The Sahel region of Africa, with its rapidly growing population, is facing an increasing number of major challenges. Desertification, water and food shortages, slow economic development, political instability, armed conflict, extremist movements - including jihadist terrorism targeting Christians and other religious communities - threaten to plunge the region into a permanent humanitarian crisis of historic proportions. All of this, in addition to human suffering, could result in tens of millions of people migrating to Europe. Recognizing that the problems in the Sahel could lead to an unprecedented humanitarian disaster, the Hungarian government is supporting Chad, one of the few stable but fragile countries in the region, through the Hungary Helps Program.
In 2024, the Hungary Helps Agency reached new milestones in its role in the Sahel region, particularly in Chad. The agency opened a local office and launched complex humanitarian projects aimed at significantly improving the living conditions of local populations and refugees. These activities focused on medical care development, humanitarian assistance, as well as agricultural and educational programs, as highlighted below.
Healthcare Development
Thanks to the medical missions of the Hungary Helps Agency, residents of rural refugee camps gained access to healthcare, often through emergency interventions. As part of the program, medicines and modern medical equipment were delivered to rural hospitals, many of which had not previously received international aid. A unique initiative involved optometrist training and the provision of modern ophthalmic tools, enabling the examination of nearly 500 people and providing eyeglasses to 260 individuals, bringing fundamental improvements to their quality of life. During the development of the Central Hospital’s infrastructure, equipment was provided to enhance the training of local healthcare workers. Additionally, Chad’s first pacemaker implantation marked a significant milestone in the country’s healthcare system development.
Training and Self-Sustainability Programs: Empowering Local Communities
Educational initiatives of the Hungary Helps program took center stage in 2024. Sewing and IT courses not only imparted practical skills but also created opportunities for participants to start their own businesses. Agricultural training provided local farmers and livestock breeders with modern knowledge, promoting self-sufficiency and increasing their economic opportunities. The programs also included humanitarian operations management training, equipping professionals in refugee care and crisis management with specialized expertise. These trainings contribute to the long-term efficiency of institutions operating in the region.
Humanitarian Assistance
The humanitarian activities of the Hungary Helps Agency included the provision of tents, food packages, hygiene kits, and school supplies to refugees and communities affected by floods. These donations not only met basic needs but also offered hope for refugees and local communities to rebuild their lives. In flood-affected areas, emergency aid alleviated crises, ensuring survival and the conditions for a fresh start.
Cultural and Educational Infrastructure
The renovation of the Baba Moustapha Cultural Center in N’djamena created new opportunities for education and knowledge dissemination. The facility hosted various training sessions, including sewing courses specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Graduates of these courses received sewing machines, enabling many to start their own businesses. These programs significantly enhanced the resilience and social cohesion of local communities.
Agriculture
The Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) is actively engaged in agricultural development projects in Chad, collaborating with local plant and animal research institutes. These initiatives focus on improving crop cultivation, livestock feeding practices, and animal husbandry. Over the next two years, MATE will implement a large-scale camel milk development project aimed at enhancing local production and processing capacities. The program seeks to promote sustainable agricultural practices and boost economic opportunities for the region.
Long-Term Impact and Sustainability
The activities of the Hungary Helps Agency in 2024 aimed not only at immediate crisis management but also at promoting sustainable development in the Sahel region. Through the integration of medical, educational, and humanitarian programs, the agency laid a strong foundation for the long-term stability and prosperity of the region. Improved healthcare, expanded educational opportunities, and support for the local economy’s self-sufficiency have all contributed to fundamentally transforming and improving the lives of those living in the area.
