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29 Sept 2024

Mozambique's Forests Under Threat: A Decade of Tree Cover Loss and the Latest Fire Incident
Mozambique's Forests Under Threat: A Decade of Tree Cover Loss and the Latest Fire Incident

Mozambique has experienced a significant decline in its tree cover over the past two decades. The country, which spans over 78 million hectares, has seen a net loss of over 4.30 million hectares of tree cover, equating to a 10.21% decrease. This loss has been primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the vast majority of tree cover loss. Urbanization and forestry activities also contribute to the decline, though to a much lesser extent.

The latest incident in Sofala Province, where a fire alert was registered on September 29, 2024, is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing Mozambique's forests. While the data for wildfire-driven tree cover loss is not specified, the single fire alert underscores the persistent threat of wildfires to the region's tree cover.

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Over the years, shifting agriculture has consistently been the leading cause of deforestation, with the most significant loss occurring in 2017, where over 356,000 hectares were affected. The impact on the country's carbon emissions is substantial, with millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent released into the atmosphere as a result of this deforestation.

The decline in tree cover not only has implications for carbon emissions but also for biodiversity, water cycles, and local communities who depend on these forests for their livelihoods. The data reveals a troubling trend that requires attention and action to ensure the preservation of Mozambique's remaining forests.

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