China’s rice donation strengthens Chad’s food security
The Republic of Chad has received a significant boost to its food security efforts following a generous donation of 1,770 tonnes of rice from the People’s Republic of China. The official handover ceremony took place in N’Djamena on June 16, 2026, at the Radisson Blu hotel, led by Minister of Social Action Zara Mahamat Issa.
A testament to enduring friendship
The donation comes at a critical time, as Chad faces mounting challenges including climate-induced droughts, economic pressures, and the strain of hosting displaced populations. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Zara Mahamat Issa emphasized that the gesture reflects more than just material support—it symbolizes the deep solidarity and mutual respect between the two nations. Quoting a traditional Chinese saying, “In disaster, a single grain of rice is worth an ounce of gold,” she underscored the lifeline this aid represents for vulnerable groups such as refugees, internally displaced persons, and families affected by recurring crises.
Expressing the government’s heartfelt appreciation, Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, Director-General of the National Office for Food Security (ONASA), highlighted the timely nature of the donation. He noted that this contribution aligns with the national strategy led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to combat food insecurity across the country. “This support will not only alleviate immediate hunger but also reinforce our long-term resilience,” he stated.
Transparent and inclusive distribution
ONASA, responsible for managing the rice distribution, has committed to a process that is both transparent and equitable. The agency has a proven track record in handling previous Chinese donations, including 5,000 tonnes in 2014 and 2017, 5,966 tonnes in 2019, and smaller but significant contributions of wheat and rice in 2022 and 2025. Each delivery has been accompanied by rigorous oversight to ensure fair access for communities in greatest need.
Beyond aid: fostering agricultural self-reliance
China’s Ambassador to Chad, Wang Xining, emphasized that while food aid provides urgent relief, sustainable solutions are the ultimate goal. “We recognize that giving a fish feeds people for a day, but teaching them to fish feeds them for a lifetime,” he remarked. In this spirit, Chinese technical missions are already on the ground in Chad, collaborating with local farmers to introduce high-yield crop varieties and modern agricultural techniques.
Ambassador Wang highlighted Chad’s vast agricultural potential—abundant water resources, abundant sunlight, fertile soil, and a diligent workforce. “With the right tools and knowledge, Chad can achieve food sovereignty,” he asserted. This year also marks a significant milestone, with both nations aligning their development agendas and China implementing zero tariffs on imports from African countries with which it maintains diplomatic ties.
The handover concluded with a visit to the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in the 7th arrondissement of N’Djamena, where the rice is being stored under secure conditions pending distribution.
