Angola Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Angola Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Angola has been facing a significant challenge with its tree cover, as recent data indicates a persistent loss over the years. The country, with an area of over 124 million hectares, has a tree cover extent of approximately 55 million hectares. However, the stability of this cover is under threat, with a net change showing a loss of 3.40 million hectares and a gain of just 1.20 million hectares, leading to a net loss of around 2.20 million hectares. This represents a 4.40% decrease in tree cover.

The primary driver of this loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, which has consistently accounted for the vast majority of tree cover loss each year. Other factors, such as wildfires and forestry activities, have also contributed, but to a much lesser extent. The impact of wildfires is particularly concerning, with the latest incident data reporting a wildfire in Cuando Cubango Province as of September 6, 2024.