On October 5, 2026, Chad's National Assembly held a public session to question the Minister of Animal Resources and Animal Production, Abd al-Rahim Awad al-Tayeb, about the performance of the Food Quality Control Center. The questioning was initiated by Deputy Ndougouna Mbakassi Rerajim, who raised concerns about the center's effectiveness in monitoring food products in the market. The center is responsible for monitoring the quality and safety of food products through specialized laboratories.
The Food Quality Control Center conducts microbiological, physical, and chemical analyses in accordance with international standards, including ISO/IEC 17025:2017. The center oversees local products and those intended for import and export, particularly meat, peanuts, and sesame. In addition to analysis and monitoring, the center works with producers and food industry stakeholders to improve hygiene and manufacturing practices. It also contributes to applied research and training, hosting 827 students, researchers, and trainees in 2025.
However, lawmakers expressed concerns about the risks threatening consumer safety. The First Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly, Dr. Emmanuel Oudingkar, warned about the use of banned chemicals and pesticides in local agriculture and irregularities with imported products, including label changes and falsified expiration dates. He emphasized that ensuring food quality is not just about product availability but also about health safety.
Dr. Oudingkar called for enhanced monitoring of the production chain, from agriculture and livestock to market distribution. He stressed the need for coordination among relevant authorities, intensified awareness campaigns, and proactive measures to prevent the entry of expired or non-compliant products into the market. The Deputy Chairman also emphasized the importance of implementing recommendations from the session.
The National Assembly's discussion highlights the significance of food safety in Chad. The country's food quality control system faces challenges in ensuring the safety of food products for consumers. The Assembly's focus on this issue demonstrates its commitment to addressing the concerns of citizens and promoting a safe food supply.
The Food Quality Control Center plays a crucial role in monitoring food products, but it requires support and resources to effectively carry out its mandate. The center's work is essential in preventing foodborne illnesses and promoting public health. Chad's authorities must prioritize food safety and take concrete steps to address the concerns raised by lawmakers and citizens.
The National Assembly's session on food safety is a step towards addressing the challenges facing Chad's food sector. The country's leaders must work together to develop and implement effective policies and strategies to ensure the safety and quality of food products. This will require a coordinated effort from government agencies, producers, and other stakeholders to protect public health and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- Chad's National Assembly has opened a file on food safety, highlighting concerns about non-compliant products and the need for enhanced monitoring and coordination.
