Chad Facts

Chad, State of Central Africa; 1.3 million km², 15.5 million residents (2019).Chad borders in the north to Libya, in the east to Sudan, in the south to the Central African Republic, in the southwest to Cameroon and in the west to Nigeria and Niger. The capital is N’Djamena (1.1 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

• Republic of Chad / Republic of Chad
• Country abbreviation: TD
• Area: 1.3 million km²
• Population (2019): 15.5 million residents
• Capital: N’Djamena
• Main languages: French, Arabic, Chad
• State: Republic
• Head of State: Idriss Déby (President)
• Head of Government: Albert Pahimi Padacké
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 730
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 670
• Currency unit: 1 CFA franc = 100 centimes
• Currency code: XAF
• Country number (telephony): 235
• Internet domain name: td
• Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
• National Day: August 11 (Independence Day, 1960)

Nature

• Land use: forest (25%), agricultural land (3%), other (72%)
• Highest mountain: Emi Koussi (3,415 m above sea level)
• Largest lake: Lake Chad (12,000-20,000 km² )

Population

• Population density (2019): 12 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 3.3%; birth number 44 ‰, death number 11 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (48%), 15-64 (50%), 65- (2%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 55 years, women 59 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 73 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 38 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.404 (place 186 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 23%
• Most populous cities (2012): N’Djamena (1.1 million residents), Moundou (137,900), Sarh (103,300)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (52%), industry (15%), service (33%)
• Exports of goods (2017): US $ 2,464 million
• Main export products: oil, livestock, cotton
• Main exporting countries: USA, China
• Imports of goods (2017): USD 2,160 million
• Main import products: machinery and transport, factory goods, food
• Main importing countries: China, Cameroon, France
• Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Chad is located in north-central Africa, making it a landlocked country. It is bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west. Its central location places it at the crossroads of various African regions, and its proximity to the Sahara Desert to the north has greatly influenced its climate and geography. Chad covers an area of approximately 1.28 million square kilometers, making it the fifth-largest country in Africa.

Chad’s landlocked nature means that it has no coastline, but the country has access to neighboring countries via several major roadways and trade routes, particularly to Sudan and Cameroon. Despite its strategic location, Chad faces challenges related to infrastructure, especially in remote regions, where roads can be inaccessible due to the harsh terrain and climate.

Topography and Natural Features

The topography of Chad is diverse, ranging from vast desert plains in the north to fertile savannas and wetlands in the south. The northern regions of the country are dominated by the Sahara Desert, with sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and scattered oases that provide water sources for both people and wildlife. The Aïr Mountains, located in the north, form a natural barrier between the desert and the more habitable central and southern regions.

Moving southward, the landscape becomes more varied, with the region around the capital, N’Djamena, characterized by semi-arid plains and rolling hills. The Lake Chad Basin in the west, shared with Nigeria, Cameroon, and Niger, is a significant feature of the landscape. Historically, Lake Chad has provided water for the surrounding regions, but its size has shrunk dramatically in recent decades due to climate change and human activity.

In the southern part of Chad, the topography transitions into savanna, fertile agricultural land, and forested areas, particularly around the Guéra Mountains and the Enneri Mountains. These areas receive more rainfall and support a variety of flora and fauna, as well as local communities engaged in farming and cattle herding.

Climate and Seasonal Variations

Chad experiences a predominantly hot and dry climate, with stark seasonal variations across the country. The northern regions, which are part of the Sahara Desert, experience extreme heat and little rainfall. Temperatures can reach as high as 45°C (113°F) during the hottest months of April to June. The region is arid, with rainfall being very scarce throughout the year, contributing to a desert-like environment with minimal vegetation and limited water resources.

The central and southern regions of Chad experience a more temperate climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically lasts from June to September, bringing essential rainfall to the savannas and forests in the south. During this period, temperatures remain relatively moderate, averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F), but the wet season can bring intense thunderstorms and flooding. The dry season, which lasts from October to May, is characterized by much higher temperatures and lower humidity.

Chad’s climate, particularly in the northern and central regions, is heavily impacted by climate change. The country has experienced significant desertification and reduced rainfall, which has placed stress on local agriculture, water resources, and the livelihoods of rural populations.

People

Population and Demographics

Chad has an estimated population of over 16 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Africa. However, the country remains sparsely populated due to its vast desert regions and harsh environmental conditions. The population is unevenly distributed, with the majority of the population living in the southern and central parts of the country, particularly around the capital city, N’Djamena, and along the fertile Lake Chad Basin. The northern and eastern regions are more sparsely populated due to the challenging terrain and arid climate.

Chad has a relatively young population, with a median age of about 16 years, and nearly half of the population is under the age of 18. The country has a high birth rate, but this is tempered by challenges related to healthcare and child mortality, particularly in rural areas. Life expectancy is lower than the global average, due to factors such as poor access to healthcare, conflict, and limited infrastructure.

The population is diverse, consisting of many ethnic groups, languages, and religions. Chad is home to more than 200 ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. The largest groups include the Sara, the Arab, the Teda, and the Kanembu, among others. Despite this ethnic diversity, the different groups generally coexist peacefully, although there have been occasional tensions, particularly between Arab and African groups in the context of regional conflicts.

Languages

Chad is a multilingual country with over 120 languages spoken across its population. The two official languages are Arabic and French, a legacy of the country’s colonial history under French rule. French is widely used in government, education, and business, while Arabic is spoken by a significant portion of the population, particularly in the northern and eastern regions.

In addition to Arabic and French, there are many indigenous languages spoken by various ethnic groups throughout the country. Sara, spoken in the southern part of Chad, is the most widely spoken indigenous language. Other important languages include Kanuri, Teda, and Ngambay. Despite the linguistic diversity, there is a tendency toward multilingualism in Chad, with many people speaking several languages fluently, including both their ethnic language and Arabic or French.

Religion

Chad is religiously diverse, with Islam being the dominant religion, practiced by around 55-60% of the population. Islam is most prevalent in the northern and central parts of the country, where Arab and other Muslim groups reside. The religion was introduced to Chad through the spread of Arab influence and trade across the Saharan region, and it has since become deeply embedded in the culture and daily life of the people.

Christianity is the second-largest religion in Chad, practiced by approximately 30-35% of the population. Christianity was introduced during the colonial period, and Catholicism and Protestantism are the two primary Christian denominations in Chad. Christians are primarily found in the southern part of the country, where the environment is more hospitable for agriculture and urban development. Christianity has had a significant influence on the country’s educational and healthcare systems, particularly in the south.

Indigenous African religions are practiced by a small percentage of the population, mostly in rural areas. These religions typically involve ancestral worship, animism, and a deep connection to nature and the land. The religious landscape in Chad is generally tolerant, with people of different faiths coexisting peacefully. However, tensions can occasionally arise, particularly during times of conflict, as religious and ethnic identities are often intertwined.

Economy

Overview

Chad is one of the poorest and least developed countries in Africa. The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, which provides the livelihood for most of the population, followed by oil production and exports. However, the economy faces significant challenges, including political instability, inadequate infrastructure, a reliance on agriculture, and vulnerability to climate change. The country has made some progress in diversifying its economy, but it remains highly dependent on external aid and imports for many basic goods.

Chad’s limited economic growth has been compounded by the ongoing security challenges in the region, particularly the conflicts in neighboring Sudan and the Central African Republic, which have resulted in a significant influx of refugees and displaced persons. Nevertheless, the country’s abundant natural resources, including oil, gold, and uranium, have provided some opportunities for economic development, especially in recent decades.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture plays a central role in Chad’s economy, employing more than 70% of the population. The country produces a variety of crops, including sorghum, millet, corn, wheat, and cotton. Cotton is one of Chad’s most important cash crops, and the country is a significant exporter of cotton fiber to international markets. Livestock farming, particularly cattle, goats, and sheep, is also a key component of the agricultural sector, and Chad is one of the largest exporters of livestock in the region.

Despite the importance of agriculture, the sector faces significant challenges, including limited access to water resources, poor infrastructure, and the effects of climate change, such as recurring droughts and desertification. These environmental factors limit agricultural productivity and make the country vulnerable to food insecurity. The government has sought to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve water management to support the sector, but the progress has been slow.

Chad is also rich in natural resources, particularly oil, gold, and uranium. The country began oil production in the early 2000s, and oil has since become the country’s largest export and a significant source of government revenue. Oil exploration and extraction are concentrated in the southern part of the country, and Chad exports oil primarily to international markets, including China, the United States, and Europe. However, the oil sector remains underdeveloped, and the country has faced challenges in managing the revenues from oil production for sustainable development.

Industry and Services

Chad has a limited industrial base, with most industries focusing on processing agricultural products such as cotton, livestock, and food. The country has made efforts to develop its manufacturing sector, particularly in the areas of cement production, beverages, and construction materials. However, the lack of infrastructure and skilled labor has hindered industrial growth, and the country remains reliant on imports for many manufactured goods.

The services sector is small but growing, with retail, trade, and telecommunications being the main areas of development. The country has seen improvements in its telecommunications infrastructure in recent years, which has helped to boost connectivity and promote business. However, the services sector is constrained by limited access to education, healthcare, and other basic services, particularly in rural areas.

Chad’s tourism industry remains underdeveloped, despite the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage. While Chad has significant potential as a destination for eco-tourism, with national parks such as Zakouma National Park and the Ennedi Mountains offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and adventure tourism, the country’s instability, lack of infrastructure, and security concerns have limited the growth of the sector.

Government

Political System

Chad is a presidential republic, and its political system is characterized by a concentration of power in the executive branch. The president is the head of state and government, and the position holds significant authority over the country’s political and economic affairs. The current president, Idriss Déby, who has been in power since 1990, has maintained a tight grip on power, often through military means and political repression. Chad has experienced multiple coups and uprisings, and the current government faces ongoing challenges related to political instability, corruption, and a lack of democratic freedoms.

The National Assembly, Chad’s legislative body, consists of 188 members who are elected by the people every five years. However, the legislature has limited power, with the president exercising considerable influence over its decisions. The judicial system in Chad is also under the control of the executive branch, and the country’s legal framework has been criticized for its lack of independence and transparency.

Chad’s political environment has been marked by frequent instability and the involvement of military forces in governance. Various armed groups, including rebels and separatists, have operated within Chad and in neighboring countries, which has fueled internal conflicts and led to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises.

Legal System

Chad’s legal system is based on a mix of French civil law, customary law, and Islamic law in certain regions. The judiciary is constitutionally independent, but in practice, it is often influenced by the executive. The legal system has been criticized for inefficiency, corruption, and the slow pace of legal proceedings. Courts are often underfunded, and access to justice is limited, particularly in rural areas where people may not have the resources to seek legal redress.

Chad faces significant challenges related to human rights, with restrictions on freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and political participation. Political opposition is often silenced through repression, and there are reports of human rights abuses, including torture and arbitrary detention, particularly in the context of the government’s response to insurgent groups and opposition movements.

Foreign Relations

Chad maintains strong diplomatic relations with France, its former colonial power, and has been an important ally of France in the Sahel region. France has provided military support to Chad, particularly in its efforts to combat armed rebel groups and insurgents. Chad is also a member of several regional organizations, including the African Union, the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC). Chad has participated in peacekeeping missions and has been involved in regional security efforts, particularly in relation to the conflicts in Darfur and the Central African Republic.

Chad’s foreign policy has focused on strengthening its relations with neighboring countries, particularly in the context of security and trade. The country has faced challenges in managing its relations with Sudan, with whom it shares a long and porous border. Tensions have arisen over issues such as border security, refugees, and the support of rebel groups operating across the border.

Culture

Arts and Music

Chadian culture is influenced by a blend of African, Arab, and European traditions. Music and dance are integral parts of Chadian society, with various ethnic groups having their own distinct musical styles and instruments. Traditional music often involves drumming, singing, and dancing, and is closely tied to religious and social events. The country’s music scene is diverse, with genres ranging from traditional folk music to modern pop and hip-hop.

Chadian art also reflects its cultural heritage, with crafts such as weaving, pottery, and wood carving being common forms of artistic expression. Traditional art is often used in ceremonies, festivals, and rituals, and many of these crafts have been passed down through generations. Contemporary art in Chad is still developing, with artists drawing on the country’s rich cultural diversity and history to create works that reflect both traditional and modern influences.

Cuisine

Chadian cuisine is characterized by the use of staple ingredients such as millet, sorghum, maize, and cassava, often served with stews, meat, and vegetables. Popular dishes include “jarret”, a stew made from meat (often goat or beef), vegetables, and spices, and “bitter leaf soup”, made from the leaves of the cassava plant. Fish, particularly from Lake Chad, is also an important part of the diet in the northern regions.

Food is an important part of social life in Chad, and meals are often shared communally. Street food is also a common aspect of urban life, with vendors selling items like “sambusas” (fried pastries filled with meat or vegetables) and “brochettes” (grilled meat skewers). Traditional meals are usually served with “tchoukou”, a fermented millet drink, or “bière de mil”, a locally brewed millet beer.

Festivals and Traditions

Chad has a rich tradition of festivals, many of which are tied to religious and cultural practices. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are widely celebrated by Muslims, while Christians observe religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Traditional festivals, such as the Guelta Festival, celebrate Chad’s cultural heritage, featuring music, dance, and storytelling. These festivals are an important means of preserving traditional customs and fostering a sense of community across different ethnic groups.

The Festival of Tchad in N’Djamena is one of the largest cultural celebrations in the country, with performances of traditional music and dance, arts and crafts displays, and the celebration of Chad’s cultural diversity. Despite challenges related to conflict and political instability, these cultural events remain an important part of Chad’s social fabric.

History

Early History and Pre-Colonial Era

Chad’s history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the region dating to prehistoric periods. The area has been home to a number of early African civilizations, including the Kanem-Bornu Empire, which thrived in the northern part of Chad from the 9th to the 19th century. The Kanem-Bornu Empire controlled much of the Saharan trade routes and became one of the dominant empires in central Africa.

Various ethnic groups, such as the Sara, Teda, and Kanuri, have lived in Chad for centuries, with each group contributing to the country’s cultural diversity and rich traditions. The region was an important center of trade, connecting the Mediterranean, Sahara, and sub-Saharan Africa, and has long been a crossroads of cultural exchange.

Colonial Rule and Independence

Chad was colonized by France in the late 19th century, becoming part of French Equatorial Africa. The French colonial administration built infrastructure, such as roads and railways, but imposed harsh control over local populations. Chad became a French protectorate in 1910 and remained under French rule until it gained independence on August 11, 1960.

Independence brought challenges to Chad, with political instability and ethnic divisions hindering the country’s progress. The first president of Chad, François Tombalbaye, was overthrown in 1975, and the country became embroiled in a series of civil wars and conflicts. These wars were largely driven by political, ethnic, and regional rivalries, and they continued throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Modern Chad

Since independence, Chad has experienced periods of authoritarian rule, rebellion, and military coups. Idriss Déby, who came to power in 1990 after overthrowing Hissène Habré, ruled Chad for over 30 years until his death in 2021. Under Déby’s leadership, Chad saw some political stability, but the country’s development was stunted by ongoing conflict and human rights abuses. The government faced challenges related to insurgencies, including rebel groups operating from neighboring Sudan, and issues related to oil production and economic inequality.

The ongoing conflict in Chad’s northern and eastern regions has led to displacement, humanitarian crises, and economic stagnation. Despite these challenges, Chad remains an important regional player in Africa, involved in peacekeeping and security efforts, particularly in the Sahel region. The political environment remains unstable, but the country continues to work toward rebuilding its infrastructure and ensuring greater security for its citizens.

Chad Map