What Are the Trends in Forest Cover Loss in Zimbabwe's Provinces?

Date: Monday, 17 February 2025

Writer : Mabel Nokhuthula Piki

Country: Zimbabwe

Source: Global Forest Watch Platform, Zimbabwe Natural forest cover (in green color),February 2025

SUMMARY

As the world faces the growing issue of deforestation, it is essential to examine how this trend is reflected in Zimbabwe. From 2001 to 2023, Zimbabwe lost approximately 238,000 hectares (kha) of tree cover, equivalent to a 17% decrease since 2000, contributing to 113 megatonnes (Mt) of CO₂ emissions (Global Forest Watch). Forest cover loss not only threatens biodiversity but also contributes to climate change, leading to a cascade of environmental challenges. This article explores the statistics of tree cover loss in Zimbabwe from 2001 to 2023 according to the Global Forest Watch data, shedding light on the situation across various provinces and the possible drivers behind these changes.

BACKGROUND

Global Context: A Growing Crisis

Globally, from 2001 to 2023, approximately 488 million hectares (Mha) of tree cover were lost, with 138 Mha attributed to fires (Global Forest Watch). This represents a 12% decrease in global tree cover since 2000, resulting in 207 gigatons (Gt) of CO₂ emissions. The year 2023 marked a significant loss, with 11.9 Mha lost to fires, accounting for 42% of that year's total tree cover loss.

Zimbabwe's Forest Cover: A Provincial Breakdown

In Zimbabwe, the statistics reveal notable losses in natural forest cover across various provinces. The following table summarizes the tree cover loss statistics for the provinces from 2001 to 2023:

Province	Total Tree Cover Loss (2001-2023)	Loss of Forest Cover Due to Fires (2001-2023)	Total CO₂ Emissions due to tree cover loss (kt)	% Decrease in Tree Cover (from 2000 to 2023)
Zimbabwe	238 kha	3.51 kha	113Mt	17%
Matabeleland North	9.61 kha	20 ha	2.34Mt	11%
Harare	295 ha	<1 ha	90.6kt	19%
Bulawayo	50 ha	<1 ha	13.0Kt	23%
Manicaland	152 kha	3.15 kha	88.6Mt	27%
Mashonaland Central	13.4 kha	40 ha	4.23Mt	10%
Mashonaland East	6.72 kha	49 ha	2.07Mt	9.1%
Mashonaland West	31.1 kha	61 ha	8.69Mt	13%
Masvingo	7.17 kha	121 ha	1.86Mt	4.5%
Matabeleland South	751 ha	15 ha	1.92Mt	2.9%
Midlands	16.7kha	57 ha	4.88Mt	12%

Understanding the Drivers of Forest Cover Loss

The statistics indicate that forest cover loss in Zimbabwe is attributed to both fires and other drivers. While fires account for a portion of the loss, other significant factors may include:

•  Agricultural Expansion: Land conversion for farming activities can lead to substantial tree cover loss, particularly in agricultural provinces.

• Urbanization: As cities expand, natural habitats are often cleared to make way for development, contributing to forest loss.

• Illegal Logging: Unsustainable logging practices further degrade forest areas, posing a threat to long-term forest health.

A Call to Action

As global forest loss increases, Zimbabwe's statistics also contribute to this trend. While the data may not indicate an immediate crisis, it highlights the importance of collective responsibility in forest conservation. Engaging in sustainable practices, supporting local conservation efforts, and raising awareness can help mitigate the impacts of tree cover loss.

Conclusion

The statistics presented paint a clear picture of tree cover loss in Zimbabwe across different provinces. Understanding the nuances of these figures and their implications can help foster a greater appreciation for the need to protect and restore our forests. By recognizing the various drivers of forest loss, communities, and stakeholders can work towards sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and future generations.

REFERENCES

• World Resources Institute. (2023). Global Forest Fire Data.

• University of Maryland. (2023). Tree Cover Loss Statistics.

• Zimbabwe Environmental Management Agency. (2023). Deforestation and Land Use Reports.