Former combatants in the Central African Republic face dire economic hardship

Aftermath of prolonged conflicts in the Central African Republic (CAR), many former combatants find themselves grappling with severe economic challenges and a lack of viable livelihood options. Despite government and international efforts to reintegrate these individuals into society, numerous ex-fighters report feeling abandoned and incapable of making ends meet.

The disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs initiated in the CAR aimed to provide former militia and rebel group members with the skills and opportunities to transition into civilian life. However, several ex-combatants have voiced their concerns, stating that the support provided has been insufficient and unsustainable in the long term.

Jean-Paul, a former member of a prominent rebel group (name withheld for security reasons), shared his struggles with reintegration. “After I laid down my arms, I thought I would receive enough support to start a new life. But the training was brief, and the promised financial assistance barely covered my family’s needs for a month,” he expressed, highlighting the inadequacy of the reintegration packages.

The 32-year-old joined rebels in 2013 after other fighters attacked Bouar, killing her mother and father. She worked as a cook but escaped after watching fellow rebels decapitate two rivals.

“I spent four years in the bushes and being there I saw so many bad things. I witnessed people being decapitated and all of this scared me and made me want to leave,” she said.

The CAR has been marred by conflict for decades, with various armed groups fighting over territory, resources, and political power. The violence has devastated communities, displaced hundreds of thousands, and shattered the country’s economy. Efforts to bring peace have been fragile, with sporadic violence and a lack of trust between different factions undermining progress.

The DDR programs are part of a broader peace agreement signed in 2019, involving 14 armed groups and the CAR government, facilitated by the United Nations and other international partners. These programs are crucial for long-term stability and peace in the CAR, aiming to address the root causes of conflict and assist former combatants in becoming productive, peaceful members of society.

However, the transition from soldier to civilian is fraught with challenges. Many of these individuals have spent years, sometimes decades, in armed groups, lacking formal education or marketable skills. The sudden shift to civilian life, without adequate support, leaves them vulnerable to poverty, criminality, or rejoining militia groups.

“Now I’m still in Bouar doing nothing,” said Koudinguere, who survives off handouts from friends and family as he looks for work.

According to AMN News Reporter, covering on peace and reconciliation efforts in the CAR points out that the lack of long-term economic opportunities is one of the critical factors hindering the reintegration process. “There is a need for more comprehensive support for these individuals, including vocational training, education, and mental health services, to ensure they can find sustainable employment and reintegrate successfully,” the report states.

The government of the CAR, with the support of international donors, has pledged to enhance the DDR programs, recognizing that peace and stability are contingent on the successful reintegration of former combatants. However, funding constraints, ongoing security concerns, and logistical challenges have hampered these efforts.

As the international community continues to support the CAR in its path towards recovery and peace, the plight of former combatants remains a pressing issue. Without addressing their economic hardships and providing more substantial support for reintegration, the cycle of violence and instability threatens to persist, undermining the fragile gains made in recent years.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Bangui.