Mission ContextIn 2013, the Central African Republic (CAR) faced an unprecedented military and political crisis. Agricultural production in CAR has since fallen and 30% of the population is food insecure. The population has limited access to medical care as well as benefits from poor water and sanitation infrastructure. With dramatic consequences: 2.9 millions of people are ine need for humanitarian aid and 1.8 millions suffer from food insecurity. CAR is ranked second to last in the human development index (HDI).While the situation has started improving in 2016, late 2017 was unfortunately marked by an upsurge in violence between armed groups in the North and South of the country. Conflict- affected populations usually flee towards areas deemed safe, where they stay until the situation stabilizes, with waiting time that can be anywhere from a few days to, in some cases, a few years. These safe areas are often rural regions with limited facilities to support displaced populations.In July 2019, approximately 595000 persons were internally displaced in CAR. The regular tensions increase the already important needs of local communities. Access to shelter, water, hygiene, sanitation and education as well as food security and livelihood issues are daily challenges for these populations. In addition, an Ebola epidemy broke out and is finally officially recognist by the World Health Organization.

ACTED has been present in the CAR since 2007, implementing programs that not only respond to the country’s humanitarian emergencies, but also provide support to communities and the local authorities in initiating long-term sustainable development. The NGO is mobilized throughout 6 provinces : Ouham Pendé, Ouaka, Basse Kotto, Mbomou, Haut Mbomou and Bangui.ACTED’s programme strategy in CAR is based on the following 3 approaches:Rapid response to emergencies: In areas affected by humanitarian emergencies or risks of crisis, ACTED provides emergency assistance to communities with water, hygiene, sanitation, emergency shelter and relief goods, food items and basic services.Integrated support for the sustainable return of displaced persons: ACTED supports households in the process of returning to their homes and guides them throughout the rebuilding process. This support is paired with activities that help rebuild trust within the community and strengthen local actors to reduce the risk of new inter-community tensions or displacements.Building resilience and supporting development: ACTED aims to improve the economic situation in communities at household and community levels. In areas that are stable enough to allow for long-term interventions, ACTED supports vulnerable households through cash-for-work opportunities, increasing their purchasing power and expanding their food, health care as well as education options. ACTED teams also work alongside local businesses and economic actors to strengthen their technical and entrepreneurial skills.