N'Djamena's Resilience Shines as Proactive Flood Measures Keep Crisis at Bay

At the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers, the capital of Chad, N'Djamena, has emerged as a remarkable example of resilience in the face of climate change and extreme weather events. The city, which regularly grapples with the threats posed by torrential rains, has managed to mitigate the impact of severe flooding that has plagued the region for decades. The recent catastrophic flooding in 2022, which resulted in widespread displacement and devastation, left many residents on high alert as the rainy season approached once more in 2024. As October 2024 unfolded, the Chari River reached levels of 8.18 meters—one meter higher than in the previous catastrophic year—but the city's response this time was markedly different. Since July 2024, flooding had tragically claimed the lives of 576 people and left nearly 2 million homeless across the country. Yet, N'Djamena's proactive measures and preparedness significantly softened the blow. Central to this success was the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER), a collaborative effort backed by the International Development Association (IDA) and the World Bank. Launched in October 2023, PILIER provided critical funding of approximately $13 million to implement preventive measures aimed at managing flood risks effectively. This included a thorough cleaning of the city’s 250-kilometer water drainage network, which had suffered from neglect over the years. The project also financed the installation of large-capacity motor pumps to facilitate the rapid discharge of rainwater into the Chari River. Sarmadji Oumar, the director of roads at N'Djamena's city hall, highlighted the project's pivotal role in improving the city’s resilience: "Today we escaped disastrous floods. In 2022, we had more than 70,000 people affected. This time, we saved the furniture with fewer than 3,000 households impacted." The proactive measures ensured that rainwater could flow more freely, and early interventions by road crews monitored drainage channels closely. The importance of the PILIER project was echoed by local residents. Imam Sheikh Adam Ismail of the Idara Mosque expressed his gratitude for the improvements, stating, “It’s been about ten years since we’ve seen machines from the town hall cleaning canals.” The changes have made access to community hubs like mosques and markets easier, allowing daily life to continue despite the seasonal rains. Rémadji Aline, a market vendor, noted, “Despite the heavy rains, customers are reaching the market,” reflecting the positive economic impact of the improved drainage systems. In addition to infrastructure improvements, the government has taken steps to bolster emergency response capabilities. This includes raising emergency dikes and reinforcing vulnerable points along the Chari River, which have proven effective against what some describe as a century-old flood. The comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate risks but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience against climate change. PILIER extends beyond flood prevention; it encompasses emergency response strategies, including the provision of life-saving equipment and supplies for potential disaster victims. Canoes, emergency kits, and awareness programs aimed at local communities further exemplify the project’s commitment to preparedness and recovery. As N'Djamena navigates the challenges posed by climate change, the lessons learned from this year's floods will likely shape future urban planning and disaster management initiatives across the Sahel. The proactive stance taken by local authorities and their collaboration with international partners illustrates a vital commitment to resilience in a region where climate-related disasters are becoming increasingly frequent. The city stands as a testament to the adage that preparation is the key to survival, showcasing how a combination of foresight, community involvement, and strategic investment can foster a more resilient urban environment.