The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting peace and security throughout the country, with a particular focus on Vakaga Prefecture, during its weekly press conference held Wednesday in Bangui.
MINUSCA spokesperson Florence Marchal acknowledged the significant security challenges faced by the Mission, recalling the final tribute paid on Wednesday to Zambian Corporal Stephen Muloke Siakachoma, who tragically died on June 20 during an alleged armed attack by Sudanese elements against a Mission patrol in Am-Sissia, near Birao.
This incident marks the third peacekeeper loss to ambushes in the CAR since the beginning of 2025. In response to this concerning situation, MINUSCA is undertaking concrete actions on multiple fronts, including implementing checkpoints at the entry and exit points of Birao and conducting robust patrols in surrounding villages, establishing a temporary operational base in Terfel, carrying out joint patrols with the Central African Armed Forces (FACA), and intensifying dialogue with local authorities, community leaders, and youth to de-escalate tensions.
In its efforts towards reconciliation, MINUSCA is actively supporting community media outlets, notably Radio Yata, which recently received equipment to enhance its coverage and impartiality. The Mission has expanded its support to radio stations from 20 to 27, thereby fostering broader community participation in peacebuilding initiatives.
Significant local progress was also highlighted during the briefing. On July 3, an act of reconciliation in Balembe (Nana-Mambere) brought together nearly 500 people, including local authorities and civil society representatives. On the same day in Doroko (Mambere-Kadei), a dialogue between farmers and herders led to the successful establishment of a mediation committee tasked with preventing land conflicts.
Furthermore, last week, MINUSCA formally handed over several rehabilitated infrastructure projects to local authorities. These crucial improvements include town halls in Vassako (Bamingui-Bangoran) and Gambo (Mbomou), a market in Pombolo (Mbomou), and the Lemena bridge. Such efforts are vital in facilitating access to public services and strengthening the redeployment of state authority across the country.
These ongoing actions underscore MINUSCA’s steadfast dedication to fostering peacebuilding and sustainable development in the Central African Republic.
TE/Sf/fss/abj/APA