Zambia Faces Escalating Wildfire Incidents: A 7% Decline in Tree Cover

Zambia Faces Escalating Wildfire Incidents: A 7% Decline in Tree Cover

Zambia has been grappling with increasing wildfire incidents, with the latest reported in Western Province on August 31, 2026. Over the years, the country has experienced a significant 7.30% decline in tree cover. From 2001 to 2025, Zambia's tree cover loss reached 3.64 million hectares, with shifting agriculture being the predominant driver, accounting for over 90% of the loss. Wildfires, although contributing a smaller percentage, have been on the rise, with a notable increase in incidents. The cumulative effect of these factors has resulted in a net loss of approximately 2.87 million hectares of tree cover. This ongoing trend highlights the urgent need for sustainable land management practices to mitigate further environmental degradation. The latest incident in Western Province serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Zambia faces in preserving its natural resources.