Tokyo, Japan – In a major step toward advancing global climate action and sustainable development, the governments of Tanzania and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly invest in carbon trading initiatives.
The agreement was formalized on May 28, 2025, during a high-level ceremony held in Tokyo.
Representing Tanzania was the Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Eng. Hamad Yussuf Masauni, while Japan was represented by its Minister of the Environment, Asao Keiichiro.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two countries, enabling companies from both nations to participate in carbon offset projects within Tanzania.
The initiative is designed to support international climate commitments, strengthen bilateral relations, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Speaking after the signing, Minister Masauni highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement. “This partnership marks a significant milestone in strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and Japan, with a focus on sustainable development and climate change mitigation,” he said.
He noted that the collaboration will attract Japanese investment into Tanzania’s emerging carbon market, facilitating the development of projects that not only reduce emissions but also create socio-economic benefits for local communities.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, he added, has called for swift and coordinated action from experts on both sides to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement.
“We are committed to working closely with our Japanese counterparts to turn this agreement into tangible outcomes for both countries,” Masauni affirmed.
Tanzania has made notable progress in creating a conducive environment for carbon trading. In 2022, the government introduced regulatory guidelines to oversee carbon market activities.
Furthermore, the amended 2025 Environmental Management Act has led to the establishment of the National Carbon Monitoring Centre (NCMC), a key institution tasked with coordinating and tracking carbon initiatives across the country.
Japan’s Environment Minister, Asao Keiichiro, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s climate agenda.
He praised the partnership as a model for international cooperation in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, including the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, Eng. Cyprian Luhemeja, and other dignitaries.
As global attention intensifies around carbon markets as a tool to combat climate change, the Tanzania–Japan agreement positions Tanzania as a promising hub for carbon investment in Africa.
It also reflects a shared vision for leveraging climate finance to foster resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible development.