Chad: Eid al-Adha to begin September 1

Event

Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) this year beginning on Friday, September 1. During the festivities, which last up to four days, some local businesses may close in Muslim-majority areas. Heavy road traffic is likely as large numbers of people return home during the holiday. Other transportation disruptions (crowded airports, etc.) are also to be anticipated during this period due to an increased number of travelers. While celebrations typically remain peaceful, the terrorist threat will remain elevated during this period as groups, including Boko Haram and their affiliates could step up attacks by targeting public places.

Context

Eid al-Adha is one of the most widely observed holidays in Islam and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. According to Islamic customs, worshipers usually slaughter a sheep or goat to share the meat with their family and neighbors.

Over 50 percent of Chad’s population is Muslim (followed by Christian denominations).

The country is currently facing a heightened terrorist threat, particularly in the Lake Chad region. Boko Haram has launched numerous attacks in the country since 2015. In May 2017, Boko Haram attacked a Chadian military base in the Lake Chad region.

Advice

Individuals in Chad are advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or gathering.

On a more general note, due to the high terrorist threat, report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities and remain vigilant at all times, especially when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (e.g., public transportation, train stations, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.). For these and other security reasons, many Western governments advise against all travel to areas near the borders with Niger, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Nigeria, and the Lake Chad region. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to or within the country.