How can one register a REDD+ project in Kenya?
REDD+ Project Registration Process
To register a REDD+ project in Kenya, one has to generally follow the process as indicated in the Climate Change (Carbon Markets) Regulations, 2024. The following process is followed:
Project eligibility & concept
Establish project eligibility and develop a project concept that aligns with one or more of the five REDD+ activities recognized under the UNFCCC and is consistent with Kenya's national climate change, forestry, and sustainable development priorities. The concept should demonstrate the proposed project area, objectives, activities, potential emission reductions or removals, expected climate and socio-economic benefits, and alignment with national policies and strategies.
Secure land use rights
Secure land use rights by demonstrating legal ownership or use rights over the project area and obtaining the necessary consent from landowners and affected communities, where applicable.
Stakeholder consultations
Undertake stakeholder consultations and ensure meaningful participation of local communities, Indigenous Peoples, and other relevant stakeholders, including the development of benefit-sharing arrangements.
Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
Conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) or obtain the appropriate environmental approvals where required under Kenyan law.
Community development agreement
Prepare and sign a community development agreement, if the project is on communal or public land.
Project Design Document (PDD)
Prepare a Project Design Document (PDD) describing the project activities, baseline scenario, methodology, estimated emission reductions or removals, monitoring plan, safeguards, and risk management measures.
Application to the DNA
Submit an application for national approval to the Designated National Authority (DNA), together with all supporting documentation required under the Climate Change (Carbon Markets) Regulations, 2024.
Technical review & approval
Undergo technical review and recommendation, and approval process by the Designated National Authority to confirm that the project complies with national legislation, contributes to Kenya's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and meets the requirements of the Regulations.
Independent validation
Validate the project through an independent accredited validation body in accordance with the selected carbon standard or programme.
National Carbon Registry
Register the project in the National Carbon Registry, where approved projects are recorded to ensure transparency, avoid double counting, and facilitate tracking of carbon credits.
International carbon standard registration
Register the project under an internationally recognized carbon standard, where applicable, to enable the issuance and trading of verified carbon credits.