Angola has been facing a significant environmental challenge as data indicates a persistent loss of tree cover over the years. The country, with an area of over 124 million hectares, has seen a reduction in its tree cover extent, which currently stands at approximately 55 million hectares. The loss of tree cover has been primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the vast majority of the reduction. Other contributing factors include forestry activities and wildfires, though their impact is considerably less in comparison.
The trend over the years has shown a fluctuating pattern of tree cover loss, with some years experiencing higher rates than others. Notably, the year 2021 witnessed the highest recorded loss, with nearly 300,000 hectares affected. This trend has resulted in a net change in tree cover that indicates a loss of over 3.40 million hectares, which is a concerning figure given the importance of forested areas for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
Explore country profileRecently, on September 1, 2024, a fire incident was reported in the Cunene Province of Angola, adding to the environmental pressures the country faces. While the number of incidents has varied, the cumulative effect of these events on the ecosystem cannot be understated. As Angola continues to lose tree cover, the environmental implications grow more severe, calling for attention to sustainable land management and conservation efforts.
