In response to early cessation of rains and potential agricultural losses, administrative, traditional, and agricultural authorities in Chad's Bohobé sub-prefecture convened on September 26, 2026, in Bongoro. The meeting followed a visit to agricultural areas to evaluate damage and outline measures to minimize drought impacts on households. Led by Bohobé sub-prefect Doumhassem Gédéon, the delegation included Marabé canton chief Issa Baga Nanga and ANADER's Béro Julien Hassan.
The delegation visited Bongoro's agricultural plots to assess crop conditions, observing severe dryness, particularly in rice cultures, due to water stress. This situation raises concerns about reduced yields and food difficulties during the lean season. The early end of the rainy season poses significant challenges to local farmers and households. Authorities noted that several plots showed signs of withering, threatening the livelihoods of communities dependent on these agricultural activities.
Following the site visit, a sensitization session addressed potential responses to the drought crisis. The sub-prefect emphasized the importance of local mobilization and highlighted national measures, including inspections of ONASA food storage facilities by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and government missions to provinces. These efforts aim to mitigate the effects of the drought and ensure food security for affected populations.
Six key orientations emerged from the discussions. These included requests for village chiefs to assess food stocks and prioritize community needs, then submit detailed reports to the administration. Producers were advised to avoid premature sales of their harvests to preserve household reserves. Traditional authorities were tasked with monitoring local alcohol sales points to prevent excessive consumption and protect family budgets.
The meeting recommended planning for irrigation and market gardening projects to utilize remaining water resources. ANADER encouraged farmers to develop small ruminant livestock as a complementary activity to secure household incomes. This diversification strategy aims to bolster rural populations' resilience to drought and related challenges. By combining agriculture and livestock, households can better withstand environmental shocks.
Preventing conflicts between farmers and herders was also prioritized, with an emphasis on maintaining peace in Bohobé. Béro Julien Hassan of ANADER stressed the importance of diversifying activities for rural populations, highlighting the benefits of integrating agriculture and small ruminant livestock. This approach can help stabilize household incomes and reduce vulnerability to climate-related stressors.
The collaborative efforts among authorities, traditional leaders, and agricultural experts reflect a comprehensive response to the drought crisis in Bohobé. By addressing immediate needs and planning for long-term resilience, stakeholders aim to mitigate the impacts of the drought and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The situation remains critical, but coordinated actions may help safeguard the livelihoods of affected communities.
Key points
- Authorities in Chad's Bohobé sub-prefecture are working to address drought impacts through measures like assessing food stocks, promoting irrigation projects, and encouraging diversification of agricultural activities.
