N'Djamena: The Gateway to Chad's Rich Heritage

• HelloSalam
  [sa-laam]
• GoodbyeSalam
  [sa-laam]
• YesEeh
  [eeh]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeAkei
  [a-kei]
• Thank youSara
  [sa-ra]
• Excuse me/SorrySamakei
  [sa-ma-kei]
• How are you?Izay koua?
  [i-zay kou-a]
• Fine. And you?Aguin. Na koua?
  [a-guin. na kou-a]
• Do you speak English?Tayo nanglai?
  [ta-yo nang-lai]
• I don't understandHandeera
  [han-dee-ra]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNda ababa menu, akei
  [nda a-ba-ba me-nu, a-kei]
• I don't eat meatTayo ayzoune kahi
  [ta-yo ay-zou-ne ka-hi]
• Cheers!Ayo!
  [a-yo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNda atoune, akei
  [nda a-tou-ne, a-kei]

• Help!Sos!
  [sos]
• Go away!Hala!
  [ha-la]
• Call the Police!Tayo lissane polisse!
  [ta-yo lis-sa-ne po-lis-se]
• Call a doctor!Tayo lissane maitre!
  [ta-yo lis-sa-ne mai-tre]
• I'm lostTayo nangai
  [ta-yo nan-gai]
• I'm illTayo nangai
  [ta-yo nan-gai]

• I'd like to buy...Nda adi...
  [nda a-di...]
• I'm just lookingTayo nangai
  [ta-yo nan-gai]
• How much is it?Izay koua?
  [i-zay kou-a]
• That's too expensiveNda kafia
  [nda ka-fi-a]
• Can you lower the price?Tayo antoura kafia?
  [ta-yo an-tou-ra ka-fi-a]

• What time is it?Izay koua?
  [i-zay kou-a]
• It's one o'clockIzay sou kisoune
  [i-zay sou ki-sou-ne]
• Half past (10)Izay sou kisoune
  [i-zay sou ki-sou-ne]
• MorningAma
  [a-ma]
• AfternoonKousou
  [kou-sou]
• EveningSoulou
  [sou-lou]
• YesterdayAinai
  [ai-nai]
• TodayAmi
  [a-mi]
• TomorrowAminou
  [a-mi-nou]
• 1Ki
  [ki]
• 2Sou
  [sou]
• 3Kisou
  [ki-sou]
• 4Kikou
  [ki-kou]
• 5Kitou
  [ki-tou]
• 6Kisou
  [ki-sou]
• 7Kikou
  [ki-kou]
• 8Kitou
  [ki-tou]
• 9Kisou
  [ki-sou]
• 10Kikou
  [ki-kou]

• Where's a/the...?Izay a...
  [i-zay a...]
• What's the address?Izay soumou...
  [i-zay sou-mou...]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tayo nangai (a map)?
  [ta-yo nan-gai (a map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Izay soumo (bus)?
  [i-zay sou-mo (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Tayo nangai (to ....)
  [ta-yo nan-gai (to ....)]

N'Djamena, originally known as Fort-Lamy, was founded in 1900 by French colonial forces. It was established as a military outpost on the banks of the Chari River, strategically positioned to control the region and facilitate French colonial interests in Central Africa.

In 1973, the city was renamed N'Djamena, which translates to 'place of rest' in Arabic, by President François Tombalbaye as part of his campaign to Africanize the names of cities and institutions in Chad. This change was a significant step in the post-colonial identity formation of the nation.

N'Djamena has witnessed several civil conflicts, especially during the late 20th century. The First Chadian Civil War (1965-1979) and the subsequent conflicts in the 1980s significantly impacted the city's infrastructure and population, leaving scars that are still visible today.

In recent decades, N'Djamena has experienced periods of economic growth, driven by the oil industry. The discovery of oil reserves in the Doba Basin and subsequent exploitation has brought about significant changes in the city's economic landscape, attracting investment and development.

N'Djamena is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting the diverse ethnic groups of Chad. The city's markets, such as the Central Market and the Grand Marché, are vibrant hubs where one can experience the rich tapestry of Chadian culture through traditional crafts, foods, and music.

The city is home to several key educational institutions, including the University of N'Djamena, established in 1971. These institutions play a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural development of the city, fostering a new generation of thinkers and leaders.

As the capital city, N'Djamena is the political heart of Chad. It houses the Presidential Palace, the National Assembly, and numerous administrative offices. The city's political landscape has been shaped by various leaders and political movements throughout Chad's history.

N'Djamena, the capital city of Chad, is primarily accessed via N'Djamena International Airport (NDJ). The airport serves several international airlines, including flights from Europe, the Middle East, and other African countries. Once you arrive, taxis are available to take you into the city center. If you are coming from neighboring countries, buses and shared taxis are also options, though these can be less reliable and slower than air travel.

Within N'Djamena, transportation options include taxis, motorcycle taxis (locally known as 'clandos'), and minibuses. Taxis are the most comfortable option and can be hired for specific trips or for the entire day. Motorcycle taxis are cheaper but less safe. Minibuses are the least expensive option and follow fixed routes throughout the city. Car rental services are available but driving can be challenging due to traffic conditions and road quality.

The official currency in Chad is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash. ATMs are available in major banks and some hotels but may not always be reliable. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash for your needs upon arrival. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major banks.

N'Djamena is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and stay vigilant in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Areas such as Moursal and Chagoua have higher crime rates, so it's best to avoid these neighborhoods, especially after dark. Always keep your valuables secure and be cautious when using public transportation.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance, 18 for fire services, and 2251-4242 for medical emergencies. The General Hospital of N'Djamena is the main medical facility in the city. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Most pharmacies are well-stocked, but it's wise to bring any essential medications with you.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially in public and religious places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering mosques and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; men often greet each other with a pat on the back. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience N'Djamena like a local, visit the bustling markets such as the Grand Marché, where you can buy everything from fresh produce to local crafts. Engage with locals who are generally friendly and eager to share their culture. Don't miss visiting the National Museum of Chad to learn about the country's rich history. For a unique experience, enjoy a boat ride on the Chari River, offering picturesque views of the city and surrounding areas.