This process is part of a broader program for disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation (DDRR) aimed at strengthening security and sustainably stabilizing the country.

Bangui

The government of the Central African Republic, together with the United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSCA, has initiated a disarmament and demobilization process for former combatants in Malone, near Bambari. This follows the official dissolution of two armed groups and is part of a broader effort to stabilize the country and support the peace and reconciliation agreement.

Former fighters underwent several stages of disarmament, including surrendering weapons, with the goal of reintegrating eligible individuals into national security forces or socio-economic activities. Local leaders and residents expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the removal of significant weaponry and the hope for sustained peace in the region.

CAR government and UN launch disarmament of former fighters

The government of the Central African Republic alongside the UN Peace Unit, the MINUSCA, began disarmament and demobilization operations of former fighters. The two armed groups had been officially dissolved on 10 July in Bangui. The disarmament took place at Malone village, located 55 kilometers from Bambari. The former fighters went through several key stages of the disarmament, demobilization and reinsertion process, including the handing over of the weapons. We observe a commitment from the leaders of the armed groups here in Malone and we observe discipline among the elements which makes our job easier in terms of disarmament. The process aimed at strengthening security and sustainably stabilizing the country. The ongoing process is part of the revitalization of the political agreement for peace and reconciliation in the Central African Republic. I joined the rebellion in Bambari in 2014. What pushed me to join the armed groups was primarily insecurity. We wanted to protect ourselves, defend our property and ensure the safety of our families. But as long as there is no peace, we cannot live serenely or work with dignity. Today, thanks to the agreement signed with the government, we have committed ourselves to laying down our arms and actively contributing to the peace building of peace. Its goal is to address post-conflict security issues and to consolidate initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the Central African Republic. Only former combatants who meet the eligibility criteria will be integrated into the defence and security forces of the Central African Republic or reintegrated into socio-economic activities. The entire population of Malone is in joy. For us, peace is finally here. Our children, our brothers and our parents, who are in the bush, have voluntarily and with open hearts chosen to lay down their arms. We extend our sincere thanks to the government and MINUSCA for their constant support in this process. The disarmament operations carried out in Malone have allowed for the removal of former UPC combatants of our significant arsenal, including hundreds of war weapons such as PK, machine guns and RPG-7 rocket launchers, as well as ammunition of various calibres.

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