Violent clash in Southwest Chad leaves 35 dead, others injured

At least 35 people were killed and six others sustained injuries during a violent clash in southwest Chad on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

Government spokesperson Abderaman Koulamallah confirmed the figures in a statement released Thursday afternoon.

The incident occurred in a village in Logone Occidental province, a region frequently troubled by intercommunal violence.

Security forces responded quickly and brought the situation under control, according to the government.

Authorities dispatched a delegation to assess the situation and offer support to the affected communities.

The violence involved local farmers and nomadic herders, groups that often clash over land and grazing access.

Herders reportedly allowed livestock to graze on farmland, sparking the deadly confrontation.

Such disputes are tragically common in Chad, where land scarcity worsens local tensions.

Climate pressures and weak governance further aggravate competition for dwindling resources.

Despite various peace efforts, the cycle of violence continues to claim lives in rural areas.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as armed individuals attacked villagers during the clash.

Several homes and properties were reportedly destroyed in the confrontation.

Some residents fled to nearby areas, fearing further violence and retaliation.

Security officials said they are still searching for some of the individuals involved.

The government vowed to conduct a full investigation and hold perpetrators accountable.

Authorities acknowledged that long-term solutions are urgently needed to prevent similar outbreaks.

Previous interventions have failed to address the root causes of these deadly conflicts.

Experts point to poor land management and lack of conflict resolution mechanisms as major challenges.

Tensions between farming and herding communities have deep historical and cultural roots.

Efforts to mediate disputes have often lacked local support and sustainable enforcement.

Humanitarian groups expressed concern about the escalating violence and its impact on rural populations.

They urged the government to prioritize dialogue and equitable land policies.

Several aid organizations called for immediate assistance to the displaced and injured.

The violence disrupted local livelihoods and worsened food insecurity in the region.

Chad’s rural provinces are especially vulnerable

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