Central African Republic Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Latest Fire Incident in Ouaka

Central African Republic Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Latest Fire Incident in Ouaka

The Central African Republic (CAR) has experienced significant tree cover loss over the past two decades, with shifting agriculture being the predominant driver. The country's tree cover extent, which stands at approximately 75.90% of its total land area, has seen a net loss of about 1.32% in recent years. This loss is despite a recorded tree cover gain of 482,448.85 hectares, as disturbances and losses have outpaced gains, leading to a net decrease of 727,830.53 hectares.

The latest incident in Ouaka, where a fire alert was reported on January 27, 2025, adds to the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the nation. The historical data indicates that the impact of wildfires on tree cover loss and associated CO2 emissions has been minimal compared to other drivers. However, the presence of even a single fire alert is a reminder of the vulnerability of the region's forests to wildfires, especially in the context of broader environmental degradation.