China’s generous rice donation strengthens Chad’s fight against hunger

N’Djamena, June 16, 2026 — In the face of persistent climate challenges and economic pressures, the Republic of Chad has received a substantial lifeline from its longstanding ally, the People’s Republic of China. The Chinese government delivered a donation of 1,770 metric tons of rice, marking another chapter in a relationship built on mutual support and shared resilience.

Minister highlights the deeper meaning of the donation

During the official reception ceremony held at the Radisson Blu hotel in N’Djamena, Minister of Social Action Zara Mahamat Issa emphasized that this donation represents far more than nutritional aid. « This gesture embodies the deep friendship and strong partnership between our nations, rooted in mutual respect and solidarity. » She recalled the Chinese proverb, « In times of crisis, a single grain of rice is worth its weight in gold », underscoring the vital role this assistance plays for vulnerable populations, including displaced families, refugees, and those affected by recurring crises.

Government agencies commit to transparent distribution

The National Food Security Office (ONASA) has been tasked with managing the rice distribution. Its Director-General, Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, expressed deep gratitude for the timely support, noting that it bolsters government initiatives led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to combat food insecurity. « This donation arrives at a critical moment when families across Chad are struggling to meet basic nutritional needs, » he stated. ONASA has a proven track record in handling such donations, having previously managed multiple rice and wheat deliveries from China in 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2022.

Chinese ambassador outlines long-term agricultural cooperation

The Chinese Ambassador to Chad, Wang Xining, highlighted the broader context of his country’s engagement. « Chad currently faces immense pressures from regional conflicts and extreme weather patterns, which are severely impacting local food security. » He revealed that China provides an average of nearly two billion Central African francs (CFA) in annual cereal assistance to Chad, in addition to contributions from Chinese businesses and expatriate communities through social responsibility projects.

Ambassador Wang stressed that while material aid addresses immediate needs, China’s long-term approach focuses on building self-sufficiency. « Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach him to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime. » To this end, Chinese agricultural experts are deployed across Chad to introduce high-yield crop varieties and train local farmers in modern agricultural techniques.

He praised Chad’s agricultural potential, citing abundant water resources, abundant sunlight, fertile soil, and a hardworking population. This year’s donation coincides with the alignment of national development plans between the two countries and the implementation of zero tariffs on imports from African nations with diplomatic ties to China.

The ceremony concluded with a visit to the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in the 7th arrondissement of N’Djamena, where the donated rice will be stored and distributed according to need.