Organised by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources in partnership with the West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, the event brought together government representatives, technical experts and financial partners at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre. The focus was on preparedness and the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
In her keynote address, Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Rohey John Manjang, welcomed delegates and reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to climate action, regional cooperation and sustainable development. She stressed that West Africa faces some of the harshest impacts of climate change despite contributing the least to global emissions, underscoring the urgency of collective solutions and stronger engagement in international climate negotiations.
Ousman Sarr, Coordinator of the West African Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, described the meeting as a turning point for the region. He noted that carbon markets, once seen as distant and complex, are now becoming central to development strategies. While billions have been generated globally since the Kyoto Protocol, he said, many African countries have remained on the margins—prompting the creation of the regional alliance to change that reality.
Sarr cautioned that as carbon markets enter a new phase under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, governments must act carefully. He urged countries to build strong regulatory systems, ensure transparency and avoid rushed decisions that could compromise national interests, reminding delegates that emission reductions are now strategic national assets with long-term implications.
Speaking on behalf of the West African Development Bank, Jonathan Dosseh, Climate Finance Officer, emphasised the importance of country ownership. He argued that carbon markets should not be seen as external technical tools but as opportunities for governments to mobilise finance and implement national climate plans effectively.
Dr Asmau Jibril, Focal Point for the Alliance in Nigeria and Chairperson of the Alliance Steering Committee, called for stronger collaboration among member states. She encouraged countries that have made progress in developing carbon market policies to support others, stressing the importance of moving forward together as a region.
