Concerns are mounting in Chad over the disappearance of Mahamat Moussa Hilaiwou, a geological engineer and lecturer-researcher from the University of Ndjamena, who has been missing for a month in the country’s northern region.
Hilaiwou embarked on a geological research mission on January 26, 2025, traveling to Oum-Hadjer, Kalahit, Amdjarass, Bardai, Faya, Zouar, and Arada. Communication ceased on February 15th. Colleagues last saw him after he left to find spare parts for his vehicle, which had broken down near Zouarke. His family reports his last phone signal was traced 39 kilometers east of Zouarke, but no further information has emerged.
Frustrated by the perceived lack of official action, Hilaiwou’s family and the National Union of Higher Education Teachers and Researchers (SYNECS) are demanding urgent intervention. “We call on the authorities to do everything possible to find Dr. Hilaiwou. He is a respected academic and an expert committed to Chad’s development. His disappearance must not go unanswered,” a family member stressed.
SYNECS, in a statement released on March 20th, reiterated its deep concern. “Each day that passes increases our concern, but we remain confident that the efforts of the government and his family will lead to a positive outcome,” the union stated.
Family and colleagues remain hopeful for Hilaiwou’s safe return. However, the search is complicated by the harsh desert conditions of the region.
CA/te/fss/abj/APA