Democratic Republic of the Congo Faces Alarming Tree Cover Decline with Rising Incidents in Haut-Katanga

Democratic Republic of the Congo Faces Alarming Tree Cover Decline with Rising Incidents in Haut-Katanga

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is witnessing a significant decline in its tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 6 million hectares, equating to a 3.55% decrease. This alarming trend is further exacerbated by recent incidents in Haut-Katanga, highlighting the region's vulnerability to environmental changes. Over the years, shifting agriculture has been the primary driver, accounting for the majority of the tree cover loss. In 2026, a new incident was reported in Haut-Katanga, emphasizing the ongoing challenges the DRC faces in preserving its natural resources. The data reveals a persistent trend of deforestation, with shifting agriculture contributing to over 90% of the tree cover loss annually. This situation calls for a broader discussion on sustainable practices and conservation efforts to mitigate the impact on the environment and local communities.