The conflict in Darfur and rampant corruption have fuelled an insurgency within Chad, while pushing away foreign investors interested in developing the nation's oil reserves.
The Chadian army has redeployed to defend the government from Chad's own rebels.
In Koukou there are no paved roads, and outside access at the end of the rainy season is limited to planes using a well-worn dirt landing strip. People rush to greet each flight delivering supplies and aid workers.