Zimbabwe Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 5.90%

Zimbabwe Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 5.90%

Zimbabwe has been grappling with a significant decline in tree cover, which has decreased by 5.90% over the years. The latest incident in Manicaland Province on July 15, 2026, highlights the growing concern of wildfires in the region. Historically, forestry and shifting agriculture have been the primary drivers of tree cover loss, contributing to over 80% of the total loss. Wildfires, although a smaller contributor, have seen an increase in recent years, indicating a worrying trend. The net change in tree cover, accounting for gains and losses, shows a negative impact, with a net loss of 398,438 hectares. This ongoing decline poses a threat to biodiversity and the ecological balance in Zimbabwe. The situation calls for a broader discussion on sustainable practices and conservation efforts to mitigate further damage and preserve the country's natural resources.