Chad floods leave victims in despair

One of the poorest and most arid states in the world, the landlocked nation of Chad has been hit by exceptional floods that have affected hundreds of thousands of lives.

In the beleaguered capital of N'Djamena, a field of tents has sprung up to provide emergency shelter and victims are striving to salvage what they can from the ruins of their homes.

In Walia, a poor neighbourhood to the south of the city, dozens of homes were ravaged last week after the Chari River burst its banks following torrential rains.

Water levels rose by up to five metres, which local officials said was unprecedented, and swept aside makeshift defences erected by desperate inhabitants.

The side of the road leading from Walia to the capital was a desolate sight of mattresses, saucepans and crockery that people had retrieved from their homes.

"We don't have a place to stay, our belongings are in the street," said Marie Noelle Aziza. "I lost my money and gold. I have nothing left".

Since the end of June, more than 340,000 people in Chad have been hit by floods, according to a provisional UN report.

In the area around Walia, more than 60,000 people have been affected, according to the authorities.

"Much of the district is under water," Mayor Mahamat Saleh Kerima said.

An elderly woman died in her home last week, but there were no other known casualties, he said.

He said 100 members of the police force had been tasked with evacuating residents.