Violent clashes broke out on Friday between two communities in southwestern Chad, resulting in the deaths of at least 25 people and injuring 22 others. The conflict, sparked by a dispute over a water source, required the intervention of security forces and led to the deployment of a government delegation. The clashes occurred in the Koula area, near the border between the provinces of Hadjer-Lamis and Bahr El-Ghazal.
According to a local deputy, the violence began when a Kreda cattle herder came to water his livestock at a nearby pond, leading to a dispute with a member of the Kouka community. The situation escalated when the herder pulled out a gun and shot the Kouka community member in the foot. The confrontation quickly turned into armed clashes between the two communities, with 22 injured individuals being transported to Ngoura hospital.
The situation appeared to be under control by Sunday, thanks to the intervention of security forces. The Ministry of Territorial Administration reported 25 deaths and 22 injuries in a statement. Thirty-nine people were arrested and transferred to N'Djamena for further judicial proceedings. A government delegation, led by several ministers, visited the area on Saturday to promote calm and initiate dialogue between the communities.
Access to water is a recurring source of tension in Chad, which is considered one of the African countries most vulnerable to climate change. Disparities in access to water between urban and rural areas remain significant, with less than 10% of Chadian households having continuous access to clean running water in 2024, according to the UN.
This is not the first time that disputes over water resources have led to violent clashes in Chad. In late April, a dispute over a well in the Wadi Fira province resulted in 42 deaths and 10 injuries. The government has been working to address these issues, but the country's vulnerability to climate change and limited access to resources continue to exacerbate intercommunal tensions.
The Chadian government has been facing various challenges, including conflicts between communities, banditry, and terrorist threats. The country has also been working to strengthen its security forces and improve its humanitarian response to crises. The recent clashes highlight the need for sustained efforts to address the root causes of intercommunal violence and promote peaceful coexistence.
The international community has expressed concern over the situation in Chad, with the UN and other organizations calling for calm and urging the government to address the underlying issues driving the violence. Chad's neighbors and international partners have also offered support to help the country stabilize and develop its regions.
Key points
- At least 25 people killed and 22 injured in intercommunal clashes over water access in southwestern Chad.
- The conflict highlights the recurring issue of access to water as a source of tension in Chad.
- The government has deployed a delegation to promote calm and initiate dialogue between the communities.
