Page 45 - Demo

CommunityISSUE 39 | JULY 2025 45Chad has substantial reserves of gold and uranium. However, these resources remain largely underdeveloped due to inadequate investment and a difficult business climate.The International Finance Corporation has consistently ranked Chad among the least favorable countries in the world for doing business%u2014one of the key reasons why mining has lagged behind the oil sector.8. The Kakaki: A Symbol of AuthorityTraditional ceremonies in Chad often feature the Kakaki, a long, metal trumpet measuring between three to four meters. The instrument, also known as Waza, symbolizes power and is typically used during state or royal events.The Kakaki is not unique to Chad%u2014it is also part of Hausa ceremonial traditions in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Burkina Faso.9. The Sahara Dominates the NorthRoughly one-third of Chad%u2019s territory is covered by the Sahara Desert, making its northern region arid and sparsely populated. The Sahara is the world%u2019s largest hot desert and the third-largest desert overall.The area receives minimal rainfall (300%u2013600 mm annually), and vegetation is limited to hardy species like the date palm. Among the rare wildlife that inhabit this region is the endangered northeast African cheetah.10. Grains Are the Staple DietGrain-based foods form the foundation of Chadian cuisine. Millet, sorghum, and rice are the main staples, used in dishes like boule%u2014a thick porridge eaten with sauces made from vegetables or meat.Agriculture varies by region: millet and maize dominate in the south, while hardier grains like sorghum are more common in the north.While I hate some of the things going on in Africa and would wish not to write about them because of how they get me angry, Chad remains a land of contrasts%u2014rich in history, diversity, and natural resources, yet burdened by poverty, underdevelopment, and climate challenges. Its untapped potential, however, is immense. From camel racing in the Tibesti Mountains to the cultural harmony among 200 ethnic groups, Chad is a country full of stories waiting to be told and possibilities waiting to be realized.We need faithfulness and faithful people who will change the story of Africa from such contrasts as %u201crich in natural resources but one of the poorest in the world%u201d narrative.Prayer for ChadI do not make this prayer so that some magic can happen, but so as to remind you, great people of Chad, that your history is beautiful, wealthy, healthy, and great. And you don%u2019t have to accept every nonsense thrown at you and which has made you live below your true abilities. So I pray that faithful people will rise among you who will stand to build your nation with love, care, selflessness, vision, truth, and great strength. Turn on the lights in your hearts and let them shine until every darkness in your midst is banished and you rise as the true expression of faithfulness and love.Be blessed indeed.