Tchad hosts groundbreaking drone technology forum to boost development
The first-ever Café Drone event took place in N’Djamena, marking a significant milestone for Chad’s technological advancement. Organized by Tech Africa, Tchad FlyingLabs, WeRobotics, and the National Centre for Development Research (CNRD), the forum explored the transformative potential of civilian drones in agriculture, livestock farming, and environmental management.
Drones as a strategic tool for Chad’s future
In his opening address, CNRD Director General Professor Mahamoud Youssouf Khayal emphasized that drones are no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day necessity. « Chad’s vast terrain, logistical hurdles, and urgent need for geospatial data make drones an indispensable solution, » he stated. The event brought together national and international experts to discuss how this technology can address pressing challenges.
Key challenges and solutions
Professor Khayal outlined three critical areas for progress:
- Regulatory framework: Balancing innovation with safety to ensure responsible drone use.
- Workforce development: Training young professionals for emerging tech-driven careers.
- Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between institutions, private sector, and researchers.
Real-world applications on display
Mahamat Issa Abakar, Director of Drone Tech Africa, showcased drone-assisted agricultural projects in Chad’s Guéra region, including footage of women farmers using drones to optimize crop yields. The goal? A potential 30% increase in agricultural productivity through precision farming.
Ali Mahamoud, CNRD’s Head of Services, highlighted drones’ role in preventing farmer-herder conflicts by monitoring transhumance routes, wildlife in Zakouma National Park, and mineral prospecting. « Data-driven insights from drones can transform how we manage resources and mitigate crises, » he noted.
Dr. Djimassal, a research specialist, demonstrated how satellite and drone imagery helps track vegetation, water bodies, and land use patterns across northern Chad. His analysis of forest cover, pastures, and flood zones underscored the technology’s versatility.
A call to action
The forum concluded with a panel discussion on integrating drones into Chad’s development strategy. Participants were urged to leverage this platform to forge partnerships and shape a national roadmap for drone technology adoption.
