Concern Worldwide

Published purpose

Since internal conflict erupted in March 2013, the humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic (CAR) deteriorated rapidly, as inter-communal violence spun out of control and led to thousands of deaths, massive human displacement, and grave human rights abuses. Elections in March 2016 saw the introduction of a new President in CAR that brought a welcome yet short lived calm to the country. Despite the presence of a United Nations peacekeeping mission (MINUSCA), communities across CAR continue to be plagued by violence, armed criminality, and widespread humanitarian needs. Violence flared up again in the fall of 2016 after the head of the armed forces was assassinated in the capital. At present, more than 2.2 million people, more than half the population, require humanitarian assistance, over 434,000 people are internally displaced, and over 462,000 are living in neighbouring countries as refugees. High levels of instability and looting are hindering partners’ ability to respond to needs relating to widespread food insecurity, high levels of child malnutrition, and high maternal and child mortality rates. With GAC’s support, Concern Worldwide is improving the health and wellbeing of extremely poor and vulnerable crisis-affected households in the Lobaye region of Central African Republic, benefitting up to 60,950 people. The project focuses on enhancing access to clean water and sanitation services, providing health and nutrition services, improving feeding and hygiene practices, and supporting agricultural production and income levels. Project activities include: (1) constructing or protecting up to 9 water points; (2) constructing 4 latrine blocks for health facilities; (3) completing a community-based hygiene campaign targeting up to 3,000 households; (4) supporting up to nine health facilities to provide primary health care services for up to 1,750 children five years old or younger; (5) providing support and equipment to health centres to provide vaccinations for up to 4,200 children and up to 1,400 women; (6) treating up to 1,200 children suffering from severe and moderate acute malnutrition; (7) providing seeds and tools as well as training for up to 2,800 vulnerable households; and (8) providing cash transfers to up to 1,500 households.