Ethiopia Faces Rising Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 3.60%

Ethiopia Faces Rising Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by 3.60%

Ethiopia is witnessing an alarming rise in wildfire incidents, with the latest alert reported in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples region on August 23, 2026. Over the years, the country has experienced significant tree cover loss, with a net decrease of 3.60%. This decline is primarily driven by shifting agriculture, forestry, wildfires, and urbanization. The cumulative effect of these factors has led to a substantial reduction in Ethiopia's tree cover, impacting biodiversity and contributing to environmental degradation. The data highlights the urgent need for sustainable land management practices to mitigate further loss and preserve the nation's natural resources.