Report on the Advocacy Mission to assess the situation of children in Central African Republic
accompanied or are separated from their relatives. In the refugee
camps of M’Poko airport visited by the Delegation, many
children especially young girls are at the mercy of armed groups who
use them for all sorts of chores.
20.
The Delegation also visited families that host separated and
displaced children and families. Usually these families came from other
prefectures where their homes and belongings were looted and burnt.
They found refuge in Bangui and its environs to stay with relatives to
escape the killings and various reprisals because of their religious
affiliation. The heads of host families who often have also lost their jobs,
struggle to cater for the needs of the children and family members they
have received. The children often do not have food adapted to their
ages and meals are not varied.
e)
Recruitment by Armed Groups
21.
The information received by the Committee members reveals
nearly 10,000 children, including girls, are recruited, exploited and used
by the two rival armed groups, i.e. former Seleka and anti-Balaka
members. In the south, particularly in the region of Obo, young
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