Violent clashes broke out on October 30, 2026, in southwestern Chad, resulting in the deaths of at least 25 people and injuring 22 others. The conflict occurred in the Koula area, where a herder from the Kreda community had come to water his livestock at a local pond. A dispute arose between the herder and a local farmer from the Kouka community, which escalated into a shootout between the two groups.
The clashes have highlighted the growing tensions between herders and farmers in Chad, often sparked by access to water and land. According to Dr. Yamingué Betinbaye, a political scientist specializing in Chadian conflicts, the widespread circulation of arms among civilians has contributed to the increasing severity of these conflicts. He notes that the possession of war weapons by civilians gives them a sense of superiority and confidence in confrontations.
The ease of access to arms is also linked to connections between some herders and military circles. Dr. Bourdjolbo Tchoubida, a specialist in Chadian politics, explains that some administrative and military authorities engage in livestock farming in remote areas, acquiring large quantities of cattle and arming the herders. This has created a complex dynamic that fuels the conflicts.
The rapid mobilization of communities has also been facilitated by the use of mobile phones, allowing relatives to converge on the scene of the clashes from distances of up to 100 kilometers. The swift response of security forces has helped to contain the situation, with 39 people arrested and transferred to N'Djamena for further judicial proceedings.
A government delegation, led by several ministers, visited the area on October 31, 2026, in an effort to address the situation. However, experts argue that ad hoc interventions by the state are insufficient to sustainably address these violent conflicts. A national strategy is needed to tackle the root causes of the problem and prevent future occurrences.
The scarcity of natural resources, exacerbated by this year's precipitation deficit, has increased competition between herders and farmers. Experts suggest that a comprehensive plan, involving institutions such as the Médiature de la République, could help to address the underlying causes of the conflicts and prevent future violence.
The situation in Chad highlights the need for a sustainable solution to the recurring conflicts between herders and farmers. With resources becoming increasingly scarce, it is essential to develop a national strategy that addresses the root causes of these conflicts and promotes peaceful coexistence between communities.
Key points
- The clashes in Chad have resulted in 25 deaths and 22 injuries, highlighting the growing tensions between herders and farmers over access to water and land.
- The widespread circulation of arms among civilians and connections between herders and military circles have contributed to the increasing severity of the conflicts.
- A national strategy is needed to address the root causes of the conflicts and prevent future occurrences, involving institutions such as the Médiature de la République.
