The African continent is incredibly diverse, with its wide range of climatic zones. It features dry savannahs alongside lush rainforests, such as those in the Democratic Republic of Congo, often referred to as ‘the lungs of the world.’ Africa boasts deserts and lakes, sands and waters. However, these natural resources face threats, with deforestation being one of the most significant issues.
When forests are neglected or destroyed, the consequences can be dire, as seen in countries like Nigeria and Kenya. Uncontrolled timber harvesting and logging impact soil quality and rainfall patterns, leading to flooding and other environmental disasters. Additionally, this destruction hampers the generation of hydroelectricity, which is crucial for industrialization, like in the case of the Volta Dam in Ghana.
What is the economic impact of deforestation, and what steps must be taken to ensure reforestation, preserve soil cover, and recharge aquifers?
