Chad launches first fertilizer plant and national AI strategy

Chad has launched two major initiatives aimed at industrial and technological modernization. In Al-Koudou, the foundation stone was laid for the country’s first fertilizer production plant. The project, led by the German-based AFCON Group, is estimated to cost approximately 472.255 billion CFA francs. The facility is expected to initially produce between 100,000 and 160,000 tonnes of organo-mineral fertilizers annually, with long-term goals to reach up to 400,000 tonnes. The plant will utilize local resources, such as Borkou natron and animal waste, to support crops like sorghum, rice, maize, and cotton. The project is projected to create 250 direct jobs initially, potentially growing to 500 direct and over 1,500 indirect jobs.

Simultaneously, Chad has begun the pre-validation process for its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2026-2030 in N’Djaména. Supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the strategy aims to integrate AI into sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and public administration. Officials emphasized that the technological approach will be tailored to the country’s specific needs and data sovereignty rather than strictly following foreign models.