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20 Jan 2025

Senegal Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident in Kolda Region
Senegal Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident in Kolda Region

Senegal has been facing a significant challenge with tree cover loss over the past years. The latest incident reported on January 20, 2025, in the Kolda Region, adds to the country's environmental concerns. Despite the vast area of Senegal, which spans over 19.70 million hectares, the tree cover extent is relatively small, covering approximately 39,568 hectares.

An analysis of historical data reveals a fluctuating yet concerning trend in tree cover loss, primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which has been the predominant cause over the years. Wildfires also contribute to the loss, although to a lesser extent. The data indicates that the highest loss occurred in 2020, with over 758 hectares affected, while the most recent figures from 2023 show a loss of approximately 162 hectares.

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The net change in tree cover in Senegal has been negative, with a loss of over 108,000 hectares and a gain of around 77,000 hectares, resulting in a net loss of about 31,000 hectares. This equates to a change of -0.76% in tree cover. The disturbances in tree cover, which include both loss and gain, have amounted to nearly 69,440 hectares.

The environmental impact of these losses is significant, as they contribute to the degradation of ecosystems and affect the country's biodiversity. The recurring incidents of tree cover loss, including the recent fire in Kolda, underscore the need for a broader discussion on sustainable land management and environmental conservation in Senegal.

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