The Issue
In the Central African Republic, years of conflict have drawn thousands of children and young people into armed groups. While national disarmament programmes focus mainly on adult combatants, many young people – especially those in support roles or without weapons – remain excluded from reintegration support.
These young people face stigma, trauma, and a lack of opportunities when they return to their communities. Without education, skills, or income, many are at risk of re-recruitment. Girls and young women are particularly vulnerable, having often experienced sexual violence and facing greater rejection upon return.
In Ouham-Pendé, where poverty, insecurity, and weak services persist, these challenges are even more acute. Communities themselves struggle with mistrust and tensions, making reintegration difficult. Despite progress in releasing children from armed groups, many still lack long-term support to rebuild their lives. Addressing their needs is essential not only for their future, but also for preventing renewed violence and strengthening lasting peace.
The Project
Funded by the European Union, this project supports the reintegration of 200 children and young people including former associates of armed groups and those at risk, in Bocaranga and Koui. The project has four main components:
- Social cohesion: Community dialogues, peace committees and joint activities such as cash-for-work rebuild trust between youth and communities, reducing stigma and tensions.
- Economic opportunities: Youth receive training adapted to local markets, along with tools or financial support to start livelihoods or continue education. Savings groups (AVEC) help build financial resilience.
- Psychosocial support: Safe spaces, peer support groups and trained community facilitators help young people recover from trauma and rebuild confidence.
- Gender and protection: Activities promote gender equality, prevent violence, and ensure that girls and young women access safe spaces and support services.
The Change
By the end of the project, children and young people who were once excluded or associated with armed groups will be active members of their communities. They will gain practical skills, access to income, and opportunities to pursue education or livelihoods. This will reduce their vulnerability to re-recruitment and give them real alternatives for the future.
Communities will also change. Through dialogue, joint activities and awareness campaigns, trust between youth and community members will improve. Formerly stigmatized young people will be increasingly accepted and included in community life.
At the same time, improved access to psychosocial support will strengthen resilience and well-being, helping young people cope with trauma and build healthier relationships. Women and girls will benefit from safer spaces, stronger protection mechanisms, and greater participation in community life.
Together, these changes will contribute to stronger social cohesion, reduced violence, and more stable communities, laying the foundations for lasting peace in north-west Central African Republic.
The Partner
DCA implements the project in partnership with Fondation Vegas Jeunes pour le Développement (FVJD). FJVD and DCA have been working together on community engagement, youth mobilization and economic activities since 2021.
The project also works closely with:
- UNICEF and MINUSCA for child protection and referrals,
- National DDR structures (PNDDRR),
- Local authorities, community leaders and civil society organisations.
About the project
Full title: Youth for Peace: Community Reintegration and Violence Reduction in the DDRR Framework in CAR
Timeline: January 2026 to July 2027
Partner: FVJD
Amount: EUR 1,200,000
Expected number of people reached: 200 youth and 10 000+ community members
Donor: EU
