Visa-Free Push: President Mahamat Idriss Déby announced Chad will abolish entry visas for all Africans from Jan. 1, 2027, making Chad the eighth country to join the visa-free movement and positioning N’Djamena as a regional gateway. Diplomacy & Security: Russia’s Lavrov met Chadian FM Abdoulaye Sabre Fadoul, reaffirming plans for deeper political dialogue, visa-free travel for diplomatic/service passports, and cooperation on peace and counter-terrorism. Water Governance: The African Water Forum opened in N’Djamena with leaders calling for urgent action on water access, funding, and regional cooperation. Economy & Energy: Chad’s growth outlook is improving, with the World Bank upgrading 2026 growth to 5.2%, while separate coverage highlights rapid solar power expansion and broader energy momentum. Regional Conflict Spillover: Nigerian forces under Operation Hadin Kai intercepted a Chadian woman smuggling drugs and toxic chemicals toward the Lake Chad Islands, targeting logistics for terrorist groups. Rights & Justice: Amnesty and other groups renewed pressure over ICC-related attacks and urged arms embargoes tied to alleged atrocities in Sudan. Environment: UN/WMO reporting says the Bodele Depression in Chad remains the world’s top dust hotspot, with major health and economic impacts.