A recent incident in Makueni County, Kenya, has added to the country's challenges in preserving its tree cover. With a single fire alert reported on September 14, 2024, the event underscores a broader trend of environmental stress. Over two decades, Kenya has experienced a net loss in tree cover of approximately 285,316 hectares, which translates to a 5.99% decrease from its original extent. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of this decline, responsible for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss. Urbanization, though less significant, also contributes to the changing landscape. The cumulative impact of these factors, along with forestry activities and wildfires, has led to a significant release of carbon emissions, further exacerbating the environmental impact. The data reflects a critical need for sustainable practices to mitigate ongoing losses and preserve Kenya's natural heritage.
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