Madagascar's Forests Under Threat: Latest Fire Incident Highlights Ongoing Struggle

Madagascar's Forests Under Threat: Latest Fire Incident Highlights Ongoing Struggle

In a recent development, Madagascar has reported a new fire incident in the Bongolava region, underscoring the persistent challenges the country faces in preserving its forests. With an area spanning over 59 million hectares, Madagascar's tree cover extends to roughly 17 million hectares. However, the island nation has experienced significant tree cover loss over the years, primarily due to shifting agriculture.

Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for the vast majority of the deforestation. For instance, in 2022 alone, shifting agriculture was responsible for approximately 97% of the total tree cover loss. Wildfires, while less significant in comparison, still contribute to the degradation of Madagascar's forests.