Chad Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 7.80%

Chad Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 7.80%

Chad is witnessing a concerning rise in wildfire incidents, with recent data indicating two new occurrences in the Salamat region on November 3, 2026. This uptick in wildfires coincides with a significant 7.80% decline in tree cover over recent years. The country's tree cover loss has been primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounted for approximately 93% of the total loss. Wildfires, although contributing less to the overall tree cover loss, have shown a persistent presence, exacerbating the environmental challenges Chad faces. The net change in tree cover reveals a reduction of 843,797 hectares, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable land management practices. This trend underscores the broader environmental implications, urging a collective effort to address the root causes of tree cover decline and mitigate the impact of wildfires.