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8 May 2024

Cameroon Confronts Surge in Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incidents in Far North Region
Cameroon Confronts Surge in Tree Cover Loss and Recent Fire Incidents in Far North Region

Cameroon is facing a significant challenge with the surge in tree cover loss, as recent data reveals a concerning trend in the country's forested regions. Over the past two decades, the nation has experienced a net loss of approximately 0.62 million hectares in tree cover, which equates to a 1.71% decrease from its original extent. This loss is primarily attributed to shifting agriculture, which accounts for the vast majority of the tree cover loss, with a minor contribution from forestry activities.

The Far North Region of Cameroon has been particularly affected, with the latest incidents on May 8, 2024, reporting three separate fire occurrences. These incidents are part of a broader pattern of environmental stress on the region's ecosystems. The cumulative impact of these losses is substantial, considering that Cameroon's total area spans over 46.60 million hectares, with tree cover previously extending to nearly 31.50 million hectares.

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Shifting agriculture remains the dominant driver of deforestation, with the highest recorded tree cover loss in 2014 at over 176,000 hectares, leading to significant emissions of CO2. Although the data for wildfire-related tree cover loss and CO2 emissions is not specified, the presence of fire incidents suggests that wildfires could be an additional factor affecting the region's tree cover.

The trend over the years shows fluctuating but generally increasing tree cover loss, with a peak in 2020. The country's forested areas are not only crucial for carbon storage but also for the biodiversity they support and the livelihoods of local communities. The recent fire incidents in the Far North Region underscore the ongoing environmental challenges that Cameroon continues to grapple with.

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