Zambia Faces Ongoing Tree Cover Challenges with Recent Incidents in Central Province

Zambia Faces Ongoing Tree Cover Challenges with Recent Incidents in Central Province

Zambia's Central Province recently experienced a fire incident, highlighting the ongoing challenges the country faces with tree cover. Over the years, Zambia has seen a significant change in its tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 11.90% from 2001 to 2025. The primary driver of this loss has been shifting agriculture, contributing to over 90% of the tree cover reduction. Wildfires, although less significant, have also played a role, accounting for a small percentage of the loss. The recent incident in Central Province serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between land use and environmental conservation. As Zambia continues to navigate these challenges, it is crucial to foster discussions on sustainable practices and conservation efforts to protect its natural resources.