Mozambique Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: A 10% Decline in Tree Cover

Mozambique Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: A 10% Decline in Tree Cover

Mozambique has been grappling with a significant decline in tree cover, with a net change of -10.21% over recent years. The latest incident in Sofala Province on October 20, 2026, highlights the ongoing challenges. Shifting agriculture remains a major driver, contributing to over 90% of tree cover loss. The country's tree cover extent has decreased by 4.31 million hectares, reflecting a broader trend of environmental degradation. Wildfires, although less frequent, have also played a role in this decline. As Mozambique continues to face these environmental challenges, the need for sustainable land management practices becomes increasingly critical. This situation calls for a broader discussion on balancing development needs with environmental conservation.