’s future

In a region where rain-fed agriculture is the cornerstone of livelihoods, climate change is rapidly altering East Africa’s water future. With more frequent droughts, erratic rainfall, and devastating floods, water is no longer a guarantee — it’s a growing uncertainty. During the inaugural CGIAR Science Week held in Nairobi, leaders, researchers, and partners converged to explore how science can safeguard water sustainability and unlock new opportunities for the region’s development.

East Africa — covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and Eritrea — faces an urgent need to reimagine how it uses, manages, and conserves water. The stakes are high. Agriculture in this region is predominantly rain-dependent, and when rains fail, entire value chains suffer — from crop yields and livestock to food prices and household incomes.

Science Week, hosted by the CGIAR — the world’s largest agricultural research network — served as a high-level platform to align strategies, research, and action in addressing water-related challenges. The conversations made one thing clear: water must be treated as a cross-cutting resource central to food security, climate adaptation, and economic development.

A pivotal moment of the event was the launch of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Strategy 2024–2030, a bold roadmap designed to strengthen water security across the region. The strategy emphasizes that water challenges are interconnected — cutting across agriculture, health, energy, and ecosystems. Therefore, solutions must be systemic, inclusive, and built on strong scientific foundations.

The new IWMI strategy introduces a shift in how water issues are approached. Rather than treating water access and conservation as isolated goals, it positions water as a lever to transform entire systems. The strategy promotes integrated water resource management, improved water quality, equitable access, and climate-smart irrigation. Its overarching goal is to ensure that people, nature, and economies can all thrive together — even in the face of mounting climate pressures.

Importantly, the strategy doesn’t stop at theory. It is grounded in application — from introducing water-saving technologies on small farms to supporting policy reform and infrastructure investment. It also prioritizes building partnerships across the public and private sectors to scale proven innovations.

One of the key themes emerging from the discussions was the centrality of irrigation in building resilience. With erratic rainfall patterns threatening food security, there is growing momentum around expanding irrigation to reduce vulnerability. Stakeholders underscored that irrigation is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for survival and stability in the region.

Institutions like the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have invested significantly in water and irrigation management globally, with more than 100 projects across various regions. In East Africa alone, IFAD has supported 14 projects in 12 countries, helping smallholder farmers improve productivity and adapt to a changing climate. The focus now is on modernizing irrigation infrastructure, strengthening water governance, and improving data systems — particularly water accounting and irrigation performance assessment.

Water accounting, often overlooked, was highlighted as a game-changer in ensuring efficient water use. Understanding how much water is available, how it is used, and where it is lost can inform better decisions on where to invest, how to allocate water fairly, and how to optimize its use for different crops and communities.

In Kenya, the national government has set its sights on scaling up irrigation through the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP). Currently, only 4% of Kenya’s arable land is under irrigation. Yet the country holds an irrigation potential of approximately 3.5 million acres. Under the NISIP framework, the target is to increase the land under irrigation to 1 million acres. This expansion is expected to enhance food production, reduce reliance on imports, and generate employment — especially among youth and rural populations.

However, the challenge lies not in water availability, but in economic capacity. Kenya has the natural water resources to scale irrigation, but lacks the financial muscle to roll out large-scale projects. That’s where regional and global partnerships become crucial. Coordinated investment from governments, development partners, and the private sector is essential to unlock these opportunities and ensure long-term sustainability.

The CGIAR Science Week also created space for meaningful dialogue on the interface between science and policy. Speakers emphasized the importance of aligning national policies with research-backed strategies and technologies. Many African countries have already developed water policies and legal frameworks, but the effectiveness of these measures often remains difficult to measure. Strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems, as well as fostering accountability in water governance, will be vital in turning policy into real impact.

Farmers, especially smallholders, were placed at the center of these discussions. They are the frontline stewards of water resources — yet often lack access to the tools, knowledge, and infrastructure needed to manage water effectively. Providing them with practical solutions, such as crop-specific irrigation guidelines, water-efficient technologies, and training, can dramatically improve outcomes and reduce waste.

Moreover, water competition is intensifying. With urban expansion, industrial growth, and environmental demands putting additional pressure on limited resources, the need for a coordinated, data-driven approach to water sharing has never been greater. CGIAR Science Week made it clear that achieving water security requires collaboration — across borders, sectors, and disciplines.

In the face of growing climate shocks, the region’s water future hinges on smart investment, inclusive policies, and innovation grounded in science. The IWMI strategy, coupled with the momentum generated during CGIAR Science Week, offers a timely and actionable path forward.

As the climate crisis continues to unfold, East Africa has a unique opportunity to harness water not just as a resource, but as a foundation for resilience, sustainability, and equitable growth.

The Lobito Corridor: Unlocking growth and sustainability in Central Africa

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April 8, 2025

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The Lobito Corridor: Unlocking growth and sustainability in Central Africa

A massive railway and trade corridor linking Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is redefining the region’s approach to economic integration, mineral exports, and sustainable development. Known as the Lobito Corridor, this infrastructure megaproject connects inland resource-rich regions to global markets through the port of Lobito — but its true value may lie beyond the rails.

The corridor, named after the bustling Angolan port city of Lobito, stretches across ten provinces in the three countries and is anchored by the 1,200-kilometre Benguela railway. Traditionally used to transport minerals, the corridor is now being expanded and upgraded to serve as a faster, greener, and more inclusive channel for trade.

With its strategic design and sustainable potential, the Lobito Corridor offers Central Africa a rare chance to build an economic model that works for people, planet, and prosperity.

For decades, mineral exports from landlocked Zambia and the DRC have relied heavily on long, road-based routes to ports in South Africa, Tanzania, and Mozambique — journeys that are slow, costly, and carbon-intensive. In contrast, the Lobito Corridor slashes transport times by nearly half and introduces rail as a cleaner alternative.

Rail transport consumes up to 80% less energy than road freight and emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases. As African countries commit to climate action under the Paris Agreement and their own Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), this corridor offers a concrete step toward decarbonizing trade logistics.

It also relieves pressure on road networks and border crossings, reducing traffic accidents, maintenance costs, and environmental degradation caused by heavy trucking.

While the corridor’s primary focus has been mineral exports — especially copper from the DRC’s Kamoa-Kakula mine — its potential impact on agriculture, manufacturing, and rural development is growing.

Farmers in Zambia’s North-Western Province see the corridor as a game changer. It is expected to open up new markets for their produce, and better prices as transport becomes cheaper and faster.. The corridor could reduce food loss, encourage agro-processing, and support the growth of climate-smart agriculture, aligning with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Local economies that were previously disconnected now have a lifeline to regional and international value chains — a crucial step in building inclusive and resilient economies

Despite these advantages, sustainability advocates and trade experts are sounding a clear warning: the corridor must not become just another pipeline for raw materials.

Africa’s history of exporting unprocessed resources has led to economic vulnerability, environmental exploitation, and limited job creation. As Jacob Makambwe of the Southern Africa Cross Border Traders Association explains, “Without local value addition, we’re simply fueling industries elsewhere while our communities stay poor.”

The solution? Establish processing hubs, battery production facilities, and mineral refining plants along the corridor — especially for high-demand resources like copper, cobalt, and lithium. These steps would reduce export volumes, cut emissions, and create skilled jobs, especially for young people and women.

Encouragingly, Zambia and the DRC have already committed to joint battery production, tapping into the clean energy economy. With strategic investment, the Lobito Corridor could evolve into a Green Industrial Belt that powers Africa’s transition and supplies the world with ethically sourced, sustainably processed materials.

The corridor is supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), which has committed $8.1 million for trade facilitation and management systems. It’s also being operated under a 30-year concession by a private consortium, combining public infrastructure with private capital and expertise.

But for the corridor to deliver lasting benefits, African governments must lead with a sustainability-first approach:

Protect communities along the route from displacement and environmental harm
Invest in green infrastructure and renewable energy-powered stations
Empower local SMEs and cooperatives to participate in new value chains
Enforce fair trade, transparency, and environmental safeguards

As the continent pushes forward with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Lobito Corridor can serve as a model for integrating trade, infrastructure, and sustainability — if done right.

The Lobito Corridor is more than metal on tracks — it’s a symbol of a continent at a crossroads. It represents the choice between extractivism and empowerment, between short-term gains and long-term resilience.

With the right investments, policies, and partnerships, it can become a powerful lever for climate-smart growth, regional cooperation, and economic justice.

Africa doesn’t just need corridors that move goods. It needs ones that move people forward.

CBK sets new guidelines for banks on environmental impact disclosure

Finance

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April 7, 2025

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CBK sets new guidelines for banks on environmental impact disclosure

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming how commercial banks disclose and manage the environmental impact of their financing activities. In a move set to take effect over the next 18 months, the CBK has directed all commercial banks to start disclosing the environmental impact of the businesses and projects they finance. This directive is part of a broader effort to address greenwashing in Kenya’s banking sector, ensuring that sustainability claims are transparent and backed by verifiable actions. As the financial sector becomes increasingly aware of its role in the global fight against climate change, the CBK is taking a crucial step to align Kenya’s banking sector with international environmental standards.

This new regulatory framework is being introduced alongside the Kenya Green Finance Taxonomy (KGFT), a classification system that establishes clear criteria for what qualifies as “green” according to both local and international climate standards. The move comes in response to growing concerns about misleading environmental claims, which have become increasingly common in financial reporting worldwide. The CBK’s action is a response to the rise in green-labelled financial products and services, many of which have not provided clear evidence to support their environmental claims. By requiring banks to disclose their exposure to climate-related risks, CBK aims to ensure that financial institutions act with transparency and accountability, making it easier for investors and the public to evaluate their sustainability efforts.

The new regulations will require banks to publicly disclose the environmental risks associated with their financing activities. This includes identifying investments in sectors that contribute to high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, such as fossil fuels, mining, and large-scale agribusiness. By establishing clear standards for what constitutes a green investment, the CBK is encouraging banks to shift their financing away from high-carbon sectors and toward projects and businesses that promote low-carbon and climate-resilient development. This move is designed to align Kenya’s banking sector with global efforts to tackle climate change and support the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

The 18-month transition period has been specifically designed to allow banks time to build internal capacity, integrate climate risk considerations into their operations, and train risk management teams to assess and manage climate-related risks effectively. This transition period will serve as both a grace window and a testing phase for the banking sector, enabling banks to make the necessary adjustments to their systems and processes in preparation for the full implementation of the new rules. During this time, banks will be required to incorporate climate screening into their credit assessment models, which will involve assessing the environmental impact of the businesses and projects they finance. The transition period will also provide an opportunity for banks to engage with the CBK and address any concerns or challenges they may encounter as they work to meet the new requirements.

One of the key elements of the new regulations is the development of the Kenya Green Finance Taxonomy (KGFT). The KGFT is a living document that will provide banks with a standardized framework for identifying investments that align with sustainability goals. Initially, the KGFT will focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation, setting out the criteria for what qualifies as a green investment in Kenya. These criteria will be based on international climate standards, such as the Paris Agreement, and will be periodically updated to reflect emerging best practices and developments in the global sustainability landscape.

In the first phase, the taxonomy will primarily focus on climate-related objectives, with an emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing resilience to the impacts of climate change. However, the CBK has indicated that future updates to the taxonomy will expand to include other environmental objectives, such as biodiversity protection and natural resource management. The periodic updates to the KGFT will ensure that the taxonomy remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the financial sector and the broader sustainability agenda.

The introduction of the KGFT represents a significant shift in how climate risk is perceived by the banking sector. In the past, climate risk was often seen primarily as a reputational issue, with financial institutions focusing on their public image rather than their actual exposure to climate-related risks. However, with the introduction of the new regulations, climate risk will now be treated as a material financial risk, on par with other financial risks such as credit and market risk. The CBK has emphasized that the KGFT is intended to provide banks with a clear and standardized language for identifying climate-friendly investments and flagging those that do not meet sustainability criteria.

The introduction of the KGFT comes at a time when greenwashing is an increasing concern globally. Many financial products and services have been marketed as environmentally friendly without sufficient evidence to back these claims. As a result, investors and regulators are becoming more cautious about the environmental claims made by companies and financial institutions. The CBK’s new regulations are designed to address this issue by providing a clear framework for verifying the environmental credentials of financial products and services. This will help build trust in the financial sector and encourage greater investment in sustainable projects and businesses.

The 18-month transition period also presents an opportunity for further engagement between the CBK and the banking sector. This engagement will allow banks to provide feedback on the new rules and suggest any necessary adjustments to ensure the smooth implementation of the KGFT. The CBK has stated that the transition period will be a time for dialogue and collaboration, with the aim of ensuring that the new regulations are both effective and practical for banks to implement.

The new regulations are expected to have a significant impact on the financing of certain sectors, particularly those with high environmental and climate-related risks. Industries such as oil and gas, mining, and large-scale agribusiness are likely to face reduced access to financing as banks align their lending practices with sustainability criteria. However, the regulations are also expected to open up new opportunities for banks to attract climate-conscious investors and tap into the growing market for green bonds and climate-aligned lending. This shift toward sustainable finance could help Kenya’s banking sector attract a new generation of investors who are increasingly focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

As the global demand for sustainable finance continues to grow, Kenya’s banking sector has a unique opportunity to position itself as a leader in green finance in Africa. By adopting the CBK’s new regulations and aligning their financing activities with international climate standards, Kenyan banks can play a key role in driving the country’s transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. The move also positions Kenya to attract international investors and capital, which are increasingly looking for sustainable investment opportunities.

In conclusion, the CBK’s new directive marks a significant step forward for Kenya’s banking sector. By requiring banks to disclose their environmental impact and align their financing activities with sustainability goals, the CBK is helping to ensure that the country’s financial system plays a central role in the fight against climate change. The introduction of the Kenya Green Finance Taxonomy will provide banks with a standardized framework for assessing climate risk and identifying green investments, helping to build trust and transparency in the financial sector. As the transition period progresses, it is clear that Kenya’s banking sector is poised to lead the way in sustainable finance, driving both economic and environmental benefits for the country

South African farm workers demand an end to Europe’s toxic pesticide exports

Africa
News

Lisa Matata

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April 7, 2025

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South African farm workers demand an end to Europe’s toxic pesticide exports

In the vineyards of South Africa’s Western Cape—where some of the world’s finest wines are grown—farm workers are demanding justice. Not just economic justice, but justice for their health, their communities, and their basic human rights. For decades, they have lived under the shadow of pesticides banned in the European Union for being too dangerous, yet still produced in Europe and exported to countries like South Africa—causing serious health complications and perpetuating cycles of poverty among farm workers.

This ongoing practice has triggered outrage among local communities, civil society organizations, and international observers, culminating in a recent People’s Tribunal on Agrotoxins held in Stellenbosch from March 21–23. The tribunal, though not a formal court, served as a powerful platform for farm workers, legal professionals, and health experts to present evidence of what they describe as systematic human rights violations facilitated by international trade in banned pesticides.

These violations, they say, are driven in large part by the European Union’s double standards.

Despite banning dozens of highly hazardous pesticides for use within its borders—due to their toxic effects on human health and the environment—the EU continues to allow their production and export to countries like South Africa. Once abroad, these chemicals are used to grow the very produce that ends up back on European supermarket shelves.

Over the course of the two-day tribunal, farm workers bravely shared testimonies of suffering: respiratory illnesses, reproductive health problems, neurological disorders, and cancers. Many pointed out that they are regularly exposed to chemical cocktails banned in Europe—without protective gear, medical support, or even the right to know what substances they are handling.

One question echoed throughout the tribunal: If these chemicals are too dangerous, why are they being produced by the very countries that ban them and allowed for export to third world countries

According to the African Centre for Biodiversity, 192 highly hazardous pesticides are still legally used in South Africa—57 of which are banned in the EU. These include chemicals classified as neurotoxic, carcinogenic, and acutely toxic to the environment. The brunt of this toxic burden is borne by farm workers, many of whom are women—biologically more susceptible to the impacts of pesticide exposure and more vulnerable due to socio-economic inequalities.

Many layers of injustice unfold on these farms—where the legacies of apartheid remain deeply etched into the landscape. Inequality is not just visible; it is lived daily. Farm workers, many of whom are women, continue to report a lack of basic protective gear when handling toxic chemicals, often relying on scarves and makeshift coverings to shield themselves. Sanitation facilities are scarce, with no access to clean running water or toilets in many vineyards. Medical support is virtually non-existent, and when health complications arise—from respiratory issues to cancer—there is little to no assistance. Their wellbeing is jeopardized every day, and when things go wrong, they are left to suffer in silence.

Trade blocs like the European Union often position themselves as global champions of sustainability, enforcing strict environmental and health standards within their own borders. Yet this commitment rings hollow when these same blocs continue to export pesticides they have deemed too dangerous for their own people. It’s a contradiction that undermines the very principles of sustainable development and human rights. If these substances are not safe, they should not be produced—let alone distributed for profit to countries in the Global South. Just as the EU is moving to restrict imports of food grown with banned chemicals, there is a moral and ethical imperative to place equal—if not greater—restrictions on their production and export. True sustainability demands consistency. Anything less is hypocrisy dressed in green.

Sustainability must not stop at the farm gate or the customs border. It must inform how we produce, trade, and consume—globally. That includes ending the export of banned substances that continue to harm workers and ecosystems elsewhere.

For South African farm workers, the demand is simple: stop exporting harm. Respect lives. Uphold rights. Practice the sustainability and ethics you preach.

As the People’s Tribunal prepares to release its verdict in the coming months, one thing is already clear: the continued export of banned pesticides from Europe to South Africa is a breach not just of trade ethics, but of humanity itself. It is time for trade blocs like the EU to lead with integrity, align action with values, and put people—all people—before profit.

The High Atlas Foundation’s zero-waste initiative

Lisa Matata

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April 3, 2025

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The High Atlas Foundation’s zero-waste initiative

The global textile industry is at a critical crossroads, with mounting waste and pollution posing severe environmental and social challenges. As the world grapples with these issues, innovative solutions are emerging to transform waste management and promote sustainability. One such initiative is led by the High Atlas Foundation (HAF), a Moroccan-based nonprofit dedicated to sustainable development. Through its groundbreaking Tree Sacks Project, HAF is addressing plastic waste in agriculture while empowering local communities, particularly women-led cooperatives.

Each year, approximately 92 million tonnes of textile waste are generated globally—equivalent to one truckload per second. This waste, often discarded in landfills or incinerated, significantly contributes to carbon emissions and pollution. The fashion industry alone is responsible for 10 percent of global carbon emissions, with projections indicating a 60 percent rise in textile manufacturing emissions by 2030. Additionally, textile dyeing and finishing processes account for nearly 20 percent of global clean water pollution, as untreated wastewater is discharged into rivers and streams, making the industry the second-largest contributor to water contamination.

Beyond environmental concerns, textile waste also presents an economic challenge. The current linear model—produce, use, discard—is unsustainable. The need for a circular economy, where materials are reused, recycled, and repurposed, has never been more urgent.

Recognizing the need for sustainable solutions, the High Atlas Foundation launched its Tree Sacks Project to reduce plastic waste in agriculture. This initiative introduces biodegradable tree sacks, replacing conventional plastic sacks used in nurseries. By shifting to locally produced, sustainable alternatives, HAF is actively reducing pollution while fostering economic opportunities for Moroccan women.

Since its inception, HAF has registered three official cooperatives in Al Haouz province and provided them with 50 sewing machines and essential resources. These cooperatives play a crucial role in producing biodegradable tree sacks, with over 14,500 distributed to nurseries across Morocco within just two months of the project’s trial phase. HAF’s ambitious goal is to manufacture 1.4 million biodegradable sacks over the next three years, significantly cutting down plastic waste in tree planting efforts.

Recognizing the need for sustainable solutions, the High Atlas Foundation launched its Tree Sacks Project to reduce plastic waste in agriculture. This initiative introduces biodegradable tree sacks, replacing conventional plastic sacks used in nurseries. By shifting to locally produced, sustainable alternatives, HAF is actively reducing pollution while fostering economic opportunities for Moroccan women.

HAF’s Tree Sacks Project is a prime example of how circular economy principles can be applied to address industry-specific sustainability challenges. By replacing plastic materials with biodegradable alternatives, the initiative not only reduces environmental harm but also creates economic and social value. This aligns with global sustainability goals, particularly those aimed at reducing waste, promoting responsible consumption, and advancing gender equality.

A circular approach to fashion and textiles requires action at multiple levels—governments, businesses, and individuals must commit to reducing waste, investing in innovative solutions, and making more sustainable choices. The High Atlas Foundation’s work serves as a model for how localized efforts can have a profound impact on sustainability.

Initiatives like HAF’s Tree Sacks Project remind us that meaningful change is possible. Stakeholders across industries must engage in local and national zero-waste initiatives, advocate for responsible production practices, and embrace the shift toward sustainability. By supporting and expanding projects like HAF’s, we can work toward a more sustainable future—one stitch at a time.

Traceability in global supply chains

Lisa Matata

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April 3, 2025

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supply chains are not just about moving goods from one place to another. They are intricate ecosystems, shaped by global regulations, shifting consumer expectations, and an increasingly heightened focus on sustainability. One of the most significant developments in recent years is the European Union’s (EU) stringent new rules on supply chain traceability and sustainability. These regulations do not just impact European businesses—they have profound implications for suppliers worldwide, including those in Africa.

Traceability refers to the ability to track the movement of goods throughout the entire supply chain, from raw material extraction to the final consumer. It ensures transparency, accountability, and compliance with regulatory requirements. In sectors like agriculture, mining, and manufacturing—where Africa plays a critical role—traceability is becoming a non-negotiable standard. For businesses, traceability helps mitigate risks such as unethical labor practices, environmental violations, and fraud. It also enhances consumer trust, as more customers demand ethical sourcing. Technologies like blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital tagging are now being leveraged to improve supply chain visibility.

The EU has introduced robust sustainability requirements through initiatives such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). These laws mandate companies to ensure that their supply chains adhere to strict environmental and human rights standards. The CSDDD, for example, compels large corporations to identify, prevent, and mitigate negative human rights and environmental impacts within their supply chains. It holds businesses accountable for sustainability violations, whether committed by themselves or their suppliers. The EUDR, on the other hand, aims to curb deforestation linked to commodities like coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and rubber. Companies must prove that their goods do not contribute to deforestation, failing which they face heavy penalties and restrictions in the EU market.

Traceability plays a crucial role in achieving these sustainability goals by ensuring that companies can verify ethical sourcing and production practices at every stage. By leveraging digital solutions such as blockchain, AI-driven monitoring, and satellite tracking, businesses can provide real-time insights into their supply chains. These technologies help detect environmental risks, monitor labor conditions, and ensure that suppliers comply with evolving regulations. Transparency not only enhances accountability but also strengthens consumer confidence in sustainably sourced products. Companies that proactively adopt traceability will find themselves ahead of regulatory pressures and market demands.

Africa is a crucial player in global supply chains, supplying essential raw materials like minerals, timber, agricultural produce, and textiles. However, as sustainability becomes a key requirement, African businesses must adapt or risk exclusion from lucrative European markets. Non-compliance could result in African suppliers being locked out of the EU, one of the world’s largest trading blocs. By meeting traceability and sustainability standards, suppliers can maintain and expand their market reach.

Companies that implement traceability and sustainability measures will gain an edge over competitors. Buyers increasingly prefer suppliers that align with sustainability values, and those who act proactively will be the preferred choice. International investors and partners are more likely to collaborate with companies that demonstrate transparency in their supply chains. Businesses that embrace these changes can attract foreign investment and build stronger partnerships. Regulatory requirements will only become stricter in the coming years. Companies that integrate traceability now will be better positioned to adapt to future sustainability mandates without major disruptions.

For many businesses in Africa, meeting these new regulations might seem daunting. However, strategic steps can help ease the transition. Blockchain, AI-driven monitoring, and GPS tracking can enhance traceability. Digital tools help document sourcing, production, and transportation, ensuring compliance with global standards. Accurate record-keeping is key to proving compliance. Suppliers should maintain detailed records of sourcing practices, environmental impact assessments, and labor conditions.

Certifications such as Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) can validate a company’s commitment to sustainability. These certifications also enhance credibility and marketability. Ensuring compliance requires collaboration across the supply chain. Suppliers should work closely with farmers, miners, and manufacturers to create a culture of transparency and sustainability. Governments and industry associations in Africa must facilitate compliance through policy support, training, and financial incentives. Public-private partnerships can ease the burden on small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The shift towards sustainable and traceable supply chains is not a passing trend—it is the new reality of global trade. For African suppliers, this transformation presents both challenges and opportunities. By embracing sustainability, businesses can secure their place in global markets, foster ethical practices, and contribute to a more responsible global economy. Inaction is not an option. African suppliers must recognize that compliance is no longer a choice—it is a business imperative. Those who adapt quickly will not only survive but thrive in the evolving landscape of international trade.

Climate TRACE launches monthly greenhouse gas data

Carbon offseting

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April 1, 2025

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Climate TRACE launches monthly greenhouse gas data

Climate TRACE has taken a significant step toward real-time climate accountability by launching monthly updates on global greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative, which began with its first report on March 28, 2025, provides data on emissions for January 2025. This marks the beginning of a new era in emissions tracking, offering the most up-to-date and comprehensive dataset available to the public.

For years, the challenge of tracking greenhouse gas emissions has been exacerbated by outdated reporting. By the time emissions data became available, the world had already moved on to new climate challenges. Climate TRACE is changing this narrative by offering insights with only a 60-day lag. Covering every major greenhouse gas across key sectors, subsectors, countries, states, over 9,000 urban areas, and more than 660 million individual sources, Climate TRACE has established the world’s most comprehensive, timely, and up-to-date emissions inventory.

Climate TRACE’s preliminary calculation of global greenhouse gas emissions for the month of January 2025 is 5.26 billion tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) – a 0.59% decline compared to January 2024. Global methane emissions in January 2025 stood at 32.24 million tonnes, roughly the same as January 2024. These figures hint at a potential shift in emissions trends, offering a glimmer of hope for those pushing for more aggressive climate action.

This decline in emissions is particularly notable, as it marks the first year-over-year decrease in monthly emissions since the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. December 2024 (–0.02%) and January 2025 represent the first monthly declines in emissions – year over year – post-COVID and since the beginning of Climate TRACE’s monthly breakdown of greenhouse gas emissions data, which dates back to January 2021. While the reductions are small, they could signal the start of a more significant downward movement in global emissions. However, experts caution that it is too early to determine whether this trend will persist. With ongoing policy shifts, industrial transformations, and international climate commitments shaping emissions levels, the coming months will be crucial in understanding whether this decline is a short-term fluctuation or the beginning of sustained progress.

Climate TRACE is committed to providing timely and transparent updates, with new emissions data set for release on the last Thursday of every month. Each report will feature emissions data from two months prior, enabling a comprehensive year-over-year analysis by sector and country. Additionally, refinements to previous months’ estimates will be made based on newly acquired data. Users will be able to explore emissions trends through interactive maps and ranking tools available on the Climate TRACE website. A more detailed breakdown, including methodology documents and change logs, will be accessible through the organization’s GitHub repository.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Country: January 2025
As the world’s largest emitter, China recorded a 1.1% decrease in emissions, with total CO2e emissions for January 2025 estimated at 1.54 billion tonnes, reflecting a decline of 17.4 million tonnes.

Other major emitters also showed slight declines:

The United States saw a drop of 17.39 million tonnes CO2e (–0.28%)
India’s emissions fell by 90,366 tonnes CO2e (–0.03%)
Russia experienced a decrease of 579,029 tonnes CO2e (–0.18%)
Indonesia saw a reduction of 392,293 tonnes CO2e (–0.32%)
As a bloc, the European Union’s emissions declined by 1.8 million tonnes CO2e (–0.53%)

While these reductions are relatively modest, they reflect an emerging trend of incremental progress in emissions reduction efforts. However, ongoing monitoring will be necessary to determine whether these changes result from short-term economic shifts or deeper structural transformations in energy and industry.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions by City: January 2025
The urban areas with the highest total greenhouse gas emissions in January 2025 were:

Shanghai, China
Tokyo, Japan
New York City, USA
Seoul, South Korea
Beijing, China

Cities with the greatest increase in absolute emissions were:

Ma’anshan, China
Anshan, China
Seoul, South Korea
Louxing, China
Xiangtan, China

Cities with the greatest absolute emissions decline included:

Dortmund, Germany
Pohang-si, South Korea
Geumseong, South Korea
Swansea, United Kingdom
Zhangjiagang, China

Cities with the greatest percentage increase in emissions were:

Campo Largo, Brazil
Sobral, Brazil
Rybnitsa, Moldova
Litang, China
Hpa-An, Myanmar

And those with the greatest percentage decrease were:

Swansea, United Kingdom
Chonnae, North Korea
Kirovo-Chepetsk, Russia
Wenxi, China
Pohang-si, South Korea

The introduction of Climate TRACE’s monthly reporting system marks a transformative moment in climate transparency. With emissions data now being released at an unprecedented speed and level of detail, policymakers, researchers, and climate advocates will have the tools necessary to track progress and hold industries accountable in near real-time. This level of access to high-quality, up-to-date emissions data could accelerate the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

While the modest declines in January 2025’s emissions offer a hopeful signal, sustained efforts and policy-driven interventions will be crucial in ensuring this progress continues. The next Climate TRACE report, set to be released in late April 2025, will provide further insights into whether this downward trend persists or if emissions begin to rise once again. As the world grapples with the urgent need for climate action, real-time emissions tracking could prove to be one of the most powerful tools in driving lasting environmental change.

China-Africa green cooperation dialogue

Africa

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April 1, 2025

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A high-level dialogue on China-Africa green cooperation took place in Nairobi, bringing together key stakeholders from government, academia, and the environmental sector to explore opportunities for strengthening ecological partnerships between the two regions.
Hosted at the University of Nairobi’s Confucius Institute by the Chongqing Land and Sea International Communication Foundation, the China-Africa Ecological Civilization Exchange Forum provided a unique platform for discussing strategies to advance sustainability. The event featured a photo exhibition titled The City of Eagles, highlighting the green transformation of Chongqing, a city in southwest China.

One of the key moments of the forum was the launch of a nature observation program aimed at fostering collaboration between Chinese and African youth in environmental conservation efforts. This initiative seeks to promote knowledge exchange, capacity-building, and the sharing of best practices in ecological protection.

Speaking at the forum, Njoroge Muchiri, Deputy Governor of Nairobi, emphasized the city’s commitment to reclaiming degraded green spaces and rehabilitating its river ecosystems. He noted that his recent visit to China offered valuable insights into successful conservation models, particularly the restoration of the Yangtze River, which serves as a major ecological and economic lifeline in China.

“In collaboration with the Chinese government and Chinese investors, we are working on a major rehabilitation program for Nairobi’s rivers,” Muchiri stated. “This will enable us to restore vital ecosystems and enhance urban sustainability.”
Muchiri’s remarks underscore Nairobi’s broader aspirations to integrate sustainable urban planning, reforestation, and pollution control into its development agenda. Lessons drawn from China’s approach could provide a roadmap for Nairobi and other African cities striving for environmental resilience.

Nevile Agesa, Project Manager at Mara Conservation Fund, highlighted how partnerships with Chinese entities have strengthened efforts to protect Kenya’s fragile ecosystems. He noted that conservation organizations face mounting challenges due to the triple planetary crisis—climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
“With China’s support, we have been able to enhance habitat protection and implement innovative conservation solutions,” Agesa explained. “This is critical in safeguarding Kenya’s rich biodiversity, particularly in areas such as the Maasai Mara.”

China’s role in supporting conservation efforts in Africa aligns with its broader commitment to green development and climate resilience, reinforcing the importance of cross-border environmental partnerships. Representing China’s engagement in Africa’s sustainability efforts, Hu Henghua, Mayor of Chongqing Municipality, reaffirmed China’s willingness to collaborate on various aspects of green development. He emphasized China’s expertise in urban sustainability, clean energy development, and biodiversity conservation as areas where Africa could benefit from shared knowledge and investment.

“We stand ready to leverage this platform to work with African partners in advancing sustainability,” Hu stated. “From wildlife protection to clean energy, our joint efforts can yield long-term environmental benefits.”
Guo Haiyan, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that China prioritizes global ecological health and has actively integrated sustainable practices into its projects in Kenya. She cited the construction of the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) as an example of how Chinese enterprises incorporate green principles in large infrastructure projects.

“China remains committed to promoting green development in Africa,” Guo noted. “Our recently launched Partnership Action for Green Development, part of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), reflects this unwavering commitment.”

The China-Africa green dialogue is a testament to the increasing recognition of sustainability as a shared responsibility. As African nations pursue economic growth and infrastructure expansion, collaboration with China presents an opportunity to integrate environmental sustainability into these efforts.

By investing in clean energy, urban greening, and ecosystem restoration, China and Africa can jointly tackle pressing environmental challenges while ensuring that economic development does not come at the expense of natural resources.
Moving forward, the success of initiatives such as the nature observation program and Nairobi’s river rehabilitation project will depend on continued stakeholder engagement, policy support, and knowledge exchange between China and African countries. Through such collaborations, both regions stand to benefit from a greener and more resilient future.

News

News

1. Data collection may stall

2. Carbon goals could be missed

3. Compliance may become a grey area

What should companies do?