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31 Jan 2025

Mali Confronts Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents
Mali Confronts Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Mali, a country with an area of over 125 million hectares, is experiencing significant environmental challenges. The tree cover extent, which is a mere 0.02% of the total land area, has been subject to substantial losses over the years. Analysis of historical data reveals a concerning trend of tree cover loss primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which has accounted for the vast majority of this decline.

From 2001 to 2023, Mali has seen a net loss of over 256,000 hectares of tree cover, which is approximately a 3.28% decrease from the stable tree cover previously recorded. Notably, the year 2023 marked a significant spike in tree cover loss, with over 315 hectares lost, indicating an alarming acceleration in the rate of deforestation.

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Wildfire incidents have also been a contributing factor, though to a lesser extent compared to shifting agriculture. The latest report from 2025 highlights a wildfire incident in the Kayes Region, underscoring the ongoing threat of fires to Mali's already fragile tree cover.

The cumulative impact of these environmental issues is profound, with the loss of tree cover not only affecting the ecosystem but also potentially exacerbating climate change impacts due to the associated CO2 emissions. The data underscores the need for urgent attention to Mali's environmental concerns, as the country grapples with the dual challenges of deforestation and wildfire management.

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