Chad - the Ennedi
 

Hi

I'm looking for some up to date advice on security in Chad. I'm travelling there next month with an Italian operator, and heading up to the Ennedi region and from there to the Ounianga lakes. Am wondering whether this part of the world is subject to the same problems in Niger - ie. nasty fundamentalist groups with a penchant for kidnapping westerners. Has anyone been there recently (am thinking not too many as it's been summer, but could be wrong) that could give me a good picture of the current situation?

All research so far suggests that it shouldn't be a problem and AQIM and associates aren't active in this region, and I'm pretty confident there's not much to worry about, but it would be good to hear from someone with any recent details or thoughts.

Thanks!

A chinese national was kidnapped near the Ennedi a few days ago:
AFP: Chinese national kidnapped in Chad, taken to Sudan: official

"The unnamed Chinese national was in Am-Djarass "to supply water to the town," the official said.
"The kidnappers crossed the border with their hostage and elements of the joint Chad-Sudan force were mobilised to find the Chinese man," he said."

Am-Djarass is described as being in the Ennedi region.

Hardly anyone goes to north Chad these days as a tourist - an unpredictable destination long before AQIM came on the scene.
But I take it you are going with Spazi who know the area better than any European operator, so I am sure they will go where it is safe or they have made arrangements with the local Tubu to lay off.

Could not find Am-Djarass, but it looks like engineers are the new tourists, as far as targets go.

Ch

Thanks for the advice. Yes, am going with Spazi and they come highly recommended. Looks like it should be a fantastic trip.

Cheers.

Sounds like an amazing trip, I wouldn't head up there with my own vehicle though. I am doing the Lake Chad Route myself with my MAN camper towards the end of the year. Enjoy the tour!