Zambia Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Zambia Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Zambia has experienced a significant decline in its tree cover over the past two decades. The country, with an area of over 75 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent reduced by approximately 7.30%. Shifting agriculture has been identified as the primary driver of this loss, contributing to the vast majority of the deforestation. In recent years, the rate of tree cover loss has shown an alarming increase, with the highest recorded loss in 2021, where over 200,000 hectares were affected. Wildfires, although not the leading cause, have also contributed to the depletion of Zambia's forests, with recent data indicating a new fire incident in the Southern Province. This trend poses a significant threat to the region's biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate regulation functions.