Uganda is facing a significant environmental challenge as recent data reveals an alarming trend of tree cover loss, with the latest incident being a fire alert in the Northern Region. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 23.40%, a stark indicator of the environmental pressures it faces. The majority of this loss, which amounts to over 1.20 million hectares, is attributed to shifting agriculture, a practice that has consistently driven deforestation in the region.
Forestry activities, urbanization, and wildfires also contribute to the loss, though to a lesser extent. The impact of these drivers is not only measured in hectares but also in the gross emissions of CO2 equivalent, which have reached staggering levels. The data shows a disturbing trend of increasing tree cover loss year over year, with the highest recorded in 2017 at over 116,000 hectares.
Explore country profileThis loss of tree cover has profound implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the livelihoods of local communities. The recent fire alert is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges Uganda faces in managing its natural resources and mitigating the effects of climate change. As the country continues to lose its tree cover, the urgency for effective conservation and sustainable land use practices becomes ever more critical.
