Lives in: Bangui, Central African Republic November 25, 2025
In a significant breakthrough, the government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and two major armed groups — UPC (Unité pour la Paix en Centrafrique) and 3R (Retour, Réclamation et Réhabilitation) — have formally dissolved, following a peace agreement signed in April 2025. The African Union (AU) has welcomed the development as a turning point for national reconciliation and long-term stability.
A Fragile but Promising Peace
The peace deal, brokered in N’Djamena and facilitated by Chad, is part of a broader Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation (APPR-RCA). Under the agreement, UPC and 3R agreed to disarm and transition into political entities. AU Chairperson Youssouf praised the move:
“The dissolution of these groups is not just a symbolic act, but a step toward consolidating stability, national cohesion, and inclusive governance in CAR.”
The AU’s backing is critical — its commission is calling on all remaining armed factions to follow suit, accept disarmament, and engage in a national dialogue.
Challenges Overhang the Agreement
Despite the optimism, the situation on the ground remains fragile. Security analysts note that many smaller armed groups remain active, with some operating outside the agreement. Violence, resource competition, and weak state capacity continue to threaten peace.
In a UN Security Council briefing, CAR’s envoy underscored the challenge: collecting 20,000 weapons from past combatants is a major task, and eliminating remnant armed groups remains “the one major challenge” to peace.
Economic Impact & Reform Nexus
The peace deal coincides with encouraging economic signals. According to the IMF, CAR has secured about US$58 million in fresh funding under its Extended Credit Facility (ECF), contingent on reforms in the fuel sector and public finances.
In addition, a World Bank report highlights CAR’s need to better manage its natural wealth — including mining and fuel revenues — as part of its broader economic transformation. The success of disarmament, experts argue, will be tightly linked to the country’s ability to deliver governance, services, and social inclusion.
