Chad: State of emergency declared in Sila and Ouaddai regions August 18

Event

President Idriss Deby has declared a state of emergency in Sila and Ouaddai regions on Sunday, August 18. The decision came due to ongoing inter-ethnic violence which has left at least 109 people dead over recent weeks. The state of emergency is expected to last a minimum of three months. Military forces are to be deployed to both regions in order to protect the communities and disarm civilians.

Further violence is possible in the affected areas in the near term.

Context

Cattle herders of the Zaghawa ethnic group and farmers from the Ouaddian community have had infighting throughout the month of August and conflict has been exacerbated by drought and population growth. Weapon ownership further complicates the ability to reduce the conflict.

Advice

Individuals in Chad are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and anticipate heightened security measures.