New FAO Assessment Reveals Impact of Sudan Crisis on Agricultural Livelihoods and Food Security in Eastern Chad

In February 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through its Data in Emergencies Hub (DIEM) carried out an assessment in Eastern Chad to examine how conflict and displacement are affecting agricultural livelihoods and food security. DIEM assessments highlight the food security challenges faced in vulnerable areas and provide evidence to guide planning and interventions. 

The assessment collected both qualitative and quantitative data covering 5,257 permanent residents in Ouaddaï, Sila, and Wadi Fira provinces, as well as 363 households of Sudanese refugees and Chadian returnees. Key findings highlight that most permanent residents, returnees, and refugees reported farming as their main agricultural activity. While 66% of permanent residents reported agriculture as their primary source of income, this rate dropped to 19% for returnees, particularly due to difficulties accessing productive land. No refugee households reported earning income from land use. Food security analysis revealed a more fragile situation in Ouaddaï and Sila, compared to Wadi Fira. Residence status also impacted food security, with refugees and returnees reporting difficulties in accessing income-generating activities.

A new analysis based on a new round of data collection will be published in October 2025, providing updated insights into the evolving situation.

For more information, please read the FAO Assessment and reach out to Josselin Gauny ([email protected]).