Chad hosts several hundred thousand refugees,2 Chadian returnees and internally displaced persons. According to UNHCR figures, Chad was hosting over 1.1 million refugees in March 2024. The rapid deterioration in security in the region led to a significant increase in the number of vulnerable populations. This situation, combined with insufficient agricultural production, now poses a major risk of conflict in the region.
To reduce this risk, AFD and the European Union have been supporting the Inclusive Development in Hosting Areas in Chad (Diza) plan since 2018. This plan aims to improve living conditions for the affected populations in three particularly tense regions in the east of the country. The main objectives are to guarantee access to food, basic services and social protection.
One of the key measures implemented under the Diza plan is cash transfer. This scheme provides direct cash assistance to beneficiaries. Over 3,800 households receive 15,000 CFA each month, i.e. around €23. This unconditional distribution targets the most vulnerable families, thus encouraging household consumption, increasing their income and purchasing capacity thanks to a regular, long-term income, and allowing the creation of income-generating activities or training in such activities.
“I have a job in a hotel, in catering, and I have been finding it hard to cope. Since I started receiving cash, it has been a great help.” Afaf Ousman, Cash transfer beneficiary
“I attended a commercial training course and we studied management: expenses, profits… Thanks to the weekly market, the profits from my business supplement my income. My children can go to school and I take care of them.” A mother from Sila
Photo Copyright: AFD