Angola Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by Over 4%

Angola Faces Increasing Wildfire Incidents as Tree Cover Declines by Over 4%

In recent years, Angola has witnessed a significant increase in wildfire incidents, with the latest alert reported on July 22, 2026, in Cuando Cubango Province. This alarming trend coincides with a concerning decline in the nation's tree cover, which has decreased by over 4% since 2001. The primary driver of this loss is shifting agriculture, accounting for approximately 78% of the total tree cover loss. Wildfires, although contributing less, have shown a notable increase in their impact, with a 10% rise in tree cover loss attributed to them in recent years. The cumulative effect of these factors has resulted in a net decrease of over 2.10 million hectares of tree cover. As Angola grapples with these environmental challenges, the need for sustainable land management practices and wildfire prevention measures becomes increasingly critical to preserve its natural resources.