By Godgift Harris
Government has taken a historic and forward-looking step toward sustainable development with the official launch of the Carbon Markets Authority (CMA).
This development, is recorded as a landmark institution designed to unlock climate finance, promote green growth, and responsibly monetize vast natural resources.
On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, CMA Chief Executive Officer, Jeanine Cooper, described the Authority’s establishment as the dawn of a transformative era in the environmental governance and economic diversification.
“Liberia is a carbon sink nation,” Madam Cooper proudly declared, highlighting the extensive forests, and rich ecosystems that absorb more carbon than they emit.
She said, Liberia’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship has made a meaningful contribution to global climate stability, and that the nation is now poised to sustainably benefit from protecting its natural capital.
“It is time that Liberia not only protects its natural capital for global benefit, but also benefits economically in a sustainable way.”
The Carbon Markets Authority was established under Executive Order No. 155, signed in October 2025, by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
Madam Cooper said, the Executive Order sets out a clear roadmap toward comprehensive legislation to fully institutionalize the CM; ensure operational readiness, and align its mandate with national development agenda.
As the central coordinating body for carbon market development, the CMA will lead policy formulation, market participation, and compliance positioning Liberia to confidently engage in global carbon trading and emissions reduction initiatives.
The Authority will also ensure alignment with international climate frameworks, reinforcing credibility and sovereignty within the global climate finance system.
Madam Cooper underscored that the CMA will enhance transparency, strengthen accountability, and boost investor confidence in the emerging carbon market sector unlocking new opportunities for sustainable investment, innovation, and job creation.