A historic gesture of solidarity

N’Djamena — In a year marked by severe climate disruptions and economic strains, the People’s Republic of China has once again demonstrated its unwavering support for Chad by donating 1,770 metric tons of rice. The official handover ceremony took place today at N’Djamena’s Radisson Blu hotel, presided over by Chad’s Minister of Social Action, Mrs. Zara Mahamat Issa.

Beyond aid: a testament to enduring partnership

During the ceremony, Minister Issa emphasized that this donation transcends mere material assistance. It symbolizes the deep friendship and robust ties between Chad and China, built on mutual respect and solidarity. Quoting the Chinese proverb, “In times of crisis, a single grain of rice is worth its weight in gold,” she highlighted the vital importance of this aid for vulnerable populations—displaced families, refugees, and households grappling with recurring crises.

Strengthening national resilience

Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, Director-General of Chad’s National Office for Food Security (ONASA), expressed profound gratitude for this timely support, which arrives as the government, led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, intensifies efforts to combat food insecurity. He confirmed that this contribution will bolster ongoing initiatives to stabilize food supplies nationwide.

Transparent and equitable distribution

ONASA has pledged to oversee the distribution with the highest standards of transparency and efficiency. The agency noted its history of successful collaborations with China, having previously received 5,000 metric tons in 2014 and 2017, 5,966 metric tons in 2019, and additional shipments of wheat and rice in 2022 and 2025. This latest donation reaffirms both nations’ commitment to enhancing Chad’s agricultural resilience and long-term food security.

China’s holistic approach to cooperation

Chinese Ambassador to Chad Wang Xining underscored the broader context of China’s engagement. He explained that Chad faces compounded challenges—regional conflicts displacing thousands, extreme weather events, and economic pressures—all of which strain local food systems. In response, China has provided an average of nearly 2 billion CFA francs in annual cereal aid, complemented by grassroots initiatives from Chinese businesses and expatriate communities supporting local development projects.

Ambassador Wang clarified that while material aid addresses immediate needs, China’s long-term strategy focuses on sustainable solutions. “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach him to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime,” he remarked, highlighting ongoing agricultural missions in Chad. These teams work alongside local farmers to introduce high-yield crop varieties and modern farming techniques.

The Ambassador praised Chad’s agricultural potential, citing abundant water resources, ample sunlight, fertile land, and a dedicated workforce. This year marks a pivotal moment, with the alignment of national development plans and China’s announcement of zero tariffs on imports from African nations with diplomatic ties—a move that promises to further boost trade and cooperation.

The ceremony concluded with a visit to the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in N’Djamena’s 7th arrondissement, where the rice shipment is being prepared for distribution.