The most recent incident in Haut-Lomami is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of wildfires to the remaining tree cover. While the number of incidents may vary annually, the cumulative effect of these losses is significant. The country's tree cover extent, which once stood at over 199 million hectares, has seen a net decrease, despite some gains in reforestation efforts.
The DRC's vast area and rich biodiversity make it a key player in global environmental health. The persistent loss of tree cover, if not addressed, could have far-reaching implications for the global climate and the livelihoods of millions who depend on these forests. The latest fire incident serves as a call to action to protect and restore one of the planet's most vital ecosystems.
