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World Ranger Day: New CITES documentary short film celebrates rangers conserving Ghana’s wildlife

Michael Simire
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World Ranger Day: New CITES documentary short film celebrates rangers conserving Ghana’s wildlife

On World Ranger Day 2025, celebrated on Thursday, July 31, just one month after the 50th anniversary of the entry into force of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the CITES Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) Programme has released a short film highlighting the crucial role played by the dedicated rangers of Mole National Park in Ghana’s wildlife conservation efforts.

CITES
Before and after: The transformation of ranger barracks from 2021 to 2024 in Mole National Park, Ghana. Photo credit: CITES Secretariat

Guardians of Giants – Mole National Park, an 11-minute documentary released by the CITES MIKE Programme, offers an inspiring look into the lives of the rangers who protect one of West Africa’s most vital wildlife refuges. The film also highlights the impact of the Minimising the Illegal Killing of Elephants and Other Endangered Species (MIKES+) Project, which has strengthened conservation efforts across key sites in West and Central Africa.

Through enhanced monitoring, improved management practices, and reinforced enforcement capacity, the project has contributed to the conservation of elephants and other African mammals listed in the CITES Appendices in some of the continent’s most vulnerable ecosystems.

Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest wildlife refuge and an important stronghold for West African elephants. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park encompasses a mosaic of savannah and forest habitats that support a wide range of species. Through targeted support by CITES MIKE Programme, Mole has become an example of how data-driven enforcement and ranger empowerment can conserve iconic species in complex ecosystem

Guardians of Giants brings viewers into the world of Mole’s rangers – from early morning briefings, to long patrols across rugged and hot terrain. The film captures the courage, discipline and unwavering dedication of rangers on the frontlines of conservation. 

“Behind every species conserved is a ranger whose story often goes untold. These rangers are more than guardians of wildlife – they are parents, mentors, and environmental stewards whose daily work, often out of sight, is essential to conserving wildlife for future generations. Today, we are proud to share their stories with the world and honour their contribution to global conservation,” said CITES Secretary-General, Ms. Ivonne Higuero.

Thanks to generous funding from the European Union, the MIKES+ Project has significantly strengthened ranger capacity and resources in Mole National Park. Key achievements include reactivation of the Wildlife Division’s Mobile Training Unit, which has trained over 100 rangers in in field-based conservation skills.

The Park also received new patrol vehicles, ranger equipment, and infrastructure improvements including ranger outposts and solar-powered boreholes. These have improved ranger welfare, enabling broader patrol coverage and more effective responses to wildlife crime.

“Rangers are the backbone of conservation,” said Director of Operations, Protected Areas, Wildlife Division of Forestry Commission, Ghana, Mr. Dubiure Umaru Farouk. “The support provided through the Project has empowered them with the right skills, tools, infrastructure and the motivation needed to carry out this vital mission more effectively. Today, Mole National Park stands out as a symbol of what is possible when we invest in those who stand on the frontlines of conservation. Continued support for these efforts is not only essential for safeguarding our wildlife but also for securing the future of our ecosystems and communities.”

Nigeria needs proactive steps for 2030 oil target – Petroleum engineers

Michael Simire
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Nigeria needs proactive steps for 2030 oil target – Petroleum engineers

The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) says Nigeria must implement proactive measures to achieve a crude oil production target of 2.7 million barrels per day (mbpd) by 2030.

SPE also said that the country needs to focus on enhanced oil recovery methods, pipeline security, gas resource monetisation, and improved infrastructure reliability.

SPE
Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) officials addressing the media in Lagos

Dr Amina Danmiani, Chairman of the SPE Nigeria Council, said this on Thursday, July 31, 2025, while addressing newsmen in Lagos ahead of the orgaisation’s 2025 International Conference and Exhibition (SPENAICE).

The event is scheduled to be held from for Aug. 4 to Aug. 6 in Lagos.

According to Danmiani, Nigeria currently produces about 1.75 million barrels per day of crude oil and condensates.

She said that the country was also working to maximise the use of its 209 trillion cubic feet of natural gas as a transitional fuel to support energy security and economic diversification.

Danmiani noted that SPENAICE 2025 would showcase technical insights and practical solutions aligned with Nigeria’s energy development goals.

“Over the past year, Nigeria has witnessed historic divestments by international oil companies from onshore and shallow-water assets.

“SPENAICE 2025 will be a turning point for Nigeria’s energy future, ” she said.

She described the conference as more than just an event, describing it as: “West Africa’s premier platform for energy innovation, policy dialogue, and professional excellence.

“This year’s theme: ‘Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy,’ is a call to action,” Danmiani said.

She said that the conference reflected Nigeria’s urgent need to integrate technology, local capacity, and forward-thinking policies to achieve energy security and a one-trillion dollar economy.

According to her, with over 4,000 participants, more than 80 exhibiting companies, and several high-level leadership panels expected.

“SPENAICE 2025 aims to address pressing challenges in oil production, gas monetisation, infrastructure optimisation, and post-divestment asset management,” Danmiani said.

She reaffirmed SPE’s commitment to bridging the knowledge gap, empowering young professionals, and strengthening indigenous participation amid ongoing industry transitions.

“We are telling stories that matter, from energy transition realities to local innovations.

“SPENAICE 2025 is where Nigeria’s energy past meets its future,” Danmiani said.

Tinubu moves Surveyor-General’s Office to Presidency

Michael Simire
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Tinubu moves Surveyor-General’s Office to Presidency

President Bola Tinubu has directed the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF) from the Ministry of Works to the Presidency.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced this after Thursday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by the President.

President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu

The directive aims to streamline geospatial data management and ensure more direct oversight of national mapping and land administration priorities.

Although the minister did not provide detailed reasons for the reassignment, the move aligns with the administration’s reform agenda and growing reliance on geospatial intelligence for planning, infrastructure development, and security mapping.

The OSGoF is the country’s apex mapping agency, responsible for providing geospatial information, data, and services.

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

NCF inaugurates UN-supported climate adaptation project for farmers in Yobe

Michael Simire
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NCF inaugurates UN-supported climate adaptation project for farmers in Yobe

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has inaugurated a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)-supported climate change adaptation initiative for smallholder farmers and pastoralists in 10 communities in Yobe State.

Mr. Harry Junior, the Coordinator of the NCF Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands Conservation Project, made this known on Friday, August 1, 2025, in Nguru.

Joseph Onoja
Dr. Joseph Onoja, NCF Executive Director

He said the project intervention being implemented by NCF was funded by the UNDP through the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP).

Junior explained that the intervention, titled “Sustainable Farmers-Led Adaptation Strategy (SFLAS) to Climate Change”, is a one-year project aimed at improving resilience among 2,000 beneficiaries, including crop farmers, livestock herders, women and youth.

He said the intervention is being implemented by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), a foremost environmental NGO in Nigeria with extensive experience in community-led projects.

Hanson listed the benefiting communities as Maja-kura 1, Maja-kura 2, Dirani, Gari Mamman, Birnin Nguru, Zamarmari, Kallari, Aroro, Dagirawa and Gareni.

According to him, the initiative promotes sustainable agroforestry and climate-smart farming practices to support the semi-arid regions of Nguru against climate challenges.

“This project focuses on integrated technologies and practices to enhance the resilience of farmers and pastoralists, particularly in the fragile ecosystem of the Hadejia-Nguru wetlands,” he said.

He explained that the objectives include establishing a knowledge-management system for climate adaptation, introducing improved and climate-resilient crop varieties, encouraging alternatives to fresh grass for livestock, and deploying digitised weather advisory applications.

Junior added that the intervention is expected to reduce environmental degradation by 80 per cent, while 50 per cent of the targeted farmers are projected to adopt climate-resilient farming systems.

Additional outcomes, according to him, include increased collaboration among farmers to foster peaceful coexistence, empowerment of 125 women to produce and market livestock feed alternatives, and establishment of seedling banks and nurseries to enhance local seed access.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary communities, Malam Lawan Bamai, the Village Head of Maja-kura, expressed sincere appreciate to the UNDP and NCF for bringing this support to their people.

Bamai, who is also the representative of the Nguru Emirate Council, said the intervention would go a long way in transforming their farming methods and improve livelihoods.

“We sincerely appreciate the UNDP and NCF for bringing this support to our people. This will go a long way in transforming our farming methods and improving livelihoods,” Bamai said.

Mr. Al-meen Mohammed, the Director, Department of Agriculture, Nguru Local Government, pledged the council’s support in providing technical assistance to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.

Other dignitaries present at the launch included representatives from the Yobe State Ministry of Environment (Nguru Zonal Office), Nguru Local Government Council, Nguru Emirate Council, village heads of the 10 beneficiary communities, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), NCF Supporters Committee (Yobe Chapter), and the media.

The UNDP is the UN’s global development network working across more than 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By Ahmed Ahmed

Environmentalists task govt on commitment to global plastic treaty

Michael Simire
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Environmentalists task govt on commitment to global plastic treaty

Environmentalists, civil society groups, and public health experts have called on the Federal Government to take a firmer and more transparent position on plastic pollution ahead of the global plastic treaty negotiations in Geneva.

They said this during a Plastic Treaty pre-Intergovernmental Negotiation (INC-5.2) national webinar organised by the Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev) Nigeria and co-convened by the Centre for Earth Works (CFEW).

The Global Plastic Treaty
The Global Plastic Treaty

The session, which brought together experts from across Nigeria and Africa, was organised to raise public awareness and build support for a legally binding treaty that tackles plastic pollution from a full life-cycle perspective.

Delivering a keynote on “The Global Plastic Treaty and Why It Matters”, Dr Benson Fasanya, Executive Director of Earth Works, stressed the urgency of global action.

“Plastic pollution is growing at an alarming rate – an estimated 44 million tonnes are dumped into the environment every year. This problem is rooted in the petrochemical industry and threatens both human health and the planet.

“The Global Plastic Treaty has the potential to be a system-changing instrument, if we ensure it is legally binding and ambitious,” Fasanya said.

He also provided a recap of the treaty’s negotiation journey, noting that INC-1 to INC-4 have laid the groundwork for what could become one of the most consequential environmental treaties since the Paris Climate Agreement.

Fasanya, however, said that the negotiations remain deeply political.

“Some countries, including oil-producing nations, are resisting proposals for production cuts. This threatens to weaken the treaty’s impact,” Fasanya warned.

Fasanya charged journalists to spotlight the health implications of plastic pollution, advocate the elimination of toxic chemicals in plastics, and push for transparency and strong regulatory frameworks.

“There is a need for the media to report on the establishment of a dedicated fund, highlight human rights violations, and counter false solutions such as the reliance on waste incinerators,” Fasanya added.

From the African perspective, the Executive Director of SRADev and convener of the webinar, Dr Leslie Adogame, called on Nigeria and other African states to rally behind progressive demands at the treaty negotiations.

“Africa is not a dumping ground.

“We are calling for a just treaty that addresses health, environmental justice, and plastic production cuts, especially for single-use plastics.

“Nigeria must stand firm with the African Group of Negotiators to demand polluter accountability and climate justice,” Adogame said.

Adogame said most African states participate in the negotiations through the African Group of Negotiators.

He noted that Nigeria’s position remains unclear, especially on production cuts and capping plastic use.

“While Nigeria has made some efforts, such as banning single-use plastics in some quarters, the federal government must publicly state its full support for a strong, legally binding treaty,” he said.

Other participants shared similar sentiments.

A participant, Dr Oludayo Dada, cautioned that the negotiations have become increasingly politicised and warned of backsliding.

“From what we are seeing, several countries and negotiators are shifting their positions under pressure. Many no longer want health and human rights mentioned in the treaty. This is very concerning,” Dada said.

Another participant, Prof. Babajide Alo, urged the Nigerian and African delegations not to compromise on core demands.

“Putting a cap on plastic production must remain a central priority. Spoiler countries will try to derail the process – we must be ready.”

Mr. Anthony Akpan of the Pan African Vision for the Environment called for intensified local awareness efforts while global talks continued.

“While we wait for the treaty, we must keep educating our people on the harmful effects of plastics,” Akpan said.

Mr. Daniel Oderinde applauded Nigeria’s tentative steps, including its single-use plastics ban, and called for grassroots engagement and the promotion of local alternatives.

Osarumwense Ogbeifun of CFEW, speaking on the objective of the webinar, said: “Our mission is to demystify environmental issues, empower people with knowledge, and build public support for the treaty.”

The treaty is being negotiated under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme and seeks to create a legally binding international agreement to end plastic pollution.

INC 5.2 is expected to finalise negotiations ahead of the treaty’s adoption.

The Global Plastic Treaty aims to create a legally binding international agreement to combat plastic pollution, addressing the entire life cycle of plastics from production to disposal.

Balancing safety and conservation: Fatal elephant attack in Ogun community

Michael Simire
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Balancing safety and conservation: Fatal elephant attack in Ogun community

A tragic incident unfolded on Monday, July 28, 2025, in Itasin-Imobi community, Ijebu-East Local Government Area of Ogun State, when a wild elephant fatally attacked a local farmer, Mr. Kalamu, on his farm.

According to eyewitnesses, the elephant – already known to the community for years due to repeated destruction of farmland and fishing gear – invaded the victim’s farmland and attacked him, leading to his untimely death. This heartbreaking event has intensified fear and anger within the community, which has been grappling with human-wildlife conflict for over four years without sustainable government intervention.

Elephants
Elephants

Understanding the Conflict

The elephant involved is believed to be one of the few remaining in that part of southwestern Nigeria, likely displaced from its natural habitat due to habitat loss, deforestation, or human encroachment. However, while the conservation of endangered species is a national and global priority, the safety and livelihood of rural communities must not be compromised. This incident exemplifies the growing tension between rural survival needs and wildlife conservation, particularly in forest-edge communities.

However, Commissioner for Forestry in Ogun State, Oludotun Taiwo, explained that the area where the incident occurred is a forest reserve designated for wildlife, but members of the public often ignore government warnings and venture too close to the area.

He said: “It’s a very sad incident. The place in question is a designated conservation area meant strictly for wildlife, especially elephants. Unfortunately, some people still go in there for illegal activities like logging. The man that died was reportedly trying to move illegal logs when the elephant attacked him.

“We’ve done a lot of sensitisation in that area. We’ve erected signboards, built barriers, and even demolished illegal settlements, but people keep going back. These elephants are not aggressive by nature. They only fight back when provoked. That’s why we keep educating the public not to confront them.

“This forest spans over 6,000 hectares. It’s not a farm settlement, and we don’t expect people to reside there. But due to human encroachment, conflicts like this sometimes happen. We sympathise with the family, and despite the hostility we met initially, we’ll still go back to condole with them and keep sensitisng the community.”

Community Concerns

  • The elephant has been a persistent threat, destroying crops and property for years.
  • Repeated complaints and sightings have reportedly not led to sufficient response from relevant authorities.
  • The death of Mr. Kalamu marks an escalation from economic damage to loss of life, making this no longer a conservation issue alone but a public safety emergency.

GMI’s Recommendations to Government and Stakeholders

1. Immediate Response Team: The Ogun State Government, through its Ministry of Forestry and relevant wildlife departments, should deploy wildlife experts to assess the situation and track the elephant.

2. Compensation and Support: The family of the late Mr. Kalamu should receive immediate support and compensation as a matter of justice and community trust.

3. Community Sensitisation: Launch a rapid awareness campaign in surrounding communities on how to respond to elephant presence and reduce risk.

4. Wildlife Relocation or Monitoring: Consider non-lethal relocation or continuous monitoring of the elephant if it poses continued threat.

5. Long-Term Buffer Zones: Create safe buffer zones and barriers between human settlements and remaining elephant habitats.

6. Conflict Mitigation Plans: Develop a coordinated human-wildlife conflict policy involving local governments, NGOs, traditional leaders, and conservationists.

A Call for Balance

While the protection of endangered species like elephants is critical to biodiversity and ecosystem health, we must not allow conservation to cost human lives. What happened in Itasin-Imobi must serve as a wake-up call to both government and society that proactive, inclusive approaches are needed.

The Green Mobilisation Initiative (GMI) urges all stakeholders to act with compassion, urgency, and balance – ensuring that Mr. Kalamu’s death leads not to vengeance, but to reform that protects both people and wildlife.

By Gabriel Aborele, Founder/Global Lead, Green Mobilisation Initiative (GMI); Email: info@greenmobilisationinitiative.com

Kenyan waste pickers demand inclusion, recognition in Global Plastics Treaty

Michael Simire
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Kenyan waste pickers demand inclusion, recognition in Global Plastics Treaty

Kenya’s waste pickers are demanding recognition and inclusion in the global plastics treaty negotiations ahead of the second session of the fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) on plastic pollution in Geneva, Switzerland.

Speaking in Nairobi on July 31, 2025, the Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association Chairman, Brian Gisore Nyabuti, called on world leaders to ensure that the voices of those on the frontlines of plastic pollution are not ignored.

Waste pickers
Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association Chairman, Brian Gisore Nyabuti, speaking in Nairobi on July 31, 2025. Photo credit: @CEJADKenya /X

He has called for an ambitious and inclusive treaty that safeguards the rights, health, and livelihoods of waste pickers globally.

“I speak with urgency and resolve to demand an ambitious and inclusive global plastics treaty, one that centres the dignity, livelihoods, and rights of waste pickers through a just transition,” he stated.

Gisore emphasised that, in Kenya, waste pickers collect, sort, and recycle up to 60 per cent of plastics that would otherwise pollute the environment.

Further, he stated that despite their critical contribution, they continue to operate under hazardous conditions, often without protective gear, fair pay, or formal recognition.

“From the dumpsites of Dandora to the streets of Mombasa, our hands keep plastics out of the environment, yet we remain invisible in policy discussions. This must change,” he stated.

Gisore has called on the INC-5.2 delegates to ensure the treaty caps plastic production, eliminates toxic chemicals in plastics, supports a circular economy that prioritises reuse and recycling, and formally recognises waste pickers as integral players in plastic waste management.

Other demands

He also demanded a just transition, including integration of waste pickers into formal waste management systems, access to decent wages, healthcare, and social protections, and funding through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes for training, cooperatives, and insurance.

Additionally, he stated that rejecting market-driven solutions like plastic credits risks commodifying and exploiting their labour and emphasised the need for policies rooted in equity, environmental justice, and human dignity.

He urged the treaty negotiators to provide transparent and meaningful participation for waste pickers in both official discussions and side events, insisting that lived experience is vital to crafting effective, inclusive solutions.

 “We are ready to partner with governments, industries, and civil society to build a world free from plastic pollution, but we cannot do it alone. Fund our work. Protect our rights. Include us in your plans,” he added.

INC-5.2

INC-5.2, to be held between August 5, 2025, and August 14, 2025, will bring together diplomats, scientists, activists, and business lobbyists for the final round of talks to agree on an international, legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. 

This is after the negotiators failed last year to finalise text in Busan at the fifth meeting of the intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC-5).

However, there have been plenty of intersessional meetings to help countries find common ground and a path forward.

By Nancy Marende, K24.Digital

NOGASA urges Tinubu to intervene in Dangote Refinery’s planned product distribution

Michael Simire
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NOGASA urges Tinubu to intervene in Dangote Refinery’s planned product distribution

The Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) has urged the Federal Government to intervene in Dangote Refinery’s move to supply petroleum products directly to consumers and its effect on current distributors.

NOGASA said the move by the refinery to bypass the traditional distribution could disrupt the oil and gas industry, putting thousands of jobs at risk and jeopardising the existing business models of suppliers nationwide.

Dangote Refinery
Dangote Refinery CNG trucks to be used for the direct supply of petroleum products to end users

NOGASA’s President, Benneth Korie, on Thursday, July 31, 2025, in Abuja at its Annual General Meeting, urged the Dangote Refinery to concentrate on refining and selling products to the marketers, who sell to the end users.

Recall that Dangote Refinery recently announced plans to begin direct supply of petroleum products to end users from Aug. 15.

Korie, however, said the recent plan by the refinery to begin direct distribution of products, with the purchase of 4,000 distribution trucks for nationwide supply, had left the marketers worried in the business.

“So today again, we are pleading for President Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter by telling Dangote to slow down, and go by the rules of the game. Nobody is against the refinery.

“The Dangote Refinery is doing well by refining products, we urge Dangote to concentrate on the refinery and remove hand from this direct distribution, we are capable to distribute products

“All you need to do is to blend enough products and sell to depot owners and other countries and then we buy and distribute to the end users nationwide to sustain the system and avoid scarcity.”

Korie said the association was eager to maintain stability in the industry and would not want reoccurrence of the experience the marketers had with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (Ltd.).

He explained that the NNPC Ltd. was refining petroleum products and distributing through its subsidiary, the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) smoothly, but was disrupted immediately it began direct supply to its outlets only.

According to him, as soon as the NNPC Ltd. began concentrating on its retail outlets, the refineries started going down because they are doing a whole lot  including blending, crude sale, and at the same adding filling station to its operations.

He, however, advised the management of the Dangote refinery to engage the relevant stakeholders in petroleum distribution and marketing constructively and discuss with them towards addressing the issues.

In his remarks, Mr. Ugochinyere Ikenga, Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream, said its goal was to create a situation where everyone would succeed, following the rules set in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Ikenga, represented by Mr. Saba Ahmed, Member, House of Representative, said it recognised the inefficiencies in distribution networks, adulteration problem, annoying supply bottlenecks that could lead to shortages, and tough logistical issues of moving products nationwide.

“These aren’t just things we talk about; they are real problems that affect people’s lives and our nation’s economy.

“I want to assure you that the National Assembly is aware of these issues. We are particularly paying attention to Dangote’s recent move into distributing and selling products and how it might affect current distributors.

“This is a big change, and I want to assure you that we are carefully looking into this situation,’’ he said.

Also speaking, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, the National President, Petroleum Product Retail Outlets Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), raised alarm that job loss and business shutdown loomed in view of Dangote’s forward integration strategy of direct product supply.

“With a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, which has now been up to 700,000 barrels, PETROAN simply argues that Dangote refinery should be competing with global refineries, not operating as a distributor in the downstream.

“We, the marketers are more than able to do it,’’ he said.

In his remarks, Gen. Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, urged the association to remain resolute as it discharges its duties of petroleum distribution and marketing smoothly in the country.

Musa, represented by Rear Admiral Jonathan Mamman, Director of Logistics, Defence Headquarters, urged the marketers to facilitate expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure and penetration of Liquefied Natural Gas in the country especially in remote places.

Speaking on safety and distribution of products along the coastal areas, he said the armed forces had been doing so much through the Nigerian Navy, which had numerous patrols and coverage of the coastal areas.

“It’s gladdening to say that the International Maritime Bureau in Malaysia and the United Kingdom have delisted Nigeria from one of the countries, red-flagged countries, of piracy and attack on her maritime sectors.

“We have not been having so much security issues, we are open to collaborations, suggestions, and support to the lead agencies protecting the oil and gas infrastructures inland,’’ he said.

By Emmanuella Anokam

Africa unveils integrity principles, coordination platform to strengthen carbon markets

Michael Simire
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Africa unveils integrity principles, coordination platform to strengthen carbon markets

The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) on Thursday, July 31, 2025, announced a series of bold initiatives to elevate Africa’s role in global carbon markets and ensure they deliver both climate and development benefits for the continent.

The announcements were made at a high-level continental dialogue convened in collaboration with the Government of Kenya and Afreximbank.

AUDA-NEPAD
Participants at the AUDA-NEPAD high-level continental dialogue in Nairobi, Kenya

The consultation opened with statements from Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Republic of Kenya; Ambassador Ali Mohamed, Kenya’s Special Climate Envoy; Neil Wigan OBE, British High Commissioner to Kenya; and Estherine Fotabong, Director of Programme Innovation and Planning at AUDA-NEPAD – reflecting strong political and institutional commitment to Africa’s emerging leadership in carbon markets.

The United Kingdom is supporting these efforts as a key technical partner to AUDA-NEPAD, including through the secondment of UK climate expert Ravi Raichoora to the agency.

Throughout the consultation, AUDA-NEPAD engaged directly with senior representatives from African Union member states, including Madagascar, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, Liberia, and the DRC, who shared their experiences, challenges, and aspirations in navigating carbon markets.

Member States emphasised the vital role AUDA-NEPAD can play – leveraging its continental mandate to promote greater cohesion, alignment, and technical support across the region. In parallel, perspectives from global standard-setters such as the VCMI and ICVCM, rating agencies like BeZero, and leading project developers offered valuable insights into how African priorities can be better reflected in global frameworks.

At the event, AUDA-NEPAD unveiled three major outcomes designed to advance Africa’s carbon market ambitions:

1. The African Integrity & Equity Principles for Carbon Markets – a pioneering framework articulating Africa’s vision for high-integrity, socially inclusive carbon markets. These principles, which will be shaped through broad stakeholder engagement, place social value at the core of market participation. A draft will be presented for formal consultation at the Africa Climate Summit 2 in Addis Ababa (September 9 to 12).

2. A Continental Coordinating Mechanism – comprising technical experts and focal points from across the 55 AU Member States and regional carbon market alliances. This mechanism will reduce fragmentation, promote shared priorities, and strengthen Africa’s collective voice in global carbon market negotiations, thereby fostering a more coherent, transparent, and investable environment.

3. A Digital Tracking Platform for Article 6 Readiness – currently under development, this tool will offer real-time insights into country-level progress. It will enable governments, the private sector, and development partners to identify opportunities, monitor implementation, and direct capacity-building support where most needed. In addition, the platform will support the development of a continent-wide glossary of carbon market terminology, enhancing consistency and alignment with international best practices.

The event also featured strong engagement from the private sector, including project developers, advisory firms, and rating agencies. Private actors and Member State representatives alike welcomed these three key outcomes as critical enablers to unlock Africa’s carbon potential.

Tijani Nwadei, Partner and Co-founder of Visuias Limited, a carbon markets advisory firm, underlined the importance of AUDA-NEPAD’s coordinating role in catalysing participation, enabling benefit-sharing, and supporting the actualisation of a market that places Africa at the forefront of global supply.

Andrew Ocama, Coordinator for the Eastern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, welcomed AUDA-NEPAD taking on a leading coordination role for carbon markets across the continent, emphasising that such leadership is essential to prevent fragmentation and ensure coherent regional implementation.

El-hadj Mbaye, Africa’s lead negotiator for Article 6, called on Member States to take an active role in understanding and engaging in carbon markets, stressing that Africa must shape the future of carbon finance – not simply participate in it.

Philippines: Banned mercury-laden skin whitening creams still sold in Pasay City

Michael Simire
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Philippines: Banned mercury-laden skin whitening creams still sold in Pasay City

Toxics Watchdog, BAN Toxics, has issued a public health warning over the continued sale of banned skin-lightening products (SLPs) containing toxic mercury in beauty shops in Baclaran, Pasay City in the Philippines. The group is urging the local government to take immediate enforcement action.

During a recent market monitoring activity, the group photo-documented and purchased six SLPs, priced between ₱150 and ₱250 each. Using a Vanta C Series Handheld XRF Analyser, they tested the following items: C Collagen Plus Vit E Day and Night Cream, Golden Pearl Beauty Cream, Goree Beauty Cream with Lycopene, Goree Day & Night Beauty Cream, Goree Gold 24K Beauty Cream, and Jiao Li Miraculous Cream. The beauty creams are among the products banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2010 due to excessive mercury content.

Mercury-laden skin whitening creams
Mercury-laden skin whitening creams

All samples were found to contain dangerously high levels of mercury, ranging from 1,480 parts per million (ppm) to as much as 26,000 ppm, which far exceeds the 1 ppm limit set by the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive.

“The unwarranted sale of banned, mercury-tainted SLPs will persist unless the government prioritises health and safety measure, strengthens border controls, and cracks down on importers and sellers, both online and offline,” said Thony Dizon, Advocacy and Campaign Officer of BAN Toxics.

Since 2017, BAN Toxics, in collaboration with the Zero Mercury Working Group (ZMWG), has been monitoring mercury-added SLPs due to their serious health risks, their violation of national regulations, and their prohibition under the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The Convention bans the manufacture, import, and export of mercury-added cosmetics, including SLPs with mercury concentrations above 1 ppm. This provision came into effect in 2020.

“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the sole government agency responsible for regulating and evaluating cosmetic products marketed in the country. Yet this is not enough. There is a need for interagency collaboration among national agencies and local government units to ensure that banned cosmetic products do not reach consumers and to prevent exposure to toxic mercury,” Dizon added.

According to the ZMWG, mercury compounds are often added to SLPs because they suppress melanin production, which results in lighter skin. SLPs have been widely studied in scientific literature, with numerous reports documenting their harmful effects on health and well-being. The World Health Organization has also identified mercury in such products as a major public health concern.

The regular use of SLPs containing mercury can lead to rashes, skin discoloration and blotching. Long-term exposure may also damage the eyes, lungs, kidneys, digestive, immune and nervous systems. An adult’s use of mercury-laden SLPs can also expose other family members through close contact and may even require home decontamination.

BAN Toxics is advocating for toxics-free cosmetics and is calling on the 20th Congress to pass a law that will protect the public from hazardous chemical exposure. The group reiterated its call for the refiling of Senate Bill 1574 (originally filed in 2013 by the late Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago), also known as the Safe Cosmetics Act, which seeks to ensure that cosmetic products do not contain ingredients identified as chemicals causing cancer or reproductive toxicity.

The group also urges local government units to take immediate enforcement action against beauty shop owners who violate existing regulations. This is to ensure that all cosmetic products sold in the country have valid Cosmetic Product Notifications issued by the regulatory agency, thereby safeguarding public health and safety.

BAN Toxics says it will continue its market monitoring efforts to help remove prohibited products from circulation and push for stricter product standards and stronger consumer protection.

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