Uganda is grappling with a significant decline in tree cover, exacerbated by a recent fire incident in the Northern Region. Over the years, the country has witnessed a disturbing trend, with a net loss of over 1 million hectares of tree cover, equating to a 23.40% decrease. The primary driver of this loss has been shifting agriculture, responsible for the majority of the deforestation. Other contributing factors include urbanization, forestry practices, and wildfires, though the latter accounts for a relatively small portion of the total loss.
The data reveals a concerning acceleration in tree cover loss, with the highest recorded in 2017 at approximately 117,000 hectares. While there has been some gain in tree cover, it pales in comparison to the losses, indicating a critical need for sustainable land management practices. The impact of these losses is profound, not only on biodiversity and habitat but also on the climate, as evidenced by the substantial emissions of CO2 associated with deforestation.
Explore country profileThe latest fire alert, while isolated, is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges Uganda faces in protecting its natural resources. The cumulative effect of these incidents and trends over the years underscores the urgency for concerted efforts to mitigate further environmental degradation.
