Global deforestation slows slightly

Global deforestation slowed in 2025, with slightly more than 7 million hectares of forests destroyed during the year, a decrease of about 15% compared to 2024. This marks the first decline in deforestation rates in several years, though it still falls far short of the target needed to halt forest loss by 2030.

Report highlights fragile progress

A report titled Forest Declaration Assessment 2026, published by a coalition of civil society organizations and researchers, notes that the progress is fragile. Five years after more than 140 countries committed to stopping and reversing forest loss, the report says that international commitments have not been matched by sufficient action to address the pressures from agriculture, infrastructure, and extractive industries.

Regional trends show mixed results

While global deforestation slowed, the report highlights regional differences. In tropical Latin America and the Caribbean, deforestation decreased by 28% compared to 2024. Tropical Asia saw a 12% decline in deforestation, but tropical Africa experienced an increase of 1.4% in forest loss, with the Congo Basin losing 2.4 million hectares of forest in 2025.

Beyond deforestation: loss of forest quality

The report also addresses the loss of ecological quality in forests. At least 65.4 million hectares of forest lost part of their integrity in 2024 due to human activities. This includes reduced biodiversity, lower carbon storage capacity, and diminished ability to support local communities.

Challenges in balancing conservation and economic interests

Despite the slowdown in deforestation, the report says that demand for commodities, animal feed, and bioenergy continues to drive land conversion. Between 61% and 94% of tropical deforestation linked to commercial agriculture could be illegal, and many countries have not established clear disclosure requirements for financial institutions related to deforestation risks.

Africa receives new funding for carbon projects

A new 100 million dollar fund has been announced to support carbon projects in Africa before they generate their first revenues. This funding aims to help finance long-term forest and ecosystem restoration projects, which often take several years to become profitable.

Algeria seeks industrial cooperation with General Motors

Algeria is exploring industrial cooperation with General Motors to develop an integrated automobile industry beyond simple assembly. The country is working on reforming its regulations to support this goal, aiming to build a more robust manufacturing sector.

Gabon appoints new education leader

In Gabon, Jacqueline Ilogue Bignoumba has taken charge of the National Education system. The country faces challenges including career opportunities for students, material difficulties in schools, and concerns about student safety.

Nigeria struggles with infrastructure challenges

Nigeria is working on a road project to improve connectivity in the State of Niger. However, the country faces obstacles such as rising logistics costs, fuel prices, and planning shortcomings, which hinder progress on infrastructure development.

West African artists gain recognition

The Ellipse Art Projects 2026 initiative highlights emerging contemporary artists from West Africa. Created in 2021, the Ellipse prize supports artists who need visibility and recognition in the art world.

Formula 1 returns to Africa

After more than three decades of absence, Formula 1 is returning to Africa, with Rwanda hosting the event instead of South Africa. Beyond the spectacle, the continent hopes to gain economic and infrastructural benefits from hosting the prestigious racing series.