Mozambique Grapples with Tree Cover Loss as Latest Fire Strikes Sofala Province

Mozambique Grapples with Tree Cover Loss as Latest Fire Strikes Sofala Province

In a recent incident, a fire alert has been issued for the Sofala Province of Mozambique, marking a continuation of the country's struggle with tree cover loss. Over the past two decades, Mozambique has experienced a significant reduction in tree cover, primarily due to shifting agriculture. This practice alone has been responsible for the majority of the tree cover loss, which has had a profound impact on the country's landscape and carbon emissions.

Mozambique's tree cover extent spans over 28.90 million hectares, which has seen a net decrease of 10.21% due to various factors. Shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver, followed by urbanization and forestry, although the latter two contribute to a far lesser extent. The total tree cover loss over the years has reached nearly 4.90 million hectares, with a disturbing trend of increasing incidents of loss, particularly in the last few years.