In recent years, Angola has witnessed a significant rise in wildfire incidents, with the latest alert reported on July 30, 2026, in Cuando Cubango Province. This increase in wildfires is part of a broader trend of environmental challenges facing the country. Over the past two decades, Angola has experienced a 4.41% net decrease in tree cover, primarily driven by shifting agriculture, forestry, and wildfires.
The data reveals that shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for approximately 78% of the total loss. Meanwhile, wildfires, although contributing a smaller percentage, have shown a concerning upward trend. In 2025 alone, wildfires accounted for 1.19% of the total tree cover loss, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.
The implications of these environmental changes are profound, affecting biodiversity, climate regulation, and the livelihoods of local communities. As Angola continues to grapple with these challenges, there is an urgent need for increased environmental awareness and sustainable land management practices to mitigate the impact of wildfires and other drivers of deforestation.