Mozambique has witnessed a significant escalation in tree cover loss over the past two decades, with the latest incident being a fire alert in the Manicaland Province. The country, which spans over 78 million hectares, has seen a net decline of 10.21% in tree cover. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver, accounting for the vast majority of the 4.90 million hectares of tree cover loss. Urbanization, while contributing to a lesser extent, consistently adds to the annual deforestation figures.
The impact of these losses is profound, with the tree cover extent, originally at over 28 million hectares, now facing a net decrease of over 4.30 million hectares. This decline not only affects the biodiversity and ecological balance but also has significant implications for the local communities who depend on these forests for their livelihoods.
Explore country profileThe single fire incident reported on July 18, 2024, although seemingly minor with just one count, is a reminder of the ongoing challenges Mozambique faces in protecting its natural resources. The cumulative effect of these incidents and the drivers of deforestation underscore the urgent need for effective management and conservation strategies to safeguard Mozambique's remaining forests.
