The Chadian government has released its 2026 budget, totaling 2,531.5 billion FCFA, with projected resources of 2,275 billion FCFA, resulting in a deficit of 256.5 billion FCFA. To better understand the budget, a simulation was conducted, scaling down the budget to 1 million FCFA. This exercise aimed to decipher the state's priorities, credit allocation, and public expenditure pace. By doing so, citizens can grasp how their country's budget is managed and allocated.
As of March 31, a quarter of the budget year had passed. Assuming a regular pace, each ministry would have consumed around 25% of its credits. However, significant disparities were observed: the Ministry of Social Action had utilized 62% of its credits, the Presidency 43%, and the Ministry of Public Security 30%. In contrast, the Ministry of National Education had only spent 17% of its credits, the Ministry of Health 16%, and the Ministry of Higher Education 9%.
The wide gaps in credit utilization raise questions about the prioritization of expenditures. While salaries and transfers are typically paid monthly, investments require public tenders, market procedures, and execution delays. A low consumption rate in March does not necessarily imply that a sector will be deprived of funding. However, it highlights the need to identify which expenses are prioritized when treasury resources are under pressure.
The Chadian government's resources for 2026 are under pressure, with oil revenues reaching 312 billion FCFA, compared to 345 billion FCFA in salary payments. The government also paid 64% of the interest on domestic debt planned for the entire year. This situation underscores the importance of oil revenues in maintaining budget balance and the need to arbitrate between current expenditures, debt servicing, and public investments.
A high execution rate does not guarantee better public services. Conversely, low consumption in the first quarter does not prove that a sector is neglected. The essential aspect is to measure not only the approved and spent credits but also the results obtained for the population. As the 2027 budget approaches, a question remains: how to transform the billions inscribed in the state's accounts into concrete improvements for Chadians?
The analysis of the 2026 budget highlights the need for effective management of resources and prioritization of expenditures. The government must balance current expenses, debt servicing, and public investments while ensuring that the needs of the population are met. The simulation exercise demonstrates that understanding the budget is crucial for citizens to hold their government accountable for the management of public funds.
The Chadian government faces significant challenges in managing its budget, given the country's economic constraints. The 2026 budget reveals the complexities of resource allocation and the need for transparent and efficient management of public funds. As the government prepares for the 2027 budget, it is essential to consider the results obtained for the population and to prioritize expenditures that will have a positive impact on the lives of Chadians.
Key points
- The Chadian government's 2026 budget stands at 2,531.5 billion FCFA, with a deficit of 256.5 billion FCFA to be financed through loans.
