N’Djamena, Chad — In response to growing food insecurity driven by climate shocks and economic instability, the government of China has delivered a substantial shipment of 1,770 tonnes of rice to Chad. The donation was formally received today at the Radisson Blu hotel, presided over by Minister of Social Action Zara Mahamat Issa.

Strengthening bonds through shared resilience

During the handover ceremony, Minister Issa emphasized that this gesture transcends mere material support. It reflects the deep friendship and robust partnership between Chad and China, built on mutual respect and collective solidarity. Quoting a Chinese proverb, she remarked, “In adversity, a single grain of rice is worth its weight in gold.” She highlighted how this donation will directly benefit vulnerable groups—internally displaced families, refugees, and households grappling with multiple crises.

A timely lifeline for chadian families

Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, Director-General of Chad’s National Office for Food Security (ONASA), expressed deep appreciation for the timely aid. He noted that this contribution comes as a critical reinforcement to the national efforts led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to tackle widespread hunger and malnutrition. “This donation arrives when our communities need it most,” he stated.

Transparent distribution and long-term planning

ONASA has pledged to manage the rice stock with full transparency and efficiency. The agency has previously received multiple donations from China, including 5,000 tonnes in 2014 and 2017, 5,966 tonnes in 2019, and additional shipments of wheat and rice in 2022 and 2025. Each delivery has played a vital role in stabilizing food supplies during critical periods.

This latest shipment underscores the shared commitment of both nations to build long-term resilience among Chad’s population, supporting social stability and sustainable development.

China’s ambassador highlights deeper collaboration

Ambassador Wang Xining of the People’s Republic of China underscored the broader context of assistance. He noted that Chad faces compounded challenges from regional conflicts and extreme weather, both of which strain local food systems. He stated, “The Chinese government and people stand in solidarity with Chad. Every year, we provide cereal aid valued at nearly two billion CFA francs.”

Beyond emergency relief, Ambassador Wang highlighted China’s focus on sustainable solutions. He explained, “We believe in teaching people to fish rather than giving them fish.” In this spirit, Chinese agricultural experts have been deployed to Chad to introduce high-yield crop varieties and train local farmers in modern agricultural techniques.

He praised Chad’s agricultural potential—its abundant water resources, favorable climate, fertile soils, and industrious population—calling it a land of immense opportunity. This year marks a milestone, as both countries align their national development strategies. Additionally, China has implemented zero tariffs on goods imported from African nations with diplomatic ties, further strengthening economic cooperation.

The event concluded with a visit to the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in the 7th arrondissement of N’Djamena, where the rice shipment is being stored before distribution.