Angola Faces Rising Tree Cover Loss as Wildfire Incidents Impact Cuando Cubango

Angola Faces Rising Tree Cover Loss as Wildfire Incidents Impact Cuando Cubango

Angola, a nation with an expansive area of over 124 million hectares, is witnessing a concerning trend in tree cover loss, exacerbated by wildfire incidents. The latest incident in Cuando Cubango Province on September 20, 2026, highlights the ongoing environmental challenges. Over the years, Angola has experienced a net tree cover loss of approximately 2.20 million hectares, equating to a 4.40% decrease. Shifting agriculture remains the primary driver, contributing to nearly 80% of the loss. The recent wildfire incident underscores the need for increased awareness and sustainable practices to mitigate further environmental degradation. As Angola continues to grapple with these challenges, the focus must shift towards preserving its rich biodiversity and forest resources.