March 2016 - Following a coup d’état 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. Despite a transitional government in place and the presence of international troops, including a 10,000-person strong United Nations peacekeeping mission (MINUSCA), communities across CAR continue to be plagued by violence, armed criminality, and widespread humanitarian needs. At present, more than 2.3 million people, more than half the population, require humanitarian assistance, over 480,000 people are internally displaced, and 450,000 are living in neighbouring countries as refugees. Widespread insecurity and looting of humanitarian actors are hindering their ability to respond to needs relating to widespread food insecurity, high levels of child malnutrition, and maternal and child mortality rates among the highest in the world. With GAC’s support, Concern Worldwide is improving the food security of households and the nutritional status of children and vulnerable women in the Lobaye region, benefitting up to 39,843 people. The project focuses on providing health and nutrition services, improving feeding and hygiene practices, supporting agricultural production and income levels, and enhancing access to clean water and sanitation services. Project activities include: (1) constructing or rehabilitating up to 18 water points; (2) constructing six latrine blocks for health facilities; (3) completing a community-based hygiene campaign; (4) supporting up to nine health facilities to provide primary health care services for 1,860 children up to five years old; (5) providing support and equipment to health centres to provide vaccinations for up to 4,876 children; (6) treating up to 729 children suffering from severe and moderate acute malnutrition; (7) providing seeds and tools as well as training for up to 3,150 vulnerable households; and (8) providing cash transfers to up to 1,500 households.
