By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Chad, April 27, 2026 - What began as a disagreement over access to a water well has turned into one of the deadliest outbreaks of communal violence in eastern Chad in recent months, leaving at least 42 people dead and several others injured.
The clashes, which unfolded in Wadi Fira province near the Sudan border, reportedly started between two families before quickly escalating into retaliatory attacks that spread across multiple villages. Homes were burned and entire communities drawn into the conflict as tensions spiralled.
Authorities say at least 10 people were injured and are receiving treatment, while security forces have since moved in to contain the violence.
Deputy Prime Minister Limane Mahamat, who visited the affected area, said the situation is now under control following what he described as a swift military response. He added that both mediation efforts and legal action are underway to address the aftermath and establish responsibility.
The incident highlights deeper, long-standing tensions in Chad, where disputes over water and grazing land frequently spark violence between communities. These conflicts have become more intense in recent years, driven in part by climate pressures and competition over scarce resources.
More from Kenya
The situation has also been complicated by the ongoing war in neighbouring Sudan, which has pushed large numbers of refugees into eastern Chad, increasing pressure on already limited resources.
Despite repeated cycles of violence, rights groups have warned that delayed responses and weak accountability have allowed such clashes to persist.