Malawi has witnessed a new fire incident in its Northern Region, as reported on October 29, 2024. This incident adds to the environmental challenges the country has been facing over the years. With a total land area of approximately 11.80 million hectares, Malawi's tree cover extends over 1.50 million hectares. However, the country has experienced a significant net change in tree cover, with a loss of 263,937.69 hectares and a gain of only 41,602.10 hectares, resulting in a net loss of 222,335.59 hectares, marking a 7.88% decrease in tree cover.
The primary driver of tree cover loss in Malawi has been shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the loss over the years. The data reveals a persistent trend of environmental degradation, with shifting agriculture and forestry activities leading to substantial tree cover loss and associated emissions. The cumulative effect of these losses over the years has had a significant impact on the country's natural resources and carbon emissions.
Explore country profileThe latest fire incident, although isolated, is a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental pressures facing Malawi. The country's struggle with tree cover loss highlights the need for sustainable land management practices to protect and restore its forests. The incident in the Northern Region underscores the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of environmental decline to safeguard the future of Malawi's natural landscape.
