On June 16, 2026, N’Djamena witnessed a significant act of international cooperation as the People’s Republic of China delivered a substantial donation of 1,770 tonnes of rice to Chad. This vital food aid aims to bolster the nation’s food security amidst ongoing climatic and economic adversities. The official reception ceremony took place at the Radisson Blu hotel, presided over by Zara Mahamat Issa, the Minister of Social Action.

A steadfast partnership rooted in mutual support

During the event, Minister Mahamat Issa emphasized that this contribution transcends mere material value. It serves as a powerful testament to the profound friendship and resilient partnership between Chad and China, built on principles of mutual respect and solidarity. She invoked a poignant Chinese proverb, stating, « In a calamity, a single grain of rice is worth an ounce of gold, » underscoring the critical importance of this assistance for vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons, refugees, and families grappling with various crises.

Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, the Director General of the National Office for Food Security (ONASA), conveyed his profound gratitude for the timely donation. He highlighted that this support significantly enhances the Chadian Government’s ongoing endeavors, led by Maréchal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, to combat widespread food insecurity across the country.

ONASA pledges meticulous management and distribution

ONASA, tasked with overseeing the management and distribution of this rice stock, has committed to ensuring a transparent, efficient, and equitable process. The Director General recounted previous generous donations from China, including 5,000 tonnes in both 2014 and 2017, followed by 5,966 tonnes in 2019, alongside various quantities of wheat and rice in 2022 and 2025. This latest delivery further solidifies the shared commitment of Chad and China to enhance the resilience of communities against vulnerabilities, thereby fostering social stability and sustainable national development.

Wang Xining, the Ambassador of China to Chad, articulated the profound solidarity of the Chinese government and its people with Chad, particularly in light of recent challenges. He noted that Chad has been heavily impacted by conflicts in neighboring states, leading to an influx of refugees, compounded by extreme climatic conditions that severely strain local food security. The Ambassador affirmed that China consistently provides cereals valued at nearly 2 billion CFA francs annually. Furthermore, Chinese enterprises and their nationals actively participate in corporate social responsibility initiatives, offering support to local communities through material donations and various outreach programs.

Ambassador Xining acknowledged that while material aid addresses immediate emergencies, a more sustainable approach is crucial. He quoted the adage, « It is better to teach a man to fish than to give him a fish. » In this spirit, China dispatches agricultural technical missions to Chad, collaborating with local experts to test high-yield crops and organize training sessions on modern agricultural technologies. He underscored Chad’s exceptional agricultural potential, citing its abundant water resources, ample sunshine, fertile lands, and, most importantly, a hardworking and pragmatic population.

This year marks a pivotal moment, with a strong synergy between the respective national development plans of both nations. The Ambassador also announced that the Chinese government has implemented a zero-tariff policy for all African countries maintaining diplomatic relations with China. The ceremony concluded with a visit to the Chagoua FDAR warehouse, located in the 7th arrondissement of N’Djamena, where the donated rice will be stored.