Oil continues to dominate revenue, while agriculture supports most livelihoods. Political consolidation under President Mahamat Idriss Déby persists following the 2024 elections and 2025 constitutional changes. Humanitarian pressures—including refugee inflows from Sudan—remain severe.
Introduction
Chad is a landlocked country in north‑central Africa, historically shaped by Sahelian empires, French colonial rule, and decades of post‑independence instability. Its modern political landscape is defined by recurring coups, authoritarian governance, and regional security challenges.
Geography
Chad spans 1.284 million sq km, stretching from the Sahara Desert in the north to savannah regions in the south. The country’s shallow basin topography centers on the Lake Chad area, with limited natural irrigation from the Chari and Logone rivers.
People and Society
Chad’s population is estimated at 19.67 million (2025), comprising 200+ ethnic groups, including Zaghawa, Sara, and Arab communities. Poverty remains widespread, with 44.8% below the national poverty line and high maternal mortality (856 deaths per 100,000 live births). Refugee inflows from Sudan and neighboring states continue to strain resources.
Government
Chad is a unitary republic led in 2025 by President Mahamat Idriss Déby. Following the 2024 elections, constitutional amendments in October 2025 extended presidential terms to seven years without limits, amid opposition boycotts and political repression. The ruling MPS party dominates parliament.
Population
19.67 million (2025 est.), low density (~8 persons per sq km), concentrated in the south where agriculture is viable.
Economy
Chad’s economy is volatile and oil‑dependent: oil accounts for 15% of GDP, 41% of government revenue, and 76% of exports. Agriculture (~40% of GDP) is vulnerable to droughts, floods, and conflict. Informal employment dominates (88%). Extreme poverty increased to 36.5% in 2024.
Energy
Chad has been an oil‑producing country since 2003, with petroleum as its primary export and fiscal anchor. Energy infrastructure remains limited outside the oil sector.
Communications
Telecommunications infrastructure is underdeveloped, with limited rural coverage and low internet penetration. (General inference based on regional patterns; no direct 2025 data found.)
Transportation
Chad’s transport network is constrained by its landlocked position. The capital N’Djamena lies nearly 1,600 km from coastal ports, and road infrastructure is sparse outside major corridors.
Military and Security
Chad faces persistent threats from Boko Haram, instability in Libya and Sudan, and internal political tensions. French troops departed in January 2025, shifting Chad’s external security partnerships toward Russia and the UAE.
Travel Advice (General)
Travelers should be aware of:
- Terrorism risks in the Lake Chad Basin.
- Intercommunal violence and clashes over resources.
- Political unrest following constitutional changes. (General synthesis; travelers should consult official advisories.)
Expected Trends for 2026
- Continued political consolidation under Déby, with limited opposition space.
- Security volatility, including Boko Haram activity and spillover from Sudan.
- Economic fragility, tied to oil prices and climate shocks.
- Humanitarian pressures likely to increase due to refugee inflows.
