A comprehensive report published by the African Tech Futures Lab examines the feasibility, opportunities, and strategic choices surrounding carbon dioxide removal across Africa, urging nations to adopt a selective, location-specific approach. While carbon removal could attract vital climate finance, stimulate employment, and support agricultural productivity and ecosystem restoration, these benefits are not guaranteed. The study evaluates diverse methodologies—ranging from biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More and enhanced rock weathering to direct air carbon capture and storage—emphasizing that no single approach fits the entire continent given varying regional resource endowments.

The primary challenge highlighted in the report involves fragile, externally controlled carbon markets and a general shortage of local technical capacity, scientific infrastructure, and monitoring systems. Many standards, methodologies, and market demands are shaped outside Africa, leaving projects vulnerable to uncertain pricing and limited buyer concentration. Furthermore, the report notes that bioenergy with carbon capture and storage and ocean alkalinity enhancement face substantial barriers due to complex infrastructure requirements, sustainable biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More limitations, and ecological uncertainties.

To address these hurdles, the African Tech Futures Lab recommends that governments systematically evaluate technologies based on local resources, environmental conditions, and national development priorities rather than placing excessive expectations on carbon removal. The report identifies biochar and enhanced rock weathering as promising areas for localized experimentation because they require comparatively less complex infrastructure while delivering potential co-benefits for soil health and regional economic activity. Additionally, Kenya’s Rift Valley is highlighted as an early hub for direct air capture owing to local geothermal energy and favorable geological formations.

Consequently, the report’s strategic framework positions African countries to better align carbon removal initiatives with broader national development objectives. By strengthening local scientific evidence, monitoring infrastructure, and institutional safeguards, nations can protect land rights and accurately account for stored carbon. Ultimately, a targeted, resource-conscious approach enables African economies to maximize sustainable investments while mitigating environmental and financial risks associated with emerging carbon markets.