More than 400 Chadian civilians who lost their jobs following the departure of French troops from Chad are urging the government to provide them with new employment opportunities and job benefits similar to those they previously had.
Hundreds of these former workers gathered in the capital, N’Djamena, on Monday, calling on authorities to address their plight.
Their demand comes after the last contingent of French troops exited Chad on January 31, following an order from President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno.
The withdrawal marked the end of France’s decades-long military presence in Chad. Before their departure, French forces handed over three military bases—Kossei in N’Djamena, as well as installations in Faya-Largeau and Abeche.
Mbaitoubam Bruno, the spokesperson for the displaced workers, spoke to VOA via a messaging app, stressing the urgency of government intervention. He stated that at least half of the affected individuals are already struggling to support their families.
“It is imperative for Chad’s government to ensure the security and social well-being of all former workers at French military bases by guaranteeing employment for each one of them,” Mbaitoubam said.
The Chadian government has yet to respond to the workers’ demands.
