KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda has officially gazetted new regulations aimed at strengthening its framework for addressing climate change and participating in international carbon markets. The National Climate Change (Climate Change Mechanisms) Regulations, 2025, published in the Uganda Gazette on Jan. 24, 2025, outline a comprehensive system for measuring emissions, approving climate mitigation projects, and managing carbon credits.
The regulations, which came into effect on Jan. 24, 2025, were signed by the Minister responsible for climate change matters on Nov. 7, 2024. They are enacted under sections 8, 9, 12, and 29 of the National Climate Change Act, Cap. 182.
At their core, the regulations establish mechanisms for Uganda to contribute to global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. This includes defining “climate change mechanism” as an approach to reduce emissions and support development, aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
Key provisions in the regulations include:
- Measurement of Greenhouse Gas Emissions:Lead government agencies and project proponents are now required to measure emissions in accordance with international guidelines, specifically the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Guidelines.
- Registration of Verifiers:A formal process is established for registering independent verifiers who will validate and verify emissions reduction units in Uganda. This ensures the integrity and credibility of carbon credit projects.
- Approval of Climate Change Mechanism Projects:The regulations detail a step-by-step process for individuals, lead agencies, or private entities to seek approval for projects that reduce emissions. This includes submitting project ideas, feasibility studies, and benefit-sharing plans, ensuring equitable distribution of project benefits.
- Certified Emissions Reduction Units (CERUs):The regulations define CERUs as quantified greenhouse gas emission reductions certified by internationally recognized standards such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Carbon Markets Certification Standards, Gold Standard, and Verified Carbon Standard. These units can be traded.
- Transfer of CERUs:Clear rules are set for both domestic and international transfer of certified emissions reduction units, including notification requirements and authorization processes, and the application of a corresponding adjustment fee for international transfers used to meet national climate commitments.
- Register of Projects:The Department responsible for climate change in the Ministry will maintain a public register of all approved climate change mechanism projects, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The introduction of these regulations is expected to provide a clearer legal and operational framework for climate action in Uganda, attracting more investment into green projects and enabling the country to participate effectively in global carbon markets. It also seeks to ensure that climate change mitigation efforts align with national development goals and benefit local communities.
Existing climate change mechanism approvals granted before the commencement of these regulations will remain valid until Dec. 31, 2027.
