Zimbabwe Battles Deforestation: A Decade of Tree Cover Loss and Fire Incidents

Zimbabwe Battles Deforestation: A Decade of Tree Cover Loss and Fire Incidents

Zimbabwe has faced significant environmental challenges over the past two decades, with a notable decline in tree cover and an increase in fire incidents. Data reveals that the country has experienced a net loss of approximately 398,438 hectares of tree cover, marking a 5.91% decrease in the overall tree cover extent. This loss is primarily attributed to shifting agriculture and forestry, which together account for the majority of the tree cover loss. The impact of wildfires, although comparatively smaller, remains a concern, with recent incidents like the one in Manicaland Province highlighting the ongoing threat to Zimbabwe's natural resources. The cumulative effect of these losses not only threatens biodiversity but also exacerbates the vulnerability of local communities to climate change.