Chad

World Book Index

Introduction

Chad, once known as the French colony of Ubangi-Shari, gained its independence in 1960. The nation has endured a turbulent history characterized by decades of military rule and political instability. Following a brief period of civilian governance established in 1993, the country has struggled to maintain peace and stability, with numerous armed factions continuing to operate. Despite various peace agreements, the impact on the ground has been minimal, leaving Chad in a state of ongoing conflict and uncertainty.

Neighboring countries

Cameroon - Central African Republic - Libya - Niger - Nigeria - Sudan

Geography

Area
Total: 622,984 sq km
Land: 622,984 sq km
Water: 0 sq km

Chad is a landlocked country located in north-central Africa, characterized by its vast and diverse landscapes. The terrain includes the Sahara Desert in the north, which transitions into a more fertile region in the south. The country experiences a tropical climate, with hot, dry winters and mild to hot, wet summers, influencing both its ecology and agricultural practices. Chad is endowed with significant natural resources, including diamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil, and hydropower, which are vital for its economic potential and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 5,650,957 (2024 estimated)

Chad's population is a rich tapestry of ethnic diversity, with the Baya (28.8%), Banda (22.9%), and Mandjia (9.9%) being the largest groups among many others. The country is home to a multitude of languages, with French serving as the official language alongside Sangho, which acts as a lingua franca. The religious landscape is equally diverse, with Roman Catholics (34.6%) and Protestants (15.7%) forming significant portions of the population, alongside a notable Muslim community (13.8%) and various ethnic religions. The population growth rate stands at 1.76% (2024 estimated), reflecting ongoing demographic changes that pose both opportunities and challenges for the nation.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Bangui

Chad operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. Currently, President Faustin-Archange TOUADÉRA has been in office since March 30, 2016, with Prime Minister Félix MOLOUA appointed on February 7, 2022. The country maintains diplomatic relations with various nations, including the United States, represented by Ambassador Martial NDOUBOU since September 17, 2018, although the U.S. mission currently has a vacant chief of mission position, with Chargé d’Affaires Melanie Anne ZIMMERMAN serving since July 2025.

Economy

Economic overview
Chad is endowed with enormous natural resources, yet it grapples with extreme poverty and weak public institutions and infrastructure. Political instability and gender-based violence have led to the displacement of roughly 25% of the population, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The blockade of the Bangui-Douala corridor has significantly reduced economic activity and tax collection, further straining the economy. However, strong agricultural performance has helped offset the downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, providing a glimmer of hope for recovery.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$5.926 billion (2024 estimated)
$5.836 billion (2023 estimated)
$5.795 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$1,100 (2024 estimated)
$1,100 (2023 estimated)
$1,100 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$425.306 million (2024 estimated)
$369.034 million (2023 estimated)
$293.074 million (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
UAE 54%, China 14%, France 6%, Turkey 5%, Belgium 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Gold, wood, diamonds, vehicle parts/accessories, cotton (2023)

Imports
$890.572 million (2024 estimated)
$742.108 million (2023 estimated)
$784.669 million (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 16%, Cameroon 14%, France 8%, Belgium 6%, Cote d'Ivoire 5% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, cars, packaged medicine, vaccines, tanks and armored vehicles (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.416, ranking it 190th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 130th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.232. (more information)