Connectivity in Chad: Limited WiFi availability, consider getting a local SIM card.

Connectivity in Chad: A Guide to Internet Access and Local SIM Cards

Connectivity in Chad: A Guide to Internet Access and Local SIM Cards

Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa, bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west. With a population of over 16 million people, Chad is one of the poorest countries in the world, with limited infrastructure and resources. This can make it challenging for travelers to stay connected while in the country. In this article, we will explore the internet situation in Chad, including the availability of WiFi and the benefits of getting a local SIM card.

What’s the internet situation like in Chad?

The internet situation in Chad is not ideal, with limited access and slow speeds. According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union, only 6.5% of the population in Chad has access to the internet. This is due to a variety of factors, including limited infrastructure, high costs, and low levels of digital literacy.

In terms of internet speeds, Chad ranks among the slowest in the world. According to a report by Speedtest Global Index, the average download speed in Chad is just 2.47 Mbps, which is significantly slower than the global average of 50.22 Mbps. This can make it challenging to browse the web, stream videos, or use other data-intensive applications.

Is it easy to find WiFi in Chad?

Finding WiFi in Chad can be challenging, especially outside of major cities. While some hotels and cafes may offer WiFi, the quality and reliability of the connection can vary widely. In many cases, the WiFi may be slow or unreliable, making it difficult to stay connected.

If you do need to use WiFi while in Chad, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and research your options before you arrive. Look for hotels or cafes that offer WiFi, and check reviews to see if other travelers have had success using the connection. You may also want to consider bringing a portable WiFi hotspot or a travel router, which can help you stay connected even in areas with limited WiFi access.

Is it worth getting a local SIM card in Chad?

If you plan to use your phone while in Chad, getting a local SIM card can be a good option. This will allow you to make calls, send texts, and use data while in the country, without incurring expensive roaming charges from your home carrier.

There are several mobile operators in Chad, including Airtel, Tigo, and Salam. Each of these operators offers prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased at their retail stores or from street vendors. The cost of a SIM card is typically around 2,000 CFA (about $3 USD), and this will include a small amount of credit to get you started.

Once you have a local SIM card, you can top up your account with additional credit as needed. This can be done at retail stores, street vendors, or through mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money or Orange Money. The cost of data and calls will vary depending on the operator and the plan you choose, but in general, prices are relatively affordable.

One thing to keep in mind when using a local SIM card in Chad is that network coverage can be limited, especially outside of major cities. If you plan to travel to more remote areas, it’s a good idea to check the coverage maps of different operators to see which one has the best coverage in your area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staying connected while in Chad can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. While the internet situation in the country is not ideal, there are still options for accessing the web, including WiFi at hotels and cafes, and mobile data through a local SIM card. If you plan to use your phone while in Chad, getting a local SIM card can be a good option, as it will allow you to make calls, send texts, and use data without incurring expensive roaming charges. Just be sure to research your options ahead of time, and plan accordingly based on your needs and travel plans.