Chad
60 Years of Independence
60 years ago today on August 11th — just two years after becoming a republic, Chad gained independence from France - former coloniser who many claim has not completely relinquished political control over the nation. A delicate subject that has many Chadians questioning if the event is truly a celebration.
Field Marshal Dérby
As President Idriss Déby is also being awarded the honorary title of Field Marshal today for his efforts against Islamic terrorism in West Africa. Although criticised by some for his political relationships with the West, he has successfully positioned the ethnically-fragmented country as a critical military power in the Sahel region.
The young nation, despite being one the largest oil reserve holders in Africa, is ranked by the World Bank as last in the Human Development Index with 40% of its population living below the poverty line.
Much is left to be seen from the young nation that has neither been peaceful nor has it witnessed a smooth transition of power.
60 years of dynamic history, with much potential in view over the next 60 years to come.
01:58
Chad election: Campaigns start as opposition candidates lament violations
01:01
Senegal marks 64 years of independence
01:10
Somalia: Puntland refuses to recognise federal government after disputed constitutional changes
01:08
Chad: Mahamat Deby, Success Masra among 10 cleared candidates for presidential election
01:34
Sudan war: After escaping the war at home, refugees face hunger and diseases
Go to video
Refugee camps in Chad are overcrowded and running out of aid