Mozambique Faces Alarming Tree Cover Decline as Wildfire Incidents Rise in Manica Province

Mozambique Faces Alarming Tree Cover Decline as Wildfire Incidents Rise in Manica Province

Mozambique has witnessed a significant decline in tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 10.20% over recent years. This alarming trend is primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the majority of tree cover loss. The latest incident in Manica Province, reported on September 19, 2026, highlights the ongoing challenges the country faces with wildfires. Over the years, Mozambique has experienced a consistent increase in tree cover loss, with 2024 marking a peak of 298,631 hectares lost. Despite some gains in tree cover, the overall trend remains negative, raising concerns about the long-term environmental impact. The persistent rise in wildfire incidents further exacerbates the situation, threatening biodiversity and local communities. As Mozambique grapples with these challenges, it is crucial to foster discussions on sustainable land management and conservation strategies to mitigate further loss.