Africa could become an important market for direct air capture, but developing its carbon removal industry will require investment, regulatory support and infrastructure for permanent CO2 storage, according to experts discussing opportunities across the continent.

Mak Dukan, scientific lead of Germany’s DACStorE research project, highlighted Africa’s favourable conditions for carbon removal technologies, including renewable energy resources and substantial geological storage potential. Ethiopia was identified as a particularly attractive market because of its relatively low costs and development opportunities, while Kenya was recognised for its growing interest in DAC.

However, access to financing remains a significant obstacle. Higher costs of capital across African markets could make projects more difficult to develop, increasing the importance of financial risk-sharing mechanisms and investment partnerships.

Dr. Eng. Isaac Kiva, secretary for renewable energy at Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, discussed opportunities to involve local engineering expertise, develop technical capabilities and establish partnerships around DAC deployment.

When asked if the government plans to support the DAC companies and potential clusters he said “Yes, plant visits are coming and we are looking for ways to contribute and involve the state.” He added that a working group will develop the [safety] guidelines with a roundtable involving regulators, government and startups also in the works. “We want to create momentum and government to act as a facilitator,” he added.

The discussion also highlighted the absence of dedicated DAC provisions in national climate plans and the need to explore appropriate pathways under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

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