Angola Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident

Angola Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incident

Angola has witnessed a significant escalation in tree cover loss over the past two decades, with the latest incident being a fire alert reported in the Cuando Cubango Province on July 26, 2024. The country, which boasts an area of over 124 million hectares, has seen a substantial decrease in its tree cover. As of the latest data, the tree cover extent stands at approximately 55 million hectares, indicating a notable decline in forested areas.

The primary driver of tree cover loss in Angola has been identified as shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the deforestation. This practice has consistently led to the loss of hundreds of thousands of hectares each year. Other contributing factors include wildfires and forestry activities, although their impact is considerably less in comparison to agricultural expansion.