Zambia Faces Increasing Tree Cover Challenges with Recent Incidents in Southern Province

Zambia Faces Increasing Tree Cover Challenges with Recent Incidents in Southern Province

Zambia, a nation with a vast area of over 75 million hectares, is experiencing significant challenges in maintaining its tree cover. As of August 11, 2026, a recent incident in the Southern Province highlights ongoing environmental concerns. Over the years, Zambia has witnessed a net tree cover change of -7.31%, with a loss of approximately 3.64 million hectares. Shifting agriculture remains the primary driver, accounting for a substantial portion of this loss. Despite efforts to stabilize, the country continues to face disturbances affecting over 1.50 million hectares. The latest incident underscores the need for a broader discussion on sustainable land management practices to mitigate further environmental degradation.