In Abu Dhabi, Chad has secured two-thirds of the financing required for its five-year National Development Plan (NDP), mobilizing USD 20.5 billion through commitments from both public and private partners. The announcement followed the UAE–Chad Trade and Investment Forum, held on November 10–11, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. The event represents a decisive step for “Chad Connection 2030,” the country’s long-term transformation agenda.
A Major Breakthrough for Chad’s Development Vision
According to official figures, Chad has already secured two-thirds of the USD 30 billion needed to implement its NDP. Moreover, this milestone marks the beginning of an unprecedented dynamic in the country’s pursuit of economic diversification and structural reform.
During the forum, 40 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with private-sector partners in strategic fields such as energy, agriculture, mining, textiles, tourism, education and industrial development. In addition, Chad received financing commitments from 30 international donors and multilateral development banks, including the World Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, the African Development Bank, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa and Afreximbank. Consequently, the country is now better positioned to advance high-impact projects across priority sectors.
An International Launchpad for “Chad Connection 2030”
The forum also served as the official international launch of Chad’s National Development Plan. The strategy seeks to expand trade openness, attract investment and stimulate inclusive growth. Furthermore, the event drew more than 2,000 participants, reflecting strong global interest in Chad’s economic potential.
Several high-level dignitaries attended, including:
- President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno of Chad
- Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
- President Faure Gnassingbé of Togo
- Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine of Niger
- UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi
- Nigeria’s Minister of Finance Wale Edun
Their presence underscored the strategic importance of the event for regional cooperation and global partnerships.
Strategic Announcements and Strengthened Relations
Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the forum, the UAE announced that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries is nearing completion and could be finalized by the end of the year. This agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade, stimulate investment flows and deepen long-term cooperation.
What “Chad Connection 2030” Intends to Achieve
The National Development Plan is structured around four pillars and 17 programs. Together, they aim to transform the country’s economy and society through:
- Strategic infrastructure expansion, including electricity, water, digitalization, transport corridors and improved navigability of major waterways.
- Strengthened social policies, particularly in education, youth, health, vocational training and employment.
- Accelerated economic diversification, promoting Made-in-Chad industries and boosting sectors such as agriculture, livestock, fisheries, hydrocarbons, mining and tourism.
- A more attractive business climate, supported by economic diplomacy and targeted reforms.
Ambitious Targets for 2025–2030
The plan aims to generate 8% annual GDP growth between 2025 and 2030. As a result, Chad intends to reach middle-income status while expanding opportunities for its population. Key objectives include:
- Electricity access reaching 90% in urban areas and 60% nationwide
- Drinking water for 11 million additional people
- An increase of at least eight years in life expectancy
- A substantial expansion of the national road network
- Doubling agricultural production
- Mobile-phone penetration rising from 65% to 80%
- A 50% reduction in maternal and neonatal mortality
- Primary-school enrollment increasing from 43% to 80%
A Turning Point for Investment in Chad
With USD 20.5 billion already mobilized, Chad is entering a new stage of economic planning and international outreach. Therefore, the country aims to position itself as a stable and attractive destination for investors across the Sahel and beyond. The Abu Dhabi forum marks a significant step toward this vision, strengthening partnerships and opening a new chapter in Chad’s development trajectory.
