Zambia Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: Tree Cover Declines by Over 7%

Zambia Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents: Tree Cover Declines by Over 7%

Zambia is grappling with a significant environmental challenge as wildfire incidents continue to rise, particularly in the Western Province. The latest incident on August 24, 2026, highlights a growing concern for the country's natural resources. Over the years, Zambia has experienced a 7.30% decline in tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 2.87 million hectares. Shifting agriculture remains the primary driver of this decline, contributing to over 80% of the tree cover loss. Wildfires, although responsible for a smaller percentage, have shown an increasing trend, exacerbating the situation. As Zambia navigates these challenges, the need for sustainable land management practices becomes more pressing to preserve its rich biodiversity and mitigate further environmental degradation.