The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Chad at Level 3, indicating travelers should reconsider travel to the country due to crime, terrorism, and minefields.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The U.S. Embassy in N’djaména does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit cannot recommend a particular individual or location and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.

Review OSAC’s Chad-specific webpage for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

There is serious risk from crime in N’djaména. Incidents of petty and violent crime remained steady in 2018 after experiencing increases in 2017, based on anecdotal reporting from private sector organizations and the expatriate community. However, year-to-year and geographic comparisons of crime trends remain difficult to assess because there are no official crime statistics in Chad, and because many incidents go unreported.

Criminals have targeted expatriates more frequently in 2018, including with assaults. In June, six armed assailants shot a Chinese businesswoman to death during daylight hours outside her business located near the Embassy’s housing area in a heavily trafficked area of N’djaména. Police responding to the scene learned that at least one of the perpetrators was an employee of the victim, leading to the conclusion that the murder was an inside job. Police apprehended three of the six perpetrators within one week of the murder.

While home invasions directed at expatriates are rare, five known cases occurred in 2018. Robberies of expatriate residences involving local domestic employees also occur. Workplace theft is prevalent due to economic stagnation, which has resulted in widespread salary reductions and unpaid wages.

Remain vigilant at public gatherings and any locations expatriates frequent, including markets, hotels, restaurants, bars and places of worship. The risk of criminal targeting greatly increases at night, especially if out alone or in isolated areas.

Criminals may target drivers and passengers for crimes of opportunity in N’djaména and throughout the country. Thieves may open unlocked doors or reach through open windows to steal items left in plain sight. In some cases, criminals may stage accidents to divert attention or increase the vulnerability of potential victims. Criminals may follow expatriates from major markets or grocery stores to rob them upon arrival at their destination. Drivers should drop passengers within a compound if possible; otherwise, passengers should remain in the vehicle until the compound door is open, while keeping watch for any potential attackers lying in wait.

Carjacking directed at expatriates appears to have waned slightly during 2018, with an average of one or two known cases each month versus as many as three a month reported throughout 2017. Reports of carjacking and roadside robbery/extortion are more common outside of N’djaména, but these crimes occur nationwide. Banditry remains a problem outside of major towns, especially in the east.

Upticks in crime historically occur around holidays throughout Chad, particularly around Eid-al-Fitr and during the Christmas season. This year’s trends appeared similar to those reported in 2017, with some reports of holiday carjacking as well as armed robbery and burglary of occupied residences around holidays.

Other Areas of Concern

Avoid large concentrations of uniformed security elements and use extreme caution when visiting areas in which the military operates, particularly near Chad’s borders. The government has increased border patrols, and border security remains elevated.

Chad’s borders with Libya and Sudan are generally off-limits without specific permission from the Government of Chad. The Chad-Libya border is an active conflict zone. Landmines may still be active, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains from the Chad-Libya conflict. Remain on paved or well-traveled roads.

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Vehicular accidents are the greatest risk to personal safety to travelers in Chad. Fatal traffic accidents are a daily occurrence. Hazards include erratic driving, poor road conditions, and poor condition of vehicles -- many of which do not meet international safety standards. Use extreme caution when driving in Chad, and use seat belts and other safety equipment scrupulously. Even minor injuries can be life threatening because of limited and slow emergency medical response.  

Roads become more dangerous at night throughout the country as they are usually poorly lighted – if at all – even in N’djaména. Pedestrians may use the roads to push carts transporting goods to/from the markets; many wear dark clothing that renders them difficult to see at night. The risk of head-on collision is heightened by the fact that some cars and trucks do not have operable headlights or only have one functional light, which can make them appear as motorcycles at night. While N’djaména and some other cities have a few traffic lights, they are often inoperable.

Chadian roads are in generally poor condition and are often unpaved; however, the government has invested in several major road projects over the last few years. Most major streets in N’djaména are paved, and additional roadwork is ongoing. For travel outside the capital, use appropriately equipped, rugged vehicles with high ground clearance and four-wheel drive; travel in convoys of two or more vehicles due to the risk of vehicle damage, breakdowns, becoming stuck in sand/mud, and carjacking. Carry recovery equipment and extra fuel because, outside N’djaména, “fuel stands” can be up to several hundred kilometers apart and often sell poor quality fuel sold in glass or plastic bottles. Travelers have found themselves stranded for hours waiting for assistance. Stranded motorists and nighttime travelers are at greater risk of criminal targeting.

Drivers should ensure that the vehicle has a copy of a valid insurance policy and registration papers. Authorities require a local license and insurance to self-drive. Acquire the license from the Chadian National Police (PNT) for a fee without a driving test or written exam upon presentation of a valid foreign license. Several commercial insurance companies in Chad provide coverage for local and expatriate drivers.

Individuals involved in a traffic accident should:

• Contact emergency services at 2020 or +235-6627-7090;
• Stop the vehicle exactly where the accident occurred, even if it is in the middle of an intersection or traffic circle;
• Remain in the vehicle until the PNT arrive on scene and complete an accident report and sketch; and
• Present copies of your passport photo page, driver’s license, and insurance to the PNT. Carry at least two copies of these documents.

The police may require drivers to follow them to the nearest police station to complete a police report in the event of an accident. U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section at +235-2251-5017 if arrested or detained for an extended period. Those involved in an accident may need to transport injured persons to the hospital, particularly if the injured party’s vehicle is impounded or unusable.

Restrict road travel outside of N’djaména to daylight hours. The majority of cases of highway banditry occur under the cover of darkness. Avoiding isolated areas devoid of security forces, traveling in convoys, and forgoing nighttime travel will greatly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to a carjacking or armed robbery. If stopped, do not resist assailants unless there is an imminent danger of physical harm. 

Security force shakedowns have occurred, although such incidents predominantly affect motorists driving cars with local license plates. While checkpoints have become less frequent, especially in N’djaména, there have been some reports of extortion at checkpoints, especially late at night.

For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s Report Driving Overseas: Best Practices and Road Safety in Africa.

Public Transportation Conditions

U.S. government personnel may not use taxis, microbuses, motorcycles, and bicycles as a mode of transportation.

Terrorism Threat

Local, Regional and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There is considerable risk from terrorism in N’djaména. U.S. citizens should remain aware of the potential for terrorist activity throughout Chad. Violent extremist organizations (e.g. Boko Haram, ISIS-West Africa, ISIS-Libya, and al-Qa’ida-affiliated groups) can easily cross borders and target Westerners, local security forces, and civilians in the Lake Chad Basin and the Sahel.

In 2018, Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa conducted various attacks against Chadian military forces in the Lake Chad region. Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa actions have displaced thousands of Chadians.

There has also been an increase in violent actions by Chadian rebel groups from across the Libyan border. Government response has raised concerns about the potential for reprisal attacks in N’djaména by group members or sympathizers. 

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

The Chadian government and people are generally friendly towards U.S. citizens, but a number of violent extremist groups in the Lake Chad region and the Sahel have expressed or signaled their intention to target Westerners.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

There is considerable risk from civil unrest in N’djaména. Chad’s recent history is one of political tensions, rebellions, and coup attempts. The current Chadian government has a strong executive branch, headed by President Idriss Déby Itno and dominated by his Zaghawa ethnic group, which controls the political landscape.

Civil Unrest

Public demonstrations have been illegal since the 2016 elections. However, the government has been generally lax in enforcing this ban. When demonstrations do occur, they are under tight police supervision.

Avoid demonstrations and large crowds, as even peaceful gatherings can turn violent unexpectedly. Individuals participating in demonstrations/crowds may throw rocks at random passers-by, vehicles, and security forces, which may escalate the situation. Security forces typically react quickly and harshly to protest activities, and frequently use teargas and/or warning shots to disperse demonstrators. Checkpoints may become more frequent during times of protest; police presence may increase or become more visible around such activities. Another reason to avoid demonstrations is the threat of crime, as large crowds attract petty criminals and pickpockets.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

During the rainy season (May-October), roads are often impassable due to standing water/mud.

In the summer, the temperature can climb to 130 degrees Fahrenheit; take precautions to stay hydrated and minimize sun exposure.

During the dry season (November-April), dust storms diminish air quality, interfere with road safety and visibility, and often lead to flight cancellations.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Due to Chad’s limited industrial base, there are few reported industrial accidents. Oil fields in the south have stringent safety and security regulations, although Chinese oil companies’ standards have not prevented significant spillage.

Electricity supply is poor in N’djaména and worse elsewhere. Most expatriate homes have generators to supplement city power.

The government of Chad has selectively restricted internet and mobile communications services during periods of heightened tension; this includes social media platforms such as Facebook, and text messaging services including SMS and WhatsApp. Cellular networks suffer from capacity issues during normal operating conditions; in some cases, the government has shut down cellular networks entirely. In general, the government does not permit satellite phones to be brought into or used in the country without specific written permission.

Personal Identity Concerns

Same-sex sexual activity is newly illegal in Chad; since 2017, the law considers it a misdemeanor. The law does not protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Economic Concerns

Despite limited resources, Chadian customs officials make occasional efforts to enforce copyright laws, normally by seizing and burning counterfeit medicines, CDs, and mobile phones. However, imported counterfeit pharmaceuticals, watches, sports clothing, footwear, jeans, cosmetics, perfumes, videos, music, and other goods are available in modern stores. Avoid street vendors selling knock-off designer products. Chad does not regularly track and report on seizures of counterfeit goods.

Kidnapping Threat

Kidnapping of Westerners remains a concern following an incident in which kidnappers took a French expatriate in the spring of 2017. Kidnapping for ransom is especially prevalent along Chad’s borders with Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Kidnappings tend to involve local communities and tribes that straddle the border.

For more information, review OSAC’s Report, Kidnapping: The Basics.

Police Response

Police response and emergency services vary depending on the service area, with more capabilities in major cities. Police response is generally good in N’djaména, but remains limited in peripheral areas. Police and emergency response times are slower than in Western countries.

Police officers may request that drivers pay fines for infractions directly to them, including after an accident. Avoid paying fines directly to police officers. If you refuse to pay directly, the police officer will typically direct you to transport him/her to the nearest police station to pay, since most police do not have vehicles and/or gas.

Local security force posture around the Presidential Palace Compound on Avenue Félix Éboué in N’djaména remains elevated. Avoid acting suspiciously, taking pictures, walking, and/or loitering, in this area, as the Presidential Guard has responded to such activities in an extremely aggressive manner.

Do not take photos without a permit from the Government of Chad. Authorities rigorously enforce photography restrictions, particularly near government, diplomatic, and military sites. While it is possible for visiting journalists and others to receive permission to take photos, most working-level security authorities operate under the assumption that a foreigner who is taking photos is breaking the law. Authorities have detained visitors and seized photography equipment for taking photographs without purchasing a permit. For more information, review OSAC’s Report Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Chad is not a signatory to the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties; however, the Government of Chad does fulfill generally accepted responsibilities of signatories by providing for the safety and security of foreign citizens, officials, diplomatic missions, and foreign interests in the country. If security forces detain or arrest a U.S. citizen, s/he should request that the police contact the U.S. Embassy; you may need to repeat the request.

Crime Victim Assistance

Police, Fire Department, and Ambulance: 2020 (cell phone) or +235-6627-7090.

Lack of actual street addresses may pose challenges when reporting an emergency. Callers should describe the location of the emergency using landmarks, which may be difficult for foreigners or anyone unfamiliar with the area. Travelers may encounter language barriers when requesting assistance; while French and Chadian Arabic are widely spoken in N’djaména, French is less commonly spoken elsewhere. Very few Chadian police officers speak English.

Police/Security Agencies

The Chadian National Police are responsible for day-to-day law enforcement within major cities. The Gendarmerie Nationale (rural police, under the Ministry of Defense) and the Garde Nationale et Nomade du Tchad (National and Nomadic Guard of Chad) also exercise law enforcement powers in rural areas.

Medical Emergencies

Medical care is limited within N’djaména, and difficult to find outside of major cities. Chad has limited and extremely expensive public ambulance services. In case of emergency, consider transporting the patient with private vehicles.

Public health sector strikes are common.

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

For medical assistance, refer to the Embassy/Consulate’s Medical Assistance page.

Available Air Ambulance Services

Following the 2017 merger with Europ Assistance, International SOS Clinic is the only facility capable of stabilizing and transporting patients via air ambulance to a site capable of handling emergency and trauma care. Response time is between 12-24 hours. Evacuation is limited to two patients per aircraft. Call +1-215-942-8226 or +1-215-942-8189 for the U.S. office. Call +235.22.52.25.01 for the Chad office.

Insurance Guidance

All hospitals require full payment in cash for services upon entry. Ensure you have enough cash for care when going to the hospital.

Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Consume only water in bottles unless you use a purifier or some other form of distillation. For more information, refer to OSAC’s Report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Standing water provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes that spread malaria throughout the central and southern regions of Chad. Malaria is endemic; malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended.

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Chad.

OSAC Country Council Information

Chad has an active OSAC Country Council, which meets quarterly. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Africa team with any questions.

U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information

U.S. Embassy N’djaména, Chagoua Roundpoint, B.P. 413, N’djaména

The American Citizen Services Section of the U.S. Embassy in N’djaména is open to the public for emergency services (no appointment necessary) Monday-Thursday from 0730-1700 and Friday from 0730-1230, excluding U.S. and Chadian national holidays.

Embassy Contact Numbers

Embassy Operator: (235) 2251-5017

Marine Post One: (235) 2251-5017 x24288

Website: https://td.usembassy.gov/

Embassy Guidance

The U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide consular services outside of N’djaména is extremely limited. All U.S. citizens visiting or working in Chad should have evacuation plans that do not rely solely on U.S. government assistance as a primary means of leaving the country.

U.S. citizens traveling in Chad are encouraged to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service that helps the U.S. Embassy disseminate information about safety conditions and contact travelers in an emergency. Find updated travel information on the U.S. Embassy website.

Additional Resource: Chad Country Information Sheet