The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) is seeking to strengthen local mechanisms for preventing transhumance-related conflicts ahead of the new season, according to information obtained Wednesday in Carnot.
Some 43 representatives of administrative and local authorities, government technical services, farmers’ and livestock breeders’ organisations, and local communities are taking part in a workshop on the peaceful management of transhumance, held on 6 and 7 October.
Organised with MINUSCA support, the meeting aims to anticipate tensions between farmers and livestock breeders over access to natural resources, compliance with livestock corridors and crop damage.
According to data presented at the workshop, at least 131 transhumance-related incidents were recorded in the Central African Republic during the 2025-2026 season, resulting in 35 deaths and 32 injuries.
In response, participants are calling for stronger early warning mechanisms, community dialogue and information-sharing to prevent clashes.
In Mambéré Prefecture, however, local stakeholders report an improvement in the security situation related to transhumance.
“When I arrived in December 2024, transhumance-related killings were frequent. Since the workshop organised by MINUSCA in Carnot in 2025, the situation has eased considerably,” said Serge Simplice Ondiolé Sio, head of the Mambéré prefectural livestock service.
He nevertheless noted that some isolated incidents persist, particularly in central Carnot and along the Carnot-Baoro road.
Community awareness-raising is also one of the main tools being used by local stakeholders. Neighbourhood chiefs, group leaders and youth association representatives are being mobilised to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and livestock breeders and encourage compliance with transhumance regulations.
Opening the workshop, Mambéré Prefect Arnauld Guy Clemenceau welcomed the involvement of the various stakeholders in consolidating peace and security.
Carnot Mayor Alourou Laurent, for his part, called for preparations to be made ahead of the arrival of livestock herds and for risks to be identified in order to prevent further tensions.
For MINUSCA, the priority is to strengthen the leadership of local authorities and coordination among the various stakeholders involved in transhumance management, its Public Information Officer, Dramane Daravé, said.
Discussions are focusing in particular on mapping high-risk areas, early warning mechanisms and improving information flows among authorities, communities, farmers and livestock breeders.
The workshop is expected to result in a joint action plan for the 2026-2027 season, with responsibilities clearly allocated among the stakeholders.
In Carnot, local authorities and their partners therefore intend to prioritise prevention and dialogue in order to consolidate the decline in violence observed in Mambéré and promote lasting peaceful coexistence between farmers and livestock breeders.
DM/te/lb/as/APA