I recently returned from a two-week visit to the Central African Republic and want to update you on what’s happening over there as well as the orphans in our program.
As you may be aware, there was an overthrow of the CAR government on March 24. Unlike past coups, where things are generally back to normal within a week, this one is still chaotic even after all this time. Part of the problem is that the rebel groups had only one common goal: to get rid of the government. Once that was accomplished, their coalition fractured and there’s been fighting between rival groups ever since.
As a result, the common people have suffered the most. There is constant unrest, especially in Bangui. There is virtually no law and order, so petty theft and other crimes are rampant. For most, there is a constant tension in the air of what could happen next to them or someone they know.
This unrest has affected our orphans, especially in the capital city of Bangui. Certain areas of the city are under constant oppression due to their association with the former government. As a consequence, orphan groups in those neighborhoods haven’t been able to meet consistently and many children have been sent by caregivers to relatives in other parts of the city where things are more “calm.” One of the older orphan girls was wounded by a stray bullet in April, but praise the Lord that she was able to have surgery right away and has made a full recovery! In spite of all that has happened in the country, care for the orphans is continuing through the efforts of dedicated local heroes. We praise God for those on the ground who, along with us, are committed to seeing the children learn to live for God and love others. Through all of the hard times, the staff and tireless volunteers have done a great job of making sure the children continue to receive as much care as possible under the circumstances and helping point them to the hope that is found in living for God no matter what.
Unfortunately, we aren't seeing very much about the continued unrest in the CAR in the news but the situation is still desperate. Please remember these orphans need our support now more then ever.
