Malawi, a country with an area of over 11.80 million hectares, has been facing a significant challenge with tree cover loss over the years. The latest incident on November 5, 2024, in the Northern Region, adds to the growing concerns. Analysis of historical data reveals that the country's tree cover extent, which stands at approximately 1.52 million hectares, has been under consistent threat, primarily due to shifting agriculture.
The trend over the years has shown a worrying pattern. Shifting agriculture has been the dominant driver, responsible for the vast majority of tree cover loss. For instance, in 2022, shifting agriculture accounted for a staggering 97% of the total tree cover loss. The cumulative effect of these losses has led to a net change in tree cover that reflects a 7.88% decrease, a significant impact on the country's natural resources.
Explore country profileThe consequences of such environmental degradation are manifold, affecting biodiversity, climate regulation, and local livelihoods. The recent fire incident, albeit small in scale with just one alert reported, is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against environmental decline in Malawi. The need for sustainable land management practices is more pressing than ever to curb the loss and promote recovery of the nation's green cover.
