Angola Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident in Moxico Province

Angola Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident in Moxico Province

Angola has witnessed a significant reduction in its tree cover over the past two decades, with recent data highlighting a concerning trend of environmental degradation. The country's tree cover extent, originally spanning over 55 million hectares, has experienced a net loss of approximately 2.19 million hectares, marking a 4.41% decrease in tree cover stability.

The primary driver of this loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, contributing to over 90% of the total deforestation. Other factors, such as wildfires and forestry activities, have also played a role, albeit to a much lesser extent. The impact of these activities has not only affected the landscape but has also resulted in significant emissions of CO2, exacerbating the global climate crisis.