In the year 2021 alone, the total tree cover loss was over 67,000 hectares, with shifting agriculture being the predominant driver, responsible for the loss of approximately 65,000 hectares. This pattern of land use not only reduces forest cover but also contributes to significant emissions of CO2, with the 2021 gross emissions from tree cover loss reaching over 36 million metric tons.
The latest incident data from December 2024 reports a fire alert in the Vakaga region, which adds to the ongoing environmental stress in the country. While the alert count is currently at one, the incident highlights the need for continued monitoring and action to protect the remaining forest cover.
The Central African Republic's struggle with deforestation due to shifting agriculture is a complex issue that requires sustainable land management solutions to balance the needs of local communities with environmental conservation.
