According to UNICEF, more than 856,000 Sudanese refugees and over 273,000 Chadian returnees have entered Chad since the conflict erupted in Sudan in April 2023, as of 8 June 2025. A sharp rise in arrivals followed Rapid Support Forces attacks on Internally Displaced Persons camps in Zamzam and Abou Shouk in mid-April 2025.
Alongside Uganda, Chad is a primary destination due to its proximity to the active conflict zones in Darfur, and its accessible border checkpoints, making it a key refuge for fleeing Sudanese civilians. Additionally, many Chadian—who have a long regional history of migration to Sudan for work, family ties, or to escape past conflicts—have returned, following Sudanese refugees. Escalating violence forced them to flee back to Chad, where these returnees now face similar humanitarian challenges as refugees.
Despite ongoing efforts, the response faces serious funding and logistical constraints. UNICEF’s funding gap stands at 60%, with $29.1 million still needed to sustain operations and prevent further deterioration of conditions in Eastern Chad. These challenges are further compounded by health emergencies, including a cholera outbreak in West Darfur and a measles outbreak at the Tine transit site.