The Republic of Chad is set to redefine its role in continental unity with a historic policy shift. From January 1, 2027, all African citizens will be granted visa-free entry to the country, as announced by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno during the African Water Forum in N’Djamena.
This bold move underscores Chad’s commitment to fostering seamless mobility across Africa. The decision was unveiled in front of regional leaders and dignitaries gathered for the high-profile event, signaling a new chapter in the nation’s diplomatic and economic engagement with the continent.
Speaking with conviction, the Chadian head of state framed the initiative as a testament to Chad’s longstanding tradition of hospitality and integration. « Chad stands at the crossroads of Africa, bridging human encounters between West and East, North and South, a land of welcome and unity, and a champion of African solidarity », he declared.
The president went further, emphasizing the historic nature of the announcement: « Beyond this gathering and true to our ideals of African integration and free movement, from this podium and on this pivotal day, I declare that Chad—the land of Toumaï, cradle of humanity—will open its doors and abolish visa requirements for all Africans starting January 1, 2027 ».
This progressive policy places Chad among a select group of African nations that have eliminated visa barriers for continental travelers. It aligns the country with peers like Benin, Togo, Rwanda, Ghana, Gambia, Seychelles, and the Republic of the Congo, which recently adopted a similar open-border approach.