Democratic Republic of the Congo Faces Rising Wildfire Incidents and Tree Cover Decline

Democratic Republic of the Congo Faces Rising Wildfire Incidents and Tree Cover Decline

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with an increase in wildfire incidents, with the latest occurring on June 22, 2026, in Haut-Katanga. This incident highlights a worrying trend in the region, where wildfires have contributed to significant tree cover loss. Over the years, the DRC has experienced a net tree cover decline of approximately 3.55%, equivalent to a loss of over 6 million hectares. Shifting agriculture remains the primary driver of this decline, accounting for over 90% of the tree cover loss. The persistent reduction in tree cover poses a threat to biodiversity and the ecological balance in the region. As the DRC continues to face these challenges, it is crucial to foster discussions on sustainable land management and conservation strategies to mitigate further environmental degradation.