N’Djamena, June 16, 2026 — In a year marked by severe climate disruptions and economic pressures, the People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Chad by donating 1 770 tonnes of rice. The handover ceremony took place today at the Radisson Blu hotel, presided over by Chad’s Minister of Social Action, Zara Mahamat Issa.

Strengthening bonds through shared resilience

During the event, Minister Zara Mahamat Issa emphasized that this donation represents far more than a shipment of food. It embodies the deep friendship and robust partnership between Chad and China, built on mutual respect and shared solidarity. Quoting the Chinese proverb, “In times of crisis, a single grain of rice is worth its weight in gold,” she highlighted the lifeline this aid provides to vulnerable groups, including displaced families, refugees, and households grappling with food insecurity.

Ahmat Mahamat Kosseï, Director General of Chad’s National Food Security Office (ONASA), echoed this sentiment, expressing profound gratitude for the timely assistance. He noted that this contribution bolsters the government’s ongoing efforts—led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno—to combat food insecurity across the country.

A commitment to transparency and efficiency

ONASA, tasked with overseeing the distribution of the donated rice, has pledged to ensure a fair, transparent, and efficient process. The agency has a long history of collaborating with China, having previously received multiple rice donations, including 5 000 tonnes in both 2014 and 2017, 5 966 tonnes in 2019, and additional shipments of wheat and rice in 2022 and 2025.

China’s long-term vision for Chad’s agricultural future

Wang Xining, China’s Ambassador to Chad, underscored the broader goals behind this humanitarian gesture. He acknowledged the compounded challenges Chad faces—regional conflicts, climate extremes, and a growing refugee crisis—all of which strain local food systems. “The Chinese government and people stand in solidarity with Chad,” he stated. “Each year, we provide cereal aid valued at nearly 2 billion CFA francs. Beyond donations, Chinese businesses and expatriate communities actively engage in local social responsibility projects, from donating equipment to supporting community initiatives.”

Ambassador Wang also stressed that while material aid addresses immediate needs, sustainable solutions require long-term investment. “We believe in teaching people to fish rather than giving them a fish,” he said, referring to China’s deployment of agricultural experts who work alongside Chadian farmers to introduce high-yield crops and modern farming techniques.

Highlighting Chad’s untapped agricultural potential—abundant water resources, fertile land, and a diligent workforce—he expressed confidence in the country’s ability to achieve food self-sufficiency. This year’s donation coincides with a pivotal moment: the alignment of Chad’s and China’s national development plans and the implementation of zero tariffs on goods from African nations with diplomatic ties to China.

The ceremony concluded with a tour of the Chagoua FDAR warehouse in N’Djamena’s 7th arrondissement, where the rice shipment will be stored before distribution.