N’Djamena, June 16, 2026 — In a year marked by severe climate disruptions and economic strain, the People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its commitment to Chad by donating 1 770 tons of rice. The official handover ceremony took place today at the Radisson Blu hotel, presided over by Chad’s Minister of Social Action, Zara Mahamat Issa.

A partnership rooted in shared resilience

During the event, Minister Zara Mahamat Issa emphasized that this donation transcends mere material assistance. It symbolizes the deep friendship and robust partnership between Chad and China, built on mutual respect and collective support. Referencing a Chinese proverb, “In times of hardship, a single grain of rice is worth an ounce of gold,” she highlighted the lifeline this aid represents for vulnerable groups—internally displaced persons, refugees, and families grappling with crises.

Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, Director-General of Chad’s National Office of Food Security (ONASA), echoed this sentiment, expressing profound gratitude for the timely assistance. He noted that this contribution strengthens the Government of Chad’s ongoing efforts—led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno—to combat food insecurity nationwide.

Commitment to transparent distribution

ONASA, tasked with overseeing the rice distribution, has pledged to ensure a process that is transparent, efficient, and fair. Kosseï pointed out that this is not the first time China has stepped in; past donations include 5 000 tons in 2014 and 2017, 5 966 tons in 2019, as well as wheat and rice contributions in 2022 and 2025.

This latest delivery underscores the shared resolve of Chad and China to build resilience among populations facing recurring vulnerabilities, fostering both social stability and sustainable development.

China’s ambassador highlights long-term support

Wang Xining, China’s Ambassador to Chad, addressed the gathering by acknowledging the severe strain Chad faces due to regional conflicts and extreme weather. Refugee influxes and climate shocks have intensified pressure on local food systems. “The Chinese government and people stand firmly with Chad in these challenging times,” he stated.

He revealed that Beijing allocates an average of nearly two billion CFA francs annually to cereal aid for Chad. Beyond direct food assistance, Chinese enterprises and expatriate communities actively engage in community-driven projects, including equipment donations and grassroots initiatives.

“We recognize that material aid alone cannot solve all problems,” Ambassador Wang acknowledged. “True progress comes from empowering communities. As the saying goes, ‘Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him to fish and you feed him for life.’ That’s why China sends agricultural experts to work alongside local farmers, introducing high-yield crops and modern farming techniques.”

Stressing Chad’s untapped potential, he cited abundant water resources, abundant sunshine, fertile soils, and a hardworking population as key assets for agricultural growth. This year marks a pivotal moment, with both nations aligning their development strategies. Additionally, 2026 sees China implementing zero tariffs on goods imported from African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing, further facilitating trade and cooperation.

The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in N’Djamena’s 7th arrondissement, where the rice shipment is stored and prepared for distribution.