A recent fire incident in Lusaka Province, Zambia, underscores the persistent threat to the country's forests. Zambia, with an area of over 75 million hectares, boasts a significant tree cover extent of approximately 24 million hectares. However, the nation has experienced a concerning trend of tree cover loss over the years.
Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a staggering majority of the deforestation. Urbanization, although less significant, has also contributed to the reduction of forested areas. The cumulative impact of these activities has led to a net loss in tree cover, with a 7.30% decrease over the assessed period.
Explore country profileThe latest fire alert adds to the series of environmental challenges faced by Zambia. While the number of incidents may vary annually, the overall trend points to a pressing need for sustainable management and conservation strategies to protect Zambia's precious forest resources. The loss of tree cover not only impacts biodiversity but also affects the livelihoods of local communities and the global fight against climate change.
