Current Time in Bardaï

Culture of time in Chad

Culture of time in Chad

Appointment times are merely a guideline

In Chad, the sense of "being on time" is loose, and meetings and events often start late. Relationships with people tend to be valued more than time.

Markets and buses operate flexibly

Outside of urban areas, markets and buses do not have clear schedules, and they generally operate flexibly, starting as soon as people gather.

Religious events and prayers affect time

In areas with a large Muslim population, prayer times are an important factor in determining daily schedules, and they also affect work and gathering times.

Values ​​of time in Chad

Relationships are valued more than time

In Chad, there is a culture that values ​​relationships and conversations with the people in front of you more than punctuality, and the "quality of the encounter" may take priority over the time of an appointment.

A lifestyle that is not too rushed

In Chad, people do not feel that they are "pressed for time," and they generally live at a relaxed pace. The culture places importance on mental space.

A sense of time that moves with nature

Especially in rural areas, people live their lives according to sunrise and sunset rather than the clock, and the rhythm of nature is the basis of their sense of time.

Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or relocating to Chad

Time delays should be expected

It is not uncommon for meetings, transportation, and meeting times to be delayed. It is reassuring to plan ahead.

Don't stick to a fixed schedule

To build smooth relationships with local people, you will need to temporarily be flexible with your sense of time. Patience and tolerance are important.

Consideration of religious times is necessary

In areas with a large Muslim population, it is considered rude to schedule a meeting during prayer time, so you should check your schedule in advance.

Interesting facts about time in Chad

There is an expression "African time"

"African time" is a term widely known in Chad and is used somewhat humorously to refer to things starting later than the scheduled time.

Life begins with the sunrise

In rural areas, electricity is unstable, so people generally start their activities with the sunrise and go to bed promptly after sunset.

Buses depart "when they are full"

In Chad, "number of passengers" takes priority over timetables, and it is common for buses to depart as soon as all the passengers are present. People's movements are the basis rather than the clock.