From 2001 to 2023, Cameroon has seen a net loss in tree cover of approximately 625,839 hectares, which represents a 1.71% decrease in the country's total tree cover. The year 2014 marked the highest recorded tree cover loss, with over 181,851 hectares affected. This trend shows no sign of abating, as the latest data from 2023 indicates a continued rise in tree cover loss, with over 204,198 hectares impacted.
The consequences of this loss are far-reaching, affecting not only the environment but also the socio-economic fabric of the country. Forests play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of many communities, and their degradation can lead to adverse outcomes such as soil erosion, reduced water quality, and loss of habitat for wildlife.
The most recent incident data from January 2025 reports a fire alert in the North Region of Cameroon, which underscores the ongoing environmental challenges the country faces. While wildfires contribute to a smaller fraction of the overall tree cover loss, they can still have a significant impact on the already vulnerable forest ecosystems.
The situation in Cameroon calls for a broader discussion on sustainable land management practices that can balance the needs of agricultural development with environmental conservation. It is imperative to explore alternative methods that can reduce the reliance on shifting agriculture and mitigate the rate of deforestation, ensuring the preservation of Cameroon's precious natural resources for future generations.
