Chad

About Chad

Capital

N’Djamena

Continent

Independence Date

11 August 1960

Official Language	Afrikaans
Second Language	Sara
Population	~19 million
Passport Color	Green
Passport Rank	#92
Dialing Code	235
Country TLD	.td

Chad Overview

Chad, officially the Republic of Chad (French: République du Tchad), is a landlocked country in Central Africa. It shares borders with Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest (across Lake Chad), and Niger to the west. The capital and largest city is N’Djamena.

Chad’s geography includes desert zones in the north, arid Sahelian plains in the center, and fertile lowlands in the south. The country is home to Lake Chad, one of Africa’s most important water bodies, and Zakouma National Park, known for its wildlife conservation. The economy relies heavily on agriculture, livestock, and oil production.

The population is ethnically diverse, with over 200 groups and more than 120 languages spoken. French and Arabic are the official languages. The currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF), and Islam and Christianity are the two dominant religions.

Quick Facts About Chad

Coordinates	15.4542° N, 18.7322° E
Bordering Countries	Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Nigeria, Niger
Region / Continent	Africa (Central Africa)
Total Area	~1,284,000 sq km
Population Density	~13–15 people per sq km
Highest Point	Emi Koussi – 3,445 m
Major Rivers	Chari, Logone, Bahr Aouk
Climate Type	Desert in the north; tropical in the south
Famous For	Lake Chad, Sahara Desert, Zakouma National Park, cultural diversity
Major Landmarks	Lake Chad, Zakouma National Park, Tibesti Mountains, Ennedi Plateau
Official Language	French, Arabic
Currency	Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Government Type	Unitary Presidential Republic (Transitional)
Time Zone	UTC+1 (WAT)
Major Exports	Crude oil, cotton, livestock, gum arabic
Visitor Entry	Visa required for most nationalities; apply via embassy or eVisa