Malawi's Forest to Benefit From UAE's $800 Million Investment
Lilongwe, Wednesday, 21 January 2026.
The UAE-based Green Economy Partnership secured $800 million for Malawi’s Namizimu Project. The project utilizes an AI platform launched at COP30 and aims to create 15,000 jobs.
UAE-Backed Project
On January 21, 2026, the Green Economy Partnership (GEP), based in the UAE, announced it has secured $800 million in financing for a major carbon removal project in Malawi [1]. This initiative will support the Namizimu Project, located within the Namizimu Forest Reserve, in collaboration with Green Earth Group N.V. [1]. The project aligns with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, aiming to build sustainable infrastructure and promote renewable energy capabilities in the region [1].
Namizimu Project Details
The Namizimu Project focuses on afforestation, reforestation, and agroforestry practices [1]. Green Earth N.V. completed a feasibility study, and the project is transitioning from assessment to active development [1][3]. The Area of Intervention (AOI) spans 83,530 hectares, with 27,980 hectares available for planting and restoration [3]. Utilizing the Verra VM0047 ARR methodology, the project is projected to sequester between 5.7 and 9.7 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent over a 40-year crediting period [3].
Economic and Environmental Impact
The Namizimu Project has the potential to generate up to 12 million tonnes of carbon removals, with a projected lifetime economic value exceeding $240 million while restoring ecosystems [1]. In addition to its environmental benefits, the initiative aims to create over 15,000 local jobs and positively impact approximately 18,000 residents in Malawi [1][3]. Green Earth anticipates achieving Verra registration for the Namizimu Project within the next 12 months [3].
Strategic Alignment and Future Steps
The project supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and the “UAE Consensus” signed at COP28 [1]. GEP’s AI platform, PAIP, launched at COP30, plays a crucial role in aggregating climate data and providing AI-assisted reporting for the project [1]. Green Earth and GEP will concentrate on a 100-hectare pilot project, finalizing boundary confirmation, securing a Letter of Approval from the Government of Malawi, and initiating formal stakeholder consultations within the next six months [3].