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On Friday, February 1, 2008, three rebel factions in Chad joined forces in an effort to violently overthrow the current government of President Idryss Deby. As of today, the fighting in the capitol city of N'Djamena has ended as rebel forces regroup outside the city. It is not known whether another siege will occur since France has now pledged to help defend the city with its current government still intact. Some residents of N'Djamena who fled earlier are now beginning to return upon the government's urging. Much of the city's central downtown area, including the market place, was damaged or completely destroyed and looting was prevalent throughout the city. Residents of N'Djamena are having to face the realities of the aftermath of another war. What they owned before the conflict may now be damaged, destroyed or stolen. This includes vehicles, housing, personal effects and food. Food prices have skyrocketed as supplies are severely limited.
Misson:Chad has learned the head of the organizations we support, Pastor Bako, is safe, as is his family. Mardochee Nadoumngar, Director of ESTES, and his family are also safe. The Village Altonodji orphan center in Moundou has been unaffected by the hostilities in the capital city. Mission:Chad supports 17 orphan children in N'Djamena through their participation in a foster care program. These orphans live in residential homes located throughout the city of N'Djamena. We have not yet received confirmation of their well-being or that of their caregivers.
Please continue to pray for the people of Chad as they continue to trust God in the midst of these difficult circumstances. As hostilities end, the Chadian people impacted by the rebellion will once again try to put their lives back together. Please pray specifically for the orphans and widows who are affected by these recent events as they are least able to help themselves. The needs will be even greater than before the breakout of war; we can help minimize the effects of the war and provide some degree of aid and comfort by donating to a special fund Mission:Chad has established specifically for the widows and orphans of N'Djamena.
May God richly bless you for the compassion you have shown and will continue to show for our brothers and sisters in Chad!
The Mission:Chad Board
For the most recent news of Chad, go to Reuters Africa News Service
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