Zambia has experienced a notable decline in tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 7.31% over recent years. The latest incident on September 7, 2026, in Muchinga Province highlights the ongoing challenges posed by wildfires. This incident is part of a broader trend where wildfires, along with shifting agriculture and urbanization, have contributed to significant tree cover loss.
From 2001 to 2025, Zambia's tree cover loss has been driven primarily by shifting agriculture, accounting for the majority of the loss. However, wildfires have also played a role, with their impact becoming more pronounced in recent years. In 2025 alone, wildfires contributed to a loss of 2,345 hectares, marking a concerning increase in their frequency and impact.
The ongoing tree cover decline poses environmental challenges, affecting biodiversity and contributing to climate change. With the latest incident in Muchinga Province, there is a growing need for discussions on sustainable land management practices to mitigate these impacts.