AUDA-NEPAD and the Fonds Special pour la Préparation des Projets d’InfraStructure au Tchad (FSPPI) recently joined forces in N’Djamena, Chad. Over three days, from February 26th to 28th, 2024, the two institutions held talks aimed at charting a strategic course for Chad’s infrastructure, digitalisation, and capacity building. The workshop endeavoured to ensure that regulations and laws are aligned with the post-COVID-19 environment, integrating provisions for future advancements such as AI and advanced manufacturing techniques. Among the outcomes achieved were the formulation of a forward-thinking 10-year infrastructure development plan, the establishment of a digitisation strategy for FSPPI, and the creation of a comprehensive capacity development strategy. With the help of AUDA-NEPAD, this cooperative effort prepares Chad for transformative growth and development over the following ten years.

On the first day, teams were introduced, the work program was adopted, and there was a detailed discussion on integrated corridor and economic development techniques. A substantial portion of the day was dedicated to comprehending the African Infrastructure Database (AID), the Virtual PIDA Information Centre (vPIC), Job Creation Toolkit, and strategies for an integrated Data Management System.

On the second day, the attention turned to examining thematic work plans that include infrastructure, digitalization, and capacity building in breakout sessions. The afternoon seminars focused on creating a strategic infrastructure development plan, implementing a digital project information management system, and designing a comprehensive capacity enhancement program.

Day three was crucial in finalizing the results of the earlier sessions. The teams introduced and examined the strategic plans for infrastructure development, digitalization, and capacity building. These sessions were crucial in establishing a clear direction for the future. Elaboration was also done to align the road map and strategic direction to the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA).

Group Photo of AUDA-NEPAD and FSPPI Teams

The mission’s most significant accomplishment was creating a forward-thinking 10-year plan for infrastructure development, showcasing the commitment and vision of those involved. The formation of a digitization strategy for FSPPI was equally important to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of technological advancement. The mission successfully created a detailed capacity development strategy, emphasizing the dedication to ongoing growth and skill improvement.

The AUDA-NEPAD and FSPPI mission in N’Djamena was a gathering that involved exchanging ideas, views, and hopes for a brighter Chad, rather than just a series of talks. The program ended with uplifting concluding remarks delivered by FSPPI Vice Managing Director Mr Abdelkerim Sougour Bourigué, reflecting optimism and advancement. Chad and FSPPI are beginning an ambitious adventure guided by a roadmap designed to lead them to unparalleled growth and development over the course of the next decade with support from AUDA-NEPAD.