The United Nations mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) is reinforcing security at its temporary base in Am Dafock after an attack on 30 June by fighters from Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and former Seleka rebels. The assault occurred near the Sudan border, resulting in the deaths of members of the military, security forces and civilians. Three Zambian UN peacekeepers were wounded during the violence. More than 16,000 displaced people were sheltering near the Am Dafock base at the time, with over 2,000 others taking refuge in Birao, approximately 60 kilometres away. Joël Ndoli Pierre, MINUSCA spokesperson, stated during a press briefing on Tuesday that the situation had stabilized but emphasized continued vigilance. He confirmed that new security measures were being implemented at the site. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, previously warned that the attacks on peacekeepers could amount to war crimes under international law. Am Dafock serves as a strategic border point between the Central African Republic and Sudan, frequently targeted by armed groups from both sides. The region has seen increased instability since the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, with the RSF maintaining a presence in frontier areas. A 2024 UN report claimed the RSF used Am Dafock as a key logistical hub, including for recruitment activities.
The involvement of Sudan's RSF in an attack on a UN base hosting thousands of displaced people exposes the weakening of international peacekeeping authority in conflict zones. A base meant to offer safety instead became a battlefield, with civilians and peacekeepers caught in the crossfire. The report's claim that the RSF used Am Dafock for recruitment suggests the site had strategic value beyond a mere incursion. If peacekeepers cannot protect those under their mandate, the mission's presence in such volatile areas must be reassessed.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
