African nations are urged to build industries to transform raw tree-based commodities into higher-value products, preventing billions of dollars in lost income. Experts meeting in Nairobi highlighted this "value-capture gap" as a barrier to green economic growth.

• Africa loses billions by exporting raw tree-based commodities like cocoa, coffee, timber, and cashew nuts, only to import finished products.
• The challenge was discussed by policymakers, scientists, investors, and development leaders, including Landscape Alliance Chief Executive Officer Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro.
• Experts emphasized that trees are "economic infrastructure" and "climate infrastructure" representing a "trillion-dollar opportunity" if processed locally into industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and renewable materials.