Chad Lecture Notes

Overview

• Official Name: Republic of Chad
• Location: Landlocked country in North and Central Africa
• Borders: Libya (north), Sudan (east), Central African Republic (south), Cameroon and Nigeria (southwest), Niger (west)
• Capital: N'Djamena
• Population: Approximately 19 million
• Area: 1,300,000 km²
• Languages: Arabic and French
• Ethnic Groups: Diverse, over 200 different groups including Sara, Arabs, Kanembu
• Religions: Predominantly Islam (55.1%) and Christianity (41.1%)
• Government: Semi-presidential republic
• Current Leader: Mahamat Déby

Geography

• Zones:
  • Sahara Desert (north)
  • Sahelian Belt (center)
  • Sudanian Savanna (south)
• Lake Chad: Second-largest wetland in Africa
• Ecoregions: Varied, including savannas and woodlands
• Climate: Tropical weather system influences a wet season

History

• Ancient Settlements: Human activity since 7th millennium BC
• Empires: Sao, Kanem, Bagirmi, and Wadai were historical states
• Colonial Period: Conquered by France in 1920
• Independence: Achieved from France on August 11, 1960
• Civil Wars: Multiple conflicts, particularly notable in 1979 and 2005-2010
• Recent Political History: President Idriss Déby ruled for decades until his death in 2021; followed by son Mahamat Déby

Economy

• GDP: $32.375 billion (PPP)
• Main Industries: Oil (primary export), cotton
• Poverty: High rates, 80% live below poverty line
• Currency: Central African CFA franc

Demographics

• Population Distribution: Most live in the southern fifth of the country
• Urban Centers: N'Djamena, Moundou, Abéché
• Social Issues: Polygamy common, gender inequality in education and rights

Culture

• Languages: Over 100 languages spoken
• Cuisine: Millet-based dishes, fish, local beverages
• Music and Arts: Rich tradition with modern influences
• Sports: Football is the most popular

Challenges

• Political Instability: History of coups and authoritarian rule
• Human Rights Issues: Notable abuses, including limits on freedoms
• Economic Development: Struggles due to infrastructure and governance issues

Noteworthy Points

• Chad is a diverse country with a complex history of ancient civilizations and modern political challenges.
• The country’s geography plays a significant role in its cultural and economic activities.
• Oil and cotton are the main economic drivers, though the country faces significant development challenges.