Chad onape empowers 200 youth with green skills in N’Djamena

In a bold move to tackle youth unemployment and promote environmental sustainability, the Municipality of N’Djamena has joined forces with the National Office for Employment Promotion (ONAPE) to launch an initiative that will train and integrate 200 young people into green professions.

The launch ceremony, held on July 15, 2026, at the Kuweïte space in Farcha’s first district, marks the beginning of a structured program designed to equip young individuals with marketable skills in sustainable agriculture. This effort is part of the Project for Youth Integration in Green Trades (PROJEV), a government-backed initiative aimed at fostering durable employment opportunities.

a collaborative push for youth employment

Mahamat Alhafiz Idriss, head of the agricultural credit division at ONAPE, emphasized that the project’s core mission is to provide young participants with the tools and resources needed to establish income-generating ventures. The initiative aligns with broader national goals to address the persistent challenges of youth unemployment and underemployment in Chad.

Djamal Moussa Yaya, mayor of the first district, highlighted the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in transforming youth unemployment from a pressing issue into actionable solutions. “This partnership demonstrates how coordinated efforts can create real-world opportunities for our young people,” he stated.

Nassouradine Abakar Kessou, Director General of ONAPE, painted a stark picture of the employment landscape, noting that despite Chad’s vast potential, youth unemployment remains a critical obstacle. “Green professions offer a dual advantage: they not only create jobs but also contribute to environmental conservation,” he explained.

N’Djamena’s mid-term vision takes shape

Seid Adji Seid, Deputy Chief of Staff for the N’Djamena Mayor’s Office, represented Mayor Sanoussi Hassana Abdoulaye, outlining the city’s MIDI Plan. This five-pillar strategy focuses on civic engagement, vocational training, entrepreneurial support, urban agriculture, and cultural industries—all tailored to meet the aspirations of a youthful population seeking meaningful livelihoods.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Seid Adji Seid delivered a powerful message: “From today onward, you are no longer job seekers waiting for opportunities—you are the driving force behind N’Djamena’s green transition. These professions are not temporary fixes; they are the foundation of an economy that balances progress, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.”

Following their technical training, the 200 participants will be allocated a 10-hectare plot where they will cultivate crops, putting their new skills into practice while contributing to the city’s sustainable development goals.