A Boudouma Arab semi-nomadic herder burning pastureland to fertilize the soil and regenerate fresh grass (Chad). Arab community has been in Chadian territory for hundreds of years, mostly in south central Chad. Despite their widespread diffusion, these Arabs represent a single ethnic group composed of a multitude of tribes. The Arabs of Chad are semisedentary (or seminomadic) peoples who herd their camels, horses, cattle, goats, and sheep on the plains in the Chad lake area. In the region around N'Djamena some Arabs have adopted a more settled existence. In the rainy season, Arab groups spread out through the region; in the dry season, they live a more settled existence, usually on the dormant agricultural lands of their sedentary neighbors. Although it might seem destructive, burning grassland is actually a traditional land management practice that supports the pastoral way of life in semi-arid regions such as Chad. Arab nomads in Chad, like many other pastoralist cultures, sometimes burn grasslands for several practical reasons related to livestock herding. The most common reason is the renewal of pasture and the improvement of soil fertility. Burning removes old, dry, and unpalatable grass, making space for fresh, green shoots that grow quickly after the rains and provide better food for animals. In addition, the ash left behind adds nutrients to the soil, which helps new grass grow. Another important factor is pest and parasite control: fire can kill ticks, insects, and other parasites that affect livestock, thereby reducing the risk of disease.