Shelters for refugees and returnees in Chad

20240526 080630120 IOS 2 Scaled
Region: Africa
Country: Chad
Year: 2024
Shelter: RHU
Project size: 101-500
Modality: Other
Sector: Shelter
Partner: International Organization for Migration
Support:

In recent years, we have supported Sudanese refugees in Chad, as well as returnees, host communities, and internally displaced people in Sudan. With the support of a private sector partner, we provided the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with 144 shelter frames last year, equipped with solar-powered lamps.

In Deguessa, Sila Province, IOM upgraded the shelters using locally sourced materials to create semi-durable homes for Chadian returnees. The new structures replaced wooden emergency frames, significantly improving durability, protection from rain, and thermal comfort in hot weather.

Sourcing cladding and construction materials, such as mats, cement, sand, and gravel, from local markets contributed to the regional economy and supported small businesses.

In May 2024, our technical team trained IOM personnel and local communities in Deguessa. Both returnees and host community members were trained, and participated in the building process, receiving compensation for their work. This initiative helped strengthen community resilience by building local capacity in shelter construction.

The solar lamps help reduce risks at night and are particularly valuable for women and children, in and around the camps.

  • IMG 6004 Scaled
  • 20240526 072915138 IOS Scaled
  • IMG 6010 Scaled
  • 20240526 080630120 IOS 2 Scaled

FAQ: Sudanese refugees in Chad

By 2025, more than 870,000 Sudanese refugees had crossed into Chad since the war began.
At the same time, more than 300,000 Chadians returned home from Sudan.
Together, this sudden arrival has made Chad one of the main refugee‑hosting countries in Africa.

Since conflict started in Sudan in April 2023, millions of people have been forced to leave their homes.​
By early 2025, over 3 million people had crossed into nearby countries, including Chad, to find safety. Some walk for days to get there.
Chad is now one of the main countries receiving people fleeing the conflict.

Most refugees in Chad are Sudanese. Many are children.
About 6 out of 10 refugees in Chad are under 18 years old.
Most families fled with very little.
Often they arrive with only the clothes they were wearing.
Many mothers travel alone with their children.

Most people first arrive at border crossing points.
Later they move to refugee settlements or camps in eastern Chad. These places are often in remote desert areas.

Daily life is difficult.

Families in Chad mainly need safe shelter, clean water, enough food, and basic health care, as well as protection from violence and access to schooling for their children

Shelter and basic services are a priority so families can live with safety and dignity.

Related projects