Key Information:
Since April 2023, the conflict between rival militaries in Sudan has displaced 14 million people, affecting its seven neighboring countries, according to the UN.
Chad is among the most impacted, now hosting Africa’s largest refugee population per capita, as per the UNHCR.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih praised Chad’s solidarity in welcoming refugees.
Chad has taken in over 900,000 Sudanese refugees, despite 40% of its population needing aid.
Significance:
Known for its diverse ethnic groups and languages, Chad’s challenges are complex.
Over 42% of its population lives in poverty, making it one of the world’s poorest nations.
With over 1.5 million refugees, Chad manages open borders with Sudan while facing climate and security challenges.
Environmental and Food Challenges:
‘Chad’ refers to a “large body of water,” highlighting Lake Chad’s cultural significance.
Climate change has caused Lake Chad to shrink, leading to devastating floods and food insecurity.
In 2024, floods destroyed 432,000 hectares of crops, affecting nearly two million people, and sparking cholera outbreaks.
Rapid population growth strains resources, with high malnutrition rates among children.
An estimated two million children face acute malnutrition from October 2025 to September 2026, with 484,000 at severe risk.
Security Concerns:
Security threats from extremist groups like Boko Haram persist in the Lake Chad Basin, displacing over 250,000 people.
In the north, trafficking, illegal mining, and gender-based violence pose significant challenges.
87% of refugees in Chad are women and children, heightening vulnerability.
UN Initiatives:
Since April 2023, Chad’s government and UNHCR have relocated 67% of Sudanese war refugees to settlements with humanitarian support.
UN agencies and partners remain active, providing aid in Chad and Sudan.
The UN Security Council will meet on 19 February to address the Sudan crisis and violence against women and girls.
The UN OCHA’s Humanitarian Action Plan 2026 reports a 42% decrease in those in need in Chad but assistance remains crucial.
The plan requests $986 million to aid 3.4 million people, with $540 million for refugees.
Efforts will focus on the most affected regions, including eastern Chad, Lake Province, and parts of the south, as stated by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
Radwa Abdelkarim, a refugee since June 2023, utilized UNHCR assistance to start a business in Farchana, supporting refugee women and creating community growth.
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