CAR: Humanitarian Situation Update in Am-Dafok, Vakaga Prefecture - 24 September 2025

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Violent clashes involving armed men have been reported in several villages near the CAR–Sudan border.
  • At least three civilians were killed and two others injured.
  • Several villages were attacked and houses set on fire, notably in Bouba, Dongoré, Guila, Amkourmaï, Charmoutt, Tetabella, and Bilibili.
  • Around 5,000 people have been displaced, seeking refuge near the MINUSCA base in the town of Am Dafok and in the village of Matala.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Between 17 and 22 September, the security situation significantly deteriorated in and around the town of Am Dafok, along the border between the Central African Republic (CAR) and Sudan, leading to the displacement of civilians. This escalation of violence has increased protection concerns due to increased risks of human rights violations, the vulnerability of children separated from their families, and the heightened exposure of women and girls to gender-based violence. Several villages in the area were attacked, with direct threats against civilians and destruction of property, including the burning of at least one house that resulted in the death of an elderly person.

Fear and insecurity have forced the displacement of around 5,000 people, who sought protection near the MINUSCA base in the town of Am Dafok and in the village of Matala. These individuals have fled to areas around the MINUSCA base and elsewhere in the prefecture, and some may return home as the situation stabilizes, despite the volatile context. This new wave of displacement is placing additional pressure on already vulnerable host communities in the Vakaga prefecture, where the humanitarian community aims to assist nearly 61,390 people. However, due to severe underfunding, only 25% of the required resources have been mobilized to date, significantly limiting the ability to meet the needs of the most vulnerable and leaving many without assistance.

The current situation has further worsened the already fragile humanitarian context in this remote region, where communities face limited access to basic services, protection risks, and continued displacement. Insecurity in the border areas continues to restrict humanitarian access and exposes civilians, particularly women and children to heightened risks of protection.