August 12, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

Tchad celebrates 66 years of independence with grand military parade

Military parade in N'Djaména during Tchad's 66th independence celebration

Tchad commemorated its 66th anniversary of independence on August 11 with a majestic military parade held at the Nation Square in N’Djaména, alongside parallel ceremonies across major cities nationwide.

President Mahamat Déby Itno personally attended the N’Djaména parade, accompanied by two distinguished guests: Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, Chair of Madagascar’s Refoundation process, and General Horta Inta-A, Head of Guinea-Bissau’s transitional government.

The hour-long military display highlighted the prowess of Tchad’s Defense and Security Forces, which comprise over 5,000 active personnel, as confirmed by the General Staff of the Armed Forces.

Earlier that same day, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno paid tribute at the Monument aux Morts in N’Djaména, laying a wreath in honor of fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Tchad, once under French colonial rule, gained independence on August 11, 1960. Following his election as President in May 2024, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships as a cornerstone of national development.