A panoramic view of Dar es Salaam featuring modern buildings and the Tanzanian flag in the foreground.
A renewed effort to finance conservation in Africa is gaining momentum as The Nature Conservancy holds talks with three countries on debt-for-nature swaps worth about $500 million. These innovative deals allow countries to reduce debt payments in exchange for commitments to protect vital ecosystems—a strategy successfully used by Seychelles and Gabon. According to regional director Ademola Ajagbe, one agreement could be finalized this year, with two more potentially following in 2027. Despite a recent dip in US support and rising global borrowing costs, the initiative is gaining fresh momentum through partnerships with private insurers and development banks. For many African economies facing floods, droughts, and limited climate financing, the deals could unlock crucial resources while safeguarding forests, oceans, and freshwater systems for the future.
CNBC Africa