Zambia Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: A 7.30% Decline in Tree Cover

Zambia Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: A 7.30% Decline in Tree Cover

Zambia is witnessing a concerning rise in wildfire incidents, with the latest alert recorded in the Western Province on July 10, 2026. Over the years, the country has experienced a significant decline in tree cover, amounting to a 7.30% decrease. This trend is largely driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the majority of tree cover loss. The data reveals that wildfires, although a smaller contributor, have been steadily increasing, exacerbating the situation. Urbanization also plays a role, albeit to a lesser extent. The cumulative effect of these factors has led to a net loss of approximately 2.87 million hectares of tree cover. This ongoing environmental challenge calls for a deeper understanding and broader discussions on sustainable land management practices to mitigate further damage.