Turmoil in Central African Republic

Over the last couple of weeks, you might have seen that Central African Republic has been in the news. Here is a quick update, so you are aware of what’s happening.

In December 2012, a rebellion by a coalition named SELEKA broke out against the government, accusing the President of failing to live up to various agreements between the different factions over the last several years. A peace accord was signed in January, stopping the advance of the rebels toward the capital, Bangui.

Two weeks ago, the SELEKA leadership again alleged the President was not living up to the accord from January, and re-launched their campaign to oust the President. Saturday March 23, the rebel troops pushed into the city, meeting little resistance and ended up taking the Presidential Palace. (Earlier in the day, the President and his family had fled the city.)

Looting began and continued throughout Sunday and Monday, with skirmishes continuing also between remnant forces loyal to the President, and the SELEKA troops. One of the rebel leaders, Michel Djotodia, proclaimed himself the new President and, on Monday, suspended the constitution and the National Assembly, stating he would rule by decree for the foreseeable future.

On Tuesday morning, March 26, we were able to get word from some of our Central African partners on the ground about the conditions in the country.

In Berberati, in the western part of the country where Food for Orphans has about 150 orphans in its care, conditions were mostly normal. In fact, the children had met in their groups on Monday for a time of prayer and fellowship together. Praise the Lord for their protection!

In Bangui, where we have about 550 orphans, news was troublesome. The status of the projects we support in the city was not yet evident. Due to poor cell service and continued looting, it was not safe to travel around the city, so it was hard to get accurate information on the status of each of the projects.

On April 5, all the orphans were accounted for but the looting continues. Please pray that the banks reopen soon. Funds are running short.

April 9-The situation has recently become more serious and dangerous for the orphans. Rebels have come onto the orphan care grounds searching for something to loot.

Thank you for your continued concern and love of our orphans in Central African Republic.

Food for Orphans is apolitical and is not involved in any politics. Please to pray for the safety of the orphans and of the workers and for the return of peace to this country.