Children are at risk
Children in Chad face many issues including a lack of access to education and healthcare. They often live in poverty and are forced to work. One out of five children die before reaching 5 years of age. Between the ages of 4 and 18, children in Chad spend an average of only 5 years in school. Women lack access to health care, which results in both a high teenage pregnancy rate and a high maternal mortality rate. Conflict-induced displacements leave children more susceptible to child labor and exploitation.
1.8M
Children under 5 are suffering from acute malnourishment
Food is scarce
Chad has one of the highest hunger rates in the world: 2.2 million people are undernourished. Among them, almost 1.8 million children under 5 years of age suffer from acute malnutrition.
The communities rely on livestock and agriculture. Agriculture, which is often affected by rains, floods and droughts, produces less than the food needed to feed families. Malnutrition is therefore a problem in both rural and urban regions.
39%
Of children between 5 and 17 work
Children are exploited
Despite recent efforts made by the government, children in Chad continue to be at risk. Few children continue their education after primary school, though it is mandatory.
Due to economic difficulties, many children have to work. This means that 39% of children between the ages 5 and 17 work. Working conditions are very harsh and can lead to violence, exploitation and child trafficking.
450,000
Refugees from neighbouring countries live in Chad
Forced migration
Migration is a major factor contributing to the humanitarian crisis in Chad. Currently over 450,000 refugees from neighboring countries like Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Nigeria live in Chad.
Long-term emergency assistance is needed in the southern and eastern regions of Chad. Efforts to protect asylum seekers’ rights are met with many challenges. Poor living conditions, and limited employment opportunities, also fuel sexual and gender-based violence.
Together we can make a difference for children in Chad
Are supported in the community
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
Are supported on their way to independence
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SOS Children’s Villages Chad supports families in the community so that children can thrive. Mariam and her four children were one of the many families that sought help from SOS Children’s Villages in Chad. The family were facing some financial difficulties but striving hard hard to make ends meet. The children attend school and Mariam’s eldest daughter is training in sewing (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Chad).
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives