Chad: Violence erupts in Tibesti province despite peace agreements

Renewed deadly clashes have broken out in the Miski area of Chad's Tibesti province, undermining previous peace efforts. On October 14, 2026, fighting occurred between security forces and the Miski Self-Defense Committee in the Emi-Koussi department, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Local leaders from Tibesti issued a collective appeal in N’Djamena on October 19, calling for immediate de-escalation and the implementation of the Bardaï agreements. They emphasized the need for a permanent dialogue mechanism to resolve long-standing tensions, particularly those surrounding gold mining resources. The ongoing instability has hindered the return of essential public services, including schools, healthcare, and administrative functions.

While a government mission led by Vice-Prime Minister Limane Mahamat recently visited the region to restore state authority and normalize gold mining zones, the recent violence highlights the fragility of the April 2025 peace agreement. Reports suggest that the monitoring commission intended to oversee the agreement was never formally established, contributing to the persistent instability in northern Chad.