People groups of Chad
Chad has a population of 6.2 million (1993). Approximately 34% are nominal Christians, 11% evangelical Christians.
Landlocked in the heart of Africa. The northern half of the country is within the borders of the Sahara Desert, where rain is exceedingly rare; this is one of the reasons why living conditions in Chad are very poor. Health facilities are extremely limited. There has been a constant struggle with families because of the recurring droughts.
Since independence in 1960, this country has been constantly involved in civil wars, often backed by neighboring countries. Recently, an agreement has been reached about the northern part of the country, which was claimed by Libya.
The population is divided over about 180 ethnic groups. Those in the north are generally Muslim, most southerners are Animists or Christians. Missionary work continues despite the upheavals of the past decades. There are about 250 missionaries in the country, almost all of them are involved in the southern end of the country.