Country Risk Code: Extreme
Whether you are going for a visit or planning to do business in Chad, It's essential for you to get the right travel insurance before taking a trip to this unsettled country. Chad is characterised by political instability and insecurity; hence most standard insurance providers cannot provide adequate coverage for the country.
Chad - An Overview
Chad, a country located in Africa, is extensively rich in uranium, gold, and oil. Chad ranks second among Sahelian countries with a land surface filled with diverse geographic features. The Sahara Desert located in Chad is scantily inhabited by just 1% of the country's population. With the Sahara desert and Lake Chad, Chad creates a pleasant experience for tourists. The country is dominated by rural areas, with the capital N'djamena as the major urban city. With a cultural ancestry of 200 ethnic groups, this desert country ought to be unique because of its diversity.
Chad, a country located in Africa, is extensively rich in uranium, gold, and oil. Chad ranks second among Sahelian countries with a land surface filled with diverse geographic features. The Sahara Desert located in Chad is scantily inhabited by just 1% of the country's population. With the Sahara desert and Lake Chad, Chad creates a pleasant experience for tourists. The country is dominated by rural areas, with the capital N'djamena as the major urban city. With a cultural ancestry of 200 ethnic groups, this desert country ought to be unique because of its diversity.
Unfortunately, since its independence from France in 1960, the country has been ruined and battered by civil war and political unrest. Chad's long-term state of crisis and turmoil has made it one of Africa's poorest and least developed countries. The country's population majorly resides in the southern part of the country, where there's a more humid climate. Generally, Chad's economy thrives mainly on agriculture and livestock; however, in the past decade, the oil boom changed the economy. Chad is relatively unsafe to reside in because armed rebel groups actively operate in the country.
Potential Risks
There have been cases of the kidnap of foreign nationals to eastern Chad; hence there is a high risk of kidnap. According to FCDO, there is a risk of terrorism in Chad in which attacks could target anyone indiscriminately. The poor condition of roads makes the roads dangerous and increases the risk of being hijacked by criminals.
Flooding is also common, which damages roads and makes them impassable, especially during the rainy season. Motorbike accidents are also common. Chad is characterised by poor infrastructure, which extends to even the capital, N'Djamena. There is an insufficient supply of water and electricity.
Health Risks
Chad has poor healthcare as there are inadequate medical facilities. A variety of medicines are not available and even worse in rural areas. Public hospitals in N'Djamena sometimes embark on strike, so there might be access to healthcare services. Travelers should also note that hospital strikes are unpredictable as healthcare services may be inaccessible at any time. However, for travelers on an emergency basis, there are three expatriate healthcare centers that can attend to their needs. These hospitals are expensive and require payment in cash.
Waterborne diseases such as malaria and cholera are prevalent in Chad. There was a Cholera outbreak in 2011 in which over 1,500 were reported to have the disease. That outbreak claimed the lives of 30 people. Travelers are advised to take bottled water or boil water before drinking. Chad usually experiences Meningitis outbreaks, especially in the southern region, which stretches from Ethiopia to Senegal. Other diseases prevalent in Chad include typhoid, rabies, influenza, hepatitis A&B, malaria, and meningococcus.
Travel Tips
Choosing The Right Coverage For Your Trip To Chad
Most standard insurance does not provide adequate coverage for chad. International medical insurance is required in Chad. While getting travel insurance for your trip to Chad, ensure your insurer offers coverage for emergency evacuation. It's also vital that you get kidnap and ransom insurance.