Prime Minister Félix Moloua visited Birao, in Vakaga, on July 18, 2026, to address regional tensions and advocate for peace. During his visit, Mr. Moloua emphasized that peace is key for the area's development. "Dans son intervention, le chef du gouvernement a appelé la population à préserver la paix, qu’il juge indispensable au développement de la région," said Moloua, calling on residents to safeguard the stability he views as essential for progress. His remarks showed the government's focus on fostering a secure environment within Vakaga to facilitate advancement and ensure the well-being of its inhabitants. The Prime Minister's presence in Birao signaled a direct engagement from the highest levels of government to confront the challenges facing this remote but strategically important region.
Visit Details and Infrastructure
During his visit, Prime Minister Félix Moloua's delegation met with various affected communities, including Sudanese refugees residing at the Korsi site. The delegation also engaged with internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Birao. These meetings provided an opportunity for the Prime Minister to directly assess the humanitarian situation and the challenges faced by populations displaced by regional instability. Direct dialogue with these communities allowed for a deeper understanding of their immediate needs and the long-term implications of displacement. The interactions showed the government's attention to the plight of both refugees and IDPs, as well as the broader impact of ongoing tensions in the Vakaga prefecture. The discussions aimed to gather firsthand accounts and inform future government interventions designed to alleviate suffering and promote stability in the area. This direct engagement is a key component of the government's strategy to build trust and deliver targeted aid where it is most needed, ensuring that the voices of those most affected are heard.
Context of Regional Instability
Prime Minister Félix Moloua's visit occurred weeks after an attack by armed men targeted Am-Dafock, a community situated approximately 60 kilometers from Birao. The incident noted the persistent security challenges faced by the Vakaga prefecture and its surrounding areas. This recent act of violence in Am-Dafock shows the volatile environment in which the Prime Minister's calls for peace are being made. The attack served as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats posed by various armed groups operating in the region, which frequently disrupt daily life and impede development efforts. The proximity of Am-Dafock to Birao also indicates the interconnectedness of security dynamics within the region, where instability in one area can quickly affect neighboring communities. The government's engagement in Birao is thus set against a backdrop of active threats and ongoing efforts to maintain order and protect civilian populations from further violence. The Prime Minister's visit aimed to reassure residents and demonstrate the government's commitment to restoring lasting peace and security.
Call for Peace and Development
Prime Minister Félix Moloua reiterated his call for peace during his visit, urging residents to safeguard stability. "Dans son intervention, le chef du gouvernement a appelé la population à préserver la paix, qu’il juge indispensable au développement de la région," Moloua stated, emphasizing that peace is key for the region's progress. He stressed that sustainable development cannot take root without a secure and peaceful environment, making peace the foundational element for any future advancement. The Prime Minister's delegation also inaugurated several new infrastructures designed to support community development in Birao. These included a Maison des jeunes (Youth Center), a centre de santé (health center), and a Maison des femmes (Women's Center). These initiatives aim to provide essential services and foster social cohesion, aligning with the government's broader strategy for stabilization and growth in the Vakaga prefecture. The establishment of these facilities is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for residents, offering opportunities for education, health care, and community engagement, thereby contributing to the long-term stability and prosperity of Birao and its surrounding areas.
