Author name: Umar Abubakar

LCBC Launches PARFEBALT Project to Restore Lake Chad Basin Ecosystems and Livelihoods N’Djamena, Chad – 4 May 2026 The Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), has officially launched the Project to Support the Restoration of the Ecological and Economic Functions of the Lake Chad Basin (PARFEBALT) in N’Djamena, Chad. The five-day workshop (4–8 May 2026) brings together key stakeholders from LCBC Member States, technical and financial partners, and regional institutions, marking a critical milestone in efforts to revitalize the Lake Chad Basin. The opening ceremony was chaired by the Honourable Minister of Water and Energy of Chad, the Executive Secretary of the LCBC, representatives of the African Development Bank, the African Union, and other distinguished partners. A Strategic Project for a Fragile Ecosystem The Lake Chad Basin is one of Africa’s most important transboundary ecosystems, supporting the livelihoods of over 45 million people across Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic. However, the basin has faced decades of environmental degradation driven by climate change, reduced water inflows, and growing pressure on natural resources. In response to these challenges, PARFEBALT has been designed as a regional technical support initiative to build the foundations for large-scale restoration of the basin’s ecological and economic functions, while strengthening the resilience of its populations. The project, financed by the African Development Bank to the tune of UA 7 million, will focus on enhancing knowledge of water resources, improving governance, and mobilizing investments for long-term revitalization efforts. Official Launch and Key Messages In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the LCBC Amb. Ibrahim Babani emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating: “The launch today represents a decisive step in affirming the shared, united, and visionary commitment of Member States of the LCBC to safeguard Lake Chad and its sustainable development.” He further highlighted the urgency of action in the basin: “The Lake Chad Basin… continues to face challenges of considerable magnitude, including climate variability and change, the gradual degradation of ecosystems, and increased pressure on natural resources.” According to the Executive Secretary, PARFEBALT will play a critical role in strengthening technical capacity, improving monitoring systems, and mobilizing resources for large-scale regional investments, particularly for improving the hydraulic capacity of the Chari–Logone and Komadugu-Yobe river systems. Objectives of the Kickoff Workshop The Kickoff Workshop serves as the official starting point for the implementation of PARFEBALT and aims to: The workshop will also include training sessions on project management procedures and a field visit to highlight key environmental challenges in the basin. Building Foundations for Long-Term Impact PARFEBALT is structured around three main components: Through these components, the project aims to generate bankable investment programmes, improve climate resilience, and enhance coordination among countries sharing the basin. The initiative is aligned with the LCBC Strategic Action Programme (2023–2035) and contributes to broader regional and global goals, including climate action, sustainable water management, and ecosystem restoration. The launch of PARFEBALT marks a renewed commitment by Member States and partners to restore livelihoods, ecosystems, and stability in one of Africa’s most vulnerable yet vital regions. 👉 Read the full Press Release here

LCBC Holds 71st Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers N’Djamena, Chad – 6 March 2026The Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) convened its 71st Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers in N’Djamena, Chad under the distinguished chairmanship of H.E. Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Energy of the Republic of Chad and current Chair of the Council of Ministers. Delegations from all Member States, technical experts, and development partners participated in the session. The Council formally adopted the 2025 Annual Activity Report of the Executive Secretariat  which highlighted the Commission’s progress in advancing regional cooperation, development projects, and stabilization efforts across the Basin. The report also noted persistent operational challenges, including financial constraints and insecurity. The Council further approved the 2026 Annual Workplan and Budget, valued at approximately 15.14 billion FCFA, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to strengthening climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, regional peace, and sustainable water resource management. In presenting the 2025 Annual Report, the Executive Secretary Amb. Mamman NUHU provided a brief overview of institutional performance, noting improvements in programme implementation, project monitoring, and international cooperation. He also underscored the need for strengthened financial contributions from Member States to ensure uninterrupted operations and effective delivery of the Commission’s mandate. This 71st Session marked the final appearance of Amb. Mamman Nuhu as Executive Secretary, concluding eight years of impactful service. The Council commended his leadership and approved the nomination of Amb. Ibrahim Babani as the new Executive Secretary, ensuring continuity and stability in the Commission’s executive management. Reflecting on his tenure, Amb. Nuhu expressed heartfelt appreciation to Member States, partners, and staff: “Serving as Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Head of Mission of the MNJTF has been a great honour. I leave office with immense pride in what we have accomplished together, and with abiding faith in the future of our region. May the Lake Chad Basin Commission continue to grow in strength, relevance, and impact.”Amb. Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary, LCBC / Head of Mission, MNJTF. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Commission’s programmes and priorities for 2026. With the adoption of key strategic documents and a smooth leadership transition, the LCBC is well positioned to deepen regional cooperation and enhance sustainable development, peace, and resilience across the Lake Chad Basin.