Ethiopia Grapples with Tree Cover Loss as Latest Fire Strikes Gambella Region

Ethiopia Grapples with Tree Cover Loss as Latest Fire Strikes Gambella Region

In a recent incident, a fire alert has been reported in the Gambella region of Ethiopia, marking a continuing challenge for the country in terms of environmental conservation. Over the past two decades, Ethiopia has experienced significant fluctuations in tree cover loss, primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the majority of the loss. The data reveals a net loss of tree cover amounting to 738,330.73 hectares, which is a 3.61% decrease from the stable tree cover.

The impact of shifting agriculture is evident, with an overwhelming percentage of tree cover loss attributed to this practice. Urbanization, although responsible for a smaller fraction of the loss, has also contributed to the changing landscape. The absence of wildfires as a driver in the data is notable, although the latest incident in Gambella suggests that fire incidents could pose a risk to the remaining tree cover.